#vanathi

[ahamasmiyodhah]

Arulmozhi Varman and Kodumbalur Vanathi from Ponniyin Selvan (dir. manirathnam)

Made by @mahi-wayy

@harinishivaa @yehsahihai @thegleamingmoon @houseofbreadpakoda @hollogramhallucination @yoursakhi @warnermeadowsgirl

[vishnavishivaa]

Ponniyin Selvan headcanon 1:

Vanathi and Karikalan were best friends; she could be blunt and open with him in a way she couldn’t with anyone else, he could be entirely open to her, and she won’t judge him for his angriest of thoughts.

@ahamasmiyodhah @yehsahihai @thegleamingmoon @mahi-wayy @houseofbreadpakoda @willkatfanfromasia @arachneofthoughts @moon-880

[philtstone]

Ponniyin Selvan + text posts for @foolgobi65​ my beloved

+BONUS

[mahi-wayy]

ponniyin selvan moodboards bcz I need palate cleanser. @ahamasmiyodhah @harinishivaa

[stxrrynxghts]

Ranking the songs of Ponniyin Selvan

The sole reason for making this post is because I. AM. OBSESSED. Also, I am not a music expert, so this is just about how the songs sounded to me.

14. PS Anthem

I...I don't have anything to say. It's an okay song for me, I just don't like it as much as the other tracks, simple.

13. Devaralan Aattam

Again, same thing. It is a nice piece of music...I am not that fond of it. This album is soooo good, and this song is a nice song. Except I kind of get scared when I listen to it T-T.

12. Aazhi Mazhai Kanna

It is soooo pretty! My only complaint is that it is...what? A minute long?! I wish it were a full fledged, 2-3 minute long song...It has a such a lovely vibe, and I am in love with the music video.

11. Ilaiyor Soodar

It has a kind of nostalgic, old-ish vibe? IDK how to describe it, but it feels kind of melancholic, which I think it is meant to be? This is very small as well, no?

10. Chinnanjiru (Marumurai)

This is one of my fav songs on this album actually, but I don't listen to it that much, because it makes me cry. I think this song might actually make me depressed, it's so beautifully made and sung.

9. Chola Chola

It has a very energetic vibe, over all. Why do I feel that this would be a good gym song tho? It also seems like a strong dance song, and I love it for that. Also, I listened to the Hindi version first, and I highly recommend it.

8. Chinnanjiru Nilave

It is a very beautiful piece of music. My favorite part is how the music starts off with a very cheerful tune, and keeps it throughout the song, while slowly adding a tragic/painful tone as the song progresses. It really fits the couple it is picturized on. Who is the singer, guys? Another song whose Hindi version I loved.

7. Shivoham

I really love the fact that this song's lyrics are taken directly from Nirvana Shatakam. I am a sucker for well made religious music, especially with Sanskrit lyrics, and this is one of those songs. Someone make a 1 hour loop of this, it is toooooo short.

6. Ponni Nadhi

This was the first PS song I listened to, and it is so, so, so good!!!! Such an energetic and simultaneously peaceful song. The music video is so precious as well, and the fact that it is picturized on Vanthiyathevan is just another plus for me. Makes me want to sing along whenever I listen to it.

ANNNDDDDD NOW, TOP 5.

5. Ratchasa Maamaney

Sweetie, I am so sorry. I feel so guilty for ranking this so low. This is an awesome song. Shreya Ghoshal is a pleasure as always, and the music + music video are just precious. This song has such festive vibes, and Vanthiyathevan's parts are so hilarious. The flute in the beginning has fulfilled all my dreams.

4. Sol

Now, NGL, but I was not that big of a fan of this song initially, when I first heard it, but it grew on me. The whistling, the sound of water, everything is so cute. This is the most adorable song I have ever heard. The Tamil version was my fav.

3. Aga Naga

It is so dreamy and breath-taking for me. I am in love with this song. The instruments, and the singing, everything is top notch. IDK how people can dislike this song. It has a slow touch to it, and it is very romantic, but has subtle vibes? Like this song gives me the vibe of loving someone, but from afar?

2. Alaikadal

So dreamy and peaceful. I listened to all of it's versions, and it has a mysterious + chill vibe. Antara Nandy is such a good singer. This song just transports you to a different world.

