#vallavaraiyan vanthiyathevan

[hellohumanss]

i watch PS2 last night

i sobbed like a baby for an hour straight up bawled my eyes out my eyes are still swollen 10 hours later

that was simply phenomenal acting on everyone's part

[thirst4light]

In Memoriam

This is my first try at Vanmozhi Fanfiction. Inspired from the PS 2 movie scene. Planning to do a two part follow-up of this prologue. Let me know what you think!

Prologue

'Tis better to have loved and lost Than never to have loved at all.’ (In Memoriam A. H. H., 27.13-17) 

The sky of Thanjavur was strangely grey on a Vaikasi afternoon as the people waited for their beloved crown prince, Aditha Karikalan, to come home.

Only this time, there was no line of excited girls, wearing their best sarees,  chattering away with their aarti thali on the steps of majestic Thanjavur fort, waiting to catch a glimpse of their handsome  prince.

Instead, a grief-stricken royal family waited patiently. Chakrvarthi and the young prince, Ponniyin Selvan were waiting at the front, while the women of the royal family waited behind.

Slightly behind the royal family, Kodombalur Ilavarasi Vanathi was also waiting along with other royal women, looking over the sea of the people that gathered at the outer court of the fort. Since last night, as the news of the prince’s death spread, people kept coming from all corners of the Cholanadu. 

While Vanathi waited, she thought of everything and nothing.

Such a contrast, Vanathi reflected, looking at the grey sky briefly before her gaze settled on the royal family who were clad in pristine white, a decorum when someone in the family passes away.

As if even the sky was mourning along with this family.

Vanathi’s thoughts got interrupted as people’s clamour suddenly increased, making her focus at the entry gate of the fort.

Finally, Aditha Karikalan had arrived in Thanjavur.

In the city where he grew up. In the city where he belongs.

A long procession of regiment came by foot, closely followed by the prince's beloved horse regiment, waving the chola flag. 

From where she was standing, Vanathi could  see the chariot carrying the prince’s body from a distance, closely flanked by his trusted fighting companions, Manamalyan, Parthibendran and Vanthiyadevan; not leaving their beloved prince’s side, even in death.

As the chariot slowly moved across the crowd, Vanathi could hear muffled cries while some people started to shower flower petals at the chariot, a sign of their last respect to their Ilavarase. A section of the crowd even started to tussle with the guards to touch the chariot and pray.

It took a long time for the guards to clear the way for the chariot to cross the short distance of the entry gate to the steps of the fort. 

When the chariot carrying the prince's body finally stopped in front of the fort stairs, there was a momentary pause among the royal family members. 

As if they could not believe what they were seeing.

The ailing Chakravarty was the first to break down as he could not support his weight anymore. Ponniyin Selvan gripped his father tightly, making sure his father could come down the stairs to meet his beloved elder son.

Raṇi varataṭcaṇai Sembiyan Mahadevi, Rani Vanavan Mahadevi, Iliya Piratti slowly started to walk behind the Chakravarty to meet their nephew, son and brother, Aditha Karikalan, one last time. Vanathi followed them as well, her steps heavy with grief.

As everyone in the family huddled at the front of the chariot and tried to caress the beloved prince’s face, the cries of the Chakravarti and Rani were the most heart-breaking.  Vanathi, who was standing at the end of the chariot, could not take it anymore. She bowed her head, closed her eyes to drown out the sound of cries and desperately put her hands together in prayer.

Ishvara, may the Ilavarase join you in heaven. And…And give my beloved royal family and the people of Cholanadu the strength to overcome this difficult time.

Vanathi stayed still for a few minutes, hoping the cries had subdued. As she opened her eyes, she knew that her attempt at focusing on praying was futile. 

But she had to try. 

In desperation, her eyes searched for the only face that could give her strength at this moment. 

As her eyes landed on Ponniyin Selvan’s face, Vanathi realized, despite being such a pillar of strength to his father, the young prince could not hold himself together anymore.

His face contorted with unspeakable grief; tears were streaming down his eyes continuously.

Vanathi had endured loss in various forms from a very young age. Her mother’s death, even though she had never met her, had left a deep wound in her childhood. Then her father’s death at Ilankai war, leaving her as an orphan in this cruel world. Then bidding farewell to her only father like figure uncle Periya Velar before every war, not knowing whether he would return alive from them was always tantamount to loss for her….Yet, no pain of these losses compared to the pain of seeing her beloved Ponniyin Selvan grieving at this moment.

Until this point, Vanathi did not realize that she had been crying along with everyone else. But seeing her Ponniyin Selvan break down like this, fresh tears blocked her vision completely. Her heart felt so heavy that for a moment she felt like she could not breathe anymore.

Wiping her tears with pallu, Vanathi took a few deep breaths to calm herself.

