Nandini Vijayaraghavan's Blog, page 2

Chapter 39: The Destruction of Vatapi

 

Mamalla Chakravarthy stood outside his tent watching the massive Pallava army nearing the ramparts of the Vatapi Fort. His conscience kept telling him that the most important incident in his life was unfolding in front of him. On account of the Pallava army launching a fierce attack on the fort that night, he secured a pre-eminent place in history for several thousand years thereafter and came to be known as ‘Vatapi Konda Narasimhan[i]’. But will the primary goal that prompted him to mobilize this gargantuan army and invade Vatapi be achieved? It was a foregone conclusion that he would fulfill the promise he had made to Sivakami either that night or on the following day. The Vatapi Fort being demolished and the city being set ablaze within three days was a certainty…But will Sivakami be alive to witness this? Ah! Of what use was it even if that unfortunate woman were to witness Vatapi on fire and then leave the city? Will she be able to lead the joyful life she had previously led? No, never. All her fantasies had become a shattered dream. It was possible for Sivakami to experience moments of happiness even in that shattered dream; even that fortune was denied to him. Henceforth his life would be akin to a barren desert. In that seemingly endless desert, only mirages would offer him solace.

Mamallar was immersed in such thoughts when he saw Paranjyothi, who had taken leave from him, walking towards him. He was surprised. When Paranjyothi came close to him, he asked, “Commander! Is there a fresh development?” The Commander said, “Yes, Prabhu! Shatrugnan returned,” and then related what Shatrugnan had told him in brief. Mamallar after listening to Paranjyothi asked, “Is there any change to our plan due to this news?” “Nothing significant, Prabhu! But it is now imperative to attack the fort at the earliest. Isn’t a snake slithering past our feet more dangerous than a tiger that attacks us from the front?” “It seems that you believe the kabalikai’s tale.  Do you suppose that it was Naganandi Bikshu and not Pulikesi who sent you the message proclaiming war? In that case, we ought to be even more worried about Sivakami Devi. May I also accompany you into the fort right away?” “No, Prabhu! I believe that it’s best that you remain here.”

Commander Paranjyothi was determined to ensure that he was the first person to meet Sivakami Devi. He had not forgotten the disastrous consequence of Mamallar meeting Sivakami first and speaking to her previously. He considered it his duty to prevent such an occurrence again. Mamallar was not desirous of meeting Sivakami immediately for several reasons. So he said, “As you say, Commander! Don’t forget one thing. Your statement that a snake is more dangerous than a tiger is entirely true. Don’t show any mercy to Naganandi. As long as that fake bikshu is alive, the two of us will never be peaceful during our lifetimes. You will not forget this, will you?” “I will not forget, Prabhu!”

Observing the Commander hesitantly standing despite the conversation concluding, Mamallar asked, “Is there any other news?” Paranjyothi stated, “Yes, just one more thing. You haven’t changed your mind about your command to set Vatapi on fire, have you?” “Commander! Enough! I am heading to the fort entrance this instant. Trusting you henceforth is futile. You may smear yourself with vibhuti, wear rudrakshas and perform Shiva Pujai!” “Prabhu! The Peruman who smeared himself with vibhuti had reduced Tripuram to ashes. Burning Vatapi down is a facile task for him. You will witness the city of Vatapi burning tonight itself!” “In that case, why this hesitation and questions?”

“I wanted to confirm your wish for sure. You had ordered the city to be set on fire once our army enters the fort. I wish to act differently. First, we will begin destroying Vatapi. Then, I am going to command our army to throw illuminated lanterns from outside the fort into the city.” “What is the necessity for this?” “I had stated that our soldiers would be awarded half the wealth they bring from the city. So, when they see the city ablaze their ardour would increase multi-fold. Prabhu! We must enter the fort before dawn tomorrow. If we delay further, it would be impossible to rescue Sivakami Devi. Please be prepared by dawn. I urge you not to sleep tonight and watch Vatapi being destroyed!” After speaking thus, Paranjyothi swiftly left without waiting for the Chakravarthy’s response.

Just as the Commander had said, the destruction of Vatapi began at around midnight.  Scaffolds were erected outside the walls of the fort. Pallava soldiers, specially trained for this purpose, stood on the scaffolds and flung illuminated torches and sulphur bombs into the city. The wind served to fan the flames of the torches further. The places where these torches fell instantly caught fire.  The sulphur bombs exploded and served to spread the fire. By the third jaamam of that night, fire enveloped the city of Vatapi, which was inhabited by lakhs of people, from all sides. Vayu Bhagavan[ii] also came to the aid of Agni Devan[iii]. The raging wind further intensified the fire, which in turn gobbled the mansions and towers of Vatapi.

Clouds of smoke that accompanied the fire spread in all directions and reached the skies. At the same time, the Pallava and Pandya soldiers surrounded the fort from all sides and attempted to scale the ramparts. The Chalukya soldiers stationed on the ramparts prevented them from doing so. Thousands of Tamil warriors, attacked by swords, spears and arrows, fell lifeless to the ground. Like the waves that lash the shore in quick succession a storm, more and more Tamil warriors attacked the fort.

The four entrances to the fort were also subject to brutal attacks. When ten to fifteen elephants wielding massive wooden masts and iron rods ferociously attacked each of the fort entrances in unison, the gates were smashed to smithereens and fell apart. Just as Commander Paranjyothi had told the Chakravarthy, by the time the fourth jaamam of that night drew to a close the Pallava soldiers entered the city of Vatapi that was already set on fire. The Pallava soldiers who had attacked the ramparts started jumping into the city from all four sides. The rising sun was witness to the historic scene of the city of Vatapi succumbing to fire.

 

[i] Vatapi Konda Narasimhan – The Narasimhan who won Vatapi

[ii] Vayu Bhagavan – The God of Wind

[iii] Agni Devan – The God of Fire

Chapter 38: Gruesome Cave

 

The tale that the Chief of Spies, Shatrugnan related to Commander Paranjyothi with uncharacteristic agitation was as follows: Shatrugnan and Gundodharan, as commanded by the Chakravarthy and the Commander, had combed the area surrounding the fort to ascertain if there was a secret tunnel that led into the fort. They carefully searched the rocky terrain in the vicinity of the kabalikas’ sacrificial altar thinking that it was highly likely that the entrance to the secret tunnel was located in that area. One night, when they were engaged in this reconnaissance, they observed something burning and went close to that scene. A man and a woman were standing close to the fire. It was evident that the man was Naganandi Bikshu and the woman was a ghastly looking kabalikai. Shatrugnan and Gundodharan tried eavesdropping on their conversation, but could not comprehend anything clearly. But they heard the names of Pulikesi and Sivakami being mentioned often. It was clear that Naganandi was seeking the kabalikai’s assistance. As dawn was setting in, the bikshu and kabalikai pushed away a rock that sealed the entrance to a cave and then entered the cave. As soon as they entered, the entrance to that cave was again closed.

After waiting for long, Shatrugnan and Gundodharan decided to remove the rock and enter the cave. Fortunately, they observed someone moving the rock from inside and hid themselves. The kabalikai alone came out. They waited for her to leave the place so that they could enter the cave. All day, she did not budge from the entrance of the cave. It was evening when she left the place. After asking Gundodharan to stand guard outside the cave, Shatrugnan alone entered the cave. Oh God!  Recollecting the macabre sights in that cave would render one sleepless for the rest of his life. Human skulls and skeletons lay heaped in that cave. The stench was unbearable. As it was pitch dark inside the cave, Shatrugnan was unable to find out if the entrance to the tunnel was located therein. Suddenly, the dim light that pervaded the cave disappeared. Shatrugnan looked around to locate the entrance of the cave. The entrance to the cave was no longer visible. A chill went down his spine when he thought the kabalikai may have sealed the entrance from outside. He lost sense of the time he spent in the dark and stinking cave filled with skulls and skeletons. Despite trying hard, he was unable to locate the entrance to the cave.

