Parakesarivarman

Parakesarivarman is a dynastic title used by several kings of the Chola dynasty of South India. The term "Parakesarivarman" means "king whose hair is like a lion's mane," a metaphor for strength and regal bearing. Kings who adopted this title would often alternate it with the title "Rajaraja" or "Rajakesari," meaning "king who resembles a lion." This alternation in regnal titles was a common practice among the Cholas and served to emphasize their lineage and divine right to rule. The specific kings who used the title Parakesarivarman are identified through inscriptions and historical records. For example, the early Chola king Vijayalaya is often referred to as Parakesarivarman in some inscriptions, though he is more commonly known by his personal name. Later Chola rulers also employed this title. The distinction between kings using Parakesarivarman and Rajakesarivarman is an important element in the epigraphical and chronological study of the Chola period. Scholars use these titles, along with other evidence, to date inscriptions and reconstruct the succession of rulers. The precise reasons for the adoption of one title over the other at different points in a king's reign or by different rulers are still debated among historians.