Q. Who among the following led a successful military campaign against the kingdom of Srivijaya, the powerful maritime State, which ruled the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java and the neighbouring islands?
(a) Amoghavarsha (Rashtrakuta)
(b) Prataparudra (Kakatiya)
(c) Rajendra I (Chola)
(d) Vishnuvardhana (Hoysala)
Correct Answer: (c) Rajendra I (Chola)
UPSC Prelims 2025 GS Paper's Solution
Explanation :
Rajendra I, a powerful emperor of the Chola dynasty in South India, launched a significant naval expedition against Srivijaya around 1025 CE. This campaign targeted several strategic locations within Srivijaya’s realm, including its capital Palembang and other key ports in the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra. The Chola forces achieved a formidable victory, capturing the Srivijayan king Sangrama Vijayottunggavarman and seizing a large amount of treasure. This invasion significantly weakened Srivijaya’s maritime power and influence over the lucrative trade routes in Southeast Asia.