WINNER: Veera Raja Veera

This song is just....perfection. Chef's kiss. Out of this world. ROYAL. I always blast this song on full volume, and it is EVERYTHING. This song is just....I don't have words for it. The lyrics are even more perfect. The part before the last chorus is my fav and I just-

Also the music video.

DAMN.

I am screaming, shrieking, throwing up whenever I listen to it.

What is your ranking?

[perioddramapolls]

Period dramas dresses tournament: Orange dresses Semifinals- Groups C & D: Viola de Lesseps, Shakespeare in love (pics set) vs Vanathi, Ponniyin Selvan (appears in the first gif of this gifset)

[dumdaradumdaradum]

We're literally living on crumbs i tell you.. but we'll take it 😭😭 also like sir? The chemistry? They deserved more screentime together 🥺

This scene really made me think of what it must have looked like when he saved her during floods 🥺 that sequence will forever have my 💓

Gif credit - @mizutaama

[whippersnappersbookworm]

Both of them had some mad matchmaking skills. They can give Seema Aunty a run for her money

[yehsahihai]

Panivaanavan

Second collab with @harinishivaa and oh my god, there were so many butterflies while writing this

The night sky twinkled serenely like a million stars, the full moon glowing brightly. Arulmozhi Varman sighed when he saw Vanathi’s eyes in the stars and face in the moon . Why is she still haunting his thoughts?

Ever since he’d rescued her from falling into the canal, it seemed as though all streams of thought led back to her. More specifically to the way she had felt in his arms. Was this even right for a man to be feeling?

But why was it so natural with her? When he had seen her falling it seemed like the most natural thing to run to rescue her. Then why did it feel like a line had been crossed between the two of them? And then she had slid out of his arms and it had felt like there was a sudden thrum under his skin, urging him to not let her go, to keep her in his arms. It was most bizarre. 

She had been fully clothed, for heaven’s sake. 

He had never even touched her skin. 

And all he could think of now was how soft her skin was. He had touched her palm in an entirely planned fashion, and the softness of it… 

He had stayed awake many a night wondering if the rest of her was as soft as her palm as well, then mentally berated himself for thinking as such.

Just as he was thinking of getting back to his chambers, the soft voice of Vanathi reached him. She was singing some unknown tune, it seemed, as she walked into the clearing he was in. 

Vanathi had been having a difficult few days. Ever since her near-fall into the canal it seemed as though something around her had fundamentally shifted. More specifically, it felt as though something had changed in her relationship with Ponniyin Selvan.

They gravitated to touches often, and even light shoulder brushes when possible. What had changed? She had worn her night clothes, bare of jewelry and with her hair in a loose bun, she looked like some mad woman, she knew. But it wasn’t like anybody would be around to see her, she thought. 

She walked into a clearing humming, when she met the eyes of the one who held her heart in his palms. She froze as she saw him, taking in how he too seemed to be bare of any jewellery, without an upper cloth. The blush that overtook her was so hot she wondered if her colouring matched the kumkum that was given during poojas. 

Arulmozhi was frozen. What was she wearing? How had he never seen her in this? Is this what she wore to sleep? Bare shouldered and bare waisted? With a single cloth covering her chest area? Hair half open, strands of it flitting around her face? 

Ishvara, save me, he prayed, even as he took a step forward toward her. 

Vanathi felt her breath hitch as she saw him move towards her, the intensity of his gaze unfamiliar to her except for her occasional dream.

“Vanathi, Ardha raatriyil inge? (Vanathi, you are here in the middle of the night?)” he questioned her, gaze roving over her face and body, not really bothering to hide his reaction this time. Something about her glow in the full moon and stars made him bolder than usual. 

Vanathi visibly shuddered at his tone. Since when was his voice so deep? Was this a dream or reality itself? 

“I couldn’t sleep, Ilavarase,” she said shyly, well aware of his lingering gaze, but feeling completely comfortable due to the deep respect in his eyes despite the intensity that radiated from them. 

Arulmozhi’s brow furrowed as he heard her response. Was she not well? Did she get injured earlier? 

“Vanathi, is your health fine? Should I call…”

“Selvare I am perfectly fine. Just….”

“Restless”, she concluded, still looking at his face, afraid that if she looked anywhere else she would give away all the feelings jumping in tandem with her heartbeat.

“Why, is something the matter?” He felt as if she was restless for the same reason as him. 

“Not e-exactly, my Prince.” She stuttered out, trying not to turn red once again when he seemed to smirk knowingly. 