As the guards started to move to take the chariot away for cremation, on a whim, Vanathi decided to come at the front of the chariot and touch Ilavarase Aditha Karikalan’s feet, seeking blessings.

An opportunity she never had before.

While she looked at the crown prince’s resting face one last time, Vanathi realized, in death, Aditha Karikalan had finally found his peace.

The peace that he had been searching for a long time.

Tagging my enablers who I have on my profile: @harinishivaa @nspwriteups @balladedutempsjadis @celestesinsight @thelekhikawrites @reeeereeeereeereee @whippersnappersbookworm @sambaridli

Feel free to tag others/reblog if you like :)

[thereader-radhika]

V Venkayya, the scholar who rediscovered ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ Raja Raja Chola

In the early 20th century, the name of the king who built the big temple of Thanjavur was not known; some believed it was built by Karikala Chola, who lived in the Sangam age, around 1,000 years before Raja Raja . . . (Read the full article by clicking on the title)

Venkayya's handwriting

As an author and editor, Kalki was aware of the role of literature and archeological studies. He acknowledged it through Aditha Karikalan's words in the Ponniyin Selvan.

No, Parthiba, no. We've never heard of a dynasty that lasts forever. Even the Ikshvaku dynasty to which Rama belonged, came to an end. The Rashtrakutas made their appearance in order to defeat the Chalukyas. It’s natural for kingdoms to reach their heights sometimes and eat dust at others. Some kingdoms attain great prosperity, then disappear without a trace. Just look at my ancestors! Karikala Valavan, Killi Valavan and other Chozha kings like them lived a good life and achieved fame. But what do we know of them now? We know their names only because there were poets who sang in praise of them. We do not even know whether what the poets sang was true, or whether they were so drunk that they sang whatever came to mind. But these architectural masterpieces that Mahendrar and Mamallar created will remind people of their greatness for thousands of years. Compared to them, what have you or I achieved? We killed thousands of men in battle, we made rivers of blood flow. What else have we done to perpetuate our names?

@willkatfanfromasia @celestesinsight @favcolourrvibgior @harinishivaa @sakhiiii @ambidextrousarcher @sampigehoovu @balladedutempsjadis @whippersnappersbookworm

[vishnavishivaa]

When you realize the SHEER BRILLIANCE of Mani Ratnam, A.R. Rahman and Ilango Krishnan as you READ the Ponniyin Selvan book- I CANNOT BEGIN TO TELL JUST HOW BEAUTIFULLY THEY HAVE DONE IT.

[southasiansource]

KARTHI as Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan in Ponniyin Selvan: I பொன்னியின் செல்வன்: I (2022) dir. Mani Ratnam — requested by anonymous.

[nspwriteups]

An Oath of Feelings - Final part

pic credit: @reeeereeeereeereee

Arulmozhi made his way through the long corridor. He swore he saw Vanathi just a minute ago , her jasmine-decorated long hair fluttering in the soft breeze, her voice echoing as she laughed at a joke of one of her Sakhis. Goodness! when did he became attuned to her so much? Now he understood what his Anna was saying about love- it was sweeter than honey, addicting than any intoxicant in the world and it strengthens one's resolve, not weaken it. He thought of all this while he stood in the empty corridor, wondering how his Anna was able to survive all those years not able to see Nandini when he himself was feeling morose after not seeing the stealer of his heart for a day. Maybe he should talk with Vanthiyathevan? No, he dismissed that line of thought immediately. There was no limit to how much Kundavai teased him after the incident the other night about his brave-but-utterly reckless attempt at window jumping. And how dare Vanthiyathevan join in when he was the one who suggested the idea in the first place? No, he isn't going anywhere near those two. He will prove his love on his own. Thus deciding, he retraced his steps back to his chambers.

Once his footsteps started to fade away, Vanathi came out of her hiding place behind the pillar and gazed at the retreating figure. Maybe she was taking this a bit far? Should she talk to him? But what result would that give? He may say something sweet and she will fall for it and then he would go back to ignoring her again. What she wished, what she craved was for him to show his feelings for her, feelings that her Akka claim exists. Many a time she has seen Vanthiyathevan kissing the back of Kundavai's hand or whispering in her ear or simply gazing at her when she was preoccupied by some other task. He was indifferent to the fact that they were other people watching or making remarks about them. How many times has she imagined her Yaanai pagan gazing at her so, of him whispering sweet nothings in her ear or him standing close to her in public so that everyone will know they belong to and with each other. She wondered if all these fantasies will come true or remain the same. Her train of thoughts was broken by one of her Sakhis.

"Vanathi, why didn't you tell us you were playing hide-and-seek with Ponniyin Selvan?" her sakhi taunted her.

"Oh be quiet!" Vanathi whispered in annoyance before walking off.