For what seemed to be four eons, he paced around the dark cave in vain. Suddenly light streamed in from one side. The entrance to the cave opened and the kabalikai immediately entered. She was carrying a human skull and bones. Shatrugnan went to the farthest corner of the cave and stood with his back against the wall. After carefully keeping the skull and bones aside, she sat on the ground at the centre of the cave and removed a large boulder. When she lowered herself at the area where the boulder was, Shatrugnan guessed that it was the entrance to the tunnel. Shatrugnan felt happy thinking all the time he had spent cave withstanding hunger and thirst was not futile. It seemed that the kabalikai after entering the tunnel had changed her mind.

She exited the tunnel, closed the entrance and lay there talking to herself.

From her speech, Shatrugnan came to know that she had been in love with Naganandi Bikshu on account of which she hated Sivakami, that Pulikesi had died and it was his skull and bones she had brought into the cave some time ago, that Naganandi was going to masquerade as Pulikesi and was desirous of ascending the Vatapi throne and making Sivakami his Empress – an occurrence the kabalikai was determined to prevent at all costs. After talking to herself in this manner for long, the kabalikai fell silent.  Shatrugnan, thinking that she had fallen asleep, decided to escape. He inched his way to the entrance of the cave. As soon as he reached the entrance, he swiftly jumped out. As he was jumping out, someone grabbed his hand from inside the cave. A shocked Shatrugnan looked around. The kabalikai, who was standing inside the cave, was firmly holding his hand. She then let out a blood-curling growl. Shatrugnan froze in shock and thought that death loomed large over him. Nevertheless, in an attempt to save himself, he tried extricating his hand.  He was unable to extricate his hand from the kabalikai’s iron-like grip.

The kabalikai then shrieked, “Lambodhara! Lambodhara!” Shatrugnan was rendered speechless with shock when he observed Gundodharan come running from behind a rock calling out, “Here I come, thaye!” As Gundodharan came running towards Shatrugnan, he gestured with his eyes. The kabalikai who was standing inside the cave said, “Lambodhara!  Hold on to this stealthy spy. I will bring a dagger. You wouldn’t leave him, would you?” “I will never do that, amma! I will be the first person to behead him!” So saying, Gundodharan held on to Shatrugnan tightly. Immediately, Gundodharan gestured to Shatrugnan and loosened his grip. Shatrugnan extricated himself and fled. Gundodharan raised a hue and cry as he pursued Shatrugnan. After running in this manner for some time, they came to halt behind a rock. “Swami! I became this kabalikai’s disciple only to find out what became of you. Don’t worry about me; I will stay here and manage her. You rush back. Our army must have started attacking the fort by now!” said Gundodharan. “The entrance to the tunnel lies inside the cave, Gundodhara! I will inform the Commander and return with a few men. Till then, you have to somehow manage this demoness. Don’t let her enter the tunnel!” said Shatrugnan and then ran swiftly to inform the Commander. Shatrugnan was unaware of what became of Gundodharan after that.

After listening to the shocking and fearful tale, Commander Paranjyothi said in a worried tone, “Shatrugna! You have brought such important news at a critical time. We do not even have the time to think about this. The attack on the fort has started. We will gain entry into the fort before dawn tomorrow. You take a hundred warriors along and go to that kabalikai’s cave! Please ensure that no one uses that tunnel as an escape route. If possible, you and Gundodharan enter the fort through that tunnel. As soon as the fort gates are thrown open, I will head directly to Sivakami Devi’s house. If Lord Ganesha[i] chooses to bless us, we will be fortunate to rescue Sivakami Devi and hand her over to Aayanar.”

 

[i] Ganesha – Another name for Lord Ganapathi

Chapter 37: Shatrugnan’s Fear

 

The war trumpets were blown one muhurtham after sunset, just as the Commander had informed the Chakravarthy. The Pallava soldiers who had surrounded the Vatapi Fort from all sides started marching towards the rampart. It seemed as though that ocean-like army along with its flags fluttering in the wind would inundate the Vatapi Fort. The Pallava army elephant force marching towards the four fort gates was akin to black granite hills getting displaced.

The earth trembled under the weight of the elephants, which were specifically trained for this mission to carry iron poles and sturdy wooden masts with their trunks. Clouds of dust rose up to the sky and disappeared. The din caused by one lakh warriors and ten thousand elephants moving forward in unison resembled the uproar in the ocean during a raging cyclone. For some time that gargantuan army marched in darkness. Suddenly, illuminated torches were sporadically visible. Shortly thereafter, these multiplied to thousands and their light blinded the eye. The smoke from these torches spread in all four directions and created a terrifying surreal sight.

Commander Paranjyothi stood outside his tent and was looking around. He was pacing to and fro impatiently and drawing patterns on the ground with his sword, anticipating the arrival of someone. It was in this situation Sadaiyan and four others reached the tent carrying the idol of Ganapathi from the fort entrance.  Paranjyothi commanded them to keep the idol inside the tent. Paranjyothi followed them into the tent and asked Sadaiyan, “Appane! You and your men stay here and safeguard the Ganapathi idol. I have prayed that if we are able to bring Sivakami Devi unharmed out of the Vatapi Fort, I will build a temple in my village, instate this Vinayaka Peruman in that temple and conduct prayers thrice a day, every day!” He again said, “Sadaiya! If you stay here and guard the idol, you will lose your share in the loot from our plunder of Vatapi. I will compensate you for that!” he said. “Swami! We will abide by your command!” said Sadaiyan.

Commander Paranjyothi then stood with his arms folded and eyes closed for some time in front of the Ganapathi idol and prayed. At that moment the sound of someone running towards the tent was heard outside. The next instant a dishevelled Shatrugnan entered the tent. His face was ashen as though he had seen a ghost. Paranjyothi asked him, “Shatrugna! Why are you in this state? Why do you look terror-stricken? Are we in grave danger? Were you unsuccessful in your mission?” “Commander! I have faced several grave dangers during my lifetime. But the dangers I faced yesterday and today was unprecedented,” said Shatrugnan and looked at those present.

The Commander, understanding the gesture, asked everyone else to leave. As soon as they had left, he said, “Shatrugna! The attack on the fort has begun. There is no time to delay. Tell me what happened quickly! Were you successful in your mission? Tell me about it first!” “Commander! There is a secret underground tunnel that leads into the fort. I have found out where it is. But it’s no mean task to enter the fort through that tunnel. The attack on the fort has begun. Now, entering the fort through the tunnel does not serve our purpose. I came here to seek your advice!” So saying, he related his tale.

Chapter 36: Victory or Death

 

Commander Paranjyothi stood rooted to the spot for a moment wondering what the lowering of the white flag meant and what could be the reason for this occurrence. There occurred a miracle in the vicinity of the fort wall as if in response to the queries that rose in his mind. On the wide and long fort walls that had been vacant all these days stood warriors armed with spears. Their steel helmets, copper armours that protected their chests and the tips of the spears they held gleamed in the yellow evening sun.

These warriors cheered in thundering voices, “Long live Maharajadhi Raja[i], Chaluka Kula Thilaka[ii], Tribhuvana Chakravarthy[iii] Satyacharya Pulikesi!” This was followed by thousands of voices hailing, “Jaya Vijayibhava!” Commander Paranjyothi stood shocked for some time observing this amazing sight. A soldier close to him pointed out to the top of the fort’s main entrance and called out, “There! There!” A tall majestic figure stood there surveying the surrounding area. Ah! There was no doubt that it was Emperor Pulikesi.

Paranjyothi at that point of time clearly understood why the white flag was lowered. Emperor Pulikesi had escaped from the battlefield and had gained entry into the fort either through a secret tunnel or by evading the Pallava soldiers and climbing over the ramparts of the fort at night. Now there was no scope for peace. Fighting a war was essential; attacking the fort was imperative. Thousands of men would shed blood that would flow like a river. The city of Vatapi will be set to fire. As the Commander was thinking thus, an arrow swiftly flew from the fort entrance. The Pallava soldiers exclaimed in surprise as the arrow was heading towards Paranjyothi’s head. For a moment it seemed that all their hearts would cease beating.  Fortunately, that arrow flew one span above the Commander’s head and hit the ground behind him.

