The First Pandyan Empire | Tamil Nadu State PSC (TNPSC): Preparation - TNPSC (Tamil Nadu) PDF Download

 Page 1


UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
Page 2


UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
Page 3


UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
The first Pandyan Empire continued till the beginning of the
Tenth Century A.D. The Cholas defeated the Pandyan ruler,
Rajasimha II. Later, Veerapandiya (A.D.946-966), the last ruler
of the first Pandyan Empire had been defeated and killed by Aditya
Chola. It was the end of the first Pandyan Empire.
Social Life:
The society under the Pandyas was based on the traditional
fourfold division, namely the Brahmins, Kshatryas, Vaisyas and
Sudras. There were also other communities based on their vocation
like Vellala, Ayar, Idaiyar, etc. However, the caste system was not
rigid. Generally, people were respected not on the basis of caste
but on the basis of their occupation. Despite caste divisions and
political chaos during the Pandyan rule, there was a sense of unity
among the people. We come to know that the village assemblies
carried on many public activities smoothly.
Dress and Ornaments:
The people wore clothes made of silk and cotton. The rich
were fond of silk garments. Ordinary people wore cotton clothes.
The rich people were also fond of decorating themselves by various
jewels and ornaments. The kings and nobles wore costly ornaments
studded with pearls, corals and precious stones.
Status of Women:
In the Pandyan kingdom, women were generally treated on
a par with men. They took part in public functions along with men.
They were allowed to possess property. The women from royal
families got more opportunity to educate themselves. The famous
Vaishnavaite Alwar, Andal had lived in the Pandyan Empire and
attained glory during this period.
Generally, the married women had concentrated more on
the up-keep of their house and their children. They also followed
vocations like spinning, pot making, painting, etc. and raised their
family income. They had also extended help to the men-folk in
agricultural activities. Women spent their leisure time in playing
in-door games like dice, chess, etc.
Education:
The Pandyan rulers had evinced special interest to improve
education. They had patronized poets and scholars. The temples
and Mutts had served as important educational centres. Land and
other grants were given to promote education and literature. The
Mutts established at Tirunelveli, Seranmadevi, Alagarkoil and
Vanamamalai had contributed to the growth of education. Both
the Sanskrit and Tamil language and literature were taught in these
Mutts. The Pandyan kings had patronized both the Sanskrit and
Tamil languages. Institutions of higher learning were called as
Salais. Subjects like Vedas, Grammar, politics and law were taught
and students from noble families got their education from these
institutions.
Language and Literature:
The Pandyan Kings had evinced much interest in the Tamil
language. Their capital Madurai continued to remain the centre of
Tamil literature. It was called as Tamil Kudal. The Vaishnavaite
saints namely, Nammazhavar, Periazhavar and Andal had
composed beautiful Tamil verses in praise of Lord Vishnu. The
Saivaite saint, Manickavasagar had also composed his verses in
Tamil. He was the author of Thiruvasagam.
Religion:
After the decline of the Kalabhra rule, Hinduism was once
again revived and Buddhism and Jainism began to decline. The
Pandyan kings had patronized Vaishnavism, Saivism and Jainism.
90 91
Page 4


UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
The first Pandyan Empire continued till the beginning of the
Tenth Century A.D. The Cholas defeated the Pandyan ruler,
Rajasimha II. Later, Veerapandiya (A.D.946-966), the last ruler
of the first Pandyan Empire had been defeated and killed by Aditya
Chola. It was the end of the first Pandyan Empire.
Social Life:
The society under the Pandyas was based on the traditional
fourfold division, namely the Brahmins, Kshatryas, Vaisyas and
Sudras. There were also other communities based on their vocation
like Vellala, Ayar, Idaiyar, etc. However, the caste system was not
rigid. Generally, people were respected not on the basis of caste
but on the basis of their occupation. Despite caste divisions and
political chaos during the Pandyan rule, there was a sense of unity
among the people. We come to know that the village assemblies
carried on many public activities smoothly.
Dress and Ornaments:
The people wore clothes made of silk and cotton. The rich
were fond of silk garments. Ordinary people wore cotton clothes.
The rich people were also fond of decorating themselves by various
jewels and ornaments. The kings and nobles wore costly ornaments
studded with pearls, corals and precious stones.
Status of Women:
In the Pandyan kingdom, women were generally treated on
a par with men. They took part in public functions along with men.
They were allowed to possess property. The women from royal
families got more opportunity to educate themselves. The famous
Vaishnavaite Alwar, Andal had lived in the Pandyan Empire and
attained glory during this period.
Generally, the married women had concentrated more on
the up-keep of their house and their children. They also followed
vocations like spinning, pot making, painting, etc. and raised their
family income. They had also extended help to the men-folk in
agricultural activities. Women spent their leisure time in playing
in-door games like dice, chess, etc.
