#manimekalai

[ahamasmiyodhah]

This innit funny bishes-

[mplanetleaf]

RAVANA'S LANKA: The Landscape of a Lost Kingdom | సముద్ర గర్భంలో కలిసిపోయిన రావణ లంక!...

[mynameiseosson]

Maadathy (2019), dir. Leena Manimekalai

[papenathys]

hello! i saw you talk abt queer desi literature and was wondering if by any chance you know of some queer tamil novel/literature recommendations? totally fine if not, have a great day<3

These are the only ones coming to mind, it's a bit difficult tracking down primarily own voices writing in South Asian queer literature:

The Truth About Me: A Hijra Story by A. Revathi (non fiction, memoir, trans fem author) – this one is a really detailed and powerful story about a Tamil actor and activist who fled her home as a teen and joined a hijra community. it's obviously rather depressing, and not exactly a story of queer joy, because it depicts the lived reality of Indian trans women outside of the urban queer elites, but it's also an incredible story.

Funny Boy by Shyam Selvadurai (fiction, historical, gay author) – a novel about a gay Tamil boy growing up during the 1980s phase of the Sri Lankan Civil war. full disclosure, insofar as my knowledge goes, Selvadurai identifies as Sri Lankan-Canadian (his father was Tamil) and I'm fully aware of how the 2020 Deepa Mehta movie adaptation controversy worsened things, but I took this recommendation from an LGBTQ Tamil blog online. I did not particularly enjoy Cinnamon Gardens by the same author, tbh.

Hungry Humans by Karichan Kunju (fiction, novel, historical) – first published in 1977, it deals with two Tamil characters, one of whom is grappling with homosexuality, greed, consuming desire and abuse trauma. I have not read this book, with full transparency, and the reviews are very mixed, with some Tamil reviewers saying that while the themes explored are compelling, the writing and authorial stances feel a bit dated, especially on issues of caste.

Siren's Desire by Samirah the Sapphic Siren (poetry, sapphic author)– this is a poetry collection by a Tamil Dravidian sapphic visual artist and poet that centres brown QTPOC as bodies who actively desire, and are not just passive objects tokenized for their desirability. Tackles themes of intersectional queerness, colorism, and healing from trauma. Btw you can directly support Samirah here (shop link) and here (patr30n), as well as on instagram (@/thesapphicsiren).

The First Beautiful Woman In The World by Leena Manimekalai (poetry, bisexual sapphic author)– this is a bisexual poetry collection by a Tamil writer, activist and director who has created several works depicting trans and/or queer identities in an Indian Tamil societal context. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find English translations of her works; she has more than one sapphic poetry collection apparently, but I could not track a single work down online (if any Tamil followers can help out it will be great!). you should follow her on Instagram nevertheless and support artists who vocally support the voices of marginalized communities and resist alt-right fascist censorship.

[thereader-radhika]

Nappinnai in Ponniyin Selvan

Krishna-Nappinnai cult was prominent in Tamil-speaking areas of South India in the seventh to tenth centuries. Nappinnai can be considered a mix of Satya of Ashtabharya and Radha. This cult is the prototype of the later Radha-Krishna cult in the North. She features prominently in the poetry of Alwars (Vaishnavite poet saints) as the worldly wife of Krishna as different from the divine consorts of Lord Vishnu.

In Tamil poetry, Nappinnai is the daughter of Yashoda’s brother Kumbakan. She grew up with Krishna and Balarama and Krishna marries her by taming seven bulls in a public tournament. Nappinnai is featured in non-Hindu sources too. For example, in Jivaka Chintamani composed by the Jain saint Tirutakkatevar, a King is told that he shouldn't hesitate to marry a lower class woman because Tirumal himself is married to cowherdess Nappinnai.

Krishna Mandapam at Mahabalipuram

Krishnan lifting Govardhana, Balarama on the right side, consoling an old couple. Nappinnai on the left side gazing at him admiringly, holding the hands of his sister Subhadra.