While everyone else was disconcerted, the Commander was unperturbed. He smilingly commanded to remove the arrow that had struck the ground. A tiny manuscript was fastened to its tail. Paranjyothi read the manuscript which stated, “Victory or Death”. Paranjyothi felt as though a big burden was lifted from his chest. His internal conflict was resolved. The responsibility of starting the war again and causing bloodshed fell on Pulikesi again. The attack on the fort may now be conducted without feeling an iota of guilt.

When Paranjyothi reached this conclusion, he asked the warrior standing next to him, “Sadaiyya! Do you see the idol of Ganapathi at the fort entrance?” “I do, Swami! I too observed you standing close to the idol and looking at it!” said Sadaiyyan. “Good! I am entrusting an extremely important task to you. Once the sun sets and it is pitch dark, you and ten other warriors must approach the fort entrance unseen by the Chalukya soldiers. You must then extricate that idol of Ganapathi without causing any damage and bring it to my tent. Do you understand? You safely bringing that idol back will be a precursor to our winning the war!” said the Commander. “So be it, Commander! I will exercise utmost caution in bring the idol of Vinayakar[iv] to your tent!” said Sadaiyyan. Immediately the Commander turned his horse around and rode swiftly to Mamalla Chakravarthy’s tent.

The other commanders had already assembled at the Emperor’s tent. They had come to receive their final orders from the Chakravarthy. The Chakravarthy was awaiting the arrival of Commander Paranjyothi. He wore a serene expression. He was calmly conversing with those around him. Those at the tent were not yet aware of the white flag at the fort entrance being lowered and the Chalukya warriors standing on the ramparts prepared for war. When they had heard the Chalukya soldiers raising war slogans, they thought that it was the Pallava soldiers who had done so.

Paranjyothi made a stormy entry into the Chakravarthy’s tent, which till then was tranquil, and bowed to the Chakravarthy. He exclaimed, “Prabhu!…” when Mamallar interrupted asking, “Commander! Why are you so agitated?! After thinking for the last three days, I came to the conclusion that your suggestion was fair and just. I have decided to accept the offer of truce and bring the war to an end!” The Commander became even more agitated than before. Tears welled in his eyes. He said in a choked voice, “Prabhu! I’m a fool. My suggestion was ridiculous. Your initial command was both fair and just. Delaying the attack for three days as I had suggested was a blunder. Prabhu! The white flag e at the entrance of the fort has been lowered. Armed Chalukya warriors are standing atop the ramparts prepared for war…”

Everyone assembled in the tent were extremely shocked and furious after listening to Paranjyothi’s message. The Chakravarthy leapt up from his throne and roared, “Commander! Are you stating the truth?” “It’s the truth, Prabhu! I saw it myself! I headed straight here after witnessing this sight.” “Are you able to deduce the reason for this change?” asked Mamallar. “There’s no need to deduce, Prabhu! Pulikesi did not die at the battlefield. He managed to survive and has somehow entered the fort. I also observed the Vatapi Emperor standing atop the fort entrance and surveying his army. Here is Pulikesi’s message, which leaves no room for doubt. I found this message fastened to the tail of an arrow that was shot from within the fort!” As he spoke, Paranjyothi submitted the tiny manuscript on which ‘Victory or Death’ was written.

“This is good news; the responsibility and blame for Vatapi’s destruction will rest on him!” said Mamallar in an enthusiastic voice. He then asked, “Commander, do you harbour any uncertainty? May we start attacking the fort now?” “I am no longer unsure, Prabhu! We are prepared. Our elephant force will start demolishing the fort gates in one muhurtham. Our soldiers will also start scaling the ramparts and entering the fort!” said the Commander. He then told the assembled army chiefs and said, “All of you head to your respective forces. Please remind our soldiers how they ought to conduct themselves once they enter the city. Be prepared to start attacking once you hear trumpets being blown”.

The army chiefs, on hearing this, bowed to the Chakravarthy and Commander and spiritedly left. The Chakravarthy, his security guards, Manavanmar and Commander Paranjyothi were the only ones in the tent. Mamalla Chakravarthy asked, “Commander! What is your command regarding the soldiers’ conduct on entering the city!” “Prabhu! I have commanded them not to harass children and women. All the menfolk who oppose us ought to be killed while the ones who surrender ought to be imprisoned. All houses in Vatapi without exception must be set on fire and reduced to ashes. I have instructed the soldiers to kill those who attempt to extinguish the fire. I have asked them not to stop those citizens who are fleeing the city; but they ought not to carry any of their belongings with them. I have asked our soldiers to collect and hand over to us all the valuables they can find. Half the valuables secured by each of our soldiers will be returned to the finders. If you wish to convey any other order, please let me know,” said the Commander.

“Commander! I have nothing to add. You have acted with foresight!” said Mamallar. “Prabhu! An important task is pending. I have earmarked this task for the Prince of Lanka; you ought to command him!” said the Commander. Before Mamallar could reply, Manavanmar said, “I am waiting for the Commander’s orders!”

“I have heard that the wealth in the Vatapi Emperor’s palace far exceeds the wealth in any other sovereign palace in this world. Harshavardhanar distributes his wealth amongst his citizens every five years. The avaricious Pulikesi does not behave thus. The wealth that Pulikesi has accumulated in the last thirty years, which is comparable to Kubera[v]’s, lies in his palace. Manavanmar should assume the responsibility of carefully bringing those treasures from the palace to our army camp. The palace should be set on fire only when it is stripped of all its wealth. I have set aside five thousand warriors to assist Manavanmar in this mission.” The Commander said all this looking at Mamallar. “Commander! Manavanmar will fulfill your wishes. But besides the treasure in the palace, is there no other treasure in Vatapi worth safeguarding? What arrangements have you made for that?” When Mamallar asked this question, his voice choked. Paranjyothi understood that the Chakravarthy was enquiring about Sivakami Devi.

“Prabhu! I have retained that responsibility for myself. I do not wish to delegate this to anyone else,” he said.

“Very good. Is there no news from Shatrugnan yet?”

“I am expecting his arrival.”

“Commander! You have assigned tasks for everyone. But you have not delegated any task to me. What am I supposed to do?”

“Prabhu! I beseech you to stay right here in this tent.”

“Am I not even required to even enter Vatapi?”

“If the necessity arises, I will send you a message. Then, you must be prepared to come to Vatapi immediately. Please allow Kannan to accompany me along with the chariot.”

“You may take him along. I will be very anxious here.”

“Prabhu! By Vinayaka Peruman’s grace, everything will turn out well. Please do not worry. If necessary, I will send a message. Please give me leave now.”

“Adieu, Commander! As usual, may you return victorious!”

The Commander rushed out of the tent. After he left, the surprised Chakravarthy wondered, “How has he suddenly become so devoted to Lord Vinayaka!”

 

[i] Maharajadhi Raja – Great King of Kings

[ii] Chaluka Kula Thilaka – The Pride of the Chalukya Dynasty

[iii] Tribhuvana Chakravarthy – Emperor of the Three Realms

[iv] Vinayakar – Another name for Ganapathi

[v] Kubera – The God of Wealth in Hindu mythology

Chapter 35: Vatapi Ganapathi

 

Vatapi Ganapathi[i]

Human character may be categorized into two types. The first type of people takes the recurring acts of cruelty they witness very lightly. Then they start thinking. Finally they are able to engage in such cruel acts as a matter of habit. Incidents that initially arouse pity in them fail to evoke any emotion over a period of time. The second type of people feels more and more enraged and not indifferent when they repeatedly observe acts of brutality.  When they see suffering, they feel more sorrowful.  The more they witness injustice and violence being perpetrated, the firmer their resolve becomes to eradicate these evils. Commander Paranjyothi was of the second type. He did not belong to the demonic tribe of humans who became increasingly bloodthirsty when they witnessed gore. At the Vatapi War, he observed rivers of blood flowing in the battlefield, mountains of human corpses that piled up and the moans of those who were grievously injured and on the verge of death. This led Paranjyothi to think, “Why should such atrocities occur? Why do humans have to engage in barbaric acts and kill each other?”

