Bibliography

1. Singai Emperor Segarasasekaran, Sekarasasekaram 14^th Century
2. Singai Emperor Segarasasekaran, Segarasasekaramalai, 14^th Century
3. Singai Emperor Segarasasekaran, Thadsana Kailasa Puranam 14^th Century
4. Singai Emperor Pararasasekaran, Pararasasekaram 12000, 15^th Century
5. Thamilan P. Sangarapillai, Nam Thamilar
6. Siddha Valmihi, Ramayanam
7. Viyasanuni, Maha Gharatham, Ramachariar Publication
8. Thamilarngnar P M Selvadurai, Inapirachinaiku Theervu
9. Sivanantha Yohi, Yalpana Kudiattam 1932
10. Thamil Navalar Saritham
11. Nallur Sinnathamby Pulavar Paralai Vinayagar Pallu 1790 (Trustees publication 1998)
12. Mudaliyar Muttuthamby, Yalpana sarithiram
13. Prof. S. Pathmanathan, Yarlpana Rachiyam
14. Prof. S. Krishnarajah, Ilankai Varalaru 1 & 11
15. Prince Pallavarajasekaran, Pallavarachiyam 2007
16. Board of Trustees, Paralai Vinayagar Kovil Kudamulzhuku 2003
17. Panditharatnam C. S. Navaratnam, Tamils of Ceylon
18. Thamilaringnar K. Muthu cumarasamypillai, Yarlpana Kudiattam
19. Kathir Tharigasalam, Ilankai Idapeyar Aivu
20. P. D. Seenivasa Iyankar, Thamilar Varalary
21. Dr. M. Rasamanickanar, Pallavar Varalaru
22. Thamilaringnar P. M. Selvadurai & Thamilar Varalarum Inapirachanaiyum, 1999
23. Anthony Jeeva, Kandy Mavatta Thamilar Varalatu Pathivugal 2002
24. N. Navanayagamoorthy, Eela Thamilar Varalatu Suvadugal, 2002
25. V. K. Nadarajah, Pandaya Eelam, 1973
26. Wilheim Geiger, Sinhala Varalatu Noolgalin Nambagathanmai, Tamil Translation K. Satchithandan & Kannan
27. Rev. Gnanapragasar, Yarlpana Vaipava Vinarsanan
28. Dr. P. Pushparatnam, Thsliyal Nokil Ilankai Thamilar Panpadu
29. H. W. Codrington, A Short History of Ceylon
30. G. C. Mendis, Ancient History of Ceylon
31. P. E. Pieris, Prince Vijayapala of Ceylon
32. S.Athavan, Sovereign of Tronate, 2008
33. Dr. P. Pushparatnam, Ancient coins of Sri Lankan Tamil Rulers
34. Dr. P. Ragupathy, Early Settlements in Jaffna.
35. A. R. Arudpragasam, Traditional Home land of Tamils, 1996

Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Pallava Empire

King Koventhan

About the year 1600 BC Koventhan ruled Pallava Kingdom . ‘Koventhan’ is a tittle associated with Pallava rulers. ‘Ko’ meant ‘nandhi’, eruthu, venthan meant ruler, as such, ‘Koventhan’ was synonymous with ‘nandhirasa’. The coins found at Anaikottai bearing the royal symbol are considered by researchers as belonging to the reign of ‘Koventhan’. This ruler, whether he reigned from Manipuram or Anaikottai has not been confirmed. During the 15^th century BC there was a kingdom at Manipuram is confirmed by the old coin found there. (A.J) from Tharakan upto the time of Vithyunmali Anaikkotai had been the seat of the king.

Emperor Nanthirasa

His ruling prevailed in Pallavanadu about 1300 BC. Nantheswaram Sivan Temple of Ratmalana was built by him. Eelanadu was under his rule. In Nantheswaram are a Tamil, Savites only lived here under the Pallavas ruling. Nanthirasa built this temple for the worshipping of saivaites who lived there. In 1454 AC in the period of Kotte King Kumara Alageswaran (Parakramabahu VI) Ragula Thero wrote a book “Salavikini Sandesaya”. He quoted the Nantheeswaram temple in his book as follows – The pooja ceremonies conducted well and people had prayers in Tamil and sang sweet Tamil songs. From the period of Nanthirasa’s reign up to 1454 AC continuously saivaism and Tamil were flourished in Nantheswaram area. It was conformed that a large number of Tamil lived in high level with prosperity in 1454 AC.

King Pallavarasa

There is a period of interval the names of rulers are not available; the reason for this perhaps may be that they did not make a significant impact at that time. Even so that Pallavanadu had a continual rule and rulers cannot be overlooked or the ola leaved manuscripts were damaged and eaten by white ants. Simon Cassiechetty a well known writer of Tamil history has remarked that before 1500 BC that the Tamils have lived in lanka in dignity with strength. Before 1100 BC Pallavarasa’s rule had existed in Pallavam.

The rule at Anaikottai in the peninsula of Jaffnas is referred to by plolemy the well-known Alexandrine astronomer of 2^nd century BC as Aakote and Nagadivu as Nagadibo and Nitsanam is called Nikama. Nikamam is a place at Singainagar (Chankanai, Jaffna) where groups of merchants lived.

Emperor Elalan

He ruled the country round about 1000 BC. Chaldia ruled by King Salamon in the same period. When his trade ships travelled towards east countries, they purchased gold, precious gems, elephant tusks, agar wood and pecock feathers from Thiruketheswaram harbour of Ophir (Ceylon). God siva appeard as big light from the earth to sky in the mount of Sivan (Adam’s peak). In his reign all Ceylon was under his rule. As a result names of many places of Eelam related with Pallavas. Pallavarayan Kaddu (Vanni). Nantheswaram (Colombo), Pallava Vankam (Thriyai), Nanthikadal (Pulmoddai). Thandeeswaram (Matra), are some of them. A traditional believe of sailors and captains of ship by singing the song “Ealaelo” in the deep sea the ship will return to shore without fail and it removes the fatique of travel.

King Elalasingan

Elaelasingan ruled pallavanadu around 921BC. During this period pallavam was in the forefront of sea-trade. At that time in Eelam eighteen verls (Nts;fs;) governed the region. These regions and verls were under the overall governance of Elelasingan.

King Kalatsingan

Around 848 BC the rule of Kalatsingan son of Elelasingan prevailed.

KingPallavarasa

He ruled the Pallava Kingdom from 780 BC to 718 BC.

Emperor Thandaimanan

In pallavam around 718 BC Kalatsingans’ son Thandaimannan ruled. It is said that his rule covered the whole of Lanka. At Devanagar in Mahaturai he built a Sivan Temple. This temple was called Thandeesvaram. The gopuram (spire) of this temple functioned as a direction indicator which is seen in the drawing of the region by Grecian sailors. The Sivalingam’s crown had a most precious sapphire set in it. This account of the sapphire and its flashing brightness in the sun’s rays aided sailors according to Portuguese writers. The temple’s vimanam (translated as the lofting structure) was covered on top by several gold plates. Like the sapphire stone this too helped the directional travel by sailors.

Around 16^th century the Portuguese invaders plundered these treasures and destroyed the temple. In the year 1998, at Visitharama Vihara, the above- mentioned Sivalingam was found. The height of this Sivalingam is 4 feet and width 2 ½ feet. This sivalingam was the central divinity (karuvarai) of Thandeswaram Temple. The size of the Sivalingam clearly indicated that Thandaimannan had built a temple of grandeur for God Siva. The nandhi of the temple too was found. Today Thandesuvaram Temple is a temple for Thirumal (Vishnu). There Load Siva is seen called Saman. The size of the statue of Nandhi tells the story that a Large temple of Siva had been there at the site. Thandeswaram is now called Thondeswaram. The king who first built the temple was Thandaimannan and hence known as Thandeswaram.