“Is that so? It seems we are sharing a similar restlessness, Devi,” his gaze darkened when his eyes fell on her bare shoulders. By the heavens, what was she thinking? 

Suddenly realsing the state of undress she was in, in front of Ponniyin Selvan no less, Vanathi’s eyes widened. Ishavara, what must he be thinking of her, looking like this? 

“What is it, Vanathi?” He asked, concerned.

“I–we- you”, Vanathi attempted to string together a coherent sentence, even as he took another step towards her, a smile playing on his lips. 

“Wonderful”, she thought. “Now I really should add lunacy to my long list of accomplishments, like he said.”

Clearing her throat, she cast her eyes downwards, determined to not let him reduce her to such a mess. 

He stepped into her personal space, itching to touch her waist, feel her soft skin. Vanathi, look at me, he pleaded in his mind. He saw as Vanathi took in a deep breath, the flush on her cheeks much more prominent now that he was closer. He mentally preened at being able to draw such a reaction out of her. 

What was he doing, why was he doing this? She tried to look at him discreetly, only to meet his eyes full on. She felt her body shiver at his nearness, yearning to sink into his arms and feel him around and in her. 

“I should go.” She nodded in affirmation. 

“Really?”

“Yes. I should go because if someone sees us here it would not be good for you, or your reputation.”

Arulmozhi cocked his head to one side as he continued studying her, causing her heart to cartwheel in her chest. Her entire body felt hot, and she wished she could take a dip in a pond or lake in the clothes she was in, but his presence stopped her. 

“My reputation? Vanathi, what about yours then?” he asked, still watching her with an intense gaze. She seemed to be blushing all over her body, and he was filled with a wish to feel the blush under his palms. He could see the blush disappear under her upper cloth and wondered if it extended till-

No. He could not go there. And yet….

“M-mine? It will be fine, my Prince,” she said. She knew her reputation of being in love with him was one many knew, and one she was proud to have. Even if he didn’t know it or trust it even if he did… 

‘That’s enough negativity, Vanathi, you idiot,’ she chided herself, looking at his now darkened eyes. Oh why did he look at her like that?

“Will it? You are alone, with a young man…”

“Said young man is respectful of me,” she retorted, annoyed that he was trying to find fault with himself. She blushed when his smirk widened at her words. 

“You are defending me to me?”

“Indeed I am, my Prince,” she said, raising her head defiantly. 

“The maiden I met at Thirunallam is back,” he said in awe, tracing her features. “Why did she disappear?”

“She thought she had made a grave error in calling the one meant to rule the three worlds as Yaanai Paaga,” she said, hoping he would read in between her words. 

“The Yaanai Paaga has only been yearning for that maiden,” he confessed, gently taking her palms in his, trying not to groan at how soft they were. He saw her shiver, but felt her palms tighten around his, and he could not help the brilliant smile that made its way to his face. 

“I am sorry, my Prince. My idiocy at running away cost us an early understanding,” whispered Vanathi. 

“I should have been better to you,” he whispered, pulling her close. “And I will, hereafter.”

“Ilavarase, are you saying what I think you are?”

“What do you think I’m saying, Vanathi?”

“That you feel for me as I do for you,” she whispered, shyness overcoming her as she ducked her head down, looking at his feet rather than his eyes. 

“I’m not quite sure I understand. After all, you did say there are so many matters to engage my mind.”

Vanathi gaped at the prince whose eyes seemed to be twinkling with mischief. Surely this could not be the same Ponnyin Selvan who, she had heard so much about. This childishness, the teasing, the laughter that he seemed to be holding back…. Where had this come from? Shaking her head, she took a step away from him, determined to not lose all sense of control. 

“Tell me, Devi.”

“If you do not know, how can I tell you, Ilavarase?”

He smirked, gently pulling her back close. “Hmmmm… I'm sure there are ways to remind you Ilavarasi”, Arulmozhi said, his skin burning at every point where her body touched his. Ishvara why did she have to be so soft, so lovely? 

Vanathi drew in a sharp breath as she felt his arm around her waist, securely holding her, until she was almost fully pressed against him. She saw the darkening of his eyes as her chest brushed his with each breath and instinctively moved to put her hands on his shoulders. She felt his breath hitch, and slowly, shy but sure, she trailed her hands down his arms, feeling his hardened warrior skin with delight.