Education:
The Pandyan rulers had evinced special interest to improve
education. They had patronized poets and scholars. The temples
and Mutts had served as important educational centres. Land and
other grants were given to promote education and literature. The
Mutts established at Tirunelveli, Seranmadevi, Alagarkoil and
Vanamamalai had contributed to the growth of education. Both
the Sanskrit and Tamil language and literature were taught in these
Mutts. The Pandyan kings had patronized both the Sanskrit and
Tamil languages. Institutions of higher learning were called as
Salais. Subjects like Vedas, Grammar, politics and law were taught
and students from noble families got their education from these
institutions.
Language and Literature:
The Pandyan Kings had evinced much interest in the Tamil
language. Their capital Madurai continued to remain the centre of
Tamil literature. It was called as Tamil Kudal. The Vaishnavaite
saints namely, Nammazhavar, Periazhavar and Andal had
composed beautiful Tamil verses in praise of Lord Vishnu. The
Saivaite saint, Manickavasagar had also composed his verses in
Tamil. He was the author of Thiruvasagam.
Religion:
After the decline of the Kalabhra rule, Hinduism was once
again revived and Buddhism and Jainism began to decline. The
Pandyan kings had patronized Vaishnavism, Saivism and Jainism.
90 91
The first Pandyan Empire continued till the beginning of the
Tenth Century A.D. The Cholas defeated the Pandyan ruler,
Rajasimha II. Later, Veerapandiya (A.D.946-966), the last ruler
of the first Pandyan Empire had been defeated and killed by Aditya
Chola. It was the end of the first Pandyan Empire.
Social Life:
The society under the Pandyas was based on the traditional
fourfold division, namely the Brahmins, Kshatryas, Vaisyas and
Sudras. There were also other communities based on their vocation
like Vellala, Ayar, Idaiyar, etc. However, the caste system was not
rigid. Generally, people were respected not on the basis of caste
but on the basis of their occupation. Despite caste divisions and
political chaos during the Pandyan rule, there was a sense of unity
among the people. We come to know that the village assemblies
carried on many public activities smoothly.
Dress and Ornaments:
The people wore clothes made of silk and cotton. The rich
were fond of silk garments. Ordinary people wore cotton clothes.
The rich people were also fond of decorating themselves by various
jewels and ornaments. The kings and nobles wore costly ornaments
studded with pearls, corals and precious stones.
Status of Women:
In the Pandyan kingdom, women were generally treated on
a par with men. They took part in public functions along with men.
They were allowed to possess property. The women from royal
families got more opportunity to educate themselves. The famous
Vaishnavaite Alwar, Andal had lived in the Pandyan Empire and
attained glory during this period.
Generally, the married women had concentrated more on
the up-keep of their house and their children. They also followed
vocations like spinning, pot making, painting, etc. and raised their
family income. They had also extended help to the men-folk in
agricultural activities. Women spent their leisure time in playing
in-door games like dice, chess, etc.
Education:
The Pandyan rulers had evinced special interest to improve
education. They had patronized poets and scholars. The temples
and Mutts had served as important educational centres. Land and
other grants were given to promote education and literature. The
Mutts established at Tirunelveli, Seranmadevi, Alagarkoil and
Vanamamalai had contributed to the growth of education. Both
the Sanskrit and Tamil language and literature were taught in these
Mutts. The Pandyan kings had patronized both the Sanskrit and
Tamil languages. Institutions of higher learning were called as
Salais. Subjects like Vedas, Grammar, politics and law were taught
and students from noble families got their education from these
institutions.
Language and Literature:
The Pandyan Kings had evinced much interest in the Tamil
language. Their capital Madurai continued to remain the centre of
Tamil literature. It was called as Tamil Kudal. The Vaishnavaite
saints namely, Nammazhavar, Periazhavar and Andal had
composed beautiful Tamil verses in praise of Lord Vishnu. The
Saivaite saint, Manickavasagar had also composed his verses in
Tamil. He was the author of Thiruvasagam.
Religion:
After the decline of the Kalabhra rule, Hinduism was once
again revived and Buddhism and Jainism began to decline. The
Pandyan kings had patronized Vaishnavism, Saivism and Jainism.
90 91
Page 5


UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
UNIT - IV
10. THE FIRST PANDYAN EMPIRE
We have studied that in the post-Sangam period, the
Kalabhras had occupied the Tamil country. The Pandyan rulers
were reduced to the position of local chieftains. The period of
Kalabhras had lasted for about three centuries. The Pandyan ruler
Kadungon  played an active role in eliminating the Kalabhras. He
restored the Pandyan rule in the Tamil region by the end of the
Sixth Century A.D. He was considered as the founder of the first
Pandyan Empire.
