Ever wondered about the fashion sense of the 11th Century Cholas? From glittering jewels to intricate dresses, the Chola Empire was a feast for the senses. 

As you explore the world of the Chola Empire in our game, you’ll get a glimpse of the clothing and lifestyle elements that defined Thanjavur in the 11th century. Here are some fascinating details about Chola fashion and daily life. 

Jewelry and Ornaments 

The Chola era was known for its exquisite jewelry. Necklaces were worn close to the neck, adorning the collarbones of women. A head ornament called Chudamani graced the parting of hair at the center of the head, while Chuttu, a disc-like ornament, hung from the hair parting on a small chain. Chuttu was popular among all classes, from princesses to temple dancers. 

Thodu, or earrings, came in various shapes including circular rings, discs, spirals, fish shapes, and large gemstone-encrusted designs. Long, stretched ear-lobe piercings were also fashionable during this period. 

Women’s Attire 

Women in the Chola Era wore elegant pudavais (sarees) made from cotton and silk. These attractive clothing included styles such as surrupudavai, nirvadi puduvai, and parrutti pudavai. 

Court attendants wore frock-like coats with full sleeves, while devadasis (temple dancers) wore their hair in a dhammilla style, with a thin upper cloth across the chest and a lower garment with an araikachchu. 

Textile Production 

The Kaikkolar, skilled weavers of the Chola kingdom, produced various types of clothes for temples, royal households, and common people. The name “Kaikkolar” combines “Kai” (hand) and “Kol” (loom shuttle), reflecting their craft. 

King Raja Raja I invited Saliya weavers from the north, who taught fine-weaving techniques to local Kaikkolars. These Saliga/Saliyar weavers settled in various parts of Tanjore, further enriching the textile traditions of the region. 

Palace Life 

Palace life in the Chola era was filled with activity. The royal household was served by various staff, including servants and bodyguards called tirumeikappar. Women primarily managed the kitchen and bathroom establishments. 

These palace servants were organized into velams and lived in separate quarters in Thanjavur and Gangaikondacholapuram. 

Sports and Leisure 

The Cholas were also great patrons of sports. Jallikattu, the famous bull-taming sport, is believed to have been patronized by Chola kings. This ancient sport has endured through the centuries and is now a major event during the Tamil harvest festival of Pongal

The Chola era was a tapestry of tradition and innovation. As you explore our game, remember: you’re not just playing – you’re wearing, living, and breathing history!