
Velpari: The Chieftain of Generosity
By Dr. P. John Rajadurai

16 Aug, 2024

Kabilar was sceptical about the famed generosity of the tribal chieftain, Velpari. Despite warnings about the difficult journey, Kabilar decided to visit Parambu Nadu.

Kabilar's journey began in earnest. Travelling through the dense forest, he was brimming with curiosity and a desire to meet the lauded chieftain.

Upon reaching the point where his chariot could go no further, Kabilar encountered a young tribal man named Neelan, whose perspective challenged Kabilar's outlook.

Neelan's simple yet profound wisdom astonished Kabilar. The stark contrast between the civilized world and the tribal world was eye-opening for the poet.

Finally, Kabilar met Velpari, the people's hero. The poet was intrigued by the preparations for the Kotravai festival, a tribute to the fallen tribes.

Kabilar learned about the importance of the festival to the tribe. It was their way of keeping their history alive, narrating it through songs and dances.

Meanwhile, Cheran, Cholan and Pandiyan Kings were growing increasingly annoyed by Velpari's fame and the wealth of Parambu Nadu.

Each king had a particular desire. Cheran wanted the special wine and seeds from Velpari that had unique properties. Pandiyan desired a rare creature, the deiva vakku vilangu.

Kabilar's journey back was filled with contemplation. His meeting with Velpari and Neelan had left a deep impression on him.

His scepticism had turned into admiration for Velpari's generosity, and he was deeply moved by the tribe's struggles and resilience.

Upon his return, Kabilar shared his experiences with the king. He spoke of Velpari's generosity and the tribe's struggle to preserve their history.

The king listened, intrigued by the poet's tales. Kabilar's words painted a vivid picture of the tribal chieftain and his people.

The three kings, Cheran, Cholan and Pandiyan, were present in the royal court. Their greed was palpable as they listened to Kabilar's tales.

Despite their desire for Velpari's wealth, they could not ignore the underlying message in Kabilar's words - the beauty of generosity and the importance of preserving one's heritage.

Back in his quarters, Kabilar reflected on his journey. He was moved by Velpari's generosity and the resilience of his tribe.

He decided to pen down his experiences, immortalizing Velpari and his tribe in his poetry. The poet was determined to share their story with the world.

Kabilar's poems about Velpari and his tribe became a part of the Sangam literature. His words brought alive the tribal chieftain's generosity and the tribe's struggle.

Through Kabilar's poetry, Velpari's name and deeds were etched in history. The poet's words served as a reminder of the importance of preserving one's heritage.

Today, Velpari's story is well-known in Tamil literature. His generosity is praised, and his tribe's struggle is remembered, all thanks to Kabilar's poems.

Kabilar's journey to meet Velpari changed his perspective and in turn, changed the course of Tamil literature. It's a testament to the power of a single line of poetry.

The readers, moved by the tale, reflect on Kabilar's journey and Velpari's generosity. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and preserving one's heritage.

It is not just a tale of a generous chieftain and a curious poet, but a testament to the power of literature in immortalizing individuals and cultures. A true Tamil epic indeed.