Sivakami’s message reached him when he was in this state of mind. He felt that every word written in that message was true. He thought that God himself had preached thus through Sivakami Devi to prevent him from engaging in such brutal acts. If this were not the case, why did Aayanar’s daughter have to write to him instead of writing to Mamallar directly? Paranjyothi thought that as Sivakami Devi had herself said that there was no necessity to fulfill her oath, Mamallar would immediately acquiesce. Who stood to gain by tormenting the citizens of Vatapi in retaliation to the brutality perpetrated by Pulikesi at Pallava Nadu ten years ago? Moreover, there was no guarantee that the violence would end with this! We are avenging the injustice committed by Pulikesi ten years ago by torturing the citizens of Vatapi. Similarly, the Chalukyas may seek revenge on Pallava Nadu in a few years from now. When sovereigns seek revenge to uphold their honour and their dynasty’s glory, innocent people on both sides are put to untold misery.

Commander Paranjyothi was thinking along these lines. Intermittently he also recollected Mamallar’s scornful words, which made him sad. Wasn’t he under the delusion that Mamallar’s emotions and intellect functioned in unison? Not only was Mamallar extremely dismissive of his suggestion, but he had also humiliated him! Wasn’t this trait characteristic of royalty?! Ever since the Prince of Lanka had come to Kanchi, Mamallar’s character had undergone a complete transformation! All these troubles are because of Manavanman. When Commander Paranjyothi had sought three days’ time from Mamallar, he had said that he needed the time to make preparations to attack the fort. The reason was valid. Commander Paranjyothi had learnt from his experience that it was preferable to make due preparations and complete a task in a day rather than embarking on a task unprepared and complete it in ten days’ time. So, in that instance he deployed his war strategies to the fullest.

However, in addition to the stated reason there was another important reason on account of which Commander Paranjyothi had sought three days’ time. He was desirous of safely bring Sivakami Devi, who was still residing within the fort, out before the attack began. How can one be sure that no harm will befall Aayanar’s daughter if she were to remain inside the fort when the Pallava army attacked the fort from outside? Mamallar and Paranjyothi had discussed this issue previously. Shatrugnan and Gundodharan were commissioned to ascertain if there existed a secret tunnel that led inside the fort so that a few people could be sent into the fort ahead of the attack. The Commander had sought three days’ time to see what became of their efforts.

The third day was drawing to a close; it was the sunset of the third day. If Mamallar were to pass orders that night, the attack would have to start. But Shatrugnan and Gundodharan had not returned. How can this tricky situation be resolved? It would be good if Mamallar were to change his mind and accept the truce without engaging in combat. If not, how can we ensure that no danger befalls Sivakami Devi?

Thinking thus of possible outcomes, the Pallava Commander was riding by the ramparts of the fort. It seemed that there was some disturbance within the fort. All these days dead silence had prevailed within the fort. But at that point of time all kinds of noises were heard. Paranjyothi felt heightened confusion on account of this. He brought his horse to a halt when he reached the main entrance of the fort. To attack the fort, it was imperative to first demolish the gigantic gates fitted to the massive main entrance. Only then was it possible for all the soldiers to enter the fort at the same time and capture the city within a short period of time. Though arrangements for this had already been made, the Commander wished to take one final close look before commanding the warriors in the elephant force to launch the attack.

So, he dismounted the horse and walked towards the entrance. It was then the exquisitely carved sculptures located at the entrance of the Vatapi Fort caught his attention. Amongst those sculptures was an idol of Ganapathi. Paranjyothi stood close to the idol with his arms folded. He silently prayed as follows: “Vinayaka Peruman, who removes all barriers! Please bless us so that the task for which we came ends well! Please be with us so that we may safely hand over my guru’s daughter, Sivakami Devi, back to her father, Aayanar. If you were to fulfill this prayer of mine, I in turn will ensure that you’re not harmed when we attack this fort. I will take you back to my native village, build a temple, consecrate you in that temple and perform daily prayers.

The instant Paranjyothi finished praying, a lot of commotion prevailed amongst the Pallava soldiers who were stationed some distance away from the fort entrance. When they observed the top of the fort entrance, they exclaimed in surprise. As this attracted the Commander’s attention, he looked towards the soldiers. One of them called out, “Commander! The white flag has been lowered!” The Commander hurried to the spot where they were standing and looked at the top of the fort entrance. The flag of truce that was fluttering for the last three days was no longer hoisted!

 

[i] Ganapathi – A son of Lord Shiva, whose possesses an elephant face and a human body

Chapter 34: Sivakami’s Missive

 

The message that Sivakami had written to Commander Paranjyothi was as follows: “This message is for the brave commander of the Pallava forces and my dear brother, Paranjyothi, from Aayanar’s daughter, Sivakami. I am indebted to you and the Pallava Kumarar for not having forgotten this helpless orphaned maiden for nine years and to have invaded this country to uphold my oath. News of the Great War fought to the north of this fort has reached here. People here are wondering if the Vatapi Emperor lost his life in that war.

The Chief of the Vatapi Fort, Bhimasenar, visited me and requested me to pen a message. Acquiescing to his request, I whole-heartedly wrote this message. The objective behind the expedition initiated by you and the Pallava Kumarar has been achieved. The Chalukya army and the Vatapi Emperor have been decimated. I beseech you to end the hostilities and accept the offer of truce extended by the citizens of Vatapi. I no longer harbor the desire that the Pallava Kumarar ought to fulfill the oath I had previously taken. If my oath were executed, the innocent citizens of this large city would lose their homes and belongings and would be put to untold hardship. I don’t wish them to be subject to such torture. By acting thus, no one stands to benefit.

It is evident that there have been several casualties on both sides in the war that just took place. I regret the disastrous slaughters that have occurred on account of me. My dear brother! When I was living all alone in this city for the last nine years, my mind was ceaselessly thinking. I realized that I had committed a blunder by refusing to accompany you and the Pallava Kumarar back to Kanchi when the two of you had come to Vatapi previously and had asked me to do so. I regret my foolishness in stubbornly insisting that I would leave the city only when my oath is fulfilled. Isn’t it sheer madness that humans who are endowed with a sixth sense kill each other in the name of war?

Is it correct for humans to kill living beings created by God? When we are incapable of creating even a minute organism, isn’t it sinful to slaughter thousands of people? The more I think about these issues, the more remorseful I feel that this horrific war had broken out because of me. There exists a God to mete out punishment or forgive erring humans. Elders have said that even an atom does not move in this world unknown to God. This being the case, why do humans have to take the initiative to punish other humans?

Anna! Let bygones be bygones. At least now bloodshed should end. Please forgive me for all the difficulty I put you through because of my foolish obstinacy. Please inform the Pallava Kumarar that I implore him to stop the war. Ever since the fort was laid to siege, the residents of the city have been extremely respectful to me. Should the Pallava Kumarar accept their surrender, they are prepared to seat me in a palanquin and send me back with all honours. Please make all this known to the Pallava Kumarar. I am extremely eager to see all of you. I hope that I will be fortunate enough to meet you and the Pallava Kumarar by sunset today. I hereby prostrate to the lotus feet of my dear father.”

Given Mamallar’s state of mind, the rage he felt on reading Sivakami Devi’s message was easily comprehensible. When Mamallar was about to tear the message apart, the Commander pointing out that the message was for him made Mamallar even more furious. “Is that so? Take your message, Commander! Take it by all means. Please pray to this great manuscript that preaches justice!” So saying, he flung the manuscript.

