Is Ponniyin Selvan Real Story? Plot and Ending Explained
by Tamilchandran | Updated Apr 28, 2023
Who is Ponniyin Selvan?
The title of a well-known Tamil historical novel by Kalki Krishnamurthy is Ponniyin Selvan. Ponniyin Selvan, however, makes reference to the figure of Arulmozhivarman in the setting of the book. Arulmozhivarman was a prince who subsequently rose to power to rule the Chola empire in southern India. The story centers on Arulmozhivarman's life and his ascent to the throne of the Chola dynasty.
The phrase "The Son of Ponni" in the title "Ponniyin Selvan" refers to the river Kaveri, which traverses the Chola realm. One of the best pieces of Tamil literature, the story takes place in the 10th century CE. The legend states that Arulmozhivarman was once rescued by a woman who appeared from the Kaveri River as he was being drained by the water.
Arulmozhivarman was given the name Ponniyin Selvan because, at the period, people referred to the Kaveri River as Ponni. As a result, the title referred to the adored prince of the Chola dynasty and the heir to the throne. The relationship between the Chola dynasty and the Kaveri River, which had a significant impact on the history and culture of the area, is also hinted at in the title.
Is Ponniyin Selvan Real Story?
Ponniyin Selvan is not entirely a real story. A historical novel is called Ponniyin Selvan. The Tamil-language book "Ponniyin Selvan" was authored by Kalki Krishnamurthy. The story takes place during the Chola dynasty's 10th century and centers on Arulmozhi Varman, who goes on to become the dynasty's ruler. The book is a work of fiction and not a true account, even if it is based on actual historical figures and events.
The plot, characters, and events in the novel were all created by the author using his imagination. But the work is founded on the in-depth study of the Chola dynasty's history, culture, and literature. Based on the same-titled novel by Kalki Krishnamurthy, Mani Ratnam's epic historical action-adventure Ponniyin Selvan I (PS I) will be released in Tamil in 2022. A historical fiction is a genre in which the setting is the past but the characters or events are made up.
It combines aspects of fiction and history to produce a captivating and interesting story. A few examples of historical fiction films are "Braveheart," "Gladiator," "The Last Samurai," and "Lincoln." Ponniyin Selvan frequently veers from the historical record, yet they can also shed light on the time period they portray and offer a different viewpoint on historical events.
Ponniyin Selvan Plot
The plot of "Ponniyin Selvan" revolves around the life of Arulmozhivarman, a prince of the Chola dynasty in the 10th century CE. The story is set against the backdrop of a power struggle for the throne of the Chola kingdom, with various factions vying for control of the empire. The novel begins with the arrival of a young woman named Nandini in the Chola kingdom, who is quickly revealed to be a skilled and ambitious political player.
She befriends Arulmozhivarman and his sister Kundavai and becomes embroiled in their family's affairs as they navigate the complex web of Chola politics. As the story progresses, Arulmozhivarman is tasked with investigating a conspiracy to overthrow the Chola king and install a usurper on the throne. He uncovers a plot involving several powerful figures in the kingdom, including his own father's trusted advisors.
Along the way, he falls in love with a beautiful courtesan named Vanathi, but their relationship is threatened by the political machinations swirling around them. The plot of "Ponniyin Selvan" is filled with twists and turns, as Arulmozhivarman and his allies race against time to uncover the truth behind the conspiracy and prevent the downfall of the Chola dynasty. The novel is known for its richly-drawn characters, intricate plot, and vivid depictions of life in ancient India.
Ponniyin Selvan Ending Explained
At the end of the novel, Arulmozhivarman is crowned as the king of the Chola dynasty, following the death of his brother Aditya Karigala Chola. He is aided by his sister Kundavai, his loyal friend and confidante Vandiyathevan, and several other allies who have helped him throughout his journey. However, there are still some loose ends in the plot.
For example, it is not clear what happens to the villainous conspirators who had plotted to overthrow the Chola dynasty. It is also uncertain whether Arulmozhivarman's love interest Vanathi survives or not. One possible interpretation of the ending is that the author deliberately left some aspects of the plot unresolved to reflect the chaotic and uncertain nature of political power struggles.
The novel may also be seen as a commentary on the timeless theme of the corrupting influence of power and ambition. Overall, the ending of "Ponniyin Selvan" is open to interpretation, and readers are free to draw their own conclusions about the fate of the characters and the themes of the novel.
Is Ponniyin Selvan a Real King?
Arulmozhivarman, also known as Raja Raja Chola I, was a historical figure who lived in the 10th century CE and was the son of Sundara Chola, a king of the Chola dynasty in southern India. Arulmozhivarman ascended to the throne in 985 CE and went on to become one of the most powerful rulers in the history of South India. During his reign, Arulmozhivarman expanded the Chola empire to include parts of present-day Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
He is credited with commissioning several major building projects, including the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arulmozhivarman was also known for his military prowess, and he led several successful campaigns against rival kingdoms and local chieftains. He is said to have conquered Sri Lanka and the Maldives, and his naval fleet was reputed to be one of the strongest in the Indian Ocean.
While the novel "Ponniyin Selvan" is a work of historical fiction and takes some creative liberties with the life of Arulmozhivarman, it is based on the historical record of the Chola dynasty and its rulers. The novel provides a glimpse into the complex political and social landscape of ancient India, as well as the colorful characters and personalities that shaped its history.
Ponniyin Selvan Historical Accuracy
On one hand, the novel is widely regarded as one of the most well-researched and accurate depictions of the Chola dynasty and its rulers. The author, Kalki Krishnamurthy, was known for his meticulous research and attention to historical detail, and he consulted numerous historical sources and experts in order to ensure the accuracy of his writing. However, there are also some aspects of the novel that are not historically accurate or are contested by historians.
For example, the character of Nandini, a key figure in the novel's plot, is a fictional creation and has no basis in historical fact. Similarly, the novel's portrayal of the political intrigue and power struggles within the Chola kingdom may be exaggerated or simplified for dramatic effect. Overall, while "Ponniyin Selvan" is not a completely accurate portrayal of historical events, it remains a valuable and influential work of fiction that has helped to shape popular perceptions of the Chola dynasty and ancient India more broadly.
Is Ponniyin Selvan Real Story - FAQs
There is no historical evidence to support Nandhini's existence or that she took part in the incidents detailed in the book.
In the novel, Ponniyin Selvan develops feelings for Poonguzhali. Poonguzhali is a fictional character.
Ponniyin Selvan is a historical fiction novel by Indian author Kalki Krishnamurthy, written in Tamil.
Veera Pandian, a Pandya King, was Nandini and Madurantaka's biological father.
Aditya Karikalan is the lover of Nandini in Ponniyin Selvan.