The Social Life of Cholas
Social Condition Social condition underwent a drastic change during the reign of the Cholas. Caste system became so rigid that there were social differences between the communities. Society was based on caste . However, it is viewed by some scholars that there was cooperation among the various castes and sub-castes in social and religious life. Caste system There were castes in the society. Varnashrama Dharma was observed . The Brahmins continued to enjoy influence privilege and dominance in the society. They lived in Agraharams and Chaturvedi mangalam which was exclusively Brahmin villages. They were provided with tax-free lands. They were learned and had knowledge in Vedas, Upanishads and Puranas. They even held high position such as ‘Rajagur’ in the Government. They narrated the Ramayana and the Mahabharatha to the public at the Mandapas. People donated lands as Irayili –Vedhavirudhi, Pattaviruthi an...