The Commander reverently picked up the manuscript and said, “Yes, Pallavendra! This indeed is a great manuscript to me. I had come to Kanchi to be educated by Thirunavukkarasar Peruman. I was not fortunate then. But today, I was fortunate to have read Sivakami Devi’s sermon. Isn’t Sivakami Devi the daughter of the sculptor Aayanar, whom I regard as my preceptor?!”

Mamallar’s felt uncontrollable rage. He, who had never spoken about Sivakami in public, spoke arrogantly in the presence of his Council. “Commander! I have committed two blunders in my life. I attempted to seat the sculptor’s daughter on the throne. I failed in that attempt. I made you, who had come to learn Tamil and sculpting, the commander of the Pallava Kingdom! That has now become the second blunder I committed. The sculptor’s daughter has proved that she is not fit to ascend the throne. You have proved that the son of a vaidhyar, who treats peoples’ ailments, is unfit to lead the army of a nation…” Tears welled in Commander Paranjyothi’s eyes. Humiliation and anger overcame him. He started saying, “Pallavendra!…”

When Mamallar roared, “Commander! Stop!” he was rendered speechless. Till then, Mamallar had never spoken to him thus. He had never uttered an insulting or hurting word. Paranjyothi was unable to comprehend this new anger-filled incarnation of Mamallar. Mamallar attacked him further with sharp words, “Who do you think I am? Who did the sculptor’s daughter think I was?  How did she dare write this message? How long have you two been conspiring to bring disgrace to the Pallava Dynasty? When this foolish girl unthinkingly insists, we ought to prepare for war. Do we have to end this war when she condescends to command us to do so?  Did she think that she was the raison d’etre of the Pallava Kingdom? Did she write this message thinking that the citizens of Pallava Nadu and the Pallava Chakravarthy are her slaves? I did not mobilize this massive army and prepare for this war for the last nine years to fulfill thesculptor’s fickle daughter’s oath. You need to understand this. I came to uphold the impeccable honour of the Pallava Dynasty.  I embarked on this expedition to execute the command Mahendra Pallavar had issued on his death bed. I invaded to ensure that the world does not mock Narasimha Pallavan, who won the title of Maha Mallan at the age of eighteen. I did not come to fulfill the oath of the short sighted sculptor’s daughter. I did not come here to listen to her preaching justice and to attain enlightenment. Since it is evident that you are unwilling to conduct this war further, I relieve you of the Commander’s post this instant!”

Mamallar, who spoke thus far looking at the Commander, turned to the Prince of Lanka and said, “Manavanmarey! Foreseeing that our Commander will betray me at an opportune moment, I brought you along. Fortunately, at least you are willing to obey me! Prepare to attack the fort immediately. We must start the attack tonight itself!” Pin drop silence prevailed after Mamallar’s fiery speech, which resembled a prolonged bout of thunder, came to an end. Everyone stood stunned. They had believed that Mamallar and Paranjyothi were inseparable friends sharing a common soul. Hearing Mamallar speak to Paranjyothi so harshly, they were in turmoil.

Manavanmar thought sadly, “What is this? This is an undesirable and unintentional outcome!  Haven’t I antagonized the Commander and made a permanent enemy out of him?”, as he stood still. Mamallar scolded, “Manavanmarey! Why are you standing still?” Manavanmar looked at Paranjyothi. Paranjyothi, who had stood dazed like the others till then, stepped forward and said in a choked voice, “Pallavendra! I seek a boon from you on the strength of the twelve year service I have rendered to the Pallava Kingdom!”

As Mamallar did not respond, Paranjyothi spoke further. “Prabhu! You and I had taken an oath standing beside Pulikesi’s Jayasthambam that is visible from here. We had vowed to demolish that false Jayasthambam, erect a memorial commemorating the Pallava invasion in its place and free Sivakami Devi and take her back. We toiled day and night for the last nine years to fulfill the oath. Please permit your humble servant to continue as a Commander till we fulfill the oath!”

The anger in Mamamallr’s face subsided and he smiled. “Why do you have to use such round about means to seek a boon? Commander! That’s my desire too. Start the attack immediately!” “Please forgive me. I have another request, Prabhu! If we begin our attack of the fort, we must emerge victorious within one day and one night. Please give us three days to make the necessary arrangements!” asked the Commander humbly. Mamallar’s silence indicated his reluctant acceptance of the Commander’s request.

Chapter 33: Ministerial Consultation

 

A week had passed since the Pallava army had conclusively won the Great War of Vatapi. Some distance away from the main entrance to the Vatapi Fort, a gigantic Rishabha flag was fluttering majestically in the sky. At the tent pitched beneath the flag, Mamallar’s Ministers’ Council had congregated. The faces of the ministers sitting around Mamallar revealed their pride on winning a decisive victory in a major war along with a tinge of worry.  However, Mamallar’s valorous handsome face exuded fire and brimstone! It appeared that a debate was underway at the Minsters’ Council on account of divided opinions. The reason behind the difference in opinions was a message seeking refuge that was sent by the Vatapi chieftans.

On returning from the battlefield, the Pallava army was divided into two. One force was strategically stationed two kadu to the east to attack the Vengi army that was marching towards Vatapi. Preparations were underway to deploy the second force to attack and capture the fort. A matter concerning the proposed attack of the fort made Mamallar furious. He was not even willing to give time for the soldiers who had returned after winning a major war to relax. He rushed the commander and the others. He mounted a horse and rode around the fort motivating the soldiers. Mamalla Chakravarthy himself explained to the soldiers how to cross the moat in one go, how to climb the ramparts of the fort, how to wield the spear and kill the guards stationed at the fort walls and what they ought to do on entering the fort. Mamallar’s behaviour made Commander Paranjyothi both angry and sad. He asked, “Why don’t you leave these tasks to me? Don’t you trust me?”

Mamallar’s urgency in initiating the attack on the fort stemmed from his concern that the enemy may call for truce even before the attack started. His fear was not unfounded. When it was decided to launch the attack on the fort on the following day, a white flag signifying truce was raised at the main entrance to the fort. Two people climbed down the ramparts on a rope ladder. They submitted the two messages they had brought to Commander Paranjyothi and returned.

One of the messages was written by the Chief of the Fort, Bhimasenan, to the Chakravarthy. The message stated that Vatapi chieftans had held discussions and had decided to relinquish control of the Vatapi Fort to the Kanchi Chakravarthy without any opposition, that all the wealth in the Vatapi palace and the elephant force and cavalry stationed within the fort would be surrendered to Mamalla Chakravarthy and that they were willing to comply with any other conditions he may have. The message requested Mamallar to mercifully refrain from attacking the fort and that he should allow the city’s womenfolk to retain their houses, wealth and freedom. The message concluded stating that if Mamalla Chakravarthy were to acquiesce to their request, the Chief of the Fort, Bhimasenan, along with his men are prepared to surrender.

This message calling for truce gave no room for suspicion; it was the truth.  The residents of Vatapi who stood in the mandapams atop the ramparts and observed the proceedings also came to know of the Great War that was fought between the Pallava army and the Chalukya army. As it was clear that the Pallava army had won the war, the Vatapi citizens were fear stricken. Wailing and lamenting filled the streets and homes. Everyone came to know that they did not possess adequate forces and weapons to safeguard the fort and that they had not accumulated sufficient food supplies to sustain them should the siege continue any longer. If the siege were to continue for a month, the citizens would have had to starve. If the enemy forces were to attack the fort and forcibly enter, then the citizens cannot expect mercy from them. Lakhs of women, children and aged people would be rendered helpless.

Taking all this account and in the absence of an altenative, the Vatapi chieftans and the Chief of the fort, Bhimasenan, called for truce. Mamallar had summoned the Minsters’ Council to discuss the offer of truce and come to a conclusion. That day Mamallar was impatient and short tempered at the Ministers’ Council; a phenomenon that had never occurred in the past. The very sight of the message made him furious. When the message was read out to everyone, sparks of fire flew from his eyes.  Those assembled understood that the Chakravarthy was not favourably inclined towards the offer of truce from his body language, facial expression and manner of speaking.  Despite this, when the Chakravarthy sought their opinion about the offer of truce, those assembled truthfully said that they were in favour of accepting the offer of truce and safeguarding the city and its residents.

