Global Scholars Mark 1000th Anniversary of Rajendra Chola’s Victory
Siem Reap, Cambodia — The international conference “Kadaram Kondaan,” commemorating the 1000th anniversary of Emperor Rajendra Chola’s historic victory over Kadaram, concluded successfully this week in Siem Reap. The landmark event, held from 21 to 26 November 2025, was jointly organised by Angkor Tamizh Sangam Cambodia and the University of South East Asia.
The conference, themed “Commemoration of the 1000th Anniversary of Emperor Rajendra Chola’s Victory over Kadaram,” drew more than 600 Tamil scholars, researchers and cultural historians from across the globe, including participants from India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Canada and other nations, making it one of the largest international Tamil historical gatherings in recent years.
The conference commenced on 22 November at the Bayon Era Hotel in Siem Reap. The opening ceremony was attended by the the Vice-Chancellor of the University of South East Asia, senior government officials of Cambodia and several distinguished guests. Their presence highlighted Cambodia’s recognition of the centuries-old cultural links between the ancient Khmer Empire and the Chola dynasty.
The first two days featured academic presentations, panel discussions and research paper readings by experts in history, archaeology, maritime studies and South–East Asian cultural relations. Scholars explored the Chola naval expeditions, maritime trade, artistic exchanges, temple architecture, and the long-standing interconnected heritage between Tamilakam and ancient Kadaram (modern-day Kedah in Malaysia).
Speakers emphasised the significance of Rajendra Chola’s naval achievements, highlighting how the Chola Empire projected power across the Bay of Bengal, linking Tamil civilisation to South-East Asia through commerce, culture and diplomacy.
Following the academic sessions, delegates visited the world-renowned Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Bayon temples—iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. The visit provided participants with firsthand insight into the architectural and cultural intersections between the Khmer and Chola civilisations.
The event poster, prominently displayed throughout the conference, symbolically showcased Angkor Wat alongside Chola imagery, reflecting the shared heritage celebrated during the gathering.
Organisers stated that the conference was not merely a historical commemoration but an important cultural milestone aimed at preserving Tamil maritime and imperial history for future generations. The leadership of Angkor Tamizh Sangam, including Secretary S. Thamarai and Vice President R. Gnanasekaran, emphasised the importance of international collaboration in documenting and promoting Tamil heritage beyond borders.
Participants widely praised the conference for strengthening historical understanding, promoting cultural diplomacy and renewing interest in the Chola legacy across Southeast Asia.
As the “Kadaram Kondaan” conference concluded, scholars and delegates expressed hope that such events would continue to foster deeper academic research and strengthen Tamil cultural identity on the global stage.
By Vathees Varunan from Siem Reap IG | vathees@gmail.com
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