Around 150 AC Ptolemy or Greek had recorded about Thandeeswaram Sivan Temple. Tower of this temple had been directing the sailors like a light house. This quoted in a world map drawn by Greeks. Further it says a big ruby with crescent shape was laid in the top of the Lingam and the roof of the temple were fixed with gold plates. The light reflected by gold plates shown the direction for sailors.

Further Ibin Battuta an Arabian Traveller described about this temple in 1344 AC in his travel notes as follows:-

It is a big city of commerce, A statue named as it town (Thandeeswaram) is in this temple. About thousands of priests, Yogis and more than 500 Devadasis (female dancers) have been working. Devadasis are dancing and singing daily in the right. The income of the city is belongs to this temple. The god statue of this temple made of gold with eyes having ruby stones. This two eyes are shining like illuminating torch.

Emperor Mahatharan

Around 646 BC Mahatharan son of Thandaimaman belonging to the family of Pallava Naga rulers, ruled the Pallava Empire from Manipuram and his rule was a one of fame. Mahatharan’s uncle Manikkanahan governed from Kaleniya and Mahatharan’s son-in-law Cholatharan ruled at Rameswaram as a sub-rulers.

From Singhai

MANICCANAGAN KALANY THANDEESWARAM STONE TEMPLE

NAGAKING MANIKRAN PALLAVA ARCHITECTURE

Emperor Manirasa

Manirasa son of Mahatharan ruled Manipuram round about the year 580 BC. Manirasa Kulam and Manikrama Kulam (Minneriya tank) of Trincomalee were under the governance of Manirasa.

Emperor Koventhan

About the year 518 BC Koventhan son of Manirasa ruled Pallava Empire. The Pallava rulers embossed in their flags and coins the figure of Nandhi. The Pallavars were known as nandhirasas; also as Koventhars (Rasa and venthar in Tamil mean rulers). The stone-head and royal frank with the figure of nandi belongs to 5^th Century BC as the rulership-embossing brings out known facto clearly. “Beginning 6^th Century B.C upto 3^rd Century A.C, that there was a strong rulership is clearly in evidence. Around 2^nd Century after Christ the whole of Lanka had clearly been ruled by the Nagakings of Manipallavam” (A.J) Felicius history, a well-known work carries the evidence of Nagadivu rulership, being the initial indication by the westerners of this fact. Although around 5^th Century B.C there had been three rulerships in Ceylon that pearl fishing was under the rule of Nagadivu is clear.

Emperor Nallanahan

The rule of Nallanahan was around 454 BC. In accounts by foreigners and connected literary works, there is proof that between pallavam and south-eastern countries from early times there had been sea traffic and trade. Nallanahan is the son of Koventhan. He was the king of Pallavam and Emperor of Ceylon. Stone carving 374 were found in south Ceylon until todate. The period of these stone carvings is before the first century AC. It was used by all casts of citizens. The word “Perumahan” was written in Tamil. But it was not found in anyone of the Pali literatures of Ceylon History (Dr. P. Pushparatnam). According to the constitution of Singai Nadu, a representative of each cast or community in the Royal assembly was called Perumahan.

Emperor Mudinaharasan

Nagadivu was ruled by Mudinaharasan around 389 BC. He was a great Tamil Scholar. His poetic composition had achieved recognition at Pandya Academy (Tamil Sangam

Emperor Parama athan

Paramathan is the son of Mudinaharasan who ruled around 324 BC. He authored much Tamil poetic compositions.

Emperor Theebarasa

Around 269 BC it is known that Theebarasa ruled Nagadivu.

Emperor Manikkanahan

Around 208 BC he ruled the country. During the reign of Manikkanahan. Sapphire stones of excellence were available for trading at Manipuram. As such traders from many lands traveled here. The epic well-known is ‘Silapadiharam’. Kannakis father Masathuvan Chetty sent the captain (meehaman) of his ship to purchase sapphire stones for her anklets to Manipuram. The naval fort of Manikkanahan was at Nedunthivu. The naval commander there was called Vediyarasan. He was known for hurling crack-missiles at enemy vessels and destroying them. Vediyarasan warred with the captain from Cholanad. During this battle the Naval commander of Thiruvadinilai Veeranarayanan was killed. On hearing the news of the death of ruler stopped the battle and commanded Vediyarasan to bring the captain of Cholaland to his palace. Also he ordered Vediyarasan to sell the Sapphire-stones. Nedunthivu was also known as Eaitpattinam because of the sea-fort there. The ruler Manikkanahan made Vediyarasan the chief of Neyithalnilam with the attendant ceremony (pattankaddi) . Megasthes was the emissary from Greece who came to India during the rulership of Chandragupta during 3^rd Century B.C. “In the industry of gold, gold related products and producing pearls of quality Lanka lead India. Pearl fishing, and the west side townships on the sea-coast of North Sri Lanka, attracted western merchants for trade in ornament making produce to and craftsmanship. During this period the rulers connected with these ornament related regions of production. The affluent rulers of these regions had erected temples sustained by the pearl fishing income drew worshippers and pilgrims. This is evident from notes made by the traders from the west. (AJ) for quite a length of time conch shell were cut at chunnakam of Jaffna. This is proved by D.P.E.Pieris from his research from excavations. Muttuthambipillai of Chunnakam cut cart loads of conch shells, applied heat and made chunnam (lime). This confirmed the fact that lime was produced from cut conch shells and processed. Cutting conch shells was an art and these craftsmen were called ‘keeran’; from there cut shells bangles, rings and other ornaments were made and these were worn by the Tamils.

In the period before 2^nd Century B.C. Coins stone-inscriptions bore Tamil words which meant that those in authority were Tamils; further the lettering was of a unique nature, The names of Tamils appearing in the above-mentioned inscriptions etc belonged to that era when related to the literary works of that era which carried such names says

Dr. P. Pushparatnam.

Emperor Elalan

The ruler of Pallava Empire Elalan was crowned in 151 BC. In 145 BC he captured Anourpuri when chieftain of Anourpuram refused to pay tribute and again brought the whole of Lanka under his rulership. For a length of 44 years he ruled justify. Elalan was a Saivaite and under his rulership Saivaism and Tamil received royal attention. Karvannathesan of Santhanakamam and other sub-rulers paid dues into the royal treasury of Emperor Elalan. The flag of Nandi flew high all one Sri Lanka. At Anourpuri he erected a temple of Siva. He was the son of Manikkanahan. It is known that Abeya (naga, Duttugemunu) killed him through conspiracy in battle. King Elalans son-in-law Pallavan massed 6000 fighters and proceeded from Pallavam to Anuradhapura and battled there. Tharmakulasingam stated that chapter 73&74 of Mahavamsam says – “Emperor Elalans body was fallen here. A memorial symbol was erected in this place. From that date todate the Kings who, pass paid their respect to the tomb by stopping music and drums and bow their head”. Elalans tomb was erected by King Abayan (Tuddugaman) and the above orders also made by him.

EMPEROR ELALAN’S TOMB ELLALANCHENAI,ANOURPURI CHANDRAN RUTNAM 1981

(ELALA SOHONA OR THE STUPA OF THE “SO-CALLED” DAKKHINA VIHARA)

(SEE MAHAVAMSA, XXXIII : 89)

Emperor Uthiran

Uthiran ruled from 101BC until 40 BC. In the stone inscriptions of first century B.C. the name Naganagar (Chulipuram) is seen. Also coins inscribed by the ruler Uththiran with his name were found. These coins belonged to the first century BC and were those that belonged to the period when Naganagar was ruled by the Tamil king is the findings of research persons. Uthiran is the son of Elelan.

Emperor Perunahan

Perunahan assumed rulership about 40 BC. He is the son of Uthiran and ruled Pallava Empire. He was responsible for building a big water reservoir (Kulam) which extended from Naganagar (Chulipuram), Tholpuram, Moolai, Ponnalai, Nelliyan – a whole range of villages having boundaries. Appropriate; Tamil poets called him Kularasa and Vavirasa (Kulam and vavi in Tamil mean lakes). At Uduthurai coin belonging to 1^st Century BC was found. This coins must be inscribed by the King Perunahan.