The Chakravarthy’s fury escalated. When each one voiced his support for the truce, Mamallar reacted caustically, exclaiming, “Is that so?” and “Oh!” Commander Paranjyothi and Manavanmar of Lanka refrained from voicing their opinions.  “Why are you standing quietly without saying anything? Commander! What’s your opinion?” asked Mamallar pointedly. “Prabhu! I too believe that the hostilities must cease. What’s the use of innocent people suffering? Moreover, when they are begging for their lives by surrendering to the Chakravarthy, what other option exists?”

“Commander! What are you saying? Have you too started proselytizing justice and fairness? Have you forgotten the atrocities perpetrated by Pulikesi in our country? Aren’t you aware that we are duty bound to set this city ablaze and reduce it to ashes? Do you speak thus despite being aware of everything? What has overcome all of you suddenly? Are you all tired of war? Does the sight of blood scare you? Have you become attached to your lives and possessions? Manavanmarey! I hope that atleast you are on my side! Or have you too joined the ranks of Buddha Bhagavan’s foremost disciples and have become a pacifist?” asked Mamallar fierily.

Manavanmar understood very well Mamallar’s state of mind. He realized that Mamallar would go to any length to fulfill his promise to Sivakami and if the offer of truce were accepted, Mamallar would not be able to keep up his word. In truth, Manavanmar was extremely surprised that Commander Paranjyothi had spoken in support of acquiescing to the truce. Also, the thought that if the offer of truce were accepted, there would be no opportunity to employ the elephant force that he had specially trained to attack the fort lurked at the corner of Manavanmar’s mind.

Assessing the situation, Manavanmar said, “Prabhu! When all the valorous commanders of Pallava Nadu unanimously favour acceptance of the offer of truce, I was hesitant to offer a contradictory opinion. Specifically, I was unwilling to dispute the Commander!” Mamallar roared in a commanding tone, “Manavanmarey! If it’s mandatory that everyone must voice unanimous views, then there is no need for a Ministers’ Council. Everyone may bravely state their opinions here. There’s no need for anyone to be afraid!”

“Prabhu! I will state my opinion if you command me to do so. I believe that we ought not to accept this offer of truce. Does surrendering set right all the untold atrocities that have been committed?” Commander Paranjyothi interrupted saying, “What sin did the citizens of Vatapi commit? How can they be held responsible for the barbarian Pulikesi’s actions?” Manavanmar responded saying, “The Commander speaking thus surprises me. Didn’t these people happily witness the atrocities perpetrated by Pulikesi? Did they ever attempt to prevent him from behaving unjustly? They are the ones who strengthened the savage Pulikesi. They are the ones who shared and enjoyed the loot Pulikesi had plundered and brought back. They are the ones who enslaved and extracted work out of the men and women Pulikesi had imprisoned and brought back to Vatapi. Haven’t the citizens of the city insulted and earned the indelible enmity of the Pallava Kingdom by making the sculptor Aayanar’s daughter dance at the street junctions? Has our valorous Commander forgotten all this?” When Manavanmar spoke thus, Mamallar shot a sharp look at Paranjyothi.

Then Commander Paranjyothi said, “Pallavendra! It’s impossible for me to forget that which Manavanmar remembers. I was desirous of discussing this with you separately. But as Manavanmar raised the subject of Sivakami Devi, I too will voice my opinion here. The emissaries who delivered the offer of truce handed another manuscript separately to me. Here is the manuscript penned by Sivakami Devi. Please read this manuscript!” So saying, he removed a manuscript from the sheath of his sword and handed it over to the Chakravarthy. When the Pallavendrar read the manuscript, his already reddened eyes became even more fiery and resembled ignited coal.   The intense anger he felt made his hands tremble. As soon as he read the message, he was about to tear the bunch of palm leaf manuscripts to shreds. Then the Commander interjected and said, “Pallavendra! The message was for me. Please be merciful and return it to me!”

 

Chapter 32: The Kabalikai’s Love

 

The bikshu, after swearing by the names of several Gods with his face tilted skywards and his hands raised, sat down and placed Pulikesi’s lifeless body on his lap again. “Thambi! You have not died. All these days though we lived in two separate bodies, we shared the same soul. Like our soul, our bodies have become one now. Henceforth you are me; I am you! We are not two separate people!” After speaking thus in an emotion laden voice, the bikshu sobbed and cried in a manner that caused his body to shake.

It seemed as though he had lost self-consciousness and had immersed himself in an ocean of sorrow. The night was passing quickly. The moon was rising higher and higher. The shadows of rocks and trees became progressively shorter. The kabalikai, who was standing for a long time behind a rock, finally lost her patience.

She went and stood behind the bikshu and gently placed her finger on his shoulder. The bikshu, who was taken aback, looked around. “Ranjani! Is that you?” he asked. “Yes; it’s me!” said the kabalikai. “Haven’t you left yet?” “If that’s your order, I will do so.” “No, stay! You are the only one in this vast world who bears affection for me.” “There is not a soul to shower affection on me.” “Ah! Ranjani, why do you say so? Am I not there?” asked the bikshu.

The sorrow that was evident in his voice some time ago had disappeared without a trace and was replaced by deceptive affection. “Adigal! Why are you trying to deceive this helpless woman? Who will feel affection for this hideous form?” asked the kabalikai. “Haven’t you heard that love is blind? No matter how unsightly you may be, in my eyes you are Rathi!” said the bikshu. “You treacherous bikshu! Why do you intentionally prevaricate? You were the one who made me look repulsive. If you bore affection towards me, would you have behaved in this manner?” said that repugnant kabalikai.

“Ranjani! Haven’t I explained this several times to you? Had you resided in the Vatapi Palace looking as beautiful as an Ajantha painting, wouldn’t some prince have won your hand? That’s why I acted in this manner.” “You yourself could have won my hand. Who would have prevented you?” “I have also explained that to you a thousand times. I will state the reason again; I had some tasks to execute. Foremost was securing my release from the Buddha Sangam.” “You’ve been saying this for a long time. When will you be released?”

“Ranjani, I have been released! The great obstacle that prevented you from fulfilling your desire no longer exists. Are you happy now?” asked the bikshu gently. “Are you stating the truth?” asked Ranjani. “I swear I’m stating the truth. The necessity for me to seek my release did not even arise. The members of the Buddha Sangam excommunicated me. This must have happened on account of your penances.”

The kabalikai asked suspiciously, “Why did they excommunicate you? How did the members of the Buddha Sangam dare to excommunicate the all-powerful Naganandi Bikshu?” “That’s a long story, I will tell you later. We now have an extremely important mission ahead of us. We must cremate this corpse immediately. If anyone comes to know of this, everything will go awry. Ranjani! Why don’t you bring the logs and build a pyre right here?” “I cannot do that!” “Why do you say so?” Won’t you help me?” asked the bikshu. “If you tell me why they excommunicated you from the Buddha Sangam, I will help you.”

“I will tell you briefly, listen! I knew beforehand that Mamallan of Kanchi is invading us. But, for certain reasons I did not reveal this to my brother and kept it as a secret. When this fool came to know of this, he thought that I had betrayed both him and the nation. He told me, who had saved his life by risking mine and had orchestrated his rise to such a powerful position, ‘I don’t want to see you as long as you’re alive!’ and sent me away. On account of his behaviour, he is now lying here as an orphaned corpse. You and I must cremate him!” said the bikshu and took a deep breath. He then said, “The bikshus at the Ajantha Sangramam came to know of this. They, who had accepted all the assistance that came to them through me, on realizing that I had fallen out of favour with the Emperor cursed and excommunicated me. They also faced the consequences of their behaviour. Ranjini! Those who oppose Neelakesi will not survive, they will face doom.”