Aulmozhi drew in a shuddering breath as he felt her hands move to trace his arms, stopping occasionally to linger or trace imaginary shapes on them. It was all too much; her doe eyes peering at him, her soft frame pressed against his, her petal like hands touching him. He could have sworn that there were actual sparks flying where her hands traced over him. Shutting his eyes tight, he prayed that she wouldn’t notice the small shiver that ran through him at her touch, even as his arms moved to encircle her waist tighter. 

She paused, thinking she had done something wrong. 

“Why did you stop, Vanathi?” he opened his eyes to meet hers, reading the worry in them. Was she thinking she did something wrong? To encourage her, he said, almost ordered, “Continue.”

Vanathi bit her lips lightly as the realisation struck her that the prince was more than a little affected by her. She touched only her fingertips to his arms, gently tracing again, trying not to laugh in sheer happiness. 

Arulmozhi shuddered as her hands resumed their journey, doing his best to not collapse where he stood. 

Vanathi, on the other hand, was starting to feel hot, for his skin, hardened with his hefting heavy swords, spears and axes like they were nothing, felt warm under her palms, his biceps rippling under her touch. She could feel his power as she traced his arms and shoulders over and over- was it even possible for someone with such power to hold this much control over himself?

Her Prince was incredibly unique. 

Vanathi dipped her head down, as a smile made its way onto her face as a sudden flash of boldness overtook her. She wanted to see how far his control went. She could see that she impacted him. Now she wanted to find out exactly how much of an impact she had on him. Tracing one hand upwards, she reached his shoulder, biting the inside of her cheek as she trailed one finger down, moving to trace his abdomen, even as she felt him clench his muscles at her touch. 

She was testing him, wasn’t she? His bold maiden… He had done his best not to react too outwardly, though it was clear Vanathi was not fooled. Her touch to his abdomen made him clench his muscles, wondering how the petal touch of a single finger made his muscles want to flex, as if to show off for her. Yet, exerting the highest restraint he could, he gazed at her, not realizing the impact of his smoldering gaze. 

Vanathi shuddered as she met his gaze, wondering if it were possible to spontaneously combust and liquiefy at the same time. “Ishvara this is unfair”, she thought. Why did he get to be so.. So perfect? How was anyone not to love him? 

Maybe now was his time…hmm. Arulmozhi moved closer and closer now, making her back away, till her back almost hit a tree, when he held her instead, softening the impact. His arms caged her against the tree, as his eyes traced her face, though alternately focusing between her plump red lips and darkened gaze, the pink on her cheeks now obvious all over her in a deeper shade. 

Vanathi stopped breathing altogether, as she realised she could feel the warmth of his body against her own, their noses brushing against each other, his lips a breath away from hers. It was the most natural thing in the world for her to whisper, “Swami-”

“Vanathi,” he whispered, now focusing completely on her beautiful eyes, brighter than the stars.

“What-What are we doing?”

“I don’t know… but with you, it feels natural,” he whispered softly, gently touching her palms with his own now, bringing them up to his lips to kiss, finally letting the ocean of love he had pushed deep within him to be released. 

Vanathi sighed happily, even as a thousand bolts seemed to strike her with his touch. Gently moving her hands out of his grip, she held her illavarase’s face, taking in a moment to just admire him. Had the universe made anything more perfect than him? Rising on her toes, she pressed her forehead to his, feeling her heart beat with his. 

Arulmozhi was sure that no other moment in his life had ever felt as exquisite as this one. She truly was made for him, he thought, noting how each contour of her body seemed to fit against his, how her eyes made him feel alive from the inside. She was his, and he was hers; he knew that with absolute certainty. And when he had accepted her as his queen…

Vanathi let out a small gasp as he dipped his head towards her, giving her the perfect access to place a kiss on his forehead, a small tear making it’s way down her cheek as she registered the significance of the move. 

Arulmozhi’s thumb instantly swept away the tear as it rolled down her face. Keeping their foreheads he smiled as he said, “En Idhaya Arasiye, unnidam endrume naan panindhavan thaan.” (Oh Queen of my heart, to you, I am always the one who bows down)

@vibishalakshman @thelekhikawrites @nspwriteups @dumdaradumdaradum @dr-scribbler @kovaipaavai @celestesinsight @thirst4light @rang-lo @thegleamingmoon @whippersnappersbookworm @chiyaanvikram @hollogramhallucination @arachneofthoughts @anushyaselvaraj @vijayasena @mounamelanoyi @nerdreader @thereader-radhika @lavanya-lakshmi @willkatfanfromasia

Please forgive me if there's someone else who should have been tagged but isn't

[mounamelanoyi]

Malar (a VanMozhi ficlet)

A/N: Inspired by my love for Jayam Ravi and those eyes of his OOF (feel free to imagine a younger JR in this fic as well haha). Would love to hear your thoughts in the replies!! 