--------------------------------------------

Vanathi has never really been jealous of her Kundavai Akka, in fact she greatly admired her Uyir Thozi's intelligence and courage. But at this moment, when she was sitting with her in her chamber, preparing for the evening aarti, she realised she was envious of Kundavai - not of her reasoning and understanding but of her success at a fruitful relationship. Ever since they had been acquainted with a certain Vana clan prince, she had seen a budding affection forming between the two. She didn't exactly knew when it became solidified but once she heard him call her Akka an 'Apsaras' and saw Kundavai's face turn as red as kumkum and she knew - this was not a mere flirting. She heard a genuineness in his voice, the same genuineness she heard when he earlier declared " Uyir ungalodayathu Devi". She thought of all this when she kept glancing at Kundavai, who was humming while arranging the Pooja thali. Just then a servant came in " Ilaiya Piratti, Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan is seeking permission to enter" .

"Let him in " Kundavai said excitedly

"Speak of the devil and the devil is here" mused Vanathi. She was quite fond of the Vana Kula Prince and already considered him as a brother but she was still disappointed that he didn't attempt to give some good advice to Ponniyin Selvan despite their close friendship.

Vanthiyathevan came in " How are you this evening, ladies?" He asked . His sense of formality was often times confusing. In public, he resorted to formal titles such as 'Ilaiya Piratti' and 'Kodumbalur Ilavarasi ' but in private he called her as 'Devi' or even 'Maya Kannan' while he reserved the sweetest of nicknames for his lady love.

"Vanthiyar, do you have any news for us?" Kundavai asked

"Devi, things are as you know. Sendhan Amudhan will reach Thanjai in 2 days time" Vanthiyathevan replied

Vanathi was confused. What? Sendhan Amudhan is coming? But why? Suddenly she remembered Arulmozhi's oath of bestowing the crown. Surely he didn't say it seriously? Surely he only said it to spite her?

"And Samudrakumari will also be joining him. They decided to have the wedding ceremony the day after they arrive. So much preparations yet to be made" Vanathi heard Vanthiyathevan continuing his narration and Kundavai nodding along. Marriage? What marriage? She realised she said this thought aloud as both faces turned towards her.

" Yes, Maya Kanna. Perhaps you missed out on the news. Ilavarase wasn't joking when he said he wished to hand over the crown to Sendhan Amudhan. He presented the matter with the emperor and he too agreed that this was a rightful decision"

"And what about Samudrakumari?"

"Ah that. Amudhan has always loved Poonguzhali and although she was reluctant at first, as she doubted the genuineness of his feelings she later returned his feelings and has now accepted his hand in marriage. I am not bragging but I may have had a hand in uniting the couple." Vanthiyathevan said with a smirk and earned a pinch in the arm from Kundavai for 'going off topic'.

Vanathi was already in her world of overthinking. So, Ponniyin Selvan wasn't in love with Poonguzhali? Then why did he admit having that conversation with Kundavai Akka? Was there any existent feelings for her in his mind as Kundavai Akka claimed? Now she decided she have to talk to him. At least before she leaves for Kodumbalur. With these thoughts in mind, she stood up.

"Kanne, where are you going?" Kundavai asked

"Akka, I'm just going to meet someone. I'll be right back" Vanathi hoped she was being discreet enough but Kundavai managed to see through it.

"No, you can meet anyone you want after the pooja. Now go, time is ticking "

"Yes Akka" Vanthiyathevan and Kundavai watched a disheartened Vanathi leaving the chamber.

"Ennavale, as much as I like your idea I'm afraid it is lacking action" Vanthiyathevan turned to his lover with a mischievous smile.

"I know my plan doesn't involve tree-climbing or window-jumping like you'd wish but it is effective. It's exactly like you said - they want to come closer. We are just giving them the necessary push" Kundavai said calmly.

---------------------------------------

Vanathi was hyper-focused on her aarti plate as she, along with Kundavai's other companions, made their way back from the temple. All through the Pooja, she prayed for happiness for all and a ray of clarity on her otherwise chaotic life. She was wondering when she would get the answers to all her questions (even Kundavai Akka was not with her, making some excuse after the Pooja that she didn't even pay attention to) .

"Vanathi, are you done playing hide and seek with Ponniyin Selvan?" One of Kundavai's companion started her teasing.

"Aren't you leaving for Kodumbalur anyway? Don't worry , I don't think Ponniyin Selvan would come to find you since all of us would be here to take care of him" another companion chimed in

They had reached the gardens when Vanathi decided to retaliate.

" What is all this talk? Keep your Ponniyin Selvan with you. He wasn't mine in the first place" She said, with her back to them, determined not to show them the sadness in her face.

"I beg to differ Devi"

All of them turned towards the source of the voice and found the object of their conversation standing in front of them.

"You are exceptionally good at hiding Ilavarasi" Arulmozhi said with a triumphant smile, " But now, since I have found you may I have a word with you"

He led her a safe distance away, so that her companions can only watch them and not eavesdrop on them.

