Virarajendra

Virarajendra (1002 – 1070) was a Chola emperor, who spent a major part of his life as a subordinate to two of his elder brothers Rajadhiraja I and Rajendra II, he is the son of Rajendra I. During his early reign he granted the maintenance of a school to study the Vedas, Sastras and grammar; a hostel was provided for the students. A hospital named Virasolan was also provided by him for the sick people. The famous grammatical work in Tamil, Virasoliyam was written by Buddhamitra during his reign.

Virarajendra’s reign occurred in a period when the Chola Empire was both trying to expand its boundaries and preserve its existing territories, but had appeared to stutter in its attempts because of the death of Virarajendra’s eldest brother and king Rajadhiraja I, and the short rule of Virarajendra's elder brother Rajendra II.

In total, the three brothers ruled for 16–20 years altogether by succeeding one another. This rapid succession was seen as a favorable opportunity by the traditional enemies and subordinates of the Cholas: the Singhalas (Ceylon), the Pandyas and the Chera Perumals, with each adversary either trying to become free or declaring war on the Cholas. Virarajendra proved to be a capable and brave ruler, who was kind and protective of his subjects, who reimposed authority on Chola dominions and was ruthless to the Chalukyas and the Pandyas. His own rule lasted for less than 10 years, yet as depicted by his various inscriptions in Karur, Virarajendra left a legacy in the short time he ruled. He succeeded not only in preserving Chola territories, but also made overseas conquests in far-off lands such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Nicobar.