Who of the following Chola rulers initially occupied the northern part of Sri Lanka in his raids?

Correct option is A

·  Rajaraja I (reigned 985–1014 CE), one of the greatest Chola rulers, is credited with initially occupying the northern part of Sri Lanka during his military campaigns.

·  He led successful raids in the region, capturing areas such as Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.

·  Polonnaruwa was renamed "Jananathamangalam" under Chola rule, and the northern region became a part of the Chola Empire.

·  This marked the beginning of the Chola expansion into Sri Lanka, which continued under subsequent rulers. Rajaraja I’s campaigns were significant for strengthening Chola influence over maritime trade routes in the Indian Ocean.

Additional Information:

• Rajaraja I was known for his administrative acumen, military conquests, and patronage of art and architecture, including the construction of the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
• The Chola domination in Sri Lanka was consolidated later by Rajendra I, his successor.

Other Options:

• Parantaka I : Although Parantaka I had earlier military engagements in Sri Lanka, he did not successfully occupy northern Sri Lanka.
• Rajadhiraja I : He ruled later and was involved in maintaining Chola influence, but the initial occupation was by Rajaraja I.
• Rajendra I : While Rajendra I extended Chola dominance further south in Sri Lanka and even undertook expeditions to Southeast Asia, the initial occupation was carried out by his father, Rajaraja I.