HistoriCity: Nagapattinam to Netherlands, A 1000 year journey
The article discusses the historical significance of Chola-era copper plates being returned to India from the Netherlands. These plates provide insights into the relationship between the Chola dynasty and the Buddhist Sri-Vijaya empire, highlighting trade and diplomatic ties despite periods of conflict. The findings reveal the Chola kings' support for Buddhism in southern India during a time when the religion faced decline in other regions.
- ▪The copper plates contain legal decrees related to the grant of a village for the upkeep of a Buddhist temple in Nagapattinam.
- ▪The plates were issued by Chola kings Rajendra Chola I and Kulottunga Chola I, highlighting their support for Buddhism.
- ▪Despite conflicts, the Chola and Sri Vijayan kingdoms maintained diplomatic relations based on trade and religion.
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HistoriCity: Nagapattinam to Netherlands, A 1000 year journeyThe Buddhist monastery called Chulamanivarman at Nagapattinam seemed to have fallen into disuse well before Dutch trading firm’s scouts noticed a 3-storey towerUpdated on: May 26, 2026 1:38 PM ISTBy Valay SinghShare viaCopy link The Chola-era copper plates being brought to India from the Netherlands contain historical information which goes beyond the Chola period, and the kings in whose reigns the copper plates were issued. These two sets of plates issued in the reigns of two Chola kings and separated by at least half a century reveal a forgotten aspect of the reach of Buddhism in south India.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Hindustan Times — Top.
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