Emperor Ilanahan

Ilanahan the son of Perunahan ruled Pallava Empire from 14 years BC for forty four years. The Tamil coins found during 1^st Century BC had the inscription ‘Thasapeedan’. He may have been one of the ten sub-rulers of Kathirkamam. Naha saththan, Maha ay, Maha uthi might be the merchant groupings.

Emperor Nallanahan (Nalliyatkodan)

Ilanahan’s son Nallanahan being a warrior of strength ruled well supported and sustained Tamil poets and scholars, was a great ruler. From Pandinad Tamil Sangam poets came, sang their compositions before Nallanahan and were rewarded well. When poet scholar Natthathanar came from the mainland of India, he reached Pallavam crossing two townships, one was called Eaitpattinam, This was the defense fort between south of India and Pallavam and Nedunthivu Fort. Next was Velur. There in the large pond was filled with blooming lotuses. That was Velanai. Nalliyatkodan’s capital city was Amur, which is Amaiyur; now called Chulipuram. In the fields of Chulipuram, even now tortoises are seen moving around. Because the golden tortoise was trapped at Chulipuram it is called Ponnamaiyur. The rulership of Nallanahan was between 30 years AC upto 80 years AC. The work ‘Sirupanatruppadai carried the composition of Nallanahan with these details “Thiral Verunthiyit pooththa kerni viral vel ventri velur”

In 50 AC the ship belonging to the emperor of Rome Gladius was caught in the strong sea wind and was pushed ashore on the western shore of Naganadu called Kuthiraimalai. Those in the ship that hit the shore were sent by the King of Jaffna with the passenger went the Aratchi Amhassedor to Rome. Thus Cassichetty describes; thus it means Kuthiraimalai near Puttalam was under the rule of Pallavam.

* Kodan meant Nahan

Emperor Villi Athan

Villi Athan the son of Nalliyatkodan in the year 80AC ascended the throne of Pallava Empire. As he was an incomparable bow and arrow marksman he was called Villi. His given name was Athan with his land force and sea-force and capability he was a ruler of fame; Eelam’s great king. Pallavam was in the forefront in food production, cloth making, Pearl, Coral and elephant tusks, in all of these much trading activity took place. Villi Athan’s courage force-strength and arrow shooting expertise gave the impetus to war with many countries and overcome them. He overran the Kalappirar and Chalukkiyar by taking his forces to South India. Where he conquered and ruled over it as the Emperor of Thandai Nadu (Thandai Mandalam).

The Pallava flag was raised over Thandai Mandalam; the flag flow over the Thandai fort and the royal frank of Pallavam was put into use. The Nandi coins of Pallavam was the coinage of this land. He defeated the Chera, Chola, Pandya kings and established Pallava Empire in south India. Pallava rule’s traditions were preserved here. The Pallava Fort architectural arrangement was faithfully followed in structuring Kanjipuram city. The nandi symbol was made use of by the rulers. The Pallava civilization was spread around India by the Pallava rulers. The victories of the Pallava rulers in India that made Pallavam famous. The Pallava rulers from Pallavam set up their Kingdom at Kanjipuram in Pallava tradition. This is described in the epic Manimekalai thus.

The Pallava Kingdom centred at Kanjipuram and its Athan Thandai Chakravarthi (Thandai Emperor) later became narrowed to Athandai Chakravarthi. The first Pallava sovereign of India was Athandai Chakravarthi. The Thandai Mandalam of India was Thamilnadu; by other region of India it was called Dravidam (Thiruidam). The Chera, Chola and Pandinad did not achieve the title of Thamilnadu. Pallavanadu, Thandainadu, Pallavadesam, Thandaimandalam, Thiravidam, Thamilnadu all meant Pallava Nadu. Owing to the senthamil peoples rule of unbent scepter Thamilnadu achieved its name and fame. At Kanji and Chennai regions unflawed Tamil (Senthamil) was being spoken along with its flourishing and Tamil music being sung a rising in to natural stature was all due to the Pallava rulers.

Coming to Andra certain places have the names Eelamurugu (Krishna), Eelappoththam (Karimnagar) Lanka, Eelavaru (Kundur) Eelapanji Bahu (Nellur) Lankapuram and Lankeswaram are some of the names coming with Pallava rule. North west region of Kerala is known as Eelam and in Karnataka there is Eelathur (South Kannadam) Eelakalli (Hasan) are names of places and in Thamilnadu, Northwest of Thindukkal is Ilangikuraichchi is the name of a place also in Thamilnadu there is Eelavur (Sengalpattu) Eelagiri (Vada Atkadu) again Eelagiri (Salem) Eelamalai (Koyambattur) Eelakkurichi (Trichi) Eelathur (Thanjai) Eelakkulam (Tirunelveli) Eelathur (Neelagiri) are some names from Pallava rule.

Thandai mandalam, Pallavanadu, Pallavaram, Alagapuri (Kuberan, Imayamalai), Thiruchirapalli, Karanur, Vaithiyanatha echcharam (Ravanan), Thirulanga (Andra) Maamallapuram are all named by Eela Kings and Pallavas. The names in Pallavam and Lanka are in use in Andra, Malaiyala, Karnataka and Thamilnadu. Those who have gone from Pallavam and Settled in South of India have named these after their own place – names is stated Kathir Thanignasalam in his work on research of place names.

When Pallavas established their rule at Kanjipuram Kanji Empire, they and those who came with them named these places. Kuberan, Ravanan, Thirisiran, Karan, Thudanan, Thadakai and Subahu had named places when their rule that extended from the Himalayah region to South of India. The Pallava Empire extended from the whole of South India to most of North India. This period was from 2^nd Century and further. Up to the 13^th Century AC Pallava rule prevailed in India in certain places. In this period Pallava Kings named these places. The Pallavas origin with Pallavam is seen in copper plates and etchings of Pallava lineage says Professor S. Krishnaraja. The Pallava period of rulership India, Yava, Borneo, Parley, Poonan, Senla, Cambodia, Samba, Burma, Malaya, Singapure, Sumatra and Siam was the golden era of Tamil and Saivaism.

Emperor Pallavarasa

Pallavarasa’s rule extended from 100AC to 145AC. His daughter princes Nagadevi wedded the Chola ruler Ilangkillee. Their son was called Cholanahan. Coins found in these times have Sivalingam and peacock embossed on them. The son of Pallavarasa was named Valaivanan.

Emperor Valaivanan

Valaivanan ruled from 145AC up to 185AC. A ruler of grace and fame wedded Princes Vasamailai. They had a daughter of immense beauty called Peelivalai. When the Chola ruler, a relative visited Pallavam taken up by the beauty of Peetevalai wedded her. Their son Ilanthiraiyan became the ruler of Chola Nadu after Killivalavan, Erroneously he was by some referred to as the first Pallava ruler. Chozha’s son is the Chozha. He’s rulership was in the Chozha tradition. He was not a Pallavan but a Chozhan.

Emperor Kaalingarasa

Kaalingarasa ruled Pallavam from 185AC up to 226AC. This son of Valaivanan had excellent relations with Chozhanadu as his brother-in-law was the Chozha King Killeevalavan. There was co-operation between them. Pearl harbours and pearl fising of Ceylon were under the control of Pallava Emperors. Sambokovalam was the main fort of trade. A sailor Vusi – Vaihu – Su – On who visited Ceylon in the 3^rd century AC recorded in chapter 699 of Taiping Ulan (Chinese Record) as pearls which was collected by Ceylonese were purchased by Kings of India and temples of India. Pearl habours and pearl fishing were under the continent of the North Kingdom of Ceylon.

Emperor Veeranahan

Veeranahan ruled Pallavam from the year 266AC until 306AC.

Emperor Nanthirasa

Nanthirasa son of Veenahan ruled the Pallava Empire from 268 BC to 306 BC

Emperor Paramesuvara Pallavan

Nandirasa Paramesuvara Pallavan ruled from Manipuram from the year 306AC up to the year 348AC. There were three Kingdoms in Ceylon in 4^th Century AC, which was recorded in chapter 789 of Taiping Ulan.