“What became of the Ajantha bikshus?” asked the kabalikai. “Nothing at all. Within a week since the incident occurred, the bikshus had to shut down the Ajantha Sangramam and flee for their lives. A rumour had spread across the country that the Ajantha Art Festival was a conspiracy hatched by the bikshus to assist Mamallan of Kanchi. I was the one who sowed the seeds of this rumour. The citizens were prepared to march up to Ajantha and destroy the Sangramam and the sculptures and paintings that lay within the Sangramam. When the bikshus came to know of this, they closed all the secret routes that led to Ajantha and started fleeing northwards to Harsha’s Kingdom. After that, I myself tried to go to Ajantha again. Even I was unable to trace the route. I decided to address this issue later and returned. I came at the right time. Ranjani! Stand up! Do as I bid quickly! Build the pyre right away! Bring the fire!”

“What are you going to do after cremating the Emperor?” “Ranjani!  You must not divulge anything about the Emperor’s death or his cremation to anyone. You must not reveal this even to the wind. You must keep this matter extremely confidential, do you understand?” “Why the secrecy, Adigal?” “I will tell you later. Ranjani! We don’t have a moment to waste.” “You treacherous bikshu! You don’t have to tell me the reason. I’m aware of it.” “What do you know?” “After cremating this corpse, you are going to head to Vatapi through the secret tunnel! You’re going to proclaim that you are the Emperor. You are going to ascend the throne with the temptress from Kanchi by your side…”

Naganandi angrily stood up and said, “I will act in the manner you just described. Go to hell! Henceforth I will have nothing to do with you…” Before he could speak further, the kabalikai fell at his feet and said, “Adigal! Please forgive me. I will obey you.” “But you don’t trust me. What is the use of telling you?” “There is one way to instill trust in me!” “What is that?” “Hand over that dancer to me!”

“Ranjani! You waited for so long. Please be patient for some more time. Wait till the siege of Vatapi comes to an end. Haven’t I told you that I have a reason for safeguarding Sivakami? The time has now come. When I wreak revenge on Mamallan, I will hand over Sivakami to you. Then the Emperor of the southern country will be Neelakesi! You will be the Empress! The Kingdoms of Chalukya, Pallava, Chola, Pandya and Vengi will lie beneath our feet!” When Naganandi alias Neelakesi uttered these words, his eyes glowed like fire in the moonlight.

The kabalikai appeared assuaged. In deference to Neelakesi’s words, she brought the logs from her cave and started building a pyre. Then she muttered to herself, unheard by Neelakesi, “Perfidious bikshu! You’re trying to cheat me again. But your plans are never ever going to fructify. That temptress Sivakami will not give you a second look no matter how much you beseech her and even if you give her Devendran’s position. Finally you would have to fall at my feet!”

Chapter 31: The Bikshu’s Oath

 

One night after The Great War of Vatapi drew to an end an extremely sorrowful incident was unfolding at the vicinity of the kabalikas’ sacrificial altar that lay some distance away from the Vatapi Fort. When the rays emitted by the just rising moon in the east streamed through the trees and fell on the bare rocks, those black rocks and their pitch dark shadows resembled huge, dark ghosts, rendering that rocky terrain even more fearful.

A hideous female form was seen walking by the rocks, sometimes in the shadow of the rocks and some other times in the moonlight. That apparition was carrying another body on her shoulder. The stiff manner in which the body lay on her shoulder indicated that it was a corpse. As she walked in the moonlight, her shadow resembled a demoness’. One would have thought that it was a demoness who was carrying her prey for her consumption.

When one observed that female apparition closely, she was more fearful than an imaginary murderous fiend. Her tanned thick skin, short reddened tresses and fiery eyes made her look like a terrifying ogress described in novels. But the male corpse whom that woman carried on her shoulder was not so frightful. He looked regal. Who was it? Probably it was…

When this unsightly fiend turned around the corner of a rock, she was taken aback seeing someone walking towards her. She hesitated. Why was she shocked?  Was it fear? Was she too subject to fear?  Or was there some other reason?  The person walking towards her did so without an iota of hesitation. When he neared her, the bikshu’s voice asking, “Ranjani, is that you?” was heard. Isn’t it surprising that the repulsive monstress had a beautiful name like Ranjani? Nevertheless, in the past the woman did possess a captivating appearance that befit the name Ranjani[i]. It was the bikshu who had transformed her into a repulsive kabalikai[ii].

It seemed as though the kabalikai was even more shocked hearing the bikshu’s voice. Observing her stand shocked like a statue, the bikshu asked again, “Ranjani! Why this silence? Where did you go to hunt?” It seemed as though the kabalikai overcame her shock. “Adigal! Is it truly you?” she asked in a surprised and suspicious tone. “What kind of a question is this? Why do you doubt that it’s me? Who else but me will come in search of you in the middle of the night? Since I could not find you at your cave, I came searching for you! What is that? Whom are you carrying? Which sinner’s corpse are you bearing? Nowadays you seem to have no dearth of preys!”

As the bikshu was speaking in this manner, the kabalikai dropped the corpse she was carrying for so long with a thud. She exclaimed, “What fun!” and let out a terrifying laugh. “What is the fun? Where did you find the corpse?” asked the bikshu. “Adigal! I wept nonstop thinking of you as I walked for two kadu. All my tears were in vain!” said the kabalikai. “Did you weep? Why should you shed tears thinking of me? What kind of a joke is this!” said the bikshu.  “It is a big joke. I will narrate the joke from the beginning; listen to me!” So saying, the kabalikai narrated her story.

“I had gone to derive some amusement by watching the war. I was watching the war from the top of a hill that stood some distance away from the battlefield.  My God! What a war it was! How many casualties!  How many humans were sacrificed! The kabalikas sacrifice one human at this place once a month! That’s nothing! There lakhs of humans and thousands of elephants and horses were sacrificed. The sacrifices continued day and night for three days. Finally one side started fleeing while the other side was pursuing them. I did not even observe who was chasing whom. I took to flight fearing that they would capture me.  Today, I surreptitiously walked through the forest during daytime. In the evening, I could hear the sound of a horse galloping. I ran even faster thinking that someone was coming to seize me. For some time, the horse also continued galloping. When darkness had set in, I hid myself behind a tree to find out who was chasing me. The horse that was chasing me suddenly fell down. The man who was mounted on the horse lay immobile; he did not get up. When I went close to the horse, I realized that it was on the verge of death. It seemed that the man who lay on the horse had been dead for a long time. As his legs were fastened to the horses’ stirrups, he must have lay on the horse without falling down. I bent down and looked at his face; it was exactly like yours. Am I not a mad woman? I thought it was you, carried him on my shoulder and came here weeping…”

The bikshu must have been suddenly struck by a thought then. He bent down and stared intently at the corpse’s face in the moonlight. When the bikshu shrieked, “Thambi! Pulikesi!” it echoed across that vast rocky area. “Ranjani! You go away! You leave me alone for some time! Don’t stand here!” said the sobbing bikshu. Hearing this, the kabalikai became scared and walked away to stand behind a rock.

The bikshu sat down and placed Pulikesi’s corpse on his lap.  “Thambi! What became of you? Is this how you died? Isn’t it because of this sinner that you were reduced to this state?” said the bikshu and repeated beat himself at his chest and forehead. “Aiyyo! Thambi! Didn’t you pass away thinking that I had betrayed you? My brother, you are dearer to me than my own life! Will I betray you, who lived along with me in our mother’s womb for ten months? I had conspired to wreak revenge on Mamallan! You died before I could divulge my intention to you!…”

The bikshu again punched himself at the chest and said, “You base bikshu! May your anger be doomed! May your love be destroyed! Your Sivakami…! Ah! What will Sivakami do?…Thambi! I did not betray you. Neither did I betray our nation. Had both of us exercised some patience at Ajantha that day, this disaster would not have occurred! I would not have allowed this war to break out! I would have starved everyone from Pallava Nadu to death! I would have slaughtered Mamallan! Aiyyo! Things have come to such a pass…”

The bikshu gently lifted Pulikesi’s corpse from his lap and placed it on the ground. He stood up, lifted both his hands towards the skies and shrieked in a manner that caused goose pimples to the kabalikai hiding behind the rock. “Thambi! Pulikesi! I will avenge your death! I swear by the lotus feet of Buddha Bhagavan! I swear by the vengeful Rudran[iii] who bears a kabalam[iv].  I also swear by the bloodthirsty Shakti Bhadrakali[v] that I will seek revenge on those who killed you!”