---

There was no way around it. 

Ever since they had all come back from Nagapattinam…her Ilavarasan had been different. 

The days where he’d barely acknowledged her presence - where she’d melted into the walls when he walked by and he didn’t even notice that she was there in the first place - were long gone. Now, she could hardly remember the last time they were in the same room together and she didn’t feel him…watching her. 

In the mandhiram, for example - as she stood next to him, desperately trying to ignore the heat of his body so close to hers. Vanathi could feel his eyes on her, watching her as she fervently tried to keep her attention on the prayers. 

And even today - in the garden, as she and Kundavai and the other maidens lay amongst the flowers, plucking and weaving garlands of jasmine and chrysanthemums, she could feel the warmth of his gaze on her as he and Vanthiyar meandered by. When she made the mistake of looking up at him, catching his eyes with her own…she could barely hold his glance for more than a second before dropping her eyes - but not before she saw his lips curve into a sly little smile. 

It was a struggle, but Vanathi kept her mouth shut until the other maidens had left to their duties.

“Akka?”

“Hmm?” 

“Ponniyin Selvan…” At the mention of her brother, Kundavai swung her head around sharply, eyes searching Vanathi’s face with interest.

“Yes? What about him?”

“W-why does he look at me so…why does he look at me like that?”

By the time Vanathi had finished stammering out her question, Kundavai had leaned back onto her arms, watching Vanathi with a knowing smirk curling her lips. 

“That’s my brother’s way of showing us that we need to get the two of you married off immediately - before…” Kundavai trailed off. 

“Before what, Akka?”

For the first time - ever, Vanathi secretly thought to herself - she looked on as her Akka flushed, hints of red and heat suffusing her cheeks, and murmured, almost under her breath, “certain things happen, kanne...I don’t know all of it either, but…” Kundavai stopped short, shaking her head. “That’s neither here nor there,” she declared, prim and firm yet again. And this time, she looked Vanathi straight on in the face, eyes warm with affection and amusement. “You and my brother shall find out - together.”

Vanathi would never admit it aloud, but deep within her…she knew what Kundavai meant. Her Arasan loved her. She was finally sure of that, had been sure of it since he became her Yaanai Paagan once again in Nagapattinam. But now that he was sure in her affection and she in his…he wanted more. He wanted to possess her, have her in the most primal way a man could a woman. He wanted her. 

And Vanathi was slowly starting to awaken to the fact that…she might just want him back in that way too. Maybe that would explain the little thrill that ran through her whenever she saw those golden muscles of his, rippling as he hefted those heavy swords and axes like they weighed nothing. Why she wanted to tangle her fingers in that thick, curling hair of his; why that self-assured smirk of his sometimes sent arrows of fire hissing through her veins.

Now, it was Vanathi’s turn to shake herself back to reality, sheepishly realizing that she’d faded off into a daydream in front of her Akka herself. But Kundavai just laughed at her, reaching out to fondly pinch her cheek. 

“He’ll be yours, kanne - soon.”

—

It was a gorgeous twilight, and a gorgeous evening ceremony on the water, but Arulmozhi was slowly - and very surely - reaching the end of his rope. 

He liked to think that many of the things said about him were true - he worked hard, day in, day out to be the level-headed, calm, righteous man he needed to be for his people.

But everyone seemed to forget one crucial little fact.

The same fiery blood that ran through impetuous Sundara Chozhar’s veins, that ran through hot-headed Aditha Karikalan - ran through Arulmozhi Varman too. 

Arulmozhi only let that side of him out on rare occasions - on the battlefield, or when there was an injustice that couldn’t be corrected in any way other than force. But now, as he watched Vanathi - his Vanathi - twirling in front of him - her slender curves, the burnished bronze of her skin, set off by the milky white of the jasmine in her hair, all gleaming in the golden light…Arulmozhi burned.

