The Chola dynasty played an important role in fostering literature, architecture, wealth, and power in the in southern India. Among its rulers, Raja Raja Chola is particularly renowned.
However, claims have surfaced suggesting that a specific site in Udayalur, a village in Kumbakonam, Thanjavur district, could be the resting place of this influential monarch.
“While tending to the plantation, we stumbled upon a partially buried Shiva Lingam, deeply embedded in the earth,” said Jayaraman, of Udayalur. who serves as a part-time priest here.
According to historians, it was customary to mark the Pallipadai (burial site) of a ruler by burying their ashes and erecting a Shiva Lingam atop it, which would then be consecrated.
“We’re eager for the government to give this site the attention it deserves. After all, our revered king should have a more fitting resting place,” shared Jayaraman.