Emperor Mathandaiyan

Mathandaiyan ruled Pallavam from the year 348AC up to 390AC. He was the son of Paramesuwara Pallavan and wore the warrior’s valour anklets around his ankles. He was given the name Mathandaiyan because of this; thandai meaning male-anklet. The Pallavas usually wore the valour-anklets. Meaning a great Pallava, the poets gave him the name of Valour Mathandaiyan wishing him great victories at war.

Emperor Vettinahan

Vettinahan the son of Mathandaiyan ruled Pallava Empire from the year 390AC until 441AC. He ruled from Manipuram. In confirming Pallava rule Cosmas the Greek writer has chronicled that from 5^th Century AC there was at Nagadivu a separate kingdom.

Emperor Kalatsingan

The son of Vettinahan was crowned Pallava king in the year 442AC. He ruled until 485AC.

Emperor Rajasingan

Rajasingan ascended the throne of Pallava Empire in the year 486AC. This ruler ruled from Manipuram and was the ruler of most prosperous nine big ports of Ceylon. Trade was enormous, the articles of trade prodigious, the port of Kovalaturai busy. The trade with many countries of the world was growing owing to the product of Pallavam. The economy was strong and merchants from all parts of the world came to the port for purchase of goods and their ships were anchored at the ports. The Greek chronicler of the 6^th Century AC, Cosmos Indiko Plusurus describes Lanka as being ruled by two kings, in the north, the Jaffna Kingdom being strong and it ports well-defended and in world trading at the forefront, confirming the rulership of the Tamils. Further, this chronicler goes on to describe, Manipuram, Urkavaturai, Kovalam (Sambu Kovalam) and also refers to Anaikottai. In small boats called ‘Vallams’ he describes that goods were taken to the interior of the land from the port. From Sambu Kovalam up to Manipuram and Paralai small boats (Vallams) carried goods which portrayed a busy sea-traffic that existed for a long period of time. In the 6^th Century AC, the Pallava Kingdom changed its centering capital from Manipuram to Singanagar(Sanganai).

The stone inscriptions found all over the islard between the beginning of 6^th Century BC to the end of 6^th Century AC and the sasanans carried Tamil Brahmi lettering and Adhi Dravid Tamil lettering. The kings of that time had used Tamil letters indicating that Tamils inhabited these regions in large numbers, and the language of the rulership was Tamil. Tamil rulers headed these regions. Before Christ in the 1^st Century more than 80 stone inscriptions the name ‘Naga’ referred to and confirms that Tamil Nagas ruled and they have made these stone inscriptions. In 550 AC, Greek merchant named Sobacca makes reference to a Lankan Kingdom in the northern most part ruled over by a separate ruler.

Emperor Rasapallavan

Rajasinghan’s son Rasapallavan reigned from the year 527 AC until 572 AC. During the 6^th and 7^th century after Christ, Eelak kasu (Eelam coin) was in use and this ruler may have put this coinage into use.

Chapter 1

Chapter 1

Ancient Kings

Punniyarasan

Humankind occurred at Adam’s Peak, and as human habitations enlarged moved on to Trincomalee and occupied the banks of the Mahaweli River that flowed into the sea there. Those who inhabited the bank of the River Mahawali and increased in population and moved westwards were called Nagars. Those who inhabited the Eastern Bank and increased moved eastwards and called Iyakkar. On Eelam’s westwards called Palavi’ Mandalam Nagas established the Kingdom of the Nagas. With this establishing of the Naga Kingdom, Mathottam, Lankapuri, Manimalai, Nagadivu were Naga Kingdoms. Where the Nagas lived was called Nagadivu. During the Kredayuga Nagadivu was called Punnyapuram. Punneyeswaram a Sivan Temple for worship with all facilities for temple serving families like drummers, priest and architectural specialist lived and it is not the temple but a Temple complex (Sivathalam). The king Punnyarasan ruled at this time and there fore called Punnyapuram. During the Kretayuga Civilisation (49900 BC to 33100 BC) was at peak point. During this yuga, in Nagadivu there existed a big kingdom; and this kingdom was thrice larger than Jaffna Peninsula and the islands around it.

The Ramayana epic writings have mentioned that during Krethayuga there existed a large kingdom at Nagadivu and that to locate the whereabouts of sita this large kingdom needs to be explored, Rama had said to Hanuman. The people who dwelt at Nagadivu were of an emancipated civilization Nagadivu had defense fortresses and the King’s ruling complex was within a well protected fort. Ravana made a flight towards the Naga fortress defeated the king and made his relative the new sovereign and rebuilt the Punneyapuram Siva Temple complex.

King Mareesan

At the end of the Tretha (33100 BC to 17500 BC) yugam (epoch), somewhere about 18000 BC years after Ravana’s death his blood relative Chitrangathan brought Ravana’s veena (yarl) and played the instrument and worshipped at Punyapuram lord Siva. The land after this was called Veenaganapuram meaning mellifluent site of the veena’s musical sweetness.

<

INDRAN RAVANESWARAN

LANKAPURI EMPEROR VIBEESANAN KALANY RAMA CONDUCTS CORONATION

King Chitrangathan

After the death of Mareesan, Chitrangathan became the ruler of Veenaganapuram. The Nagas worshipped siva as their traditional divinity and as such Punyapuram came to be called Nagakulaecharam and in time came to be called Naguleswaram. The Nagakula Ambal (Siva Sakti) came to be called Nagulambikai. We can therefore see that Nagulam (echaram) as it was called in the deep past became ‘Nagulam’ and later in Tamil called ‘Keerimalai’. When the name was ‘Nagulam’ the story of Nagulamuni a mendicant is said to be true. S. Rajanayagam has remakes that the story of the princess Maruthapuraveegavalli with the horse face was in doubt.

King Tarahan

Dwaparayugam (17500 BC – 3100 BC) Tarakan, the younger son of Kasipa Munivar captured Nagadivu built a strong fortress and ruled from there. Tarakan was elephant like and he was called ‘Tharakan’ where Tarakan erected his fortress was therefore called Anaikottai. Tarakan was the third born son of Kasipa Munivar and Mayadevi. Darakan devotedly worshipped god Siva in deep meditation. As a result he ruled from Anaikottai, it is said for many thousand years from Anaikottai as stated in the Puranam. In the deeper time of the past men lived long. Tarakan married Chowri and she was his queen. Their offspring was a son named Asurendran.

The Devas could not defeat the asuras. The devas made their way to Mahakailasam and worshipped God Siva with melting hearts. From Siva’s central eye six sparks streaked out. Gods Siva commanded Agni (fire) and Vayu (Wind) carried the six sparks and placed them in the river. The river swirled and carried the sparks to saravana lake (Lotus Lake) when the six sparks reached the lake dried up, the lake which thus dried up is called Valukkai Aru, the meaning of Valukkai in Tamil means bereft, the lake has no water. The six-sparks (Murugan) was cherished and nursed by Karthigai maids by feeding him with milk. They were Muruga’s foster mothers. Where the Saravanai lake was the place was called Saravanai between lake saravanai and River Valukkai the sea splashes.

The young Murugan grew up and mother Parvathi gave the pointed spear (vel), that place is called Velanai. ‘Velanai’ in time in the patois of the people living there. Murugan was growing up and with his mother Parvati went to Mahakailasam and paid his loving respect to his father Sivan. In response to Siva’s command Muruga organized himself into warrior stance and warred with Tarakan. Tarakan entered Mount Kraunja and concealed himself. The opening in Mount Kraunja was merged in darkness and was called Alvai. From this gaping entrance Alvai Mount Kraunja was to the north east Mount Kraunja was a massive magic cave. When Lord Muruga came down from Mount Kailas with his massive assisting warriors, the contingent camped at Senthitsannathi, which was later known as Sellachannithi. It was from here that Muruga destroyed Mount Kraunja. On the destructor of ‘Mount Kraunja’ Tarakan came out. At the nearby Mayapuri (open space) the two battled fiercely. Muruga attacked Taraka’s neck with his vel (spear), the chain as which was around Taraka’s neck broke up and the pendant which was Vishnu’s chakkrayutham fell to the ground. At last King Tarakan of great strength moved into the heaven for his Valour. Where the battle was fought was at Mayakkai, Vadmaradchi. Where his Vishnu’s weapon chakrayutham broke up and fell was the village of Valli nachchi. Very much later Vallinachiyar found this shattered weapon (Chakrayathan) was ceremoniously placed at a temple and worshipped and this place of worship of chakrayutham was called Vallipuram. This place of worship Vallipuram was called Vallipuraalvar Kovil.

