The Cholas are inextricably linked with the zenith of Dravidian art and architecture. Comment. (150 words) 10

Art: 1. Dances such as Bharatnatyam and Kathakali were promoted by Chola kings. 2. Sculptors formed huge part of Chola art and was used to decorate the walls, ceilings etc of temples. 3. Poetry flourished under the Nayanars and Alvars. eg: Nambiar.

Architecture: 1. Shift from bricks to stones was completed. 2. The walls of gopurams were decorated in excruciating detail through sculptors. 3. They were built upon square or circular platforms. 4. The shikharas were enormous and sometimes monolithic with intricate carvings. Temple, thus, became a hub of art and architecture under Chola dynasty. eg: Brihadeshwara Temple

— Hrishikesh Alare · AIR 61