" Akka told me I can find you here"

"I wanted to talk to you, Ponniyin Selvare about Poonguzhali..."

He sighed and said " I don't blame you for misunderstanding Vanathi. It is true that once I had a conversation with Akka about my then feelings for Poonguzhali but then I also asked you whether you would believe me if I said my feelings have changed over the months... Because that is what happened"

"What do you mean?"

"I was always under the impression that what you sought after was the throne and Poonguzhali always thought Amudhan's feelings will fade away someday. Then, Vanthiyathevan once asked if we have ever got to know you both as a person and to that we were answerless. So we decided to get to know you both better before making a final decision, just so we wouldn't feel guilty afterwards. Little did we knew fate had other plans"

Vanathi stared at him wondering about the direction of his narration. " In the few months that I got to know you I learned to appreciate your presence and adore your personality which made me confused because I was unfamiliar to this sensation"

"what sensation, Aiyya?"

"I understood you were insecure of the prospective marriage to me, and I wanted to erase that insecurity. I couldn't understand that feeling so I stayed in denial for weeks"

He looked at her then "I met with Poonguzhali again and she admitted she also started to develop an affection for Amudhan's sincerity. We still cared and respected each other but the feelings we began to develop for you two felt..stronger. Finally it was Vanthiyathevan who advised us to follow our heart and that's what we did"

"So you like me?" Vanathi asked. She was hoping this wouldn't be any of her usual dream. Her Yaanai Pagan was actually declaring what she wanted to hear all this time. "Better than that" Arulmozhi said, gazing lovingly at her " Nan unnai katalikkiren"

Saying this, he reached out and touched her hand. The sudden movement caused Vanathi to lose balance and the aarti plate to tumble down.

"Oh Lord, she has dropped the aarti plate. How inauspicious!" One of the onlookers commented.

"No, look closely I think the wick is still burning, so it's not inauspicious " another replied.

Vanathi felt Arulmozhi's hand circle her waist and pull her close to his chest. She gasped and put both her arms round his neck.

"Don't faint on me again Vanathi" He said almost breathlessly, "You made me so worried the last time"

"Ponniyin Selvare, what are you doing? Everyone is watching" Vanathi said, blushing but making no attempt in getting out his hold.

" Let them watch" Arulmozhi said with a grin, quickly glancing at the group of girls standing at a distance away, looking awe-struck.

"If you still wish to go to Kodumbalur, then let me come with you. Not as Ilavarase Arulmozhi Varman but as your varunkala kanavan. I respect your oath and proud of your determination" he continued and smiled wholeheartedly when Vanathi nodded. " I finally understood what Vanthiyathevan said . Sometimes love can be shown better through actions"

"What do you mean?" Vanathi cocked her head to the side and looked at him with confusion.

Arulmozhi simply gave her a smirk and tightened his arms around her, lifting her up and twirling her. Her squealing mixed with his laughter and the loud gasps from the onlookers. Well,not all onlookers. Kundavai and Vanthiyathevan watched the happy couple from the balcony.

"Who knew my Thambi was such a romantic?" Kundavai remarked with a short laugh

" Why Devi? Do you me to twirl you like that? " Vanthiyathevan asked with a wide grin and Kundavai smacked him in the arm.

"Noo" She said playfully "maybe another time?" She smiled sheepishly when Vanthiyathevan raised his eyebrows.

The End

A/N: Me dropping a long af fic once in a while. You can clearly see how much I was influenced by the Veera Raja Veera full video song...come, let's rant in the comment section

@ramcharanobsessed @dumdaradumdaradum @vibishalakshman @thatacademic @hollogramhallucination @kovaipaavai @rang-lo . @willkatfanfromasia @thelekhikawrites @thegleamingmoon @deafeningflowercat @yehsahihai @whippersnappersbookworm @itsfookingloosah @gemsmusings @chiyaanvikram @elvenladysakura . @matka-kulfi . @madatdisney @bumblebeeskywalker @vahnithedreamer @nkarti @dosai-maavu @utterlynotperfect @winter-birds @happy-bookworm @tumbledout @anabanana4115 @freeunknownwasteland @bhataktiatmacore @rapunzels-stuff @celestesinsight @mairablue @rationalelderberry @existenceiswhateven @arachneofthoughts

[fabulist]

VALLAVARAIYAN VANTHIYATHEVAN flirting with flattering every single character he meets with [1/4]  → NANDINI

[everythingsouthasian]

KARTHI as Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan in PONNIYIN SELVAN: I (2022) dir. Mani Ratnam

[vennilave]

Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan: Flowers in his ear, a sword in his hands.

If you would like a Vanthiyathevan print yourself, prints in 5 colours are available on my INPRNT and redbubble!

[hellohumanss]

i miss him.

