South Indian Conquests of Sri Lanka

The Chola king Rajaraja I launches an attack on the kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Ruhuna in present-day Sri Lanka in 993 CE. While earlier South Indian kingdoms raided Sri Lanka, the Cholas are the first to retain control of it and attempt to integrate it into their polity on the mainland. This leads to the construction of Tamil-style Shiva temples in Polonnaruwa, as well as the production of bronze statues, though these have considerable stylistic influences from earlier Sri Lankan traditions. Though the Cholas are driven from the island by 1070 CE, they will have a profound impact on its politics. In particular, the Buddhist Sangha, which is negatively impacted by their conquests, will attempt serious reforms and consolidate its grip on political power.