Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Jul 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking from the historic grounds of Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu's Ariyalur district, declared that Operation Sindoor had delivered a powerful message to the world: India will not tolerate threats to its sovereignty.

“Today’s India puts its security first. Operation Sindoor showed that any act against India’s sovereignty will be met with a decisive response — in the language the enemy understands,” the Prime Minister asserted. “This mission has sparked a new wave of unity and confidence across the country. No place is safe for India’s enemies, no matter where they hide.”

Modi was addressing a special gathering marking the valedictory celebrations of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival and the 1000th anniversary of Emperor Rajendra Chola’s famed naval expedition to Southeast Asia.

The event was held at the Gangaikonda Cholisvaram Temple, a UNESCO-recognised monument built by Rajendra Chola I and hailed as a pinnacle of Chola architecture.

Offering prayers at the ancient temple, Modi said, “At the feet of Lord Brihadeeswara, I prayed for the welfare of all 140 crore Indians and the continued progress of our nation. Being here is a profound spiritual experience.”

The Prime Minister also announced the erection of grand statues of Chola emperors Rajaraja Chola and Rajendra Chola in Tamil Nadu, saying the move will celebrate their immense contribution to India’s cultural, architectural, and maritime legacy.

Modi praised the Chola dynasty as a golden chapter in Indian history, noting their advancements in trade, governance, diplomacy, water management, and temple construction. “Their maritime links with Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia shaped India’s engagement with the region centuries ago. It’s fitting that I return today from the Maldives and stand in this sacred Chola land,” he reflected.

He also highlighted the Kudavolai system, an early form of democratic governance practiced during the Chola period — centuries before similar systems emerged in the West. “They were democratic visionaries and master planners of water conservation,” he said.

Reinforcing India’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, Modi pointed out that over 30 stolen antiquities recovered by the Union government from around the world belong to Tamil Nadu, underlining the state's rich Shaivite tradition.

Quoting the Tamil Shaivite saint Thirumoolar, he said: “Anbe Sivam — Love is God. This powerful message holds the answer to global crises like violence, instability, and environmental destruction. Through One World, One Family, One Future, India is carrying this ancient wisdom to the world.”

Visibly moved by the spiritual atmosphere and the musical tribute by maestro Ilaiyaraaja, Modi greeted the audience with an enthusiastic “Vanakkam Chola Mandalam!” He added, “The darshan of Lord Shiva and Ilaiyaraaja’s music have elevated my soul. The exhibition on Chola heritage left me in awe.”

Among the dignitaries at the event were Governor R.N. Ravi, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu (representing CM M.K. Stalin), Union Minister of State L. Murugan, and VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan.