Nandini Vijayaraghavan's Blog, page 4

Chapter 19: Mother’s Blessing

 

The following day, Pandian Nedumaran visited Bhuvana Mahadevi’s palace to take leave of her. Mahendra Pallavar’s Queen Consort warmly welcomed him with a smiling face. When Mangayarkarasi, who was present there, was about to leave, Bhuvana Mahadevi stopped her saying, “My child! Why are you leaving? There is no confidential matter I wish to discuss with the Pandya Kumaran”. Then she asked Nedumaran to sit and said, “Appane! I am aware of all that had transpired. Vanama Devi visited me last night itself and told me everything. Nevertheless, you caused great turmoil to that virtuous woman!” Observing Nedumaran’s silence, Bhuvana Mahadevi said, “Your coming to Kanchi proved to be a blessing to me. I had promised this maiden’s father that I will get her married to a suitable groom. The two of you decided by yourselves rendering it unnecessary for me to search for a groom. Now, my responsibility in this regard is over”. “Thaye! Please don’t speak thus. Your responsibility for your adopted daughter’s marriage is not yet over. There is still scope for you to exercise effort. Please ask Mangayarkarasi if she will wed me and absolve you of your responsibility.”

When Nedumaran spoke thus, Bhuvana Mahadevi looked around saying, “Why should she be enquired afresh?  She has already told me everything”. Bhuvana Mahadevi was taken aback seeing Mangayarkarasi’s tear-filled eyes. She asked Nedumaran, “What is this? Have you two children fought so soon?” “It’s not a mere fight but a war, amma! War has broken out in this palace because I did not proceed to the Vatapi War. After driving me crazy and creating a situation that almost necessitated my sister to poison me, she now refuses to marry me! Ask her if this is fair!” said Nedumaran.

Bhuvana Mahadevi looked at Mangayarkarasi. She understood that the two had created unnecessary obstacles. “My child! Is the Pandya Kumaran stating the truth? Are you rejecting the immense good fortune that has sought you out?” she asked. Mangayarkarasi sobbed as she prostrated before Bhuvana Mahadevi. “Amma! When I lost my heart to him and regarded him as my husband, I was not aware that he was a Samanar…” Unable to speak further, she sobbed.

Nedumaran felt extremely worried thinking, “What is this? This is an unintended consequence of my action”. Bhuvana Mahadevi asked him, “Appane! This child was born in a Saivite clan. Aren’t you aware that she worships Shiva Peruman and Parvathi? You wouldn’t object to that, would you?” Nedumaran, who realized that this was an opportunity to extricate himself from a tricky situation, happily responded, “Amma! I am not such a fanatic. Though I am attached to the Samana faith, I do not detest Saivism. My dear friend, Kulachirai, is an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. When I was suffering from high fever, he came to Kanchi, obtained thiruneer from Navukkarasar Peruman and applied it on me. I did not object. At Madurai, he used to visit the temple thrice a day to obtain darisanam of Meenakshi Amman and Sundareshwara Peruman[i]. She may follow suit, I will not object!” Only then did Mangayarkarasi’s face glow like before.

Bhuvana Mahadevi made the exceptional lovers stand in front of her as a couple and blessed them. After discussing what needs to be done next with the two of them, Nedumaran took their leave and left. After he had left, Bhuvana Mahadevi affectionately embraced Mangayarkarasi and blessed her saying, “My child! You don’t worry! Didn’t you relate to me the dream that often occurred to you? Your dream will definitely come true. Nedumaran will become an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. The fruit of that good deed will accrue to you!”

Bhuvana Mahadevi’s prediction about Nedumaran came entirely true. Years later, by the grace of Sri Sambanda Peruman[ii], he became a zealous follower of Lord Shiva. His views on war also changed. Twenty five years later, when Pulikesi’s son, Vikramadityan, invaded the southern country and advanced up to Pandya Nadu, Nedumaran vanquished him at the Battle of Nelveli and secured an indelible place in the history of Tamizhagam.

 

[i] Meenakshi Amman and Sundareshwara Peruman – Incarnations of Goddess Parvathi and Lord Shiva respectively

[ii] Sri Sambanda Peruman – A Saivite saint; one of the 108 Nayanmars

Chapter 18: Sister & Brother

 

That day, after sunset, Vanama Devi was searching for something amongst the gold and silver casks in the chamber that stored her priceless ornaments. Suddenly she heard someone call out, “Akka! What are you searching for?” Aghast, she looked around. Unknown to her, Nedumaran had noiselessly entered that chamber. Vanama Devi’s surprise heightened on seeing him. Nedumaran again asked, “Akka! What are you searching for?” and then looked around. Vanama Devi struggled unable to respond. She then asked, “Thambi! When did you come here?” “I came here a short while ago. I came to ask if you were searching for this dagger!” As he spoke, he extended a small dagger that he had hidden behind him.

Vanama Devi stood staring at that dagger. Beads of sweat broke out on her face. “Akka! If you have decided to stab me to death, please take this dagger and accomplish the task right away! It does not behoove you, who were born in the brave Pandya dynasty and wedded into the valorous Pallava dynasty, to stab your dear brother in his sleep. It would be a slur on both the Pandyas and the Pallavas!” Words cannot describe the agony Vanama Devi felt when she heard Nedumaran’s speech that was tinged with sarcasm and pity. Feelings of shame and anger gnawed her.

Despite trying hard, she was unable to speak. Nedumaran spoke further: “Alternately, if you wish to kill me by administering poison, make sure that the poison is effective. I gave the poison you had secured with great difficulty to the fawn that frolics around the palace garden. It showed no signs of dying. It played more energetically than before!”

Every word uttered by Nedumaran had the impact of a poisoned arrow piercing Vanama Devi’s heart. Unable to bear the torment, she stammered, “Thambi! Why do you speak thus? Why would I kill you?…” “Akka! Have you learnt to lie and be deceitful after marrying into the Pallava Dynasty? Did Bhuvana Mahadevi suggest this when you went to seek her counsel last night?” asked Nedumaran.

Vanama Devi now found the pretext to express her fury. She said harshly, “What I suspected is true. Wasn’t it the maiden from Chola Nadu who told you all this?” “Don’t direct your anger towards that helpless girl, akka! She does not deserve it. It is true she had divulged this to me some time ago. But this dagger was not lost today. Weren’t you searching for it for the last two days?”

Vanama Devi again stood stunned for some time and said, “It seems that there is nothing that the Samana siddhars cannot unravel!” “But mystic powers are not necessary to understand your innermost thoughts. It seems that Valluvar Peruman had you in mind when he composed the couplet,

“The object near the mirror reflects

And the mind’s travails the face reveals.”

 

Your face revealed your intentions to me. Moreover, I was not born blind or deaf. My eyes and ears have been alert ever since I arrived at this palace. I observed that you had fastened this dagger perpetually to your waist. You had absent mindedly placed it on the floor once. I did not find it difficult to appropriate the dagger then…”

“Ah! I am such a nincompoop!” muttered Vanama Devi. “You’re not a nincompoop, akka! But you were unable to bring yourself to perform this task. That’s why you were walking around in a daze unable to hide your emotions!…Ah! Ten years ago, when both of us lived in theMadurai palace, you showered so much affection on me. I feel ecstatic recollecting those days. My mother died when I was a naïve child. Then the Junior Queen’s words were law in the palace. You were both a sister and mother to me, who was unaware of a mother’s love. For a long time, I used to think that you were my own sister. It was only during your wedding did I come to know that you were my half-sister.”

Vanama Devi wept copiously. “Nedumara! Why do you remind me of all that?” sobbed Vanama Devi. “How did you, who were so affectionate, acquire such a cruel bent of mind? How did you muster courage to kill me by stabbing me or by administering poison?” asked Nedumaran. “Thambi! Please forgive me. When he left for the battlefield, he handed the responsibility of running this household to me. He cautioned me that danger may befall because of you. I promised him that I will ensure that you cause no harm. But when I promised him, I did not imagine even in my wildest dreams that you will be so treacherous!” said Vanama Devi and wept again.

“Akka! I cannot bear to see you shed tears. I cannot understand what treachery I committed. I also do not know what you promised your husband. If you have promised him that you will kill me; don’t worry! I am ready to bare my chest; you fulfill your vow!” So saying, Nedumaran extended the dagger to Vanama Devi and also bared his chest. “Thambi! Why are you mocking me when I’m overcome by great sorrow? Tell me why you have come here?” asked the Chakravarthini.

“Akka! I’m not being playful; I’m stating the truth. I feel so proud of you. It is only expected that a woman born in the Pandya Dynasty is devoted to her husband. Didn’t the deity of the Pandya Dynasty, Meenakshi Devi, disregard her father Dakshan and live under the shadow of Shiva Peruman?! Should the clan of her birth cause her husband harm, it’s customary for a Pandya woman to act with her husband’s interests in mind. But what harm did you suspect I will cause? How did I become the object of your hatred? Please divulge that before you stab me!”

“Thambi, why do you compel me to disclose that?  Didn’t you conspire to capture the city of Kanchi and the Pallava throne, aided by the army that has accompanied you?” “Why did you suspect me of such treacherous thoughts? Who told you, akka?!” “Who has to tell me? Your facial expression, behaviour and speech aroused suspicion. You said that you were not sure if you will go to Vatapi. You said that if you were given refuge, you would live in this palace permanently. You were always immersed in deep thought. Not only this; you attended a caucus of Samana siddhars in the middle of the night. The fact that you were trapped by the Samana siddhars’ ruses gives enough room for suspicion.”

“Akka! Don’t blame the Samanars unnecessarily. It is true that they had revealed certain future occurrences. But the conclusion I drew from those predictions is contrary to your thoughts. I did not think of capturing Mamalla Chakravarthy’s capital city and his kingdom during his absence. Ever since I arrived at this palace, I was thinking of abdicating the Pandya Kingdom which by right is mine, renouncing this world and becoming a Digambara Samanar…”

“Thambi! Why this disastrous thought?” asked a shocked Vanama Devi. “What do you term as a disastrous thought, akka?! Is it disastrous to assume the responsibility of ruling a kingdom and transform humankind that is endowed with a sixth sense into tigers and jackals and cause lakhs of people to kill each other? Or is it disastrous to embrace the religion of kindness and ensure that not even the most minute of living organisms is harmed?” “Thambi! You are well-educated! I do not have the wherewithal to engage in a philosophical debate with you. Nevertheless, I do think that you becoming a Samana monk is a disastrous idea. The very thought of such an occurrence is disturbing!”

“You would rather kill me. But you find the idea of my becoming a Samana monk unpalatable! Never mind; don’t worry. I will not become a Digambara Samana monk. I have given up that idea last evening itself…” “Then what do you intend doing, thambi?” asked the Pallava Chakravarthini extremely eagerly. “I am returning to Madurai tomorrow, akka! If you don’t want me to take the trouble of going to Madurai…” So saying, he extended the dagger in his hand again.

Vanama Devi grabbed the dagger in his hand and flung it away. She then held Nedumaran with both her hands and said with tear-filled eyes and a choked voice, “Nedumara! Don’t punish this mad woman anymore; don’t broach that subject again! It was a blunder to suspect you; please forgive me!” “I, who caused you so much turmoil, am the one who ought to seek your forgivance. Please forgive me whole-heartedly and bless me, akka!” said Nedumaran. “By God’s grace, may you be blessed with all fortunes. May you be soon married to a suitable wife and reign the Pandya Kingdom for long…” “Akka! I came to Kanchi only after choosing a suitable bride. I tarried here for so long only to meet her. I attained clarity only after speaking to her at your palace garden last evening. If your blessing comes true and I ascend the Pandya throne, that maiden will be my Queen Consort!” said Nedumaran.

Chapter 17: Sleepless Night

 

Ever since Mangayarkarasi returned to Bhuvana Mahadevi’s palace from the palace garden that evening she was delirious with happiness. An event she had not anticipated had occurred. She had never even dreamt that she would be so fortunate. She felt that there was a void in her life after her father had headed to the battlefield. There was only one incident that could have filled the void and have made her life joyful. That miracle had occurred that day. Her lover, who had captivated her life and soul, had gained entry to the inaccessible Pallava palace in search of her and had met her. Not only had he met her but also had declared his steadfast and undying love for her.

Was there anything else that could make her so happy? Is it surprising that her feet were no longer rooted to the ground and that she danced as she walked? While she was eager to confide in someone about this wondrous incident, she did not know whom to confide in. If she were to confide in someone, it would have to be Bhuvana Mahadevi who showered so much love on her and regarded Mangayarkarasi as her own daughter. But that evening Bhuvana Mahadevi’s facial expression and behaviour were unusual. Mangayarkarasi realized that it was not the opportune moment to confide in her. During the Shivapujai, the Devi’s characteristic smile and tranquility were missing. She even spoke to Mangayarkarasi curtly a couple of times without reason. On any other day, Mangayarkarasi would have felt sad listening to Devi’s brusque speech. But on that day, Managayarkarasi did not mind. Her sole concern was that she was unable to share the joy felt with the Devi.

One and a half jaamam after night had sent in, Mangayarkarasi went to bed as usual in the chamber allotted to her that was adjacent to Bhuvana Mahadevi’s. But sleep evaded her; her eyelids refused to close.  Mangayarkarasi realized that night that not just sorrow and worry but also unanticipated happiness and fervour disrupt sleep. After some time she stopped attempting to sleep and started fantasizing about her future.

By then the second jaamam of the night had passed and the third jaamam had set in. Mangayarkarasi was taken aback hearing a noise that shattered the pin drop silence that prevailed in the palace in the middle of the night. It was only a slight noise; the noise of a door opening. Nevertheless Mangayarkarasi felt an incomprehensible fear on hearing that noise at that time of the night.

The faint sound of footsteps heard from the portico outside her room attracted her attention. Who had dared walking close to Bhuvana Mahadevi’s chamber at that time of the night? Mangayarkarasi, gripped by an inexplicable fear, sat up. It seemed as though the sound of footsteps was becoming louder and that they were approaching her chamber. She was eager to know who had come. She noiselessly stood up, walked up to the window in her chamber that was close to the portico and stood there hiding herself from outside view. The very next instant her curiosity was satiated. Two people were walking down the corridor. A lady-in waiting holding a torch was followed by Vanama Devi. Yes! It was Vanamadevi.  But why was she so ashen faced as though she was possessed by a ghost? After the duo had walked past Mangayarkarasi’s chamber, an open door in that very portico caught her attention. Ever since she had arrived at the palace, she had not seen that door ajar. She had heard that it was the door that led to the tunnel which connected Vanama Devi’s palace to this palace. Vanama Devi must have come through that tunnel! Why had she come so secretively through the tunnel in the middle of the night?

She understood the purpose of their visit the very next moment. The two visitors came to a halt outside Bhuvana Mahadevi’s chamber. The lady-in-waiting who was holding the torch knocked the door lightly. A voice from inside asked, “Who is it?” “It’s me, amma!” said Vanama Devi. “Coming!” said the voice from inside and the next instant the door opened. Asking the lady-in-waiting to wait outside, Vanama Devi went in.

Observing Vanama Devi’s pallid fear-stricken face, worry and fear gripped Mangayarkarasi. What was the reason for the Pallava Chakravarthini’s lustrous face that resembled a full-moon transforming in this manner within four days? What was the looming danger that caused her so much worry and fear? Wasn’t Vanama Devi so courageous and spirited even after the Chakravarthy had left for the battlefield? Mangayarkarasi was impressed with Vanama Devi’s behaviour. What was the danger that was about to befall Vanama Devi that caused such a transformation? Would that danger affect only Vanama Devi? Or will it cast a shadow on all the palace inmates too?

The innocent Mangayarkarasi did not believe that it was a mistake to eavesdrop and resolve her doubts. So she stood close to the door that connected Bhuvana Mahadevi’s chamber to hers and overheard the conversation between the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. The very beginning of the conversation instilled a fear that she had never felt before and caused her to tremble. As the conversation progressed, she felt indescribable shock and fear. Sometimes she felt a rush of blood and at other times she felt that her heart would stop beating. The conversation that caused the helpless girl to dismay was as follows:

“Amma! Were you asleep?” “My daughter! How could I have slept after you had sent word? I was awaiting your arrival. But, this is mysterious. Why did you come in the middle of the night? Why are you looking so pale? Poor you! It seems as though you have not slept for several days.” “Yes, amma! Sleep has evaded me since the day Nedumaran arrived here. Thaye! Is there someone in the adjacent chamber? Is it possible for someone to overhear our conversation?”

“Why this fear, my daughter? So what if someone listened? Whom do you fear? Who should the Chakravarthini of thePallava Kingdom, daughter-in-law of Shatrumallar and Mamallar’s Queen Consort fear thus?” “Do you ask who I fear, amma? I fear each and every employee and lady-in-waiting in our palace.” “In that case what about the lady whom you brought along?” “I brought her along because she is mute!” “Why do you speak thus? What is the necessity of fearing even your ladies-in-waiting? How can you, who were born in the valorous Pandya dynasty and wedded in the heroic Pallava dynasty, be subject to fear? Isn’t this ignominious?”

“Amma! This is a shame only to the Pandya dynasty and not to the Pallava dynasty. I came to know that a lady-in-waiting in my palace has been acting as a messenger between the Samanars and Nedumaran. Heeding the message she carried, Nedumaran attended a secret caucus of Samana siddhars yesterday in the middle of the night.” “Yes! My daughter, this is shocking! Are the Samanars still up to their tricks in Kanchi?” “Yes, thaye! The Samana siddhars had followed Nedumaran to Kanchi. You will be horrified if you hear of the incidents that had occurred there during the time of Nedumaran’s visit!” “What happened, my daughter?” “They are resorting to black magic to confuse Nedumaran. Poor man! Nedumaran has been completely brainwashed!” “But what do the Samanars seek to achieve?” “Apparently, they hypnotized a boy, claimed that he was endowed with clairvoyance and asked him to look into the future. It seems he foresaw you son becoming envious of Nedumaran after winning the Vatapi War and killing him with a dagger!” “Aiyyo! How cruel! Then…?” “But, the Samana siddhars claimed that they had the power to change what fate holds in store. They also said that they would coronate Nedumaran as the undisputed Chakravarthy of the southern country at the city of Kanchi itself, should he conform to their wishes!” “How did you come to know of all this, my daughter?” “It seems that the Chief of our Espionage Force, Shatrugnan, had hid himself and had observed everything.”

“Ah! The Samanars are looking for the right opportunity to seek revenge on Mahendra Pallavar!” “Amma! Apparently they are not genuine Samanars! The Vatapi spies, disguised as Samanars, are performing such black magic!” “In that case, why were they not imprisoned immediately?” “Shatrugnan is scared that it may be dangerous to imprison them. He is concerned that Nedumaran may order the Pandya army to gain control of Kanchi and disaster may ensue.” “What is Shatrugnan’s advice?” “He is unable to suggest a way out, thaye! He said that the Chakravarthy ought to be informed immediately. But before My Lord left for the battlefield, I had given him my word. I will definitely fulfill it; I came to secure your consent.” “Is that so? What did you promise Mamallan?”

“I promised him that if any danger were to arise on account of Nedumaran, I myself will administer poison to him or stab him with a dagger.” “Ah! How sinful! How can my son leave after making you shoulder such a heavy burden?” “Amma! He entrusted me with this task before he left. I will uphold his faith!” “My child! Give me time till tomorrow evening. I will convey my opinion to you.” “Amma! Who is in the adjoining chamber? I think I heard a noise.” “You don’t have to be suspicious about this palace. No one here is treacherous.” “Is that what you think? You will be surprised when hear about what had transpired this evening.” “What happened in the evening?”

“Nedumaran left the palace saying that he would return after strolling in the garden. As he did not return even after a long time had passed, I became suspicious. I went searching for him. At one spot in the garden where there was a dense growth of plants, Nedumaran and a girl were surreptitiously conversing. Do you know who that girl is?” “Who?” “That girl from Chola Nadu whom you had so affectionately adopted and had taken under your wings!” “What? Was it Mangayarkarasi?” “Yes, thaye! It was indeed Mangayarkarasi!” “My daughter! I will believe whatever you have to say about anyone else. But I will never ever suspect Mangayarkarasi.” “But I saw this with my own eyes, amma!”

“What did you see? You saw them both talking? That’s all, isn’t it? She had gone to collect flowers for the prayer. Coincidentally Nedumaran must have reached there and enquired about something. She was saying that she needed to enquire about a youth in Pandya Nadu…” “Their actions aroused suspicion, amma!” “In your current state of mind, it is but natural that you’re suspicious about everything.” “Let me take your leave, amma. After confiding in you, my burden seems lighter!” “Adieu, my child! By the grace of Goddess Meenakshi, may you feel no burden at all.” After this conversation, the sound of a door being opened and shut was heard. Deep silence descended on that palace.

Mangayarkarasi, who had heard the entire conversation, standing still like a portrait by the door, did not sleep a wink that night. She was able to unravel several mysteries that confounded her previously. She felt limitless joy and wonder when she discovered that her lover was the Pandya Prince. She began to understand the meaning of the dreams she often had about him. She feared and fretted about peril that was about to befall him in that palace. She realized that she was the fortunate one who was responsible for rescuing him. Assailed by such thoughts, she was unable to sleep that night.

The following evening, she went to the garden slightly earlier than the agreed time. As soon as Nedumaran arrived, she shrieked agitatedly, “Prabhu! Great danger awaits you at this palace. Leave this place immediately!” Nedumaran, who was slightly surprised, asked, “What are you saying? Am I in great danger? Who would want to harm this impoverished man?” “Swami! Don’t think you can continue misleading me. I have come to know that you are the Pandya Prince. You are truly in great danger. Leave this palace immediately!” said Mangayarkarasi.

Chapter 16: Palace Garden

 

A week had passed since Mangayarkarasi had seen Kulachirayar at Thirunavukkarasar’s monastery. That one week seemed to an eon to Sembian Vallavan’s daughter. The palace was abuzz with talk of the imminent arrival of the Pandya Prince. Though Mangayarkarasi did not feel any excitement regarding Nedumara Pandian’s arrival, she was keen to meet the youth she had seen at the monastery the other day so that she could enquire about his friend.

Mangayarkarasi often recollected an incident that had occurred two years ago during the monsoon season, when it was raining incessantly. That day, the Pandya youth and his friend, drenched to the skin in the heavy rain, arrived at Sembian Vallavan’s palace and asked for permission to stay there for the night. Sembian Vallavan, who was renowned for his hospitality, welcomed them warmly and attended to them. The two youthful visitors claimed to be traders. They spoke humorously. That ancient Chola palace was jubilant for a long time that day.

