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Ponniyin Selvan was published as a serial - novel in the Tamil Magazine Kalki from 1950 to 1954. It was written by Kalki Krishnamurthy, an award winning author, in Tamil. Art work by Maniam brought life to the characters. This English translation by Indra Neelameggham maintains Kalki's "Nadai" or cadence of the original Tamil. Indra was the first to translate this epic into English as early as the 1990s.
This five part novel introduces the grandeur of the Chozla Dynasty of Tamil people, whose empire at one time spanned large areas of south east Asia. They were famous for art, architecture, irrigation works, administration, naval warfare and most importantly global trade because of their naval prowess. The Grand Anaicut one of the oldest, still in use dams across any major river, was built by the Chozlas.
The huge complex known as 'Big Temple ' in Tanjavur was built more than a thousand years ago by Rajaraja, the main character in this novel. He is known as the Beloved of the River Ponni , the Tamil name for The Cauvery. The activities of common folk, nobility, ordinary soldiers, the power wielded by women, conniving statesmen, terrorists, treason, war, pirates, murder and turmoil for a throne are the core threads in this panoramic story.
References to Tamil poetry and myth enrich the story. Kalki brought the meticulously researched history to the doorsteps of millions who were proud that they too had 'history' beyond what was shared by colonial books. It is soon to be released as a major multi language motion picture filmed with latest technology in locations in many countries. This book and its art work has thrilled generations of readers.
This translation is sure to enthrall many more persons all over the world. Indra has brought this English version to help readers overcome the limitation of not knowing Tamil. May all go forth to enjoy the grand old world of the Chozlas of Tamil country.