Aditha Karikalan, Thirukkoilur Malayaman and Parthibendra Pallavan spend their night in this complex near the iconic Shore Temple, at the end of Book 1. The young princes discuss about sculptures and poetry, which Parthibendran finds distasteful. Malayaman leaves them to watch villu pattu in the Pancha ratha complex and it is here that Karikalan narrates the story of his heartbreak. Now it is a closed structure, but originally it was an open air bas relief. The mandapam enclosing it was constructed only in the 16th century, during Vijayanagara period.

An entire chapter (Achchiyar Kuravai) of Silappathikaram is about Nappinnai playing Kuravai dance with Krishan and Balaraman. Manimekalai (Sangham epic, not PS character) too mentions this dance. When Vanthiyathevan gives Aditha Karikalan's letter to Kundavai, Kundavai's retinue is seen dancing to this, singing about various asuras trying to kill Krishnan.

When Karikalan goes to Kadambur, there too we see the preparations for the Kuravai.

While having a heart to heart conversation (as much as someone like Nandini can open her heart), Nandini tells Manimegalai about her hallucinations. According to her, when we love or hate someone intensely, we can see and feel them even in their absence.

This is something Nandini made up for her consolation, because Nappinnai is never seperated from Krishna. In fact, it said that Vishnu left his divine wives and descended from his seat to be Nappinnai's beloved.

You parted from the eternal Great Flower [Lakshmi] and from the Lady Earth, became a youth, and then united in marriage with the shoulders of the cowherd Pinnai.

In Kuravai Koothu, women sing that Krishna avoids Lakshmi because he is so enamored by Nappinnai. 

Is Pinnai of bangled arms so beautiful that He who had won great reputation by measuring the universe, would not look at Lakshmi dwelling in his own breast ?

It is to this Nappinnai that Andal prays to give her an opportunity to get one with Krishna, as her other attempts to wake him up were futile.

Nandini must have heard of the North Indian narratives about viraha unmadini (driven mad by seperation) Radha which were in their infancy then. Nappinnai didn't have the habit of seeing hallucinations - it is Nandini who has mental health issues.

This connection also shows Nandini's guilt about her life's circumstances though they were beyond her control. When Vanthiyathevan tells her that her Krishnan is still waiting for her, she replies that she doesn't deserve it. After marrying Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar, Nandini is never shown praying earnestly - either she is lying about different prayers and austerities or she is using devotion to avoid questions.

Edit: After writing the original post, I thought I will read Thirumangai Alwar's poems because his poetry is specifically mentioned in the chapter which shows Karikalan, Parthibendran and Malayaman going to the port to oversee the loading for goods for Arulmozhi's army. Look what I found:

Pinnai's forehead is a gleaming crescent moon  So long ago in battle he subdued seven bulls for her hand And now he owns beautiful Kanchi which is surrounded by beautiful cool ponds of waters Where the sovereign of Pallavas who have the sharp blood stained sword in his hands Who owns a drum with a bitter mouth And the Conch with the roar of the sea Pays his obeisance to his Lord.

(The poem says that the poet's god is the Lord of Kanchi who is worshipped by the Pallava King. The rest are the descriptions of the the god and the king. In PS, crown prince Karikalan is ruling from Kanchi with Parthipendra Pallavan as his vasal)

Very subtle 🤣🤣

Are you even real, Maya Kanna?

@willkatfanfromasia @sowlspace @vibishalakshman @harinishivaa @thelekhikawrites @hollogramhallucination @thegleamingmoon @whippersnappersbookworm @nspwriteups @jukti-torko-golpo @arachneofthoughts @thirst4light

[ambidextrousarcher]