[thereader-radhika]

2- Friends and Foes from the Beyond

Part 1

Nandini shivered as the rain came pounding down. Thirumalai says that she feels colder these days because she lost too much weight. She tied a piece of cloth over her thin grey hair fashioned into a small bun. When she was younger and the hair was thicker, it used to stay tight for a long time.

"Aazhi mazhai kanna . . . ", she hummed as she covered herself with the thick blanket given by Annan and lied down on the mat. Since the day his gurunathan handed her over to him, she hasn't let him know peace or rest. Even in this old age, he dutifully visited her at least thrice every year.

"Do you need heat, kanmani?"

She woke up with a start and looked around frantically searching for the source of that sound. Which devil has come to torture her today? It seems like father-in-law and son-in-law have come together today. Weren't Pandyas the sworn enemies of Pazhuvettaraiyar? How could they become such thick friends in death?

"Our darling is confused."

"My little girl isn't confused. This smart girl killed him and avenged poor old me." Veera Pandyan's severed head laughed from Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar's lap. "No, I didn't kill . . . ", Nandini groaned. The events of that cursed night replayed in her mind.

"Hoy! Hoy! Veera Pandyan thalai konda Koparakesari stabbed himself. You are such a misfortune".

"But he too didn't get her maama", Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar tickled Veera Pandyan's cheeks and he laughed even louder.

"I will only blame you. You clothed her in the finest silk and gold, endured all mockery while this yakshi was observing fasts and austerities for that upstart".

"That isn't true. She touched my arms a few times".

"Chi! Are you a man? I was with her mother only for a few days but I shot two birds with one stone", Veera Pandyan's head winked. Nandini felt like vomiting but her body was unable to move. Someone caressed her hair and wiped her tears. Amma! She buried her head into her lap and cried bitterly.

"How many men have these women claimed to be their lovers? Pathetic maamiyar, her hopes were shattered when Sundara Cholan's veera-patni entered the pyre with her husband. That's our Chola women for you". Pazhuvettaraiyar's boasting turned to screams as Veera Pandyan's furious head bit his hands.

"Don't you hear this, you whore? I am so embarassed to admit that you are my daughter too".

"Sorry maama. I have spoken in anger."

"Don't worry. I will teach you to tame unruly women".

"Thanks. I will try it on her in our next birth".

Nandini's blood boiled as she listened to this exchange. She only hoped to console the old man after using him for years but he haunts her with her own words. "Get lost, you old perverts. I will never be yours".

"Old? Have you seen yourself, moothevi? Do you think your komagan will look twice at you? Even your mother looks younger than you. How lovely of them to send my mohini to me!"

Veera Pandyan's headless body approached Mandakini as the head jeered at Nandini from Pazhuvettaraiyar's lap. She dropped Nandini's head on the hard floor and dashed into the rain as the mutilated body followed her with outstretched arms. Nandini massaged her temples. Isn't there an end to this? Earlier, it was Veera Pandyan alone. After that fateful night, more apparitions started to torture her.

Where is he?

Why hasn't he come today? Is it because she looks old and ugly now? Perhaps he doesn't want her anymore.

"You know that isn't true", Aditha Karikalan chuckled from the other side of her mat. She tried to hug him but her arms passed through his form. She got as close as she could get and stared into those lovely brown eyes.

"Do they bother you . . . there?"

"No. Don't you know that we have our own place?  For us."

"Ummmm"

"There are a lot of flowers. You can make as many garlands as you want and I will adorn your neck with all of them".

"Can we take my Amma too? She doesn't have anyone else."

"Yes, but she won't come alone".

"I am coming. I just want to meet Ponniyin Selvan once, just once, and tell him everything. After that I won't linger. I can't wait."

His form dissolved into thin air before her eyes but she heard his whisper, "Neither can I".

Parts 3, 4

@favcolourrvibgior @willkatfanfromasia @sowlspace @sampigehoovu @sakhiiii @ambidextrousarcher @harinishivaa @celestesinsight

[thereader-radhika]

Ponniyin Selvan Original Score Part-A is out now

Track List

Armageddon

Arunmozhi’s Dilemma

Chozha’s Bravery

Conspiracy

Exotic Queen

Life at Lanka

Nandini’s Fortress

The Guardian Angel

The Pandiyan’s Oath

The Thirst for the Throne

The Wise King

VT’s Play

Oo Rey Sooriyare

Saaya Sanjale

Soodanathu Rattham

Vanathi’s Message

[thereader-radhika]

Some crazy Ponniyin Selvan prompts

• Poonkuzhali joins Pandya Aabathudavigal.

Some time ago, some people from the Pandya country came here. They wanted me to help them wreak vengeance on the royal family which had betrayed my aunt. It was then that I heard my aunt's story. My blood began to boil and I decided to join them. Later, I came to know how my aunt felt about all this. . . . Then I abandoned the idea of joining hands with the Pandya group. As you said my aunt's love is really divine. But mark my words, I won't be like her. If any Prince tries to deceive me I'll take revenge. I'll kill him. I'll also kill the woman who steals him from me. Then I'll stab myself and die.

