The Chola Tigers: Avengers of Somnath is a 2025 historical fiction novel by Indian author Amish Tripathi. It is the second installment in the Indic Chronicles series, following Legend of Suheldev: The King Who Saved India (2020). The book was released on 29 August 2025 by HarperCollins India. The cover was unveiled by Indian superstar Rajinikanth on 21 July 2025.
Plot
Set in 1025 CE, the novel fictionalizes the Chola Empire's retaliation against Mahmud of Ghazni's raid on the Somnath Temple. It follows Emperor Rajendra Chola I and his allies, including King Bhoja of the Paramara dynasty, as they launch a daring counter-offensive across the seas to Ghazni's court. Blending historical events with myth, the story explores themes of dharma, vengeance, and cultural resistance, portraying the Cholas as fierce devotees of Shiva who defend Bharat's honor.
Background
Tripathi, known for reimagining Indian mythology and history in works like the ''Shiva Trilogy'', drew inspiration from the Chola dynasty's naval prowess and their alliance with northern kings against invasions. He researched ancient texts and inscriptions to ground the fiction in facts, emphasizing the Cholas' role in Indian Ocean trade and temple architecture. The book critiques modern media's portrayal of history, urging accurate representation of Indian rulers.
Reception
The novel received positive reviews for its gripping narrative and educational value. ''The Tribune'' praised its immersive battles and cultural depth. On Amazon, it holds a 4.6/5 rating from over 100 reviews. Launch events featured discussions on Chola legacy, with Tripathi appearing at venues like Mahindra University and R City Mall.
According to News18 reviewer Prosenjit Nath, ''The Chola Tigers'' is a "magnificent blend of history, heroism, and heart." The review praises its taut, cinematic narrative, vivid settings from Chola temples to Afghan plains, and authentic historical texture.
References
Category:2022 Indian novels Category:HarperCollins books Category:Indian English-language novels Category:2025 novels Category:Novels set in the 11th century Category:Indian historical novels Category:Novels by Amish Tripathi
Divya Ganesan (born 12 September 1994) is an Indian television and film actress who predominately works in the Tamil industry.
Career
In 2015, Divya started her career in the serial Keladi Kanmani which aired on Sun TV. She later appeared on several other serials playing lead and supporting roles in Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa, Sumangali, Baakiyalakshmi and Mahanadhi.
In 2019, Divya made her film debut in the Telugu film Ninu Veedani Needanu Nene playing a supporting dual role. In 2023, she acted in the Tamil film Single Shankarum Smartphone Simranum alongside actor Shiva.
In 2025, Divya participated in the reality show Bigg Boss 9 which was hosted by Vijay Sethupathi.
Personal life
Divya was engaged to be married to actor R. K. Suresh. She had also said that Suresh hailed from her hometown Ramanathapuram and that he confessed he really liked her. However the marriage was called off due to differences.
Television
Year |
TV Show |
Channel |
Role |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 |
Keladi Kanmani |
Sun TV |
Chembaruthi |
|
2015 |
Lakshmi Vandhachu |
Zee Tamil |
Madhumitha |
|
2015 |
Priyamanaval |
Sun TV |
Young Uma |
|
2016 |
Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa |
Star Vijay |
Kani |
|
2017 |
Sumangali |
Sun TV |
Anu Santhosh / Raja Rajeswari |
Replaced by Aishwarya |
2019 |
Magarasi |
Sun TV |
Ragini Tamilarasan |
Replaced by Vanitha Hariharan |
2019 |
Baakiyalakshmi |
Star Vijay |
Jennifer "Jenny" Gopinath |
|
2022 |
Chellamma |
Star Vijay |
Megha |
Replaced by Sriya Surendran |
2023 |
Start Music season 4 |
Star Vijay |
Contestant |
Winner |
2023 |
Mahanadhi |
Star Vijay |
Ganga |
Replaced by Dharani Hephzibah |
2024 |
Annam |
Sun TV |
Ramya |
Replaced by Priyanka Shivanna |
2025 |
Naanum Rowdy Dhaan |
Sun TV |
Herself |
|
2025 |
Bigg Boss 9 |
Star Vijay |
Conestant |
Filmography
Year |
Film |
Role |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
2017 |
Sakka Podu Podu Raja |
Yazhini's college friend |
Tamil film |
2019 |
Ninu Veedani Needanu Nene |
Diya/Madhavi |
Telugu debut |
2023 |
Single Shankarum Smartphone Simranum |
Anitha |
Tamil film |
References
Category:1994 births Category:Living people Category:Actresses in Tamil television Category:People from Ramanathapuram district