In tellectual opinion like those of Pandithamani Kanapathipillai referred to Jaffna’s culture as Kandapurana Culture, is suggestive of this consecration of the above his body. The pointed spear (vel) with which Muruga battled Taraka from his battling centre is Sellachchanithi. Also where Vallinachchi consecrated the chakrayutham for worship is Vallipuram Temple. This form of worship with the symbols of the divine is Traditional Tamil Worship. These places of worship, although not erected in accordance with northern Sanskrit scriptural mode, worshippers receive and experience divine grace and have attained fame as a result of the blessings poured onto the worshippers.

The Devas had been defeated by Tarakan and imprisoned by him and treated as slaves. Devas worshipped Vishnu (Thirumal) for these defeated Deva and Vishnu warred with Tarakan who defeated him and wrested the ‘Chakrayutham’ from him. With a 1000 flowers Thirumal (Vishnu) worshipped Siva for the returning to him of the weapon chakrayutham. Thirumal who conducted the worship with a 1000 Lotus flowers at last found that one flower was short to conduct the poojah (worship). At once he plucked his eye and completed the worship. Siva understanding this granted him the chakrayutham.

Thuvaparaugam – Thiru Nadu – Map 2

2. Manipuram





3. Sampeswaram





4. Sambukovalathurai





5. Thiruvadinilai





6. Ponnamaiyur





7. Punniyapuram





8. Anaikottai





9. Selvasannithy





10. Pallavam





11. Tarahan’s Rule





12. Velanur





13. Saravanapoikai





14. Manimalai





15. Thiruketheeswaram





16. Mathoddam





17. Perunthurai





18. Aruvi Aru





19. Kuthiraimalai





20. Kingdom of Singakiri





21. Mahakailayam





22. Lankapuri





23. Thirikonamalai





24. Asurapuri





25. Mahenthiramalai





26. Raniyathanmalai





27. Thirukarasai Managar





28. Thirumangalaipuram





29. Agathiyathapanam





30. Puttalam





31. Singakiri Kotte





32. Pulathiyanagar





33. Yakkavur





34. Mayavan Aru





35. Muneercharam





36. Chilapam





37. Nikangamam





38. Mavali Aru





39. Suurapathman Rule





40. Kalani Aru





41. Sivanolipatham





42. Pothiyil





43. Kathirgama Aru





44. Ukanthai





45. Kathirgamam





46. Kathiramalai





47. Suran Kotte





48. Veeramahendrapuram





49. Mylravanan Kotte





50. Theivam Hurai





51. Galle Hurai

King Asurendran

The killing of Tarakan when it became known to his son Asurendran he made his way to the Singhagiri Fort (Sigiriya) and gave this woeful message to his father’s elder brother Singan rajah he wept and cried uttering incomprehensible words, filled with sorrow. After regaining himself he installed Asurendran BC 15000 as the sovereign of Anaikkottai the center of Kingship. For about just more than a 100 years Asurendran reigned rendering service to Saivaism and Tamil. He had 3 sons. Asurendran attained the feet of Siva. Asurendrans three sons performed tapas their attention on Siva. Gladdened by their tapas granted them the gift of making request from him. Following the death of Soorapathman, his brother Anaikannan was crowned king and ruled Veeramahendrapuram. Mathottam (Mannar) was ruled by Kamalakannan.

King Vithiyunmali

Vithiyunmali ascended the throne of Anaikottai. His reign is placed somewhere about 14000 BC, it is said in certain works, also that he ruled for quite a length of time with authoritative strength.

Sage Jamathagni suffered from a devastating disease (Gastric ulcer). This disease made his face terribly ugly. Samathu means great strength, agni means hunger (sadaragni) monstrous hunger, owing to unappeased hunger, burning stomach and stomach sores he was called Jamathagni His face become gaunt and lean and perhaps looked like a mongoose, owing to the grace of god he reached Punnyechcharam and commenced living in a mountain cave; daily he bathed in the holy waters at Kandagi, followed by worshipping Nagakulesuvarar and Nagula Ambiga; at Punniyaeiharam. It is said that owing to the divine grace of Punniyaeswarar his disease was cured. The work Thedchanakailasa manniyam carried this account. It is understood that the mount in which he lived is called ‘Keerimalai’. South of Keerimalai’s find ‘theertham’ (holy lake) and south of Keerimalai – Maviddapuram street is Punniyeswarar Temple. Although through the passage of time the spot has become a mound of sand, the villagers refer to the spot as ‘Kovitkadavai’ meaning where the temple stood more than 50 years ago when the stony area was dug Pnniyeshvaram Lingaperuman (image) appeared. Now it is seen installed at the Keerimalai Sivan temple. Had archaeologists under taken proper research greater historical truths would have been revealed what is now seen at Keerimalai, the water-spring lake is not Kandaki holy lake, also the sivan temple nearby had been built by the people just more than 100 years ago. About 10000 BC from Eelam (Lanka) Agastyar once again went to Bharath (India). Agastyar was accompanied at his request by Thiranathumagni son of Jamathagni Munivar. Thiranathumagni was Agastya Munis first student of language literature who composed the famous Tholkappiyam. Thirunathumagni (Tholkapiyar) was from Jaffna (Yalpanam) says Thenpuloliyur Kanapathipillai. Many research scholars associated with Tamil works express this view owing to the manner of language use and words which almost confirms that Tholkappiyar hailed from Pallavam. The use of the words mJ> mjh;> tpaok;> fpahok; gdhl;L> gd;dhil make room for this view

Around 10000 BC Jaffna (Yalpanam) was known as Nagadivu, Naganagar and Manipuram. At some time those sovereigns who were descendents of Mayon numbering 18, 18 Verls and 18 divisions of citizens went over India to enhance the land and elevate it in stature. Agantya Muni went with these categories of people. During Threthayugam before the rulership of Maliyavan, Sakkaran (Mayon) ruled from Manimalai at Mullaitivu. Mullailand belongs to Mayon. Mayon ruled there and headed the second Tamil assemblage (jkpo; Nguit) and encouraged the development of Tamil. At Manipuram such developing of Tamil was undertaken Verl, Verlalar headed smaller regions. They were sublangdoms being sub-rulers known as verl and verlalar and also referred to as ‘muthali’.

Tamil and Tamil civilization and Tamil lineage patterns and ways spread to Bharat by Tamils of Eelam. Siddhas of Eelam such as Agaetnyar and Pulathyar the descendant of fore region Mayon, eighteen Verlir and the inhabitants of Manipuram, commonalty of peoples contributed immensely Tamil civilization to peniusular India. The first Tamil Academy (Thamil Sangam) was inaugurated by Agatyar, Pulthiyar and Tholkapiyar along with others in about 9999 BC at Koodal Nagar, this appears in Swami Vipulanandas research work. His research was done in accordance with Tamil research discipline.