Mangayarkarasi’s father told her in private, “Don’t they claim to be traders? That’s a white lie. Heed me! They are aristocratic princes in disguise!” This made Mangayarkarasi happy as one of the youths had gradually captivated her heart. The two youths left the following day at dawn. But before leaving Kulachirai’s friend promised to return one day and communicated secrets to Mangayarkarasi through his eyes. Father and daughter often discussed that incident for a few days. Then they thought that it was a mere dream and forgot about it. The handsome man who had then captivated Mangayarkarasi now often appeared in her nightmares. So it’s not surprising that the maiden, who missed her parents’ loving care, was extremely agitated.

A week later, the Kanchi palace was agog with excitement. Mangayarkarasi came to know that Nedumara Pandian, accompanied by his retinue, had arrived at Kanchi. People said that he was staying at Vanama Devi’s palace and that he had not completely recovered. But Mangayarkarasi was unable to meet Kulachirai in private and enquire about his friend.

Bhuvana Mahadevi used to send her daughter-in-law prasadam everyday after completing the Shivapujai. Mangayarkarasi said that she herself would deliver the prasadam. Though Mangayarkarasi’s eyes scanned the palace thoroughly, she was unable to trace that youth. One day she mustered courage and asked, “Amma! Hasn’t the youth whom we saw at the monastery the other day accompanied the Pandya Prince?” When Bhuvana Mahadevi responded saying, “My child! The Pandya Prince’s condition is worrisome…” Mangayarkarasi interrupted saying, “Oh no! Hasn’t he recovered yet? That’s why Vanama Devi appears worried all the time. Previously when I used to take the Shivapujai prasadam, she used to receive it with a smiling face and speak to me affectionately. Now she doesn’t utter a word!”

“Yes, my child! Several issues worry Vanama Devi. Nedumaran has physically recovered. But the Samanars have poisoned his mind. The fabled brave Pandya army has accompanied him. That army has been made to camp at Thirukazhukunram. I heard that the Prince of Lanka and Kulachirai, whom we had met the other day, are at Thirukazhukunram. My child! I pray to Lord Shiva day and night that no disaster should occur. Vanama Devi’s burden is heavier. Poor thing! It seems that she has not slept for a week!” said Mahendra Pallavar’s consort.

Mangayarkarasi could not completely understand the possible danger in the Pandya Prince’s visit and why everyone was so worried. Neither did she pay much attention to this. It was her concern that weighed heavily on her. She was worried that she may not be able to meet Kulachirai and enquire about his friend. This worry rendered her incapable of thinking about anything else.

It was in this state of mind, Mangayarkarasi was plucking flowers at the palace garden one evening for Bhuvana Mahadevi’s Shivapujai. Amongst the flowers she plucked and collected in her flower basket were panneer, mandarai[i], ponnarali, chevvarali[ii], sampangi[iii] and malli[iv]. But her mind dwelt on one of the two youths who had visited her father’s hoary palace one rainy evening and had stolen her heart. It seemed that his promise to return and meet her was akin to words written on water! “My sole companion in this world, my father, has headed to the battlefield. What will become of me now?” When Mangayarkarasi thought along these lines, tears welled in her eyes.

Just then the plants and creepers rustled as though someone was walking amidst them. Mangayarkarasi looked in the direction from which the noise came. Yes indeed; a man was walking amidst the plants and creepers in that lush green garden. But his face was not visible. Who could be the person who was casually strolling at the anthapuram garden? Mangayarkarasi had heard that all men except Mamalla Chakravarthy were forbidden to enter the garden. Only women were appointed to water the plants and tend the garden. Given this situation, who was the stranger who had boldly entered the garden? Mangayarkarasi decided that irrespective of who it was she ought to return to Bhuvana Mahadevi’s palace. She quickly started walking towards the palace.

It was then she heard someone asking, “Amma, who are you? I unknowingly entered this garden. I don’t know the way back. Please tell me how to go to Vanama Devi’s palace”. Mangayarkarasi trembled on hearing that voice. It seemed as though the ground beneath her feet had suddenly slipped away. She felt as though all the plants and creepers in that garden were revolving around her. She managed not to fall down by holding on to the branches of the mandarai tree close by. The silver flower basket she was holding in her right hand fell down and the multi-hued flowers in that basket lay scattered on the ground.

“Oh! Did I scare you? Please do not mistake me. I asked because I truly don’t know the way back. I don’t belong to this place; I’m a native of Pandya Nadu. It would suffice if you told me the direction in which Vanama Devi’s palace is; I will go away. As there was no one else in this garden, I had no option but to ask you. I don’t even know who you are.” As the man spoke thus, Mangayarkarasi regained courage. She let go of the tree branch she was holding and looked around. Her hunch was right. It was indeed him! It was the same person who had come as a guest to her father’s palace one rainy night and had stolen her heart!

The Pandya Prince was far more shocked than Mangayarkarasi. He stood speechless and was only able to exclaim, “Ah!” Both of them were surprised and stood staring at each other eagerly for some time resembling the statues sculpted by a skillful sculptor. Finally the Pandya Prince said in a voice choked with emotion and surprise, “My lady! Is it truly you? Aren’t you Sembian Vallavan’s daughter, Mangayarkarasi? Or am I fantasizing this too?” Mangayarkarasi wanted to respond but was unable to. Tears filled her eyes. The Pandya Prince eagerly walked towards her and asked agitatedly, “My Lady! What is this? Why are you crying? Did I say something wrong? What did I do?”

Mangayarkarasi said sobbing, “Aiyya! I am the unfortunate Mangayarkarasi!” “Why do you speak so dejectedly? Why are you shedding tears? Words cannot express the happiness I felt when I saw you here unexpectedly. I felt as joyful as a man who has been blind since birth regaining his vision. I, who was so confused and worried, forgot about everything and felt so ecstatic seeing you! But your sobbing and weeping have dampened my happiness and have made me drown in an ocean of sorrow. What sorrow befell you? Why do you claim to be unfortunate? Have I in any way been the reason for your sorrow and misfortune? As it is, I am subject to great torment and troubles. In addition to all this, if I have troubled you, what’s the use in my living? I feel like giving up my life.”

When Nedumaran spoke thus with genuine feeling, the helpless Mangayarkarasi wished to interrupt him several times. But as she was not courageous enough to do so, she stood sobbing.  But when Nedumaran finally spoke about giving up his life, she somehow mustered courage and said, “Aiyya! You caused me no harm!” “If so, why did you sob and weep when you saw me? For the last two years, I have been yearning to see you again. I used to derive joy imagining how on seeing me again happiness would cause your face to blossom like a white lotus does at sunrise. But contrary to my thoughts, your face wilted like a lotus at dusk. Why were your eyes also filled with tears?”

Without responding to the Pandya Prince, Mangayarkarasi asked, “Aiyya! Are you stating the truth? Haven’t you forgotten me completely? Did you intend meeting me again?” Nedumaran said, “Why do you doubt that? I was eagerly awaiting the opportunity to meet you again. That opportunity did arise. While coming to this place from Madurai, I visited the palace of Sembian Vallavan, who had offered me refuge one rainy night. I felt extremely disappointed seeing that palace locked. I felt as though the entire world was steeped in darkness. When Kulachirai told me that he had seen you here, I was at peace again”. “Ah! Did he tell you? In that case, are you too employed by the Pandya Prince?” asked Mangayarkarasi.

A mysterious smile momentarily appeared on Nedumaran’s face and then disappeared. It was then he realized that Mangayarkarasi spoke without realizing who he was. He wanted to prolong her misconception. “Yes! I too am employed by the Pandya Prince. Do you object to that?” he asked. Mangayarkarasi said enthusiastically, “Why should I object? I will be happy if you occupy a senior post. I thought as much when I saw you friend at Thirunavukkarasar’s monastery. But why dwell on the past? Hasn’t my family deity brought you to me?” Nedumaran responded with a mischievous smile, “Nevertheless, you did not show any signs of happiness when your God brought me to your presence! Didn’t you call yourself unfortunate and shed tears?”

