- The Chola Empire began to decline in the 13th century. - In the early 14th century (specifically 1311), Malik Kafur led a major expedition into the southernmost parts of India, including the remnants of the Chola territory and the Pandya kingdom. - These invasions weakened the remaining Chola power centers and brought the region under the influence of the Delhi Sultanate, effectively ending the independent Chola rule.