“வழியில் ஜன நெருக்கமான பல கிராமங்களை அவன் பார்த்தான். அங்கேயெல்லாம் இளவரசர் கடலில் மூழ்கியது பற்றிய செய்தி இன்னும் பரவவில்லையென்று தெரிந்தது. ஏனெனில் ஜனங்கள் சாவதானமாக அவரவர்கள் வேலையில் ஈடுபட்டிருந்தார்கள். அதுவரையில் நல்லதுதான். இளவரசரைப் பற்றிய செய்தி பழையாறையை அடைவதற்குள் தான் அங்கே போய்ச் சேர்த்துவிட வேண்டும். இளைய பிராட்டியிடம் உண்மையை அறிவித்து விடவேண்டும். குந்தவை தேவியின் காதில் வேறுவிதமான செய்தி விழுந்தால் ஏதாவது விபரீதம் நேரிட்டு விடலாம் அல்லவா? இளைய பிராட்டியாவது நம்புவதற்குத் தயங்கலாம். அந்தக் கொடும்பாளூர் இளவரசி உயிரையே விட்டாலும் விட்டுவிடுவாள்!... இந்த எண்ணம் வந்தியத்தேவனுக்கு மிக்க பரபரப்பை உண்டாக்கிற்று. ஆனால் அவனுடைய அவசரம் குதிரைக்குத் தெரியவில்லை. கால்களில் புதிதாக லாடம் அடிக்கப்பட்டிருந்த அக்குதிரை வழக்கமான வேகத்துடன் கூட ஓட முடியாமல் தத்தளித்தது. கடைசியாகப் பிற்பகலில் சூரியன் அஸ்தமிப்பதற்கு இரண்டு நாழிகை இருந்தபோதுதான் பழையாறைக் கோட்டையின் பெரிய சுவர் அவனுக்குப் புலப்பட்டது.”

Excerpt From

Ponniyin Selvan Anaithu Pagangal (Tamil Edition)

Kalki

This material may be protected by copyright.

Context: Vandiyathevan on his way to Pazhayarai, after visiting a blacksmith allied to the Pandya rebels.

On the way, he saw several densely populated villages It was apparent that the news of the Prince drowning in the sea had not reached those villages. This was because the villagers were cautiously going about their business. Until then, all is good. He needed to reach Pazhayarai before the news about the Prince (reached there). He must disclose the truth to Ilaya Piratti. If news of another sort reaches Kundavai Devi’s ears, something untoward might happen, might it not? Ilaya Piratti might hesitate to believe it. That Princess of Kodambalur might even kill herself!…these thoughts created a frenzy in Vandiyathevan. However, his urgency was not known to his horse. Fathers newly being shoed with iron, that horse struggled, unable to run at even its normal speed. Finally, just two hours before sundown, the vast walls of the Pazhayarai fort came into his view.

Vanathi’s disturbed mental status is rather obvious, I see. Because that is exactly what she goes and does once the news of Arulmozhi being lost at sea comes to the fore. She decides he’s lost to the sea and that he wants to marry her in Nagaloka, hence falling into water herself.

Not going to lie, I found that scene quite disturbing, seriously. I can’t condone love of that sort, perhaps that makes me a cynic, but it is what it is. Though I can see that the author wants to show it as romantic, because there’s a recurring theme for suicidal thoughts linked to love, which I noticed in Poonkuzhali as well, hence…. why I am hesitant to write Arulmozhi having romantic relationships with anyone. The scene I mentioned above, I suppose I found this particular scene as disturbing as I did because it came from a character I struggled to understand, as opposed to someone I could easily feel for, or even a character I felt was well developed at that point, like say Manimekalai or Poonkuzhali. This is definitely a me thing, not meant to be against Vanathi as a character.

I’ve been trying to post this snippet for the past couple of days, but Tumblr has been repeatedly glitching on me.

Tagging @mizutaama @celestesinsight @whippersnappersbookworm @harinishivaa @rdx-dcm @favcolourrvibgior @humapkehaikaun @deadloverscity @willkatfanfromasia @themorguepoet @thereader-radhika @thelekhikawrites

[kovaipaavai]

The bonded pair - Andril Paravai

The rumors had come with the late autumn rain. Patti had taken her along to visit shiva bhattar that evening , insisting on her presence multiple times.

As the saayankaalam poojai wound down , they had sat down to listen to some devarams and bhattar had then narrated the story of a shivabakthan who'd been saved from drowning by a raaja-nagam , and had escaped with his life intact , thanks to Shiva's mercies. Bhattar then mentioned that the Bhaktan had lost his mind and single minded purpose - and that hidden condemnation had left her angry and seething for what remained of that night.