 

 

[i] Ranjani – In Sanskrit, Ranjani means pleasing / charming

[i]i Kabalikai – Female kabalika (cannibal)

[iii] Rudran – Manifestation of Lord Shiva

[iv] Kabalam – Skull

[v] Shakti Bhadrakali – A ferocious manifestation of Goddess Parvati

Chapter 30: The Great War of Vatapi

 

More than a month had passed since the uncustomary art festival held at Ajantha drew to an abrupt and awkward closure. During that one month, a fierce competition broke out between the Chalukya army that was rushing from the north and the invading Pallava army that was marching from the south to reach Vatapi. It was the Pallava army that won the battle of speed.  When the Chalukya army was still six kadu to the north of Vatapi, the ocean-like Pallava army had reached Vatapi without any impediments and had surrounded that expansive city’s fortress from all sides.

The citizens of Vatapi were alarmed by this unprecedented disaster. Vatapi’s residents, who were extremely proud of Emperor Pulikesi’s brave deeds and of his fame spreading far and wide even across the high seas to far flung nations, had not even imagined that another king would invade their country. The Pallava invasion that was akin to thunder striking across clear skies numbed and shocked the people. Everyone was aware that their Emperor was not present in the city at that point of time and that the forces deployed for the fort’s security were inadequate. Hence most of the city’s womenfolk felt extremely apprehensive. The Samanars, Saivites and Saktars who were inimical towards the Buddhists said, “The Ajantha Art Festival, in reality, is a plot hatched by the Buddhists!” The Chief of the Fort, Bhimasenan, also had to provide additional security to the Buddhist Viharams and monasteries which were the targets of the citizens’ angry attacks.

Commander Bhiman had also made arrangements to read out the emergency messages sent by the Emperor through his emissaries to help citizens overcome their fear. The Emperor has stated in that epistle that he was rushing to Vatapi along with the massive army that had been stationed at the banks of the Narmada River, that another large force stationed at Vengi Nadu was also marching towards Vatapi, that there was no need for the citizens to lose heart should the Pallava army lay siege to the Vatapi Fort ahead of his reaching Vatapi and that he would teach the Pallava army a lesson by decimating it and liberating Vatapi from the siege very soon. After hearing the above epistle that was read out at the street junctions, the Vatapi residents managed to somewhat overcome their fear and muster courage.

When Emperor Pulikesi, accompanied by the large army that was stationed on the banks of the Narmada River, was four kadu away from Vatapi, he received news of the Pallava army reaching Vatapi ahead of him and surrounding the fort. He immediately stopped marching ahead. As the army from Vengi had to cross several forests, mountains and rivers on its way, it came to be known that this army would take time in reaching Vatapi. In this situation, Emperor Pulikesi after discussing with his ministers and army chiefs, decided not to engage in war immediately and to wait for some time. He decided to launch a ferocious attack against the Pallava army once the forces from Vengi arrived and to tarry at the same place till then. But the doyens in warfare, Mamalla Chakravarthy and Commander Paranjyothi, did not allow him to execute his decisions.

The Pallava army chiefs debated at the Minsters’ Council whether to attack the Vatapi Fort or to confront the massive army headed by Pulikesi first. Manavanmar and Aditya Varmar opined that as their mission was to capture the Vatapi Fort, they ought to attack the fort immediately. Commander Paranjyothi said Pulikesi ought to attacked and slaughtered before the arrival of the forces from Vengi, that the Vatapi Fort was not going to disappear and that the longer the Vatapi Fort was under siege the easier would it be for the Pallava forces to capture the fort.  The Chief of Spies supported the Commander. After deploying a small force to continue laying siege to the Vatapi Fort, a major portion of the Pallava army started marching northwards.

Emperor Pulikesi came to know of this. He realized that if he retreated at this juncture, the Chalukya Kingdom’s honour would come to naught. He prepared himself for war. Three kadu to the north of Vatapi, the two mammoth armies locked horns. This sight was akin to a turbulent ocean where the waves rose and lashed without any impediments. The gory battle continued for three days and nights. Thousands of warriors, stabbed by swords and pierced by spears, met their end at the battlefield. Mounds of the corpses of those who had died fighting bravely, with their arms, legs and heads mutilated, lay at the battlefield.

The dead elephants that lay on the battlefield resembled black granite hills. The corpses of humans and those of horses were all piled up together. The pathetic moaning of humans, the horrific shrieking of elephants and the sorrowful neighing of horses that were on the verge of death mingled together to form an intolerable din. Rivers of blood flowed in all four directions at the battlefield. The mutilated limbs of warriors floating on the rivers of blood presented an excruciating sight. It is impossible to provide an accurate description of that war in which lakhs of warriors and thousands of elephants and horses were deployed. Only great playwrights like Valmiki, Vyasar, Homer and Kambar[i] could do justice.

It was possible to estimate the relative strength of both sides from the very beginning of the war. Those who understood the intricacies of warfare could surmise the outcome of the war. The Chalukya army that had travelled a long distance nonstop was unable to withstand the assault of the invigorated Pallava army, which had the opportunity to rejuvenate itself after reaching Vatapi. A key contributory factor to the weakness of the Chalukya army was that a major part of its elephant force was stationed along with its army at Vengi.

At the dawn of the third day, the victory of the Pallava army and the defeat of the Chalukya army became a certainty. That afternoon, the Chalukya commanders and ministers surrounded Pulikesi and forcefully impressed upon him that it was necessary for him to retreat to a safe place till the arrival of the forces from Vengi for the welfare of the kingdom. The Chakravarthy, realizing that there was no alternative, acquiesced. It was decided that the Emperor escorted by what remained of the cavalry would safely retreat when that day drew to a close. But a major disruption that occurred in the evening prevented them from executing that decision. The Pallava army had saved the elephant force that had been specially trained by Manavanmar for the very end. That evening they launched an attack by that force.

When five thousand ferocious elephants armed with iron poles pounced on the Chalukya cavalry, those unsuspecting horses were taken aback. The horses dispersed and fled in all four directions. The remaining Chalukya soldiers fled even faster than the elephants. For the whole of the third night, the Pallava soldiers pursued the fleeing Chalukya soldiers and hunted them down. The following dawn, the battlefield in which a terrible war had raged during the last three days, was filled with corpses of the Chalukya soldiers. Not even a single living Chalukya soldier was seen.

Amidst the blowing of trumpets and conches signifying victory and the sound of victory slogans reaching the skies, the Pallava Chakravarthy and his commanders garlanded and congratulated each other and celebrated the conclusive victory secured by the Pallava army. Despite the uproarious celebrations, a small worry lingered at the bottom of their hearts. They were wondering what became of the Chalukya Emperor, Pulikesi. It was not known whether the Vatapi Emperor battled till the very end and embraced heroic death or if he had taken flight after observing several Chalukya soldiers fleeing the battlefield. If he had died at the battlefield, they would need to accord his mortal remains the honour due to a powerful Emperor. If he had fled, it was possible that he would mobilize an army again and attack them. After debating about Pulikesi’s fate for long, the Pallavas decided that it was futile to continue engaging in such discussions. After making arrangements for a force headed by Shatrugnan to comb the battlefield thoroughly for Pulikesi’s corpse, Mamallar and the other headed towards Vatapi again.

 

[i] Valmiki, Vyasar and Kambar – Valmiki and Kambar are the authors of The Ramayana in Sanskrit and Tamil respectively. Vyasar is the author of The Mahabharata.