Pandyan Kings:
Kadungon (A. D. 575 –600) was succeeded by Maravarman
Avani Sulamani (A. D. 600-625). He was given the title
Sadayavarman. The copper plates refer him as Friend of Truth.
The next ruler of the Pandyan Empire was Chezhiyan Sendan
(A. D. 625-640). He was also called Vanavan. This title indicates
his success against the Cheras. He had also assumed other titles
like Maran Sendan and Vendar Vendan. He was responsible
for the carving of a cave temple at Malaiyidaikkurichi in
Tirunelveli District.
Maravarman Arikesari (A. D. 640-670):
Maravarman Arikesari was the most famous king of the first
Pandyan Empire. He had assumed the title Parangusan. He was
also widely known as Koon Pandyan. The Periyapuranam hails
him as Ninraseer Nedumaran. He invaded the Pallava kingdom
and defeated the Pallavas at Nelveli after which he assumed the
title Nelveli Nedumaran. He was an ardent devotee of Saivism.
He was also the contemporary of the Saiva Saint,
Thirugnanasambandar, who converted him from Jainism to
Saivism.
Try to learn from Periyapuranam the liver of Koon
Pandyan and Thirugnanasambandar
Kochadayan Ranadhira (A. D. 670-710):
Kochadayan Ranadhira had waged aggressive wars against
the Cheras and Cholas and defeated them. He had assumed titles
like Mannar Mannan, Vanavan Sembiyan, Madura
Karunatakan and Kongar Koman. During his rule, the Saiva
saint, Sundaramoorthi Nayanar visited Madurai.
88 89
The first Pandyan Empire continued till the beginning of the
Tenth Century A.D. The Cholas defeated the Pandyan ruler,
Rajasimha II. Later, Veerapandiya (A.D.946-966), the last ruler
of the first Pandyan Empire had been defeated and killed by Aditya
Chola. It was the end of the first Pandyan Empire.
Social Life:
The society under the Pandyas was based on the traditional
fourfold division, namely the Brahmins, Kshatryas, Vaisyas and
Sudras. There were also other communities based on their vocation
like Vellala, Ayar, Idaiyar, etc. However, the caste system was not
rigid. Generally, people were respected not on the basis of caste
but on the basis of their occupation. Despite caste divisions and
political chaos during the Pandyan rule, there was a sense of unity
among the people. We come to know that the village assemblies
carried on many public activities smoothly.
Dress and Ornaments:
The people wore clothes made of silk and cotton. The rich
were fond of silk garments. Ordinary people wore cotton clothes.
The rich people were also fond of decorating themselves by various
jewels and ornaments. The kings and nobles wore costly ornaments
studded with pearls, corals and precious stones.
Status of Women:
In the Pandyan kingdom, women were generally treated on
a par with men. They took part in public functions along with men.
They were allowed to possess property. The women from royal
families got more opportunity to educate themselves. The famous
Vaishnavaite Alwar, Andal had lived in the Pandyan Empire and
attained glory during this period.
Generally, the married women had concentrated more on
the up-keep of their house and their children. They also followed
vocations like spinning, pot making, painting, etc. and raised their
family income. They had also extended help to the men-folk in
agricultural activities. Women spent their leisure time in playing
in-door games like dice, chess, etc.
Education:
The Pandyan rulers had evinced special interest to improve
education. They had patronized poets and scholars. The temples
and Mutts had served as important educational centres. Land and
other grants were given to promote education and literature. The
Mutts established at Tirunelveli, Seranmadevi, Alagarkoil and
Vanamamalai had contributed to the growth of education. Both
the Sanskrit and Tamil language and literature were taught in these
Mutts. The Pandyan kings had patronized both the Sanskrit and
Tamil languages. Institutions of higher learning were called as
Salais. Subjects like Vedas, Grammar, politics and law were taught
and students from noble families got their education from these
institutions.
Language and Literature:
The Pandyan Kings had evinced much interest in the Tamil
language. Their capital Madurai continued to remain the centre of
Tamil literature. It was called as Tamil Kudal. The Vaishnavaite
saints namely, Nammazhavar, Periazhavar and Andal had
composed beautiful Tamil verses in praise of Lord Vishnu. The
Saivaite saint, Manickavasagar had also composed his verses in
Tamil. He was the author of Thiruvasagam.
Religion:
After the decline of the Kalabhra rule, Hinduism was once
again revived and Buddhism and Jainism began to decline. The
Pandyan kings had patronized Vaishnavism, Saivism and Jainism.
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The first Pandyan Empire continued till the beginning of the
Tenth Century A.D. The Cholas defeated the Pandyan ruler,
Rajasimha II. Later, Veerapandiya (A.D.946-966), the last ruler
of the first Pandyan Empire had been defeated and killed by Aditya
Chola. It was the end of the first Pandyan Empire.
Social Life:
The society under the Pandyas was based on the traditional
fourfold division, namely the Brahmins, Kshatryas, Vaisyas and
Sudras. There were also other communities based on their vocation
like Vellala, Ayar, Idaiyar, etc. However, the caste system was not
rigid. Generally, people were respected not on the basis of caste
but on the basis of their occupation. Despite caste divisions and
political chaos during the Pandyan rule, there was a sense of unity
among the people. We come to know that the village assemblies
carried on many public activities smoothly.
Dress and Ornaments:
The people wore clothes made of silk and cotton. The rich
were fond of silk garments. Ordinary people wore cotton clothes.
The rich people were also fond of decorating themselves by various
jewels and ornaments. The kings and nobles wore costly ornaments
studded with pearls, corals and precious stones.
Status of Women:
In the Pandyan kingdom, women were generally treated on
a par with men. They took part in public functions along with men.
They were allowed to possess property. The women from royal
families got more opportunity to educate themselves. The famous
Vaishnavaite Alwar, Andal had lived in the Pandyan Empire and
attained glory during this period.
Generally, the married women had concentrated more on
the up-keep of their house and their children. They also followed
vocations like spinning, pot making, painting, etc. and raised their
family income. They had also extended help to the men-folk in
agricultural activities. Women spent their leisure time in playing
in-door games like dice, chess, etc.
Education:
The Pandyan rulers had evinced special interest to improve
education. They had patronized poets and scholars. The temples
and Mutts had served as important educational centres. Land and
other grants were given to promote education and literature. The
Mutts established at Tirunelveli, Seranmadevi, Alagarkoil and
Vanamamalai had contributed to the growth of education. Both
the Sanskrit and Tamil language and literature were taught in these
Mutts. The Pandyan kings had patronized both the Sanskrit and
Tamil languages. Institutions of higher learning were called as
Salais. Subjects like Vedas, Grammar, politics and law were taught
and students from noble families got their education from these
institutions.
Language and Literature:
The Pandyan Kings had evinced much interest in the Tamil
language. Their capital Madurai continued to remain the centre of
Tamil literature. It was called as Tamil Kudal. The Vaishnavaite
saints namely, Nammazhavar, Periazhavar and Andal had
composed beautiful Tamil verses in praise of Lord Vishnu. The
Saivaite saint, Manickavasagar had also composed his verses in
Tamil. He was the author of Thiruvasagam.
Religion:
After the decline of the Kalabhra rule, Hinduism was once
again revived and Buddhism and Jainism began to decline. The
Pandyan kings had patronized Vaishnavism, Saivism and Jainism.
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The Nayanmars had preached Saivism while the Alwars preached
Vaishnavism. They had spread the spirit of Bakthi among the
people. The spread of Bakthi cult inculcated religious feelings and
service mindedness among the people. These qualities had taken
deep roots in the Tamil society.
Learn about the Twelve Alwars and Sixty Three
Nayanmars
The Saivaite Saints, namely Thirugnana-sambandar and
Manickavasagar had lived in the Pandya country and propagated
Saivism. Similarly the Vaishnavaite Saints, Nammazhavar,
Periazhavar and Andal had preached Vaishnavism in the Pandyan
kingdom. The Pandya kings generally followed religious tolerance.
They had made liberal donations and gifts to the Jain monks and
to their educational institutions.
Rock-cut Temples:
We have studied the rock cut cave temples of the Pallava
period. The Pandyan kings had also carved several rock cut cave
temples in their kingdom. More than fifty cave temples have been
found in different parts of the Pandyan Empire. The most important
of them are found in Malaiyadikkurichi, Anaimalai,
Thirupparankundram and Tiruchi. These caves were dedicated
to Siva, Vishnu and Brahma.
Stone Temples:
These temples were built of stones and bricks. They are very
simple in their style. Each temple consists of a Garbagraha,
Ardhamandapa and Mahamandapa. The stone temples of the
Pandyas were found at Kovilpatti, Thiruppathur and Madurai.
Sculptures:
The Pandyan period had also witnessed the development of
sculptures. The sculptures of Siva, Subramanya, Ganesha,
Brahmma and Durga are found on the walls of the rock-cut caves.
The Thirupparankundram temple contains wonderful sculptures
and they provide evidence for the growth of sculptures in the
Pandyan kingdom. They knew the technique of bronze casting.
Bronzes are kept in temples as Utsavamurthy.
Paintings:
The trace of the Pandyan paintings can be seen in the
Chittannavasal cave temples. The ceilings and pillars bear the
painted figures. The technique is known as fresco. The paintings
represent the dancing girls, the king and queen, plants and animals.
The paintings of Chittannavasal are compared with those found at
Ajantha caves. The contribution of the Pandyan rulers for the Tamil
art and architecture is commendable.
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