Lord Indran

From the beginning of Twabara Yugam at Nagadivu reign by Kings has been without break according to historic evidence. About the period 6000 BC Indran who suffered a curse was born in a fisher family at Manipuram. He plied his vocation in the sea of Manipuram; the time for redemption from the curse was nearing. Manivannan appeared as a giant shark and posed a threat to the fisherman Indran. Finally all the fishermen who were fishing combined and dragged the giant shark to shore. To their amazement the shark vanished. Manivannan the shark fisherman stood with conch and chakra (circular weapon). The fisherman took the appearance of Indran. Indran overjoyed paid obeisance and cried ‘Thirmal my peramal yon appeared and gave me redemption from the curse; henceforth all who suffer from curse shall find redemption here; where you stood sanctified your foot prints the place and shall always be there. You played in our ocean swimming and those who bathe in these holy waters will find relief from their sins caused by their short comings and on earth enjoy prosperity and there after attain your lotus feet; thus the overjoyed Indran fisherman made request to Manivannan. Manivannan responded favourably and his foot prints were embedded in the sands. From then on the spot made holy by Thirumal (Manivannan), was known as Thirvadnilai and Mani pallavam. For a space of time Indran reigned from Manipuram, Manipallavam. From then on the ‘Festival of Indra’ (Indravizha) became yearly a festive occasion.

Where Indran ruled and where the ‘Festival of Indra’ became an annual occasion of Fertility was called Indranagar (Chulipuram). Elders say that in time Indranagar through lingual changing effects in pronunciation was called Indranai. Also Singainagar in time came to be known as Changanai. The literary work called ‘Manimekalai’ clearly reveals, that Nagadivu was pallavam. Vallipura Alvar’s work Vallaithirupathikam calls pallavam as pallavam. Selvachchannithi Kanthan Thirupuranam identifies Manipuram as Manikkarai and that is said to be the Jaffna inland regions; it is also stated that manipuram at one time meant the whole of Jaffna Peninsula.

The ‘thandai’ (male anklet worn on one foot) adorned Thirumal’s gentle feet caressed the sands; the place is called Thiruvadi nilaithurai. It was also known as Pallavathurai. The stone carving of Thirukovil of 1225 after Christ of January 20^th beam the inscription that Emperor Visayalingam was the King of Pallavam; also Emperor of Eelam made up of Iyakka, Naga and Rajarata regimes Thiri buvana Emperor. Kings who hailed from Pallava Royal family were known as Pallavar. The composition called segarajasegaram (work) carries the description that Singainadu and Singainagar was also known as Kandy. In Singanagar Kandy (Lake) had been crafted Pallavam was called Kandynadu stated in a book Tamil Navalar Saritham. From Manipuram (Chulipuram) along singaingar (Changanai) upto Nallur, the roadway is called Peruntheru (large roadway). The rulers of Singai’s Chariot travelled along this roadway. Later from the time of the rulership of Subramaniam, the roadway from Moolai (%sha;) up to Nallur was called Peruntheru (large roadway). The roadways used by the chariot to of rulers were called ‘peruntheru’ in the mannar of convention Chinese pilgrims who visited ‘Thiruvadi nilai’ (the place of holy feet) have stated that the impressions of the feet were indeed seen. Until 16^th century these feet impressions were visible, as time passed, the sea moved and has covered these impressions. Manivannan (Thirumal) had a holy bath at this spot, Ponnamaiyur Manivannan up to date take a holy bath at this place.

The gentile feet of Manivannan caressed and made impression Nagadivu was called Manipallavam. As time passed Manipallavam came to be known as Pallavam. Around 5000 BC a miracle of Thirumal occurred at Manipallavam. At the pallavam sanctified waters fishermen fished; a golden tortoise appeared and the fisher men tried to capture it in their net. The golden tortoise evaded capture and for quite a length of time made fool of the fisherman. The unrelenting fishermen put their effort together and captured this golden tortoise and brought it ashore. The tortoise managed to escape and moved speedily westwards. The fishermen chased after it and the tortoise ceased to move. As soon as it stopped moving the golden tortoise turned into stone. The voice of Manivannan (Thirumal) was heard from the skyway above saying that a temple be raised there for him. The ruler of Manipuram built a temple for Manivannan. Because a golden tortoise was captured Manipuram came to be called ‘Ponnamaiyur’ (Thevillage of golden tortoise) and also ‘Amaiyur’ (Tortoise village). At present the place where the golden tortoise turned into stone from ‘Ponnamiyur’ came by change of uses later Ponnalaiyur. The ruler at that time built on that hallowed spot of the stone tortoise Thirumal’s image and raised a temple with seven – tiered streets of worship.

At the seventh street tier entrance a pond was built and entrance Lord Ganesha statue was erected. Because the miracle and the structure were made at Ponnalai, the temple was called ‘Ponnalayam’. The land where this Temple stood was called the Sathuranga Manatidal. Twice a year ‘Mayavanar’ (Thirumal) is take for holy dip at Pallava holy waters (Thirvadinilai). This is followed annually.

During Dwaparayugam (4500 BC)

The ruler of Cholanad Musukunthan battled Lord Indran according to historical evidence. Because of a curse or disease the ruler’s handsome countenance turned monkey-like. As such the name Musukunthan of the ruler is not his own name but because of the reason of monkey-like face. In India this monkey-face could not be cured; there fore the ruler made a pilgrimage to Manipallavam and reached Thirvadinilai. Here he bathed in the holy waters and worshipped continually at the Siva Temple at Chulipuram and it is stated that the monkey-like countenance changed. This particular temple is now covered with earth. This temple is situated at a point between. Veemarasan Kollai (king palace) and Sambukovalaturai and is at ‘Paralaiveli’. As the Chola ruler worshiped here and was cure of his monkey-face, this sivan temple is called Sambesuvaram. The port where the Chola King arrived and stepped down to proceed for worship to the nearby temple is called Puliyanturai. The regrettable fact is the excavation has not been carried out to reveal the temple of Sambesvaram. Yogi Karthigesu in the 20^th century erected a Sivan Temple to signify Sambeswaran Temple. This is the Sivan Temple now seen at Chalipuram. Sambukovalam is the major port to North India is of course with reference to Pallavam there had been frequent travel of vessels between these places. In 3^rd century B.C pearls from Eelam reached Magada Kingdom in referred to in 3^rd century BC in Arthashastra.

King Chithrangathan

Sometime around 3100BC the Panch Pandavas rule prevailed in India. Owing to unfrozen circumstances in order to meet urgently Dharma, the elder brother; Arjuna walked into Draupatha’s queens quarters as this was a breach of royal practice Vijayan to absolve himself of this infringement of practice was under advisory direct on to make pilgrimage southwards for one year to places. Sanctify per and bathe in the holy waters, and undertake worship. Indran’s son Arjuna, travelled to Thiruvadinilai where Indran rid himself of the curse on him and purify himself by bathing in the holy waters.

Arjuna on coming to Pallavam, bathed at the Pallava (Thiruvadinilai) Theertham (Pallavam) at the boundary of Manipuram. As it was practice for Chitrangathai to bathe at Manipuram (Chulipuram) Arjuna on seeing her fell in love with her. Chithrangathan the ruler of Manipuram arrested Arjuna and jailed him. On learning that Arjuna is one of the Panjapandavas married Chithrangathai to Arjuna. Arjuna lived here for a time and returned homewards, Mahabaratha epic tells that the flag of Manipuram bore the figures of a lion and the Palmyrah.

King Chitravahanan

Dharma performed Rasasuyayagam and the yaga horse came to Manipuram, chithrangathai’s son Chitravahanan caught the horse and tied it up. Arjuna who came in search of the horse was defeated by Chitravahanan. Chitrangathai rescued Arjunan. Arjunan saved his life because it came to be known that Chitrangathi was Arjuna’s spouse. Around 3019 BC he ruled the country.

King Chitrasenan

Following Chitrangathans reign his son Chitravahanan ruled. Chitrasenan reigned after Chitravahanan 2941BC.

King Vairavahanan

Vairavahanan ruled from somewhere about Kaliyuga year 2860BC. He was the son of Chitrasenan. The flag of Manipuram carried the emblem of the Palmyrah and Lion the name Panainadu was perhaps in use because of these. Arjuna returned to Pallavanadu to purchase coral beads. As a result engaging himself in picking up corals without the authority by the Eelam sovereign he was apprehended on the order of the king and kept in prison. There he met the princess Pavalakodi and fell in love and married her and lived here for sometime. Here Sambukovalatarai was famous for the nine kinds of precious beads (Navamanis). Merchant and rulers came here and purchased these priceless beads.