Most of her anger had been directed at Nandini . That pazhuvoor paambhu had always been after the people Kunadavai held dear. First it had been Anna and then it had been Thatha. Nandini hadn't spared any effort when it came to turning away Anna and Thatha from her , leaving her bereft of support and paternal care and now she even dared to snatch Vandhiyar away from her.

It was odd how that moment of anger made things very clear for her. Initially, she didn't have any special feelings for her brother's commander. She knew he was her chosen intended , thanks to Anna's elaborate jokes from the past about how he would marry her groom to his sword in her place and then send him to Paazhaiyaarai as her house husband. She had been very impressed with his presence of mind and innate charm and her heart skipped many a beat when he had offered his life to her in service . Mature that she was , she had put that down to chemistry , attraction and interest because he was her Anna's choice.

Even as she bid him farewell with a message to Arunmozhi , she hadn't felt the longing she often saw in Vaanathi's eyes. He'd taken her olai , nodded his head and rushed away in darkness to board a vessel to eezham and she'd come back on her merry way to the palace. Poets often spoke of absence and longing but those feelings didn't strike her until she'd gone to Kanchi , as per Appa's biddings.

Kanchi was vandhiyar's home , in a manner of speaking. Everyone including Patta had amusing and interesting stories about Vandhiyar. Her brother , especially had a lot to say. She didn't know if it came as a peace offering or out of a sense of brotherly duty but Aditya Anna had a lot to say about Vandhiyar.

He told her about his valor on field and charm off it . He spoke of Vandhiyar's crushing loneliness and bruised heart. " Avan oru paavamana anadhai Kundhavai . Naadizhandhu , pugazh izhandhu , veerathai nambi nammai naadi vandha anadhai. Naadizhandha arasa parambarai vaarisaaga vaazhavadhu oru kodumai . Athilum , appadipatta parambaraiyin ottrai vaarisaaga vaazhavadhu innum kodumai, but he has never let that deficiency hold himself back from living his life honorably and pledging his sword to an honorable cause.

She also came to know that she obtained her beloved due to Ilam Sambuvaraiyar's folly. Kandhamaaran had apparently promised Vandhiyar, Manimekalai's hand only to withdraw it abruptly and leave Anna's army . " Muttaal. Sutthamaana Ponnai vazhiyil tholaitha maha muttaal" - Anna has bellowed , part in derision and part in laughter. Even that apparently hadn't affected Vandhiyar much and he'd gone on to the next mission , as if Kandhamaaran's insulting gesture had never happened.

Her heart had moved for Vandhiyar then and she'd maintained a complete poker face as Anna had rattled story after story after story about his beloved Vallavaraiyyan , and had expressed his anger at Patta wanting to get her married to Paarthiban. "Paarthiban nanban thaan , aanal nambikkaikku uriyavan illai - paavam kizhavarukku adhu theriyavillai" had been her brother's lament.

She had left Kanchi lighter in mind but heavier in heart. That morning as she'd left , she'd nearly asked Anna if he'd had a similar freewheeling chat with Vandhiyar but dignity and something akin to pride had let the question die within her heart and here she was , on a deserted island , seething with jealousy before her bound and blindfolded beloved.

Kundavai composed herself even as she prevented Vandhiyar from removing his blindfold. She wanted a minute , just a minute to regain her composure , even if her jealousy and turmoil didn't show on her face . Her arms eased , as did her heart and she saw her Thevar slowly open his eyes wider with a gentle , curious and loving smile on his charming face.

As her arms eased , his arms surrounded her , enclosing her in a gentle, loving , secure embrace and Kundavai finally broke down in relief and joy. Arunmozhi was alive and so was Vandhiyar . He was hers , truly hers - not Nandini's and definitely not Mekalai's. All her men were truly safe and a stone's throw away where she could see them and protect them. Even as her thoughts raced towards next steps , Vandhiyar's steady heart beats beneath her hands and his awkward, sporadic pats on her back anchored and centered her.

She knew they had to hurry to Choodamani viharam. For all that they knew , Arunmozhi was still in the grips of delirious fever and needed care and attention. Slowly, but steadily , her mind started whirring . There were travel arrangements to be made , spies to be planted and plots to be thwarted. She needed someone to send down a message to Vaanathi , a secret message , urging her to seek peace in Naagaipattinam. She wouldn't deny her friend the joy of reunion she herself had partaken in . Kundavai was called many an abusive name , but selfish she was not , especially towards a dear friend who loved her brother and who was equally and fervently loved back.