“Swami, when I saw you unexpectedly I stood stupefied and was unable to speak. When you spoke as though you did not recognize me, I felt like crying! Don’t mock my helplessness!” When Mangayarkarasi uttered these words, tears welled up in her eyes again. “My dear! Please forgive me! I am so unfeeling that I made you cry again!” As Nedumaran spoke thus, he wiped away her tears with the edge of his angavastram.

After waiting for some time, Mangayarkarasi said, “Swami! A long time has passed. Soon it will be the time for prayer; I must go”. “Do you have to go?” asked Nedumaran reluctantly. “Yes, I have to go. Bhuvana Mahadevi will be waiting. If I don’t return, she may send a lady-in-waiting in search of me.” “In that case, you must come here tomorrow at the same time; you must not fail to do so. We have not discussed what we ought to do next,” said Nedumaran.

Mangayarkarasi looked up with a shocked expression and asked, “If the Pandya Prince leaves for the Vatapi War, will you accompany him?” “Yes; I too would have to go. Why do you ask? Don’t you like me going to the warfront?” asked Nedumaran. “Yes, I don’t like this. I don’t like the very idea of war. Why should men hate each other? Why should they kill each other? Why is it not possible to live happily and companionably?” said Mangayarkarasi.

Nedumaran smiled mysteriously again and said, “I will convey your views on war to the Pandya Prince. Probably he may change his mind. To know about everything, you must definitely come here tomorrow evening; will you?” “I will definitely come. It’s late now; I must go”. So saying, Mangayarkarasi bent down to pick up the flower basket that lay on the ground. Nedumaran too bent down, picked up the flowers that lay scattered, put them in the flower basket and returned it to Mangayarkarasi. When he did so, he held her tender hands and touched them with his eyes, as one would do with flowers offered to God. Mangayarkarasi, who felt goosebumps, extricated her hands from Nedumaran’s grip and walked hurriedly towards Bhuvana Mahadevi’s palace.

 

 

 

[i] Mandarai – Maloo (Bauhinia vahlii)

[ii] Ponnarali & chevvarali – Varieties of oleander

[iii] Sampangi – Frangipani

[iv] Malli – Jasmine

Chapter 15: Kulachirayar

 

It was three days since Mamalla Chakravarthy embarked on the expedition leading his army. The streets of Kanchi appeared deserted and devoid of gaiety. The entire city seemed to be asleep. Interrupting that abnormal slumber, was a chariot whose wheels rattled as it rapidly moved and came to a halt outside Thirunavukkarasar’s monastery. The chariot driver was our old friend, Kannabiran.

A young man got down from the chariot. His face reflected his cultured personality, mature wisdom and fine upbringing. Kannabiran told that man, “Yes, aiyya! This is Thirunavukkarasar’s monastery. That palanquin belongs to Bhuvana Mahadevi. It seems that the Chakravarthy’s mother has come for an audience with the Swamigal”. “No matter who has come, we cannot delay,” said that man as he entered the monastery.

Bhuvana Mahadevi accompanied by Mangayarkarasi whom she treated as her adopted daughter, had come for Vageechar’s darisanam. The Swamigal was relating the greatness of the shrines he had visited in Utthara Bharata to Bhuvana Mahadevi.  Navukkarasar finally informed her that he was about to embark southwards on a pilgrimage. “Yes, Thaye! I went on a pilgrimage to several shrines in the north. I went up to Mount Kailash. But the greatness of the temples in the south cannot be compared. The Ekambareshwarar  Templehas no peers anywhere. Neither do Thiruthillai[i], Thiruvaiyyaru and Thiruvannaikka. I wish to travel to the south and visit these shrines again. I am leaving tomorrow!”

As he was talking, the youth who had disembarked at the entrance of the monastery entered. He humbly bowed to Navukkarasar and Bhuvana Mahadevi. When Navukkarasar asked, “Who are you, appane? Why have you come here?” he sounded slightly annoyed. Understanding this, the youth stood with his palms folder and said, “Swami! Please forgive me. Though I knew that the Chakravarthy’s mother is here, I entered because of an important task. I am coming from the banks of the Varaha River. Nedumara Pandian is suffering there on account of high fever. Realizing that medicines administered by vaidhyars alone cannot cure him, I came to obtain some thiruneer[ii] from you. Please forgive me.” He then turned towards Bhuvana Mahadevi and said, “Devi! You too must forgive me!”

Then the Devi asked, “Appane! You are very polite. But you have not yet responded to Swamigal’s query. Who are you?” “I forgot in my rush. Devi! I was born in Manamerkudi village located in the Pandya Nadu. My name is Kulachirai. The Madurai King appointed me to assist the Pandya Kumarar in reading and writing messages,” said that youth. “Why should the sick Pandya Kumarar stay back at the banks of the Varaha River?” asked the Devi again.

“A severe fever has gripped him, Devi! The vaidhyars opine that he ought not to travel in this condition. When he recovers a little, we will bring him here. I was thinking of delivering this message at the palace. Fortunately, I met you here.” “That’s not so, appane! It does not suffice if you tell me. Come to the palace and inform Vanamadevi in person. The poor woman is extremely worried!” Bhuvana Mahadevi then stood up saying, “Swami! Please give me leave!”

Mangayarkarasi left with Bhuvana Mahadevi. Ever since Kulachirai entered she was observing him intently. Before leaving, she took one final look at him. Coincidentally, Kulachirai also looked at her. Both their facial expressions indicated that they were reminiscing past incidents. After the women left, Thirunavukkarasar said, “Appane! Everything happens as per My Lord, Emperuman[iii]’s, wishes. What can I, his humble servant, do? Nevertheless, I will give you some thiruneer in the name of the Lord. You take it to him. Vaidyanatha[iv] Peruman, who cured me of severe stomach ailment in an instant, will also cure the young Pandian”.

Kulachirayar devotedly received the vibhuti from Navukkarasar and said again with humility, “Swami! You should grant me another boon”. “Ask, thambi! I am pleased with your devotion and humility!” said Vageechar. “The authority of Samanars has greatly increased in southern Pandya Nadu. Swamigal, accompanied by your disciples, must visit Pandya Nadu. You must prevent the citizens from falling in the Samanars’ net! You must also protect the ancient Pandya Dynasty from coming under the spell of the Samanars! Ah! Why did Samanam spread in Tamil Nadu like parasites on a healthy tree, Swami!” Observing Kulachirai speaking in a heated manner, Navukkarasar initially smiled. Then, the elderly soul gestured to Kulachirai to stop and said, “Thambi! Once upon a time, I too bore a grudge again the Samana faith. But, it is unfair to resent the Samana faith these days because of the mistakes committed by a few Samanars. The Samana faith was created to preach love and kindness. Our ancient Tamil Nadu has greatly benefited from the Samana sages from days of yore. The Samana monks caused Tamil to flourish. They authored great epics in Tamil. They spread the art of painting.” Kulachirai lost his patience and said, “That’s enough, Swami! Enough! I never expected to hear you laud the Samanars. I came to request you to save Pandya Nadu in the same manner as you had saved Thondai Mandalam. Please come and observe the atrocities they perpetrate in Pandya Nadu!”

Navukkarasar closed his eyes and was immersed in deep thought for some time. Then he opened his eyes and said, “I neither have the wherewithal nor the desire to combat the Samanars, who are experts at wizardry. But listen, thambi. I often foresee a miracle these days. An innocent boy is going to incarnate in this sacred country and compose nectar-like Tamil verses. Several wonders will occur through him. Barren trees will turn verdant. Copper will become gold. The dominance of Samanars in the southern Pandya Nadu will also end because of him. Saivism will flourish and Sivanadiyars will gain strength”. As Thirunavukkarasar spoke in this manner, Kulachirayar felt goose bumps.

