Regarding the relationship between the Chola rulers and the early Bhakti movement, consider the following statements:
1. The Chola kings built massive Shiva temples at Chidambaram, Thanjavur, and Gangaikondacholapuram to claim divine support.
2. The singing of Tamil Shaiva hymns (Tevaram) in the temples was institutionalized under royal patronage.
3. Chola ruler Parantaka I consecrated the metal images of Appar, Sambandar, and Sundarar in a Shiva temple.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

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Accepted Answer

All three statements are correct. The Chola rulers sought to harness the immense popularity of the Bhakti movement by offering grand royal patronage. They built magnificent temples, collected and recorded the Tevaram hymns, and elevated the saints to divine status by placing their bronze statues inside temples.

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