Fundraise for a Cause with Milaap : the Best Crowdfunding

26th June 2024

Dear Supporters,

We hope this message finds you well. We are excited to share some updates on our ongoing project to present Indian history through a series of paintings, which will be compiled and published in a book. After publication, these paintings will be showcased in schools to educate and inspire students.

So far, we have completed the research phase, having referred to over 2,000 books and included valuable archaeological information. This extensive research has been critical in ensuring the accuracy and depth of the illustrations.

The expenses incurred so far cover research materials, including the subscription of over 300 reference books and painting materials. The next phase involves the publishing process, which requires an additional 2-3 lakh rupees to kickstart. This amount will cover the costs of publishing and initial marketing efforts.

Please consider supporting this endeavor and sharing the fundraiser with others who might be interested. Your generosity will make a significant difference in preserving and presenting Indian history in an engaging and informative way.

Thank you for your unwavering support and belief in this project.

Warm regards,
Team Milaap

9th May 2024

is A Forgotten Colossus: Rajaraja II and his Chola Legacy

Few days before, the Tamil Heritage Enthusiasts celebrated the birthday of King Raja Raja Chola, the II. We all know about the great Emperor Raja Raja Chola I. But who is the 2nd Raja Raja ?

While history often whispers the names of the mighty, some figures stand as forgotten titans. Such is the case of Rajaraja II, a Chola emperor whose illustrious reign deserves wider acclaim. Born under the auspicious Chitirai uthirattadi nakshatra, he ascended the throne steeped in devotion to Shiva. His court boasted the esteemed poet Ottakuthar as his spiritual guide, who, at the king's behest, penned the epic Dakka-yāga-parani, recounting the tale of Daksha Yagna.

Rajaraja II's reign wasn't merely marked by personal piety. He served as a champion of religious harmony, reviving the Vaishnava faith ( விழுந்த அரி சமயம் மீள எடுத்து ) that had faced challenges during his father's rule.

Emulating his illustrious ancestor, Rajaraja I, this king embarked on a grand architectural endeavor. The magnificent Airavatesvara temple rose in Darasuram as a testament to his love for arts. Its walls became a canvas, adorned with intricate sculptures depicting the lives of the 63 Nayanmars, revered saintly devotees of Shiva. The worship of Sarabeswara, a fierce aspect of the deity, is believed to have gained significant prominence during his reign.

Despite his preference for peace, Rajaraja II wasn't averse to defending his kingdom. When the flow of the life-giving Kaveri river was threatened by the Hoysala forces, he donned the mantle of a warrior-king, earning the title "Valaal Vazhi Thiranthan" (meaning "the one who restored the path of the flowing river").

It's worth noting that Rajaraja II's reign coincided with a period of dynamic leadership across the globe. In Europe, Frederick Barbarossa ruled the Holy Roman Empire, while in the East, the reign of Emperor Gaozong of Song Dynasty marked a golden age in China. In India, the Pala dynasty flourished under Govindapala III in Bengal and Bihar. By contextualizing his reign, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complex tapestry of world history during this era.

Rajaraja II's legacy extends beyond grand structures and military prowess. He stands as a symbol of religious harmony, artistic patronage, and unwavering defense of his realm. Though his name may not resonate as loudly as some, his reign undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Chola dynasty and the broader canvas of Indian history. And people, still remember his name after nearly 900 years ! Images attached: Raja Raja II and his consort from the Airavateshwarar temple museum ( image source unknown ), the Airavateshwarar temple he built.

is A Forgotten Colossus: Rajaraja II and his Chola Legacy

Few days before, the Tamil Heritage Enthusiasts celebrated the birthday of King Raja Raja Chola, the II. We all know about the great Emperor Raja Raja Chola I. But who is the 2nd Raja Raja ?

While history often whispers the names of the mighty, some figures stand as forgotten titans. Such is the case of Rajaraja II, a Chola emperor whose illustrious reign deserves wider acclaim. Born under the auspicious Chitirai uthirattadi nakshatra, he ascended the throne steeped in devotion to Shiva. His court boasted the esteemed poet Ottakuthar as his spiritual guide, who, at the king's behest, penned the epic Dakka-yāga-parani, recounting the tale of Daksha Yagna.

Rajaraja II's reign wasn't merely marked by personal piety. He served as a champion of religious harmony, reviving the Vaishnava faith ( விழுந்த அரி சமயம் மீள எடுத்து ) that had faced challenges during his father's rule.

Emulating his illustrious ancestor, Rajaraja I, this king embarked on a grand architectural endeavor. The magnificent Airavatesvara temple rose in Darasuram as a testament to his love for arts. Its walls became a canvas, adorned with intricate sculptures depicting the lives of the 63 Nayanmars, revered saintly devotees of Shiva. The worship of Sarabeswara, a fierce aspect of the deity, is believed to have gained significant prominence during his reign.

Despite his preference for peace, Rajaraja II wasn't averse to defending his kingdom. When the flow of the life-giving Kaveri river was threatened by the Hoysala forces, he donned the mantle of a warrior-king, earning the title "Valaal Vazhi Thiranthan" (meaning "the one who restored the path of the flowing river").

It's worth noting that Rajaraja II's reign coincided with a period of dynamic leadership across the globe. In Europe, Frederick Barbarossa ruled the Holy Roman Empire, while in the East, the reign of Emperor Gaozong of Song Dynasty marked a golden age in China. In India, the Pala dynasty flourished under Govindapala III in Bengal and Bihar. By contextualizing his reign, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complex tapestry of world history during this era.

Rajaraja II's legacy extends beyond grand structures and military prowess. He stands as a symbol of religious harmony, artistic patronage, and unwavering defense of his realm. Though his name may not resonate as loudly as some, his reign undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Chola dynasty and the broader canvas of Indian history. And people, still remember his name after nearly 900 years ! Images attached: Raja Raja II and his consort from the Airavateshwarar temple museum ( image source unknown ), the Airavateshwarar temple he built.

15th January 2024

Dear Donors and Friends,

Team Samudbhava Foundation wishes you all an auspicious Pongal and Makara Sankaranti !

May you all be blessed and may this Utharayana period be beneficial for you and your family !

Regards,
Team Samudbhava Foundation