The Kanchi Chakravarthy’s palace was extremely spacious. It was divided into three sections.  The front entrances of all three sections led to the moonligt courtyard at the front of the palace. The sprawling palace gardens spanned the rear of the three sections. Mamallar and his Queen Consort, Vanamadevi, resided in the central section of the palace. Bhuvana Mahadevi, along with Mahendra Pallavar’s two other wives, lived in the palace to the right. The Prince of Lanka and his wife stayed at the palace to the left, which usually housed important state visitors.

Bhuvana Mahadevi had promised Cholan Sembian that she would look after his daughter as if she were her own. She kept up her word in letter and in spirit. No matter where she was – at the palace or visiting monasteries and temples; Mangayarkarasi was always by her side. Bhuvana Mahadevi, like her illustrious husband Mahendra Pallavar, was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. After the demise of Mahendra Pallavar, she spent her time praying to Lord Shiva and reading Shivapuranam[v]. A Shiva Lingam was consecrated in her palace and ceremonial prayers as prescribed by the scriptures were performed every day. Mangayarkarasi had implored and secured the right to make the necessary arrangements for and to be of service at the daily prayer ceremony. She carried out these tasks extremely conscientiously. Mangayarkarasi found these prayer-related tasks useful in spending time at a palace where she knew none.

All routine tasks were carried out in an orderly manner for three days after Mamallar, accompanied by his army, left on the expedition. Bhuvana Mahadevi and Mangayarkarasi had had darisanam of Thirunavukkarasar on the fourth day. Since then Mangayarkarasi was distracted. When the Devi was performing the Shivapuja[vi], Mangayarkarasi handed her incense when she asked for flowers and prasadam[vii] when she asked for incense. Observing this, Bhuvana Mahadevi consoled her once the prayers were over saying, “My child! Why do you seem disturbed today? Are you worried about your father? Look at me, my child! I am at peace despite sending my only son to the battlefield”.

Am embarrassed Mangayarkarasi responded, “No, amma! I am not worried!” “Then why do you appear thoughtful? Is anything in this palace troubling you?” asked Mahendrar’s wife. “Trouble! I have not lived so comfortably in my father’s house. Neither am I troubled by anything. Didn’t a young man walk in when you were conversing with Navukkarasar Peruman? I recollect seeing him once before. I recollected certain incidents relating to this. Nothing else worries me,” said Mangayarkarasi.

 

[i] Thiruthillai – Thillai, Chidambaram

[ii] Thiruneer – Vibhuti, sacred ash

[iii] Emperuman – Another name for Lord Shiva

[iv] Vaidyanathan – Another name for Lord Shiva

[v] Shivapuranam – Stories (puranam) about Lord Shiva

[vi] Shivapuja – Prayer (puja) to Lord Shiva

[vii] Prasadam – Food offered to God at a prayer ceremony

Chapter 14: Army Departure

 

When the sun rose in the eastern horizon on Vijayadasami, certain unusual events were occurring in Kanchi. Mamalla Chakravarthy after performing ceremonies like Yatra Danam and Graha Preethi[i] at the entrance the hoary Pallava palace, sought the blessings of the elders including Rudrachariar, took leave of his mother Bhuvana Mahadevi and left for the battle field mounted on the royal war elephant. The din of the war trumpets blown then caused the multi-storeyed mansions of Kanchi to vibrate and echoed across the city’s mandapams.

Rows of elephants, horses and chariots that stood ahead of and behind the royal war elephant started moving in unison towards the northern gates of the Kanchi Fort. As this procession made its way through Kanchi’s thoroughfares, beautiful women standing in the upper storeys of the mansions showered fragrant flowers and akshadai[ii] mixed with turmeric and cheered, “Jaya Vijayi Bhava!” This war-bound procession, heartily cheered by the womenfolk, reached the northern entrance of the fort in a muhurtham. The fort gates were flung wide open. Beyond the gates stood an ocean like army that extended up to the horizon. Numerous flags fluttering in the breeze amidst that army resembled the frothy white waves that rise in an ocean when strong winds blow.

Across the moat that ran adjacent to the northern gates, Mamalla Chakravarthy finally bid farewell to Manavanman and his two cherished children. When he lifted and embraced Mahendran and Kundavi, he wondered when he would see them again. This thought caused tears to well in his eyes. After lowering the children to the ground, he told Manavanman, “My dear friend! I am leaving these children, their mother and this Pallava Kingdom under your care. You ought to care for them like the apple of your eye and hand them back to me when I return. Manavanmarey! As opined by Paranjyothi, I am leaving behind one part of the army that is stationed at Thirukazhukunram. If Kanchi is under threat because of the Pandya Prince or his army, don’t hesitate to use that army.”

“So be it, Prabhu! Please do not worry about Kanchi!” said Manavanman. “I’m glad! I was concerned that you would obstinately insist on accompanying me in the last minute. Your behaviour befits a true friend!” said Mamallar whole-heartedly. Then Mahendran said for the thousandth time, “Appa! I too will accompany you to the Vatapi War. Take me along!” Mamallar told his son, “Mahendra! Don’t be concerned about the Vatapi War. The Lanka War is going to be even fiercer. You may go there, decimate the man who appropriated your uncle’s kingdom and return your uncle’s kingdom to him!”

After speaking thus, Mamallar abruptly dissociated himself from his children and mounted the royal elephant. That was it! That gigantic army started moving slowly as though the ocean itself was relocating from one place to another. The clouds of dust that rose when this gargantuan army advanced in unison completely obscured the earth and the sky. Manavanman, Mahendran and Kundavi stood at the entrance of the fort and watched without batting an eyelid till the clouds of dust completely disappeared.

 

[i] Yatra Danam means danam (charity) prior to the travel (yatra). Graha Preethi means appeasement (preethi) of the planets (graham). Both these ceremonies were performed to secure success in the expedition.

[ii] Akshadai – Raw rice. This is usually mixed with turmeric and showered on those embarking on campaigns and newlyweds as a blessing.

Chapter 13: Clairvoyance

 

When Nedumaran entered the cave, as directed by the Digambara Samanar, the fragrance of incense made him feel slightly dizzy. He managed to suppress this feeling and walked in. As he walked for some distance into the cave, he saw an extraordinary sight in the large mandapam found within the cave. Large earthen lamps placed on the lamp posts were shining brightly. Smoke was emanating from a vessel which contained incense. The light cast by the lamps and the smoke from the incense added a magical dimension to the occurrences in the cave. Nedumaran looked intently and comprehended what was going on. Ten to twelve Digambara Samanars were sitting in a circle. All of them were chanting a prayer in a co-ordinated tone. One of them was playing an instrument that resembled an udukkai. Another one was strumming the strings of a full-length veenai[i]. The sounds from the two instruments diffused through Nedumaran’s body and caused his nerves to throb.

Amidst the Samanars who were sitting in a circle was a boy who was around sixteen years old. His body gently swayed to the rhythm of the prayers and the music. His eyes were half-closed. As only the white of his eyes were visible, he appeared ghastly. The Samana monk who had brought Nedumaran gestured to him not to speak and to sit quietly. Nedumaran acted likewise.

The pace of the prayers and music quickened. The boy who was sitting amongst the Digambars was also swaying at a rapid pace. Suddenly, the prayers and the music came to a halt. The boy shrieked loudly and fell to the ground. A fearsome silence prevailed in that cave mandapam for some time. The eyelids and lips of the boy who lay unconscious twitched slightly. The Samanar who held the veenai plucked one of its strings and asked, “Thambi! Can you hear this sound?” The young boy murmured, “Yes, Swami!” “In that case, respond to my queries. Is there a difference between the place you were previously and the place you are in now?”