• Vanathi joins Buddha monastery for real.

Vanathi went on: "Yes! I've decided to become a Buddhist sanyasini. Why do you object to that? Weren't there many women in ancient Tamil Nadu who became ascetics? Did not Madhavi's daughter, Manimekalail, become an ascetic and attain divinity and don't we praise her now as the Goddess Manimekalai? I have no such aspirations. I tried to end my useless life, but failed in the attempt. Perhaps it is God's wish that I live a little longer. I want to join a Buddhist monastery and spend my time serving people. You won't refuse to help me, will you?"

• Chinna Pazhuvettaraiyar Kalanthaka Kandar adopts Vanthiyathevan.

Let's wait, he thought, until my older brother returns. We can find out about him then and do whatever is best. A warrior like him should be inducted into our private bodyguard. Even a portion of his ancestral kingdom could be given back to him. Helping boys like this will bind them to us and ensure their loyalty. But if he's proved an enemy, we'll have to make other plans. Let's wait for my brother, anyway. We’ll see.

• Poonkuzhali fakes her death and runs away from the palace.

The court politics and the never ending scheming are so tiring and infuriating. She doesn't like Senthan as much as thought and Emperor Senthan is the most eligible married man in the country. She runs away, to embrace the waves once again.

• Manimegalai thinks 'ponal pogattum poda' (let it go) and starts to manage the affairs of Sambuvarayar clan when Kandan Maran is away on border patrol.

She is totally embarassed about her emotional outburst about a man who doesn't like her, that too to the woman he actually loves.

• Parthipendra Pallavan and Manimegalai decide to get married out of spite and plot the end of Vanthiyathevan and Kundavai.

Yeah, I made that up. I am crazy.

If anyone writes anything, please tag me so that my evil heart can rejoice 😏

@vibishalakshman @willkatfanfromasia @celestesinsight @harinishivaa @nspwriteups @nature-writes29, @whippersnappersbookworm @philtstone @sambaridli @sampigehoovu @thirst4light @dr-scribbler @doesitmatterluv @thirishareads

[thereader-radhika]

Finance Minister Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar's Woes

In the beginning of the novel, Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar rants about the irresponsible behaviour of the crown-prince and the younger prince, with a bit of exaggeration obviously to rile up the chieftains. As the novel progresses, we can see that his accusations aren't baseless.

The older prince is the general of the Northern forces. What is he doing? He has not gone to war against the Rashtrakutas and Vengi. He lingers in Kanchipuram building a golden palace . . . From all the wealth he plundered from the Ganga, Kudagu and other territories, not a single piece of copper has he sent to the central treasury till today.

We don't know the amount of gold used in the construction of this palace but since Vanthiyathevan doesn't refute the Emperor when they talk about it, we can assume that there was some kind of golden work somewhere in the palace.

To Pazhu's secret relief,Aditha Karikalan isn't drawing any money from the treasury either. Later we see that Karikalan hasn't gone to conquer the northern regions because he is sending supplies to Lanka.

Arulmozhi Varman was sent to Lanka to gain experience in warfare and conquer the islands if possible. He refused to gather supplies for his army from the land he invaded, saying that it will inconvenience the harmless civilians.

When our troops invade another country, they have to fend for themselves with what they can capture there. They have to subsist on local produce and their salaries have to be paid from the booty collected from the conquered region, any excess being sent to the central treasury. But what does Prince Arulmozhivarmar do? He wants us to send food for his troops in Eezham. Over the past year I have shipped supplies ten times.

Hence the Finance Minister and later the Crown Prince have to send extra supplies for the soldiers under Arulmozhi. Though people in the Chola country believe that their prince is accomplishing great feats in Lanka, that isn't true either. Bhooti Vikrama Kesari was besieging Anuradhapuram when Arulmozhi Varman arrived at Lanka and he undertook a tour of the whole area occupied by Cholas. Mahindan retreated to Ruhana during this time. This is verified by Malayaman too.

Aniruddha Brahmarayar to Azhwarkadian:  There were many Pandya and Chera warriors in Mahindan's army who surrendered their arms and joined us when they heard that the Prince was leading our forces . . . You know what our troops are doing now in Lanka! Anuradhapuram was destroyed in earlier battles. The Buddhist viharams, temples, dagabas are all in ruins. At the behest of the Prince, our troops are renovating them.

That means resources from the Chola treasuries and granaries are used to feed not only their own army but the defected soldiers from Mahindan's army too. Moreover unnecessary (fictional) infrastructural renovations are going on in Anuradhapuram, on Chola dime.

When Vanthiyathevan reaches the Chola camp in Lanka, they are having a great party as if they have gone for a pleasure tour.

