The Legendary History of Madurai and the Pandya Kings Tamil Pride Unfolded
Introduction: The Soul of Tamil History. Madurai, sometimes known as the "Athens of the East," is deeply ingrained in Tamil culture. Its streets reverberate with the footsteps of Pandya monarchs, old Tamil intellectuals, and warrior queens. At the center of this tradition is the Pandya dynasty, one of South India's oldest and most powerful kingdoms. Who Were the Pandyan Kings? The Pandya dynasty governed from the sixth century BCE, with Madurai as their capital. They were renowned for their contributions to Tamil literature, architecture, trade, and temple construction. Notable Pandya kings include Nedunchezhiyan I. According to the Silappatikaram, he reigned with fairness and might. Ariyapadaikadantha Nedunjeliyan was famous for defeating the Cheras and Cholas at the Battle of Talaiyalanganam. Maravarman Sundara Pandyan was a powerful prince who enlarged the Pandya realm and notably contributed to Madurai's temples. Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan I led the empire...