“Some time ago, I lay at the floor of a mountain cave. Now I am floating in the sky. I am able to go wherever I choose to in the sky.” “What do you see in the place where you’re floating now?” “I am surrounded by dense smoke. I can dimly see several figures in that smoke. They seem to disappear and then appear.” “Thambi! Are you able to stand still at one place? Are you able to move forward and backward?” “I am able to move in any direction I desire – forward, backward, up and down.” The Samanar, who was interrogating the boy, looked at Nedumaran and asked, “Pandya Kumara!  By the grace of Rishabha Devar, this boy has obtained the power of foresight. He is able to perceive the incidents that occurred twenty thousand years ago and will occur twenty thousand years hence! Are you desirous of knowing anything?”

Though Nedumaran hesitated thinking, “Is it necessary to clear the mist that clouds the future and observe forthcoming events? Will this augur danger? Shall I leave this enigmatic cave without coming to know of the future?” an incomprehensible force firmly restrained him from doing so. Nedumaran voluntarily said, “ Yes, Adigal! I am desirous of knowing about the outcome of the Vatapi war”. The Samanar asked the boy who lay on the floor, “Thambi! Please travel northwards and tell us what is happening there!”

“So be it, Swami! I will travel northwards right away!” said the boy. After some time he said, “Ah! How gory!” The Samanar asked, “Thambi! What gory sights do you see?” “A fierce war is being fought. Countless warriors are attacking each other with swords and spears and are dying. Rivers of blood are flowing everywhere. Gigantic elephants are attacking each other shrieking fearfully. The battle is being fought close to the massive ramparts of a fort. At the main entrance to the fort, a flag bearing the Varaha insignia is fluttering. Ah! The fort gates are being opened! Innumerable soldiers are exiting the fort. The war becomes even more brutal. There are numerous casualties; the entire region is filled with corpses. Ah! It’s impossible to see this sight!”

Observing the slight twitching of the boy’s eyelids, the Samana Guru said, “Thambi! Don’t be scared! No harm will befall you; observe more intently. Look around the battlefield and identify where the most vicious combats are being fought!” “Yes, yes! There is indeed a fierce combat underway at one part of the battlefield. A warrior seated on a horse wielding two swords is battling formidably. His enemies have surrounded him and are attacking him. He is single handedly attacking all of them. The swords he is holding often gleam like lightning. He decapitates one attacker each with one swirl of his sword. Ah! A few more warriors arrive to assist that warrior. A flag bearing the Meen[ii] insignia is fluttering in their midst. They roar, “Long live, Nedumara Pandian! Doom to Pulikesi of Vatapi!” even as they pounce on their foes. Nedumaran who was a tad inattentive till then, sat upright when the boy narrated this. He was extremely eager to know what would happen next.

The boy again fell silent for some time. The Samana Guru prodded him again and commanded him to observe what happened next. “Ah! The combat has come to an end. The enemies have all dropped dead. The victorious warriors surround the brave warrior and cheer, ‘Long Live the Meen Insignia! Long Live Nedumara Pandiar!’ The din of their cheering and the trumpets proclaiming victory is deafening.”

“Another group of warriors is approaching. A chariot is amidst that group of warriors. The Rishabha flag is hoisted atop the chariot. A majestic person is seated in the chariot. The warriors accompanying him cheer, ‘Long Live Mamalla Chakravarthy!’ But their cheering is not as vibrant. The two forces meet. The person in the chariot and the person seated on the horse look at each other. Both of them dismount and approach each other. The warrior holding the flag with the Meen emblem looks at the person leading the warriors holding the Rishabha flag and says, ‘Mamallar! The foes have been decimated. Pulikesi is dead. We have captured the Vatapi Fort. The rest is in your hands; please give me leave!” Mamallar says, “You Pandia reprobate! Haven’t you appropriated the glory that rightfully belongs to me?” and then draws out his sword. The warrior bearing the Meen flag says, ‘No, Chakravarthy! No! Why do we have to fight?’ The man holding the Rishabha flag, heedless, wields his sword. Aiyyo!”

The boy who lay on the floor till then sat up with a shriek, which caused goose bumps to those present. He looked around with widened eyes that conveyed fear and shock.  Nedumara Pandian was shivering. He told the Samana monk, “I wish to know what happened next. He woke up at a critical juncture.” The monk responded, “Prince! That’s all for tonight. He will not acquire foresight again tonight. If you wish to know what happened next, you may come to the same place tomorrow night!”

 

[i] Veenai – A string instrument played in South India

[ii] Meen – Fish in Tamil

Chapter 12: Nedumaran

 

It is not known if Sembian Vallavan understood the meaning of Magayarkarasi’s dream. But the incidents that were unfolding at the same time ten kadu to the south of Kanchi on the banks of the Varaha River may shed some light on what the dream foretold. In the middle of that moonlit night, an unprecedented incident occurred on the banks of the Varaha River. The massive Pandya army had camped on the banks of that river. Flags bearing the fish insignia hoisted atop the tents were fluttering in the breeze. The landscape was filled with elephants, horses, chariots and carts. As it was not very cold during the month of Purattasi, most of the soldiers were sleeping in the open. Those who were unable to sleep sat in groups, gossiping. Sometimes sounds of their laughter shattered the midnight silence.

Their conversation betrayed their concerns. They were discussing about the Pandya army camping at the banks of the Varaha River for three days without marching ahead to Kanchi and the malady that afflicted their commander, Nedumara Pandian. Some of them whispered, “His illness is an excuse; there must be some other reason!” When one man said, “Mohini[i] has possessed the prince!” the listeners were amused. Another soldier remarked, “Why are you laughing? Tomorrow the Pallava army is embarking on its expedition from Kanchi. We are still sitting here en route to Kanchi!” A third soldier said, “Probably we’re returning to Madurai”. Yet another soldier said, “It is preferable to commit suicide by drowning in the Varaha River than return to Madurai in this manner!”

“Ah! You’ve discovered the most effective way to commit suicide. If one stood upside down in the Varaha River, the water would reach his nose. You need to be extremely skillful to commit suicide by drowning in this river,” said a soldier. “Come what may; I will not return. I have promised my lover that I will bring back a lot of loot from Vatapi. What will she say if I returned empty-handed?” said another man. “Wonder how those born in the valorous Pandya dynasty can be so small-minded?” said one man as he heaved a deep sigh.

The handsome and majestic Pandya prince, Nedumaran, the central topic of the Pandya soldiers’ conversation, was seated in his tent at the banks of the Varaha River. He was a descendant of the Pandya dynasty, which was centuries older than the Pallava dynasty. A Digambar Samana monk was seated in his presence. A bunch of peacock feathers, a folded mat and a kamandalam lay next to the monk, who was short, squat and tonsured. Nedumaran asked him, “Swami! How much longer do I have to wait?” He had hardly finished speaking when the faint sound of an udukku[ii] was heard. Though the sound from the udukku was faint, it caused one’s body to reverberate. The Samana monk said, “There! We’ve been summoned! Prince, let’s go!”

Nedumaran left without responding. Both of them stepped out of the tent and reached the banks of the river. A boat was waiting for them. Two soldiers holding oars stood at both ends of the boat. Nedumaran hesitated for a moment before climbing into the boat. The Samanar observed this and said, “Prince! If you’re scared, you need not come! You may return!”  Nedumaran looked at him and casually muttered, “Hm!” and leapt into the boat. The Samana monk also got into the boat. The soldiers rowed the boat carefully and noiselessly. The boat reached the opposite bank. Nedumaran asked both the soldiers to wait in the boat at that spot and walked ahead with the Samana monk.

