
The world longest ruled Kingdom
By bibomig277

12 Feb, 2024

In the ancient lands of India, there existed a grand dynasty - the Pandyas. Their symbol, two fish leaping in opposite directions, fluttered atop their majestic palaces.

The Pandyas were known by titles such as Vaanavar, Sezhiyan, Vazhuthi, and Thennavan. They were wise and just rulers, respected by their subjects and feared by their enemies.

Among their legendary kings were Nediyon, Palyaaga Saalai, and Muthukudumbi Peruvazhuthi. Their reigns were marked by prosperity and peace, their names etched into the annals of history.

Tragically, the Kumari continental, an integral part of the Pandya kingdom, was destroyed by a devastating tsunami. The loss was immense, the grief palpable among the people.

Amidst the ruins, a king named Mudaththirumaaran rose to power. He was a beacon of hope in these dark times, rebuilding the kingdom from scratch.

Mudaththirumaaran established the town of Maduarai amidst the Kadamba Vanam forest near the Vaigai river. This was a strategic move, the location providing a natural fortress.

Kings Imayan Peruvazhuthi, Arivudai Nambi, Nedunchezhiyan, Nanmaaran, and Ukkira Peruvazhuthi followed in Mudaththirumaaran's footsteps, ruling the Pandya kingdom with wisdom and integrity.

The arrival of the Pallavas and Kalapiras in the 4th AD marked a turning point. The Pandyas lost their strength, their kingdom gradually succumbing to the foreign powers.

Despite their initial downfall, the Pandyas regained their strength under the rule of King Kadungon. His reign from 575-600 AD marked the beginning of the 1st Pandya kingdom post the Kalapiras destruction.

After Kadungon, the throne was passed on to Avani Suulaamani. His reign from 600-625 AD was marked by significant developments in arts and sciences.

Following Avani Suulaamani was Sezhiyan Senthan, whose reign from 625-640 AD was known for his diplomatic skills and expansion of the kingdom.

The reigns of Maaravarman Arikesari and Kochadayan Randeeran further strengthened the 1st Pandya Kingdom. Their rule brought prosperity and peace to the people.

The last king of the 1st Pandya Kingdom was Veerapandiyan. His reign from 946-966 AD was marked by his bravery and commitment to the welfare of his people.

The 2nd Pandya Kingdom saw the rule of several distinguished kings. Sadayavarman Kulasekaran-1 was one such ruler, his reign from 1190-1210 AD marked by fair and just rule.

Maraavarman Sundara Pandiyan-1 ruled from 1216-1231 AD. His reign was characterized by economic prosperity and growth in trade and commerce.

Maaravarman Sundara Pandiyan-2 and Jadaavarman Sundarapandiyan-1 continued the legacy of their predecessors, ruling the kingdom with wisdom and integrity.

Maaravarman Kulasekaran-1's rule from 1268-1308 AD was marked by stability and peace. His policies ensured the welfare of his people and the prosperity of the kingdom.

The Tenkasi Pandya Kingdom was a period of great cultural and intellectual growth. Sadayavarman Parakrama Pandiyan was one of its most distinguished kings.

Sadayavarman Kulasekaran-2 ruled from 1429-1436 AD, followed by Arikesuvaran. Their reigns were marked by significant developments in arts, architecture, and literature.

Alagan Perumal Parakiram and Sadayavarman Srivallaban were notable rulers of their time. Their reigns were marked by peace, prosperity, and cultural growth.

Parakrama Kulasekaran and Nelveli Maaran's reigns saw an expansion of the kingdom's territories. Their strategic leadership ensured the kingdom's growth and security.

Sadayavarman Athiveerarama Pandiyan and Varathungarama Pandiyan's reigns saw an increase in trade and commerce. Their economic policies contributed to the kingdom's prosperity.

The last king of the Pandya's was Kollankondan. His reign marked the end of a glorious era. His legacy, however, lives on in the hearts of his people.

The Pandyas left a rich cultural legacy. Their architectural marvels, literary works, and advancements in various fields continue to inspire awe and admiration.

The stories of their kings, their achievements, and their resilience in the face of adversity continue to be recounted with pride and reverence.

The rise and fall of the Pandyas is a testament to the cyclical nature of power and the indomitable spirit of humanity. It is a story of resilience, of rising from the ashes, time and again.

Today, the echoes of their past glory can still be heard in the whispers of the wind, in the murmurs of the rivers, and in the silent walls of their architectural marvels.

The legacy of the Pandyas serves as a reminder of our past, a beacon guiding us towards a future where we remember and learn from the lessons of our ancestors.

The tale of the Pandyas is not just a tale of a dynasty. It is a tale of a civilization, of its rise and fall, and of its indomitable spirit.

This story, like the mighty Vaigai river in madurai and thanporunai in tenkasi, continues to flow, shaping the landscape of the future, reminding us of the resilience and glory of the Pandyas.