As she continued spinning her web of plans , her Thevar's chin came to rest upon her shoulder and he started whistling a merry tune that made her want to whack him one moment and kiss him the next. As she spun her web of plans , her beloved was content to hold her in his arms , waiting patiently and silently until all her thoughts fell into place.

Moments or hours later , they slowly drew apart and after one look at her face , Vandhiyar beckoned Semban forward from where he was hiding. "Devi , I knew you'd want to rush to Arunmozhi and therefore , I knew you'd bring Semban here for great minds think alike" , he said with that disarming smile.

Thevare , fools think alike too " she'd added .As the night flew by the wayside of Semban's hooves , Kundavai leaned back and smiled. For a very long time , she'd planned , worried and governed in isolation. Now that she had Vandhiyar's loyal heart and lightning fast mind , she didn't have to bear her burdens alone. As she sighed in relief , Vandhiyar's arms tightened around her and he urged Semban along , eager to save another day from upcoming doom.

[piyalibhoir]

Tamil literature boasts a rich tradition of epic narratives that have shaped the cultural and literary landscape of South India. These epics, written in the Tamil language, are not only monumental in their scope and scale but also integral to understanding the historical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of Tamil civilization.

[unawards]

The National UN Volunteers-India

Women's Day celebration

Women Achievers Award 2024

Sponsored by: The National UN Volunteers-India

N Manimekalai, a dedicated commerce teacher at Mahatma School in K K Nagar, Madurai, Tamilnadu, has been a beacon of excellence in the field of education since 1996. Throughout her illustrious career, she has achieved a remarkable feat of securing centum results in her subject every single year, showcasing her unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

Beyond academic achievements, Mrs. N Manimekalai is a visionary educator who believes in holistic development. Alongside her students, she initiated the Children Carnival, a fun-filled activity that not only fosters creativity and teamwork but also imparts valuable business skills to commerce students. This initiative has been a resounding success, nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among students and preparing them for real-world challenges.

Under Mrs. N Manimekalai's guidance, Mahatma School has produced over 30 successful Chartered Accountants and several Cost and Work Accountants ACCA. Furthermore, her students have excelled in talent exams conducted by the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants, securing top positions and bringing laurels to the school.

Mrs. N Manimekalai's innovative teaching methods, dedication to student success, and commitment to nurturing future business leaders make her a deserving candidate for recognition and appreciation. Her tireless efforts in shaping young minds and empowering them with practical skills exemplify the true essence of an exceptional educator.

[devnagri]

Bridging Cultures: The Importance of English to Tamil Translation

In a world where communication knows no bounds, language acts as both a barrier and a bridge. Among the plethora of languages spoken globally, English stands out as a lingua franca, connecting people from different corners of the earth. However, the diversity of languages is a treasure trove, reflecting unique cultures, histories, and identities. One such language is Tamil, rich in heritage and spoken by millions worldwide. In this blog, we delve into the significance of English to Tamil translation, exploring how it facilitates understanding, preserves culture, and fosters inclusivity.

Understanding Across Borders

English serves as a vital tool for international communication, permeating various domains such as business, academia, and technology. Its widespread usage enables individuals with different linguistic backgrounds to exchange ideas, collaborate, and thrive in a globalized world. However, not everyone is proficient in English, and this is where translation plays a pivotal role.

English to Tamil translation facilitates access to information for Tamil-speaking communities, breaking down barriers to knowledge and opportunities. Whether it's translating educational materials, legal documents, or medical information, linguistic accessibility empowers individuals to participate fully in various spheres of life. For instance, a student in Tamil Nadu can benefit from translated textbooks, gaining insights into diverse subjects and expanding their learning horizons.

Preserving Cultural Heritage

Language is not merely a means of communication but a repository of culture, encapsulating traditions, beliefs, and values passed down through generations. Tamil, with its ancient literary treasures and vibrant oral traditions, holds immense cultural significance for Tamilians worldwide. Through translation, this cultural heritage can be preserved and shared with a global audience.