Various delicacies to go with the rice were also being cooked in smaller pots and pans. Their aroma made the warriors’ mouths water. The soldiers sang and danced in order to pass the time until their food was cooked. Since their beloved Prince was with them, their joy at this moment was unbounded.

Kundavai too contributes to the financial crisis in her own ways by making the Emperor issue orders like these:

Since our daughter Kundavai has decided to donate all the income accruing from the lands and other assets gifted to her situated in the Nalloor village to the hospital we proclaim that these lands will henceforward be free of tax.

This drives up the anger and anxiety of Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar further. As Pazhu feels slighted due their reaction to his latest marriage, there is a lot of communication gap too.

Tax exemptions given to influential people was a significant problem during the actual (real, not Kalki's PS) Chola period as the burden of these exemptions were compensated by levying taxes from common people which ultimately caused civil unrest and the downfall of the regime.

Agriculture supported the overwhelming masses of the people during this period. Land belonged to temples as Devadanam land; to Brahmins as Brahmadeya and to Velalas as Velan Vagai. Officials, dancing girls and soldiers also held land as Jeevitha, that is, for a living. Devadanam and Brahmadeya were Irayili, or tax-free land. In some places, Jeevitha land and land belonging to certain individuals were exempt from taxes. As the tax-free land was considerable and tended to expand over the period, small cultivators and other sections of the people had to bear an increasingly punishing tax burden.

- Rajukumar, M. D. “Struggles for Rights during Later Chola Period.” Social Scientist, vol. 2, no. 6/7, 1974, pp. 29–35. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/3516476.

Anna! We are driving our economy into the ground with our combined efforts 💃🏻🕺🏻

[thereader-radhika]

3- Uncharacteristic Behaviours

Parts 1 , 2

It was midnight but it looked like morning due to the light of all lamps that were lit in and around the temple. Floral garlands of several colours decorated its walls and pillars. Cool breeze from the nearby river blew into the temple but the lamps miraculously stayed intact. Vallavarayan Vanthiyathevan gazed into the temple as he heard a sweet song.

Aazhi mazhai kanna! Onrum nee kai karavel Aazhiyul pukku mugarnndhu kodaarththeri Oozhimudalvan uruvam pol mei karuthu Paazhiyan tholudai Padmanabhan kaiyil ...

Some old women danced before the idol of Muraleedharan, holding flower garlands. Has he gotten so old that young beauties won't grace him even in his dreams? He closed his eyes and slowly massaged his aching neck. The women or the decorations were nowhere to be seen when he looked again.

A abstruse fear gripped his heart as he walked away, so he decided to go back. But a garland made of white lotus buds was floating against the current of the river. How is this possible? It stopped floating and sunk into the bottom of the river as Vanthiyathevan stood there transfixed. Then the dancers' prayers were answered and the rain drenched him.

No, it was his nephew, the crown prince, who poured a pot of water on him.

***********

". . . Ravikulamanikyam, Mummudi Chola devar, Kandhaloor Salai Kalamarutta Keralanthakan, Pandiya Kula Sani, Cholendrasimhan, Korajakesari, Tribhuvanachakravarti Konerinmaikondan Raja Raja-devar . . . "

Mama's and his titles were too announced as the royal entourage entered the captured palace. Appa squirmed as he heard the name 'Maduranthakar' again and again. Who asked paatti to name him after her runaway son? Young Maduranthakan still doubted if this was an elaborate prank they all pulled on him. How could a Pandya king grow up as the Chola emperor's son?

Appa asked mama to deal with the officials and ordered Madu not to disturb him unless it is an emergency before retiring to some chambers he claimed for himself. He pretended not to care but mama's nightmares have scared him too. Could this be a vision about impeding heavy rains and flooding? If it rains now, it will affect the movement of their reinforcements and supplies.

Madu entered his father's room and sat beside him. Why isn't he talking to the soldiers and commanders and cheering them up as usual? Is he upset about the the other Maduranthakan?

"Are you alright, appa?"

"I am. Give me a quick update on today's developments".

"Half of the aabathudavigal have escaped with the women and a prince who might lay claim to the throne. Velakkara padai met an old woman at the eastern boundary of the palace complex asking for 'Ponniyin Selvan'. People here really hate us but don't worry. Mama has written to athai to send reinforcements and supplies. I suggest a system of food - rationing until they calm down and more supplies arrive".

"Old woman?"

Maduranthakan was already regretting reporting it. It reminded him of the Singala Nachiyar who saved appa in his youth. Her story was so sad and unsettling. He stopped talking to girls after learning about her death. Hasn't Poonguzhali paatti too said that these girls have the bad habit of building castles in the air if handsome men treat them nicely? Though he isn't that handsome, what if they catch unnecessary feelings for him?

"Bring her here. No, it is impossible. I will order rationing until we secure our holdings. Don't mention a word to your mama. These aabathudavigal manage to do it every damn time".

