Which of the following Chola kings conquered the Maldive Islands and established naval supremacy across the southern seas?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The powerful Chola monarch Rajaraja I undertook massive naval expeditions across the Bay of Indian Ocean, successfully conquering the Maldive Islands, which were historically described as the twelve thousand ancient islands. Rulers like Parantaka I laid the groundwork for Chola expansion, but it was Rajaraja I and his son Rajendra I who achieved supreme naval dominance over Southeast Asian and island territories. Their powerful navy facilitated extensive maritime trade and cultural exchange with the Srivijaya Empire and China.