As they walked further, the sound of the udukkai became louder. That magnetic sound attracted Nedumaran. It overpowered him to the extent that he would not have been able to return even if he had so desired. Nedumaran’s walking accelerated. Soon, he was running. When the Samana monk said, “Prince! Please stop, we have reached our destination!” Nedumaran thought that he was dreaming.

Nedumaran stopped; a cave carved out of rock lay ahead of him. Two guards stood at the entrance of the cave. In reality, they were two statues carved out of stones. But the prince, who was in a trance, thought that they were human. A dim light was streaming out from within the cave. Yes! This rock and the guards have previously featured in this work. The cave had been carved by the sculptor Aayanar nine years ago. The Digambara Samanars had seized the cave.

 

Mohini – In Hindu mythology / folklore, a ghost who assumed the form of a beautiful woman and enticed and killed young men.

Udukku – A small hour-glass shaped double headed percussion instrument played in temples and at prayers in South India

Chapter 11: Dream & Imagination

 

Sembian embraced his daughter and said, “My child! All our dreams don’t necessarily come true; some do. It is very difficult to understand the true meaning of dreams. But, you tell me about your dream. Given my limited understanding of scriptures, I will tell you whether your dream will come true”. Sembian thought that even if his daughter had had a bad dream, he could fabricate a favourable interpretation and embolden her before he left.

Mangayarkarasi said, “Appa! That dream makes me happy and also scared. Look, even now I’m trembling…!” and pointed out to the goose bumps on her forearms. She continued speaking, “For some time now, a handsome youth often appears in my dream. He often looks at me lovingly. I have never seen such a person in real life. He is even more handsome than Mamalla Chakravarthy. He seems to question me, ‘Don’t you belong to me? When are you going to come to me?’ Then my heart beats rapidly. I shiver. That handsome man appeared in my dream last night. But I dreamt of him in horrific circumstances last night. Ten to twelve nude ghosts surrounded him and were screaming in a chilling manner. Each of those ghosts held a bunch of peacock feathers. Sometimes, it seemed as though the ghosts were hitting that handsome man with the peacock feathers! It seemed as though that poor man was afflicted with a malady. He shot me a piteous glance that seemed to convey, ‘I am trapped amidst these ghosts. Won’t you rescue me?’

I immediately turned around and ran. I aimlessly ran for a long time. Finally, I could see a temple. When I entered the temple, there was no one. I headed to Goddess Ambika[i]’s sanctum and pleaded, ‘Thaye! You must protect your beloved devotee!’ I heard a voice from heaven say, ‘My child! Don’t be scared! I will send my son. He will come with you and fulfill your desire!’  Immediately I saw a beatific boy near Goddess Ambika’s idol. As the Goddess had said that she would send her son, I thought Valli’s Lord[ii] would accompany me. But the boy standing there sported vibhuti and rudraksha and seemed to be a devotee of Lord Shiva. That boy said in his calm dulcet voice, “Thaye! Come with me! I will rescue your Lord!” When that divine child uttered the words ‘Your Lord’ I felt goose bumps. I immediately woke up! I feel tormented wondering if that handsome man was rescued. What is the meaning of my dream, father? Does it augur good or evil for me?” Even before his daughter stopped talking, Sembian enthusiastically said, “It definitely bodes well!”

That Chola nobleman thought for some time and then said, “Your dream appears to be divine. You will be united with your handsome beloved right here. From your dream, I surmise that your prospective husband may face acute difficulty which will ultimately be resolved by the grace of our dynasty’s deity, Muruga Peruman. My dear daughter! You should harbour no doubts regarding one issue. If fortune seeks you out during my absence, don’t reject it! If a member of royalty is desirous of wedding you, I give you consent to do so right away. If I return from the battlefield, I will provide my heartfelt blessings to you and your husband. If I were to lose my life at the battlefield, my soul will immediately return to bless you and only then depart to heaven.” When Sembian Vallavan said this, he shed copious tears. Mangayarkarasi too buried her face in her father’s broad chest and sobbed.

 

[i] Ambika – Another name for Goddess Parvathi

[ii] Valli’s Lord – Refers to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati

Chapter 10: Mangayarkarasi

 

That night, it was not just Mamallar but the entire population of Kanchi, who heard the din of the war trumpet. That sound aroused different emotions in different people. In the middle of that night, an elderly man and a beautiful young maiden were strolling in the Kanchi palace garden. That maiden’s beautiful face offered stiff competition to the moon glowing in the sky. On hearing the war trumpet being blown, the girl shivered akin to a creeper   trembling in a strong gust of wind. Even as she asked, “Appa! What’s that noise?” she embraced her father.

“My child! It’s the war trumpet! The time has come for me to bid adieu to you!” said the elderly man. The duo was present at Ekambareshwarar’s sanctum that morning. The elderly man was a descendant of the Kodumbalur Chola dynasty, Sembian Vallavan, and the devout girl was his cherished daughter.

The Chola dynasty that had flourished for a few centuries after Karikala Vallavan, gradually became weaker and was stifled between Pandyas in the South and the Pallavas in the North. The Chola Dynasty had disintegrated into two to three branches. That branch of the Chola dynasty headquartered at Uraiyur was ruling a small kingdom. The representative of the Kodumbalur Cholas, Sembian Vallavan, had no sons and continuance of his lineage was dependent on his only daughter. Sembian Vallavan christened his daughter ‘Mangayarkarasi[i]’. Even though it was her father who had named her, those who saw her affectionately said that it was a fitting name for her. She was endowed with such exalted beauty and character.

Sembian was eager to get his daughter married to a prince from a preeminent royal family in Dakshina Bharat before his death. He brooded about this day and night. It was during this time he received Mamallar’s epistle directing all kings in Dakshina Bharat, along with their armies, to join hands with him in his invasion of Vatapi. He felt enthused thinking that this was an opportune moment to fulfill his desire. Despite his advanced age, he embarked on this expedition because several princes had congregated at Kanchi at that time. He believed that he may be able to get his daughter married to one of the princes.

“Appa! Are you really going to leave me behind and proceed to the warfront? How will I spend my time in this large palace filled with strangers? What will become of me if some harm were to befall you at the battlefield?” complained Sembian’s daughter, Mangayarkarasi. “My child! Why worry when our dynasty’s deity Muruga Peruman is there to protect you. His spear, which smashed a mountain to smithereens, caused the ocean to dry up, overcame the sun, decimated Banugopan[ii]and defended the Devas, will protect you. My child! Please give me leave without losing courage”. Hearing Sembian speak thus, Mangayarkarasi became ecstatic.

Oblivious that she was overcome by devotional bliss, her father said, “Amma! Not only will the spear and the peacock guide you, Mamalla Chakravarthy’s mother and Mahendra Pallavar’s Queen Consort – Bhuvana Mahadevi will be supportive. She promised to look after you as if you were her own daughter. You lost your mother at a young age; Bhuvana Mahadevi does not have a daughter. She reassured me that she will look after you like the apple of her eye. So you have no reason to worry, my dear daughter. Please courageously give me leave to proceed to the battlefield!” As Mangayarkarasi continued to stand speechlessly, Sembian Vallavan continued talking.

“My child! An elderly man had visited our residence when you were still a child. He looked at you intently. He examined your tender palms and said, ‘This child’s palm lines bear the conch and discuss insignia. She will become the Queen Consort of a powerful king!” Those words were music to my ears. Since then I have been anticipating the arrival of the prince. The important reason for my coming to Kanchi is to look for him…” Mangayarkarasi excitedly interrupted him asking, “Appa! Appa! Last night I had a wondrous dream. May I tell you about it?”

 

[i] Mangayarkarasi – Means queen (arasi) amongst women (mangai) in Tamil

[ii] Banugopan – A demon in Hindu mythology