What has come over his usually calm and composed appa? He might not be used to people turning against him but they will overcome this. Madu had no idea how to deal with this situation but what will the common soldiers think if their emperor is flustered like this?

"You are rambling, appa. Everything will be fine".

A strange expression appeared on appa's face. He looked naughty like the times when they used to sneak away from amma and athai and go on small adventures with mama.

"My son, it is the logistics and supplies that win wars. I have sent Aprameyan to take account of the food and grain reserves. Further orders will be issued on the basis of his report. You too assist him and learn to make such calculations. If I want any help from you, I will send for you".

If Maduranthakan had any doubts, they were quickly dispelled. Now he was sure that Appa is definitely up to some mischief. Does he expect him to make the list of rice and vegetables in the kitchen? He will show him!

‌Maduranthakan is the son of Vanathi and Arulmozhi. He would later take the name Rajendran. He is 14/15 years old in this fic.

‌Aprameyan is a general of Rajarajan.

Part 4

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[thereader-radhika]

1- The Exile

And after he had walked a long way through the dark green forest, Thirumalai saw the little derelict hut standing near the guava trees. Though he couldn't see anyone in the vicinity, the two still-dripping, wet sarees spread over the clothesline gave him much-needed consolation. He slowly opened the door, which was only bolted from outside, and helped himself to some water from the earthen pot. He took the package of kozhukkattai from his bag and started to munch on it.

"Has pillaiyar started feasting on his modakam?"

He nearly dropped the kozhukkattai. Why does she have to sneak on him like this? Memories of happy old times made him feel even sadder. The woman standing before him looks quite different from the sister he brought up. In fact, she looks older and more deranged than the mute queen who used to wander in Lanka. Nandini placed a basket with tubers in one corner of the hut. She took one kozhukkattai from the banana leaf package and wrinkled her face as she took a bite.

"Eww, it tastes too sweet".

"That's because you don't eat any sweet food anymore."

"Hmmm . . . When will Arulmozhi be back?'

Thirumalai felt anger and curiosity simultaneously. Every time he walks all the way here, she has only this one thing to inquire about.

"Nandini, do you have any concern about this poor annan? Do you know that I turned 50 in the last Aippasi? Come with me. We can go to Haridwar and Mathura".

"Didn't you just visit Dwaraka with gurunathan? Take some rest, anna. As you said, you are getting old".

Thirumalai hesitated to say anything more. It was with great difficulty that he convinced her to settle down here. There are some small villages and even a Tirumal kovil in this area. He had tasked a woman with buying groceries for her, and she carried out the task happily for a few gold coins. He feared that she would run away if he offended her, and he wouldn't see her again.

"Will Arulmozhi visit Chola desam before the margazhi thiruvizha?"

Thirumalai sighed. He debated whether he should relay the happy or sad news to her. The trouble was that he didn't know what would be happy news for Nandini and what wouldn't be.

Chinna Pazhuvettaraiyar and Nandini weren't on good terms, but she has always respected him, perhaps grudgingly. Should she be informed that he has attained the lotus feet of his Parameswaran? Let her remain blissful in her ignorance. The other news was even more confusing. Ilaya Pirattiyar is adamant that Nandini always loved her husband and would have snatched him away if she had the opportunity. Maybe this will give her some happiness.

"My dear, something interesting is going to happen soon."

"Is Arulmozhi coming back for this?"

"Oh, not that. Do you think there aren't other people in Chola Desam? Arulmozhi, Arulmozhi, Arulmozhi... Listen to this. This is about Vanthiyar".

"Who?"

"Our friend Vallavarayan Vanthiyathevar, the Vanarkula-veeran".

Nandini gazed into the darkness absent mindedly and hummed. Thirumalai recognised her absent-mindedness and disinterest. She always did that when he spoke about things she wasn't interested in but didn't bother enough to stop him.

"He is getting married again. Perumal hasn't blessed them with a child yet. How long will he wait? Isn't he the last of his line?"

Nandini's face lit up, which confused Thirumalai even more. The last time she fell in love with a man, she dragged him from temple to temple, crying and singing pasurams. She has never asked him anything about Vallavarayan since he was exonerated of all charges. Is this the maturity that comes with age or is it because it is the misfortune of her sworn enemy, Ilaya Piratti?

"Ponniyin Selvar won't miss the wedding of his brother-in-law, will he?"

This girl! 

"You know what? I concede defeat, and no, I don't think he will attend the wedding."

Thirumalai washed his hands and told Nandini that he was feeling tired and sleepy. Ponniyin Selvan rarely spent any time in the Chola country after the death of his parents. The people seemed to have calmed down after they realised that their favourite wouldn't get to rule anytime soon. Even his sister ilayapiratti has shifted her affections to her nephew. It looks like this obsession is the only inheritance Nandini received from her unfortunate mother. 

Part 2 , 3 , 4

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