As she made her way closer and closer to him, the cloying scents of jasmine, sandalwood, musk all clouded his mind to the point where he could think of one thing and one thing only - what it would be like to clasp her in his arms… to set his mouth to that velvet skin and make those plush lips of hers fall open - just for him.

So this time, when she trembled, swaying in front of him, Arulmozhi caught her up in his arms, holding his uyirin uyire against him - and he did.

—

For as long as she lived, Vanathi knew that she would never forget the feeling of the first press of her lord’s lips to her skin. 

Nor the wet heat of his mouth, soothing the scratchy sting of his beard as he traced tendrils of fire down the slope of her neck.

Nor the cold metal of his rings dragging over the sensitive curve of her waist as he pressed her body to arch against the warm weight of his bulky frame…

Vanathi felt herself descending into madness at his hands. 

“Natha,” she called out softly, the word slipping off her tongue so naturally - and Vanathi couldn’t even regret it seeing how her Arasan’s eyes flicked up, darkening in response. “This- this is dangerous.”

“Why is it dangerous,” he rasped out, pressing her only more firmly into him, “for me to lay siege to what’s mine?”

And to that, Vanathi had no answer - for she was his. Her eyes slid shut as she relaxed into him, and she felt her lord’s lips curve into an answering smile against her skin.

Her akka was right - they really did need to get married.

[rexlmwxnderer]

My beloved...

[ahamasmiyodhah]

𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐈 𝐍𝐈𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐄

𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆: Arulmozhi Varman x Vanathi

𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒: On the auspicious occasion of marriage of Nakkan Akkarmangaiyar, eldest daughter of Avani Sundarapurathu Deivar of Pazhuvur, Arulmozhi is confused why is he getting jealous of Kumaran Maravan- son of Avani Sundarapurathu Deivar when he's talking to Vanathi? Anyways, he can't talk to Vanathi.

𝐑𝐄𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐘: @zeherili-ankhein (a Diwali gift to you🪔)

Vanathi giggled.

Arulmozhi felt his eye twitch.

At Vanathi's giggle? No. Because of the yoing man who stood beside her right now, laughing heartily along with her.

The Pazhuvur Palace was lit up, decorated like a bride. And why not? It was the wedding of Akkarmangaiyar, eldest daughter of Avani Sundarapurathu Deivar, who was son of Chinna Pazhuvettaraiyar. The whole Royal Family were invited, along with all the Chieftains of allied Kingdoms.

Arulmozhi had known very well that the ties of familial connections ran deep between Pazhuvur and Kodumbalur like it did with Kodumbalur and Royal Family. Pazhuvur's Avani Sundarapurathu Deivar was married to the younger Sister of Irungolan Siriya Velar and Periya Velar Bhuthi Vikramakesari, named Chandravadhani. Chandravadhani bore two daughters and three sons to Avani Sundarapurathu Deivar, eldest being Akkarmangai, who was getting married.

But that wasn't bothering him. He had known Akkarmangai. The said Pazhuvur Princess, epitome of grace was around same age as his Anna Aditha Karikalan. Although not relatively close, the two had shared a good bond. The younger son Kumaran Maravan was two years younger than Arulmozhi himself— same age as Vanathi.

What bothered him was how Kumaran was making Vanathi laugh. What bothering him was how OPEN Vanathi was with him. What bothering him was that she was behaving same way with him just like she did with HIM. And why? He didn't knew.

'You don't love her, why bother?' a voice said tauntingly in his mind.

"Did you see them?" One of the Wife of Chieftains said. "See who?" The other asked.

"The Pazhuvur Prince and Kodumbalur Kula Vilakku."

"Ah, yes, are they courting each other?"

Arulmozhi's heart skipped a beat.

"I do not think so, or maybe they are. Isn't Arasi Chandravadhani Princess of Kodumbalur and Ilavarasi Vanathi's Athai?"

"Yes yes, maybe they will marry. Avani Sundarapurathu Deivar was a close friend of Siriya Velar. And I have heard lots of praises of Kodumbalur Vanathi from Periya Pirattiyar and Ilaiya Piratti."

"But isn't she betrothed to Arulmozhi Devan?"

"I do not think so. They weren't officially engaged. My Mandakini told me that Komagane doesn't really pay heed to them when he comes to meet Ilaiya Piratti." One of the other said.

"Ah yes, also, she's isn't born of Varaguna Perumanar. She's not his Murai Penn." The first one said off handedly.