Translating Tamil literature, folk tales, and religious texts into English ensures that the richness of Tamil culture transcends geographical boundaries. It allows non-Tamil speakers to appreciate the beauty of classical Tamil poetry, delve into the wisdom of Thirukkural, or immerse themselves in the epics of Silappatikaram and Manimekalai. Moreover, translating contemporary Tamil works enables Tamil authors to reach a wider readership, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.

Fostering Inclusivity and Diversity

In a multicultural society, linguistic diversity should be celebrated and embraced. Every language, including Tamil, adds to the tapestry of human expression, offering unique perspectives and insights into the human experience. English to Tamil translation promotes inclusivity by ensuring that Tamil speakers are not marginalized or excluded due to language barriers.

Whether it's official government documents, public announcements, or digital content, providing translations in Tamil alongside English promotes linguistic equity and enables Tamil speakers to fully engage with society. Moreover, in a digital era dominated by English-language content, incorporating Tamil translations ensures that online platforms are accessible to Tamil-speaking audiences, fostering a more inclusive online environment.

Challenges and Opportunities

While English to Tamil translation offers numerous benefits, it also poses challenges, ranging from linguistic nuances to technical complexities. Tamil, with its rich literary tradition and distinct grammatical structure, requires skilled translators who possess a deep understanding of both languages. Moreover, ensuring accurate translation of technical terms and idiomatic expressions requires specialized knowledge and expertise.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and skill development within the translation industry. Investing in translator training programs, developing translation tools tailored for English to Tamil translation, and fostering a community of translators can enhance the quality and efficiency of translation solutions.

Conclusion

English to Tamil translation serves as a bridge that connects cultures, facilitates understanding, and promotes inclusivity. By breaking down language barriers, translation empowers Tamil-speaking communities to access information, preserve their cultural heritage, and participate fully in a globalized world. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, let us recognize the importance of translation in bridging linguistic divides and fostering a more inclusive and diverse society. Through collaboration and commitment, we can ensure that language becomes a unifying force that celebrates the richness of human expression in all its forms.

Source: Bridging Cultures: The Importance of English to Tamil Translation

[ssvminstitutions]

The Power of Trust, Faith, and Hope: Insights by Dr. Manimekalai Mohan 

[ahamasmiyodhah]

Oru Pakka Kaadhal

Note: It would be better if you read and no bashing comments in the comment section.

There are many terms to describe love in Tamil Language. Anpu, Kaadhal, Achai, Paacham, and what not. Kundhavai knew all them. Anpu; which was general term for Love, she felt that for everyone she held dear. Kaadhal; the romantic for of love was what she felt when a certain Vaanarkula Veeran started making it's home in her heart. She felt the Achai love, the longing, when he was away. But what she never knew was the true meaning of term Kaikkilai.

When she had met with a certain Princess of Kadambur, Kundhavai's heart was filled with dread. The said Princess was bawling wildly, "He- He who's in dungeons, he didn't kill Pattathu Ilavarasar!!! It was me! It was I who killed him! Vandhiyadevan is innocent!! Please listen to me Ilaiyapiratti! He is innocent!!!" She had bawled, her face swollen with the tears and a red hue on one side of her beautiful dusky face was telling that she had been smacked.

Kundhavai very well was aware of the fact that Kandhamaran had gave his sister's hand in marriage to Vandiyadevan, only to retreat it abruptly and leave the army, much to her Anna's chagrin. "Idiot, Kandhamaran was. Who knows what went in the mind of that baffoon." He had cried out in anger that day when she visited him in Kanchi. The Kadambur Kula Vilakku was betrothed to her Chithappa; well, her foster Chithappa, and then to her Anna before he was killed. Kundhavai was worried that Vandiyadevan might have feelings for her, but he disregarded the thought and said he had eyes for her, although his eyes shone a little different.

Kaikkilai, was a term that is used to express a romantic love that isn't reciprocated. Kundhavai realised that Manimekalai's devotion for Vandiyadevan was same as Vanathi's for her Thambi, although he had reciprocated, Vandiyadevan didn't. He couldn't. Or maybe he did, only he knew.

