According to the categories of land mentioned in the Chola inscriptions, which term was used for land gifted to temples?

Introduction / Context:
Chola inscriptions from South India provide detailed information about land categories, revenue assignments and religious endowments. The Chola kings and local assemblies frequently granted land to Brahmins, temples and other institutions, and each type of grant had a specific name. Recognising these terms helps us understand the land revenue and religious patronage system of the Chola period.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks which term among the options refers to land gifted to temples in Chola inscriptions.
• The options include Vellanvagai, Brahmadeya, Shalabhoga, Devadana and Pallichchandam.
• We must recall the meanings of each term as used in South Indian epigraphy.

Concept / Approach:
In Chola and related South Indian inscriptions, 'Devadana' or 'Devadanya' refers to land gifted to temples (deva = god, dana = gift). 'Brahmadeya' refers to land donated to Brahmins, often forming exclusive Brahmin villages. 'Vellanvagai' is land of non Brahmin peasant proprietors. 'Shalabhoga' in some contexts refers to land given for the maintenance of educational institutions or feeding centres, and 'Pallichchandam' often refers to land granted to Jain institutions (pallis). Therefore, 'Devadana' is the technical term specifically associated with land gifted to temples.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Epigraphic glossaries and history textbooks listing Chola land categories consistently translate 'Devadana' as lands given to temples. They contrast it with 'Brahmadeya' grants given to Brahmins. Examples from real inscriptions show temples receiving 'Devadana' villages whose income funded rituals, maintenance and festivals. Such usage confirms that 'Devadana' is the term the question is seeking.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Vellanvagai: Denotes land held by Vellala peasants or non Brahmin cultivators, not specifically a temple grant.
• Brahmadeya: Refers to land donated to Brahmins, often tax free, forming special Brahmin settlements.
• Shalabhoga: In some contexts, used for land whose revenue maintains educational or charitable establishments, but not the main term for temple gifts.
• Pallichchandam: Refers mainly to land donations to Jain religious establishments (pallis), not to Hindu temples in general.

Common Pitfalls:
Because all these terms refer to religious or institutional land grants, it is easy to mix them up. A useful tip is to connect 'Brahmadeya' with Brahmins, 'Devadana' with temples, and 'Pallichchandam' with Jain institutions. Fixing these key associations in memory helps you eliminate similar looking options in exam questions.

Final Answer:
Correct answer: Devadana.