* owing to the damage of the ola scripts due to white ants the continuity lacked

King Maninahan

About the year of 2500 BC Manipallavam was ruled by the king Maninahan. Owing to the precious nine type of beads found in Nagativu the place was called Manipuram. Maninahans rule was full of Valour and the place gained fame. His name he gave to the kingdom he ruled – it was called Maninagapuram Naganagar. Owing to the fact that the record carrying at leaved manuscripts were damaged or eaten by white ant the continuity of research of the period lacked order.

King Elelan

This king round about 2000 BC was a Pallava ruler. During his reign merchants engaged in trade by carrying coral and pearl to India and other countries trade during Elelan’s reign achieved prominence. There was a naval force to protect the trade and traders. On the seven seas the vessels of Pallavam carrying flag the pennant of nandhi travelled. As they sailed they sang aloud elelo! elelo! Foreign vessels tarried at Kovalam as it was an important international trade port. Where elelo sound was raised sea pirates no alien vessels never attempted to attack and plunder the cargo. The reason for this is the valourous naval Force. Elelan vessels traversed the seven seas back and forth is told by seaman. The Pallava kings strengthened their naval forces in order to overcome the trade competing Chera, Chola and Pandiya vessels. The tri-united Chera, Chola and Pandiya efforts to attack with the pallava trade vessels was the reason for the Pallava kings to destroy the united effort at sea itself.

Nedunthivu, Urathurai, Karaidivu, Pallavaturai (Thiruvadinilaiturai) Kovalam (Sambuthurai), Parutiturai, and Nagarkoil are seven places where naval bases of strength existed. The navy, naval vessels and naval security bases of excellence existed during Elelan’s period of rulership. Traditional weapons such as spear, arrow and sword were in common use by the fighting force. Catamaran, ura, boat, vallam (a type of sea vessel), nava, thimil, vattai, padahu, machchuvai, ship, vangam and odam were the various types of sea vessels used in accordance with the area and need. In building ships Valvettiturai was foremost as a seaport. Although the seven seen were traversed, Elelan’s vessels would return to port was the belief of the people of the land.

The Pallava Sailors who steered the vessels were experts. In the same manner vessels sailing the deep seas had captains (Meehaman, kPfhkd;) of excellence to bring their ship ashore. Those who steered the ships were known as ‘Guhan’ and ‘Malumi’ (Sailor).

King Nandhiraja

The emblem of Pallavam was ‘nandhi’ and the flag was called ‘nandhikodi’, as such the pallava king was known also as Nandhirajah. About the year 1900, Nandhirajah ruled Pallavam.

King Manikkanahan

About the year 1800 BC Manikkanahan ruled Pallava country Manikkarasa or Manirasa as he was called ruled Tirikonamalai (Trincomalee) and built the Konamamalai temple, it is said. In Manigramam (muneria) he encouraged the production of ‘Mannikkakal’ – precious stone.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

Political Science of Singai Pallavas

The Pallava rulership reveals the heights to which Tamil civilisation reached. The Pallava rulership made eighteen divisions of their subject. All subjects received rights in an equitable manner. All people were considered equal. The security and rights of the people received the assurance of the ruler. Those who were conferred greater responsibilities were the channels through which the ruler was acquainted with the needs of the people and ruler accordingly to ensure social equilibrium. In knowing the peoples desires and short comings the ruler provided a stable background for his people. The people who were his subjects were considered his people and the people considered the king next to the devine; the sovereign was docked upon by the people. The sceptre was not allowed to bend. The people engendered a loyalty to the ruler in their hearts and were loyal to their land. The love and loyalty between ruler and people had a healthy interaction.

The ruler may be on the throne in the Kolumaadapam or in court with its members in the Aththanimandapam the peoples welfare was paramount. In court there were his advisors made up of several tiers his ministers, sages realised souls gave advice to the ruler. People brought their imbalances and complaint to the ruler. He was the protector of the people. He was their security moat defending them against adversity. His crown does not proclaim his loftiness but signifies the responsibilities he carries towards his people. Those who come to the ruler for relief with complaints, even if there is no witness, or lack of knowledge relating to the accused; it is his duty to find the accused, one or many and bring justice to the affected party and mete out punishment to the wrongdoer.

The country belonged to the King; the right to get benefit from it is the people given by the sovereign. To battle for the land the people considered it their right. To be wounded in battle and lose their lives for the king was their name and fame. Although the king was the repository of executive authority, the king is responsible to the royal court. The king will be seated on the throne, his royal priest (Siddha or Thavasi ) will be seated near him. To his right there will be the five – fold members of Royal assembly to his left will be the tiers of authoring from his commander, verls or verlalars, spies of the kingdom fighters and the town people. With the acknowledgement of this many tiered court, the king performs his duties. Royal lineage is the central factor behind the personage recognised as the king. Any one with defect in the royal line is rejected and there will not be the ceremony of crowing. The sceptre in the rulers hand represents that justice would be done to all. The sceptre would become bent when there is a failure of justice and the people will reject the ruler.

The rulership of Nallur became affected with the ageing of the great king Pararasasegaran and when Sangili one of his sons not an offspring of the royal alliance wrested power by imprisoning his father the king and ascended the throne; but, neither the court nor those in palace service at the lower ranges and the citizens refused to accept him. Without crown or sceptre, Sangili exercised his rule. There are many Tamil works on justice and adjudication; these rulers who exercised their authority without affecting justice were upheld as noble rulers. The Siddhas , Sages mendicants, men of intellect and poetic groups from coming with the few of time, period to period were responsible for the evolving of judicial traditions and pertinent features to justice and judicial norms.

In the king’s court were those persons who gained distinction in the different fields of Tamil heritage. The successor to the throne the crown prince is decided upon when the king is alive. The son of the king and queen, who has had a complete training and has achieved competence is the sixty – four arts and craft will be crowned as the one next in the royal line. If there had been no prior decision on the crown prince the titular queen’s first son will become the heir to the throne. It is usual to organise competitions in the different fields for the princes who are the sons of the departed king, in order to make an excellent choice as to who should be crowned. The five fold court – groups of royal assembbly participate in making a choice and crowning the would be king. The general acceptance of the court is essential to setting upon the choice for crowning as the future king. When such conditions for making a choice as to the future ruler became weakened or relaxed that is the kings son can only became king being the vital factor, lost importance, the quality of Tamil rulership gradually declined the most outstanding prince of royal blood ought to be crowned. The king had the right to choose his heir from the royal families as crown – prince; to ascend the thrown after him. The normal choice to be the future king is the offspring of titular head the king and his queen in addition this crown – prince should be a saivate (follower of Siva). This qualification are imperative to be crowned as king; any other categories of persons are not fit to be referred to as belonging to the royalty, ruler or prince. This is the tradition and connection associated with the titular head upheld by the land, qualifications and conditions of the similar nature are applied to fill the various positions in the kingdom (rulership) when a vacancy arises.

The subjects got trained in the sixty-four arts and craft; those who show excellence in these 64 fields in the annual competitions are awarded prizes at the festival of Indra (Indravizha) by the king. Those who receive appointments to positions will continue to hold it until they are through ageing or physical condition unable to fulfil their functions.

Constitution

The constitution of Singai was unwritten this was called ‘nadduvalamai’ or thesavalamai (the country’s customs and practices). Naddu Valamai was in force all sub-rulers and chieftains also followed the same Ceylon. Thesavalamai (the countries laws) is made up of the views in the works on justice, along with the wisdom of sages directed towards evolving a regimen for human culture and the practices that are supportive towards wholesome social living. Which have been in usage for a period of time. Tamil academy played an important role in making customs and practices. The ruler was the executive authority of the decisions made by the court headed by the King himself. The main theme of rulership was ‘one who protects before the occurrence’ .