Vandiyadevan escaped from Prison, and two days later a disheveled yet widely smiling and proud Kandhamaran had claimed that he killed Vandiyadevan, only for the doors to burst open and came in Vandhiyadevan, drenched head to toe and still half unconscious in fever, yet tightly holding a passed out and equally drenched Manimekalai. Kundhavai, Vanathi and Poonkuzhali had ushered Manimekalai to the Vaidhyar, and all while being treated she only mumbled one thing.

“This life is for him, if he is not there neither I. If he lives I live, even if he loves someone else.”

Kundhavai couldn't help but cry at that. Cry for the lovely maiden who had nothing to do with them yet she suffered. But what hurt her the most was that she had not asked about Manimekalai when her Father took her back. She insisted with her Patti Sembiyan Mahadevi to keep Manimekalai in Thanjai, so that they can heal her. But Sambuvarayar was adamant on taking her back, and did that.

The Letter fell from her hands, that had started shaking. Yet, she smiled when Vandiyadevan visited her. She had told him about Kandhamaran's letter, and also beseeched him to go to Mekalai.

“What's the use Ilavarasi? Manimekalai has forgot me.” he had sadly smiled, and Kundhavai realized that somewhere, he did loved Mekalai. She was well aware that they loved each other, but he loved her too.

“Vandhiyare, Please go, I beseech you. Please go to her, for Kandhamaran says Manimekalai might not see the sun tomorrow.” Kundhavai's eyes which always brimmed with inteligence and wisdom were now filled with worry and dread. Vanathi, who had married to her thambi, too asked him to go.

Next day when he had returned, she knew something changed. His bloodied hands were the proof that the Lamp of Kadambur was extinguished. His tears were proof that he did loved her at some point.

Kundhavai held onto Vandhiyadevan as the Vallam Prince had shook and cried, her hand rubbing soothing circles on his back as she whispered sweet nothings while slipping tears of her own.

That day, Kundhavai had decided that whatever happens, even if he marry someone else too after her, she will take in them with a smile. Be it political marriage or other. She had promised herself that no other Manimekalai will die. Vandiyadevan did married few more women, and she accepted them like an elder sister, searching Manimekalai in them.

Although she found none of her.

Pic: Final Chapter of Book 5 :: The Rose Withered Away.... | Manimekalai's Death as Vandiyadevan Weeps

Manimekalai is a Character who will always be attached to me. She knew Vandiyadevan was not hers, yet she took the blame of Karikalan's murder that was pasted on him so that he can be proven clean. She jumped into Ponni Nadhi after hallucinating Vandiyadevan being hanged (That's when VT sees her jumping and saves her). She should have been become better if Sambuvarayar had left her in care of Periya Piratti and Ilaiya Piratti, I think. I cried for like an hour after read her death. I will never forget her. Never ever ❤️

@harinishivaa @vibishalakshman @kovaipaavai @willkatfanfromasia @nirmohi-premika @nspwriteups @dr-scribbler @rang-lo @deadloverscity @hollogramhallucination @whippersnappersbookworm @rambheem-is-real and half of them who's Usernames I forgot 😭😭😭

[uma-maheshwari]

Not Manimekalai too crushing on Nandini 🥰

[ssvm-institutions]

This Year's Top 4 Boarding Schools in Coimbatore

Coimbatore is a bustling city and a major educational hub in India, with some of the most prestigious boarding schools in the country offering students a wealth of opportunities for growth and development. But with the academic school year 2023-24 fast approaching, it can be difficult to decide which school is the best fit for your child. To make things easier, here are the top four CBSE boarding schools in Coimbatore to consider for the coming school year:

 SSVM Institutions

 SSVM is a renowned co-educational, residential international school in the Nilgiris. This institution embraces education that goes beyond conventional classrooms. SSVM's student dorms offer an amazing atmosphere for learners to live and learn amid stunning Indian culture paired with cutting-edge infrastructure.

