CHERA DYNASTY Meaning and
Definition
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The Chera dynasty was a prominent dynasty that ruled over the region of modern-day Kerala in Southern India during ancient and medieval times. This dynasty, also known as the Keralaputras, thrived for several centuries, starting in the 3rd century BCE and continuing until the 12th century CE.
The Chera dynasty established their rule in the coastal areas of Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu, with their capital at Mahodayapuram, present-day Kodungallur. They were a powerful maritime kingdom, well-known for their trading prowess and naval dominance in the Arabian Sea. The Cheras had extensive trade connections with various ancient civilizations such as Rome, Egypt, and Greece, which greatly contributed to their prosperity and cultural exchange.
The rulers of the Chera dynasty were proficient in warfare, diplomacy, and administration. They maintained a decentralized form of governance, allowing local chiefs and officials to exercise considerable autonomy within their territories. The society under the Cheras was primarily agrarian, with agriculture serving as the backbone of their economy. However, the kingdom also thrived on trade, benefiting from the natural harbors and strategic location of Kerala along the ancient Spice Route.
The Cheras were patrons of art, literature, and religion, contributing significantly to the growth of the Malayalam language and Sanskrit literature. They played a crucial role in the development of early South Indian cultural traditions. The dynasty eventually faded away by the 12th century CE due to external invasions and internal conflicts, marking the end of their glorious reign in Southern India.
Etymology of CHERA DYNASTY
The word "Chera" is believed to be derived from the Proto-Dravidian term "ceran" or "kezhan", meaning "ruler" or "king". The Chera dynasty was an ancient ruling dynasty in the southern region of present-day India, particularly in the modern-day state of Kerala. The dynasty existed from around the 1st century BCE to the 12th century CE. The word "Chera" was used to refer to both the ruling dynasty and the dynasty's kings.