The ruler was always mindful in having troops of great strength; also these troops had to be in peak training without lapse. The Singai rulers regiments were made up of the charity troops, elephant mounted troops, horse regiment, infantry, spy-force, and naval force in all six-fold troops. Weapons were kept in prime condition through a complete survey for defects which are made war-worthy at the iron – foundry in the hands of expert ironsmiths.

The Kings had the system of reliving the disabled soldiery and the ageing. Those who were retired for these reasons were replaced annually by younger fighters. The spy-force functioned directly under the supervision of the king. There was also a personal protective force for the king. During times of battle mercenaries too were secured for service.

The ruler’s embellishments were the regimental forces, the pennant, the subjects, the sounding drum, horse, elephant, chariot, garland and crown. The ruler must posses the capacity to fulfil the hopes of aspirations of the people he ruled. The Singai Pallavas were loved by the subjects in the sense of being godly in taking care of them to their almost. The sovereign was the repository of the people’s power and was a father; he was subject to justice and orderly moral living . The Kings exercised their authority for the welfare of the people and the people acted for the welfare of the Kings. An unbent unwavering sceptre representing the rule meant that the people submitted themselves to the authority represented by the sceptre.

The outlook of the Singai people was wholly patriotic to their kingdom and loyal to their Kings. The Singai ethic was to enhance the stature of their land throng the Pallava arts and culture; through the convention and traditions that were engendered by that land down the ages and there by to preserve the unique nature of their nation and the emphasis was on work and the gains from work was stressed in the socio cultural falric of Singai country. This may be called nationalism. To preserve the land the Pallava ethic was nurtured and, love for the land. Those who embraced the Pallava ethic also protected the land from outside depredations. The Singai rulers and the people understood that the love for their land and the Singai ethic would do the almost to up life the land and protect its security.

The practice in Singai Nadu was to request the heals of family heads who were gather public place as to whom they gave their political support. Following this, they would be requested to by a show of hands to register the votes for the persons who names were given. If more than one person hand been named. Finally aggregating the support against each name, the appointment of Peanmahan would be conferred. This practice continued up to the 20^th century in approaching the Village had man and the Udaiyar. In only names of single persons to the positions were given, they would be appointed without a show of hands to assess the support. This practice came down from Pallava times up to the 20^th Century Perumahans were the elected members of Royal Assemble by the citizens of Singainadu emphasising the people’s participation in the administration of the land.

The Perumahans thus elected by the people would bring to the notice of court the state of the peoples outs and inner life, their need, the custum associated with their work. The Perumahan committee in terms of their functions was made up of eighteen. Their functions, mainly, represented the different types of work and in the kings court all work an workers received representation. The Perumahan were accorded a special status ad authority in the rulership.

Judicial coral (the ruler of conduct, customs and conventions governing the peoples lives)

The Medical Council

This committee was made up of the Kings physicians and surgeons numbering five. They were proficient in their fields of work. They were responsible for the care in maintaining of the health of the palace rodent the palace workers and the forces. The fife member chief committee was compound of the chief committee, the araverl committee medical committee the nimithar committee (Astrologer committee and the minister’s committee composed the five member chief committee.

The subjects of the land on the basis of their occupation were made up to eighteen work related subjects. One member of each of these 18 occupational divisions were members of the King assembly, these members were called chieftains, who received much respect from the people and they possessed competence of the work related to their division. They were selected by the Vellalas for such representation from the regions in which they dwelt. The verl (Vellala) visited the ejective regions and requested the family heads to a public assembling spot and quarried them as to whom the preferred to be selected for representation at the Royal assembly. If more the one name was given there would have to be a selection. The verl would then go on to the procedure of selection the raising their lands in approval. And as to who should be finally selected would be made on this procedure of selection as chieftain. If only one name was mentioned there would be no electing on the bares of raising hands and the one person who become Perumohan. This practice continued up to the 20^th century in electing the village headman and ‘Udaiyar’ (Overall Head). This practice belonged to the Pallava period.

The Royal assembly in which these representatives were members; would appraise the conditions for inner and outer life of the people of their region, of their needs and how well the region functioned. Thus the Five – fold chieftain committee made up of lighten members represented all the work – segments. The Perumahan enjoyed a position of importance and regard in the Royal assembly.

Judicial Council

There member of the caravel committee wore proficient in ‘Theravalamai’ (The tradition) and convention in practice in the society) their knowledge of the aram literary works highlighting wholesome social factices and the total of rulership practices. The Praverl group was the pivotal factor in the functioning of the Royal assembly. The practices in their totality made up of traditions, contentious and time – tested ways farmed the basis for the functioning of this committee. And to make the functioning of this committee more relevant to society, was decided int five segments, Arcenkoory avai expert views on convention traditions and related factors, and functioned in defined fields as court of Justice, Tribunal, Panchayam. This committee ensured the rights of the people, meting of punishments for those who committed violations of practice with the objective of maintain. Social felicity and promoting community consciousness in the people. The sceptre represented the upholding of the welfare of the people as member of society. As such the ruler’s main task was the welfare of society as a whole.

At present what is called Thesavalamai was fashioned by the Colonial rulers to their own advantage to Pacillate their governance and there were made laws. What was omitted from the fund of ‘Thesavalamai’ covering a large period formed a large section and only what was necessary to the colonial rulers gained the status of law. What should kept in mind is that what was called ‘Thesavalamai’ is the high point of the Tamil’s administrative culture linking several periods of Pallava rule. This is stated by V.T.Thamiln, lecherer in law. Although Thesavalamai had under gone change through colonial rule, it represented, practices that were in force in Lanka per thousands of years.

‘Thesavalamai’ formed the basis of rulership for the whole of Sri Lanka and received significance being appropriate for the whole land. After the arrival of the colonial British rule it became confined only to the north of Sri Lanka in connection with property rights and where ever the northerners lived ‘Thesavalamai’ governed property rights. The ‘Thesavalamai’ made clear that a man may have more than one spouse and the objective could be that women ought to have care divorce and re-marriage are features of ‘Thesavalamai’. On the whole ‘Thesavalamai’ had the welfare of women in mind in granting women in mind in granting women the right for divorces and widows to re-marry. Thus the status of women in Tamil society of the Pallavas was of the high order.

The Board of Ministers

In the five-fold chieftains committee the ministers committee had importance. The description of this committee is found with some variations in literacy works. Connected with this committee. One chief minister of distinction and sagacity headed the ministerial committee and when there were four capable deputy ministers. Many function were handled by the ministerial committee.

1. Agriculture
2. Income of the land
3. Taxation
4. Moral and ethics institutions
5. Nurturing welfare of the people
6. Security of the land
7. The palace – serving staff
8. The supervision of the function of the other committee

This ministerial committee was invested with the function of overseeing the sovereign’s welfare and the taxation for war-purposes which were discussed and received before making decisions. The ministerial committee which had five functioning as chief and deputy ministers. Under them functioned the commander of the forces, the spiritual ambassadors and spy group as members. The make – up of this ministerial committee had secular and religions functions under it.

Sound to the king was the prince in authority next prince next come the ministerial committees head. During times of was the commander of the forces functioned with authority. The Kadai Kappalar head of palace security took care of the palace and all articles belonging to the palace. Also the security of the palace and fort came under him. When ever there was conflict in opinion as to the laws and their functioning in definite situations, the King’s court with its five-fold chieftain’s committee took over the responsibility of decision making.

Singai Royal Assembly

The King court was made up five fold

Perumahans committee – 18 members.

Ministers committee – five members

Araverl committee – five members

Nimithar committee – five members

Medical committee – five members

Chamber of commerce – made up of trading and commercial numbering five

The priest of the Pallava ruler, who was a sidddha or mendicant. The verls numbering five The chief commander of the forces. Spy-group head The Elephant – troop head, The Horse – troop head, Kadai Kappalar – Store and security of palace. The prince and others were in the King’s court when it assembled in times of emergence the five – fold chieftain’s committee, ministerial committee heads of other committees and the commander of all forces assembled.