 SSVM World School

 In 2010, Dr Manimekalai Mohan founded the Srisha Educational and Charitable Trust to promote SSVM World School in Coimbatore—a part of the prestigious SSVM Group of Institutions that provides pupils with an international education experience like no other. SSVM World School offers its students an enriching experience by providing excellent facilities, experienced faculty, and a sprawling 10-acre campus of manicured greenery. Equipped with the latest infrastructure to promote 21st-century learning, this school provides an ideal environment for young minds to grow and flourish.

 Reeds World School

 Reeds World School is an innovative 21st-century learning establishment that prepares its students for the globalised world of tomorrow. This CBSE boarding school boasts a modern and fresh infrastructure alongside a holistic approach to education that focuses on instilling values, life skills, and academic success.

 SSVM School of Excellence

 SSVM School of Excellence is another top boarding school in Coimbatore that offers students a comprehensive curriculum and an array of extracurricular activities. The school provides an ideal environment for learning and personal growth with experienced faculty who help students reach their potential.

 With so many options available, these four CBSE boarding schools in Coimbatore offer some boarding school experience. Go ahead and find the school that is right for your child so they can experience the best education and have a successful academic year!

  About the Institution:

SSVM Institutions is a co-educational, residential CBSE institution located in Coimbatore. Their sole aim is to facilitate a holistic development to the students. The school is managed by Sri Srisha Educational and Charitable Trust, with a view of establishing Educational Institutions with International standards. SSVM Institutions provides students excellent opportunities for their intellectual and emotional growth, fine-tuning their focus on their successful future.

[thereader-radhika]

Some crazy Ponniyin Selvan prompts

• Poonkuzhali joins Pandya Aabathudavigal.

Some time ago, some people from the Pandya country came here. They wanted me to help them wreak vengeance on the royal family which had betrayed my aunt. It was then that I heard my aunt's story. My blood began to boil and I decided to join them. Later, I came to know how my aunt felt about all this. . . . Then I abandoned the idea of joining hands with the Pandya group. As you said my aunt's love is really divine. But mark my words, I won't be like her. If any Prince tries to deceive me I'll take revenge. I'll kill him. I'll also kill the woman who steals him from me. Then I'll stab myself and die.

• Vanathi joins Buddha monastery for real.

Vanathi went on: "Yes! I've decided to become a Buddhist sanyasini. Why do you object to that? Weren't there many women in ancient Tamil Nadu who became ascetics? Did not Madhavi's daughter, Manimekalail, become an ascetic and attain divinity and don't we praise her now as the Goddess Manimekalai? I have no such aspirations. I tried to end my useless life, but failed in the attempt. Perhaps it is God's wish that I live a little longer. I want to join a Buddhist monastery and spend my time serving people. You won't refuse to help me, will you?"

• Chinna Pazhuvettaraiyar Kalanthaka Kandar adopts Vanthiyathevan.

Let's wait, he thought, until my older brother returns. We can find out about him then and do whatever is best. A warrior like him should be inducted into our private bodyguard. Even a portion of his ancestral kingdom could be given back to him. Helping boys like this will bind them to us and ensure their loyalty. But if he's proved an enemy, we'll have to make other plans. Let's wait for my brother, anyway. We’ll see.

• Poonkuzhali fakes her death and runs away from the palace.

The court politics and the never ending scheming are so tiring and infuriating. She doesn't like Senthan as much as thought and Emperor Senthan is the most eligible married man in the country. She runs away, to embrace the waves once again.

• Manimegalai thinks 'ponal pogattum poda' (let it go) and starts to manage the affairs of Sambuvarayar clan when Kandan Maran is away on border patrol.

She is totally embarassed about her emotional outburst about a man who doesn't like her, that too to the woman he actually loves.

• Parthipendra Pallavan and Manimegalai decide to get married out of spite and plot the end of Vanthiyathevan and Kundavai.

Yeah, I made that up. I am crazy.

If anyone writes anything, please tag me so that my evil heart can rejoice 😏

@vibishalakshman @willkatfanfromasia @celestesinsight @harinishivaa @nspwriteups @nature-writes29, @whippersnappersbookworm @philtstone @sambaridli @sampigehoovu @thirst4light @dr-scribbler @doesitmatterluv @thirishareads