As they continued talking, Arulmozhi felt his stomach drop further and further, and it was shown on his face. Aditha, having noticed, looked at him in concern. "Mozhi? Kanna? Are you fine? Why do you look green?" He asked confused.

When he got no answer, he followed his younger brother's gaze and it fell on Vanathi and Kumaran Maravan, and suddenly Everything clicked.

"Ah, they do look good together indeed." Aditha's words made him snap his head at his Anna. "What?" He asked, his voice hoarse. "Well, they look good." He said matter of factly. "Anna, what are you saying? They don't look good together." Arulmozhi denied.

Aditha leaned casually against a pillar, watching his younger brother with a knowing smirk. His eyes darted to the far side of the courtyard, where Vanathi was laughing with Kumaran Maravan, their conversation flowing with a warmness. Glancing back at Arulmozhi, he caught the way his brother’s gaze had narrowed, jaw tight as he watched them.

"But they indeed look well matched." Aditha mused, obviously egging his Kanna.

Arulmozhi shot him a warning look, but Aditha continued undeterred, a glint of amusement in his eyes. “You know, they’d make a fine pair—two bright young heirs, well-connected families. I’m sure everyone in the palace is already talking about it.”

“You’re exaggerating,” Arulmozhi replied tersely, but the tension in his voice betrayed him. “They’re just… cousins.”

“Cousins, yes. But isn’t that often how alliances begin?” Aditha chuckled, giving him a playful nudge. “Besides, look at the way they’re laughing together. She seems quite taken with him. And who could blame her? Kumaran is every bit the charming prince.”

Arulmozhi’s fists clenched, his patience fraying. Aditha leaned in, lowering his voice just enough. “Tell me, little brother… would it really bother you that much if Vanathi chose Kumaran?”

That was the last straw. Arulmozhi snapped, his voice sharp. “Enough, Anna!" He said eith a angry frown.

Aditha only laughed, his smirk widening as he took in Arulmozhi’s reaction. “Touched a nerve, have I?” he teased, crossing his arms. “It’s clear enough—you’d rather she be here, laughing with you, wouldn’t you?”

Arulmozhi turned away, jaw still set, trying to mask the frustration burning beneath his calm facade. “You don’t understand, Anna. This isn’t a game.”

“Isn’t it?” Aditha replied lightly, leaning back. “Then maybe you should make it clear to her before someone else does.”

Arulmozhi’s gaze drifted reluctantly back to Vanathi and Kumaran, tension tightening his chest. Was Aditha right?

.

Kumaran chuckled, eyes gleaming with mischief as he recounted the story to Vanathi. “So, Azhagi was preparing for her dance recital, all serious and focused. And, well, I may have told her that one of her anklets was missing.”

Vanathi’s laughter bubbled up, eyes bright with amusement. “Oh no, I can only imagine how furious she must have been!”

“You have no idea,” Kumaran grinned, shaking his head. “She turned every corner of the palace upside-down looking for it—her temper was as fierce as a storm. And of course, by the time she figured out I’d hidden it, I was halfway to the stables.”

They both laughed heartily, unaware of Arulmozhi’s silent gaze lingering on them from a distance. As Kumaran glanced over and he noticed Arulmozhi’s expression, a rare vulnerability beneath his usually composed face. A slow realization dawned on him: his friend, the reserved and ever-dutiful prince, was in love with Vanathi.

Just then, Thillaiazhagi appeared, tugging at Kumaran’s arm. “Anna, come quickly! Chinna Patta is asking for you,” she said, casting a warm smile at Vanathi. “Akka, you must tell him not to trouble me with his silly pranks!”

Kumaran chuckled, nodding. “Alright, alright, I’m coming.”

"Yes Chellame, now go. Chinna Pattanar must be waiting for you." Vanathi mused as she patted Azhagi's cheek. The Princess beamed and dragged her Anna away.

As Kumaran and Thillaiazhagi left, Vanathi’s laughter slowly faded, though the warmth lingered in her eyes. She turned, only to find Arulmozhi standing a few steps away, his gaze unreadable.

“Ilavarase,” she greeted, a gentle smile forming on her lips as her cheeks dusted. “Did you overhear our little tale of Kumaran’s mischief?”

Arulmozhi nodded, though his expression remained serious. “Yes, it seems he’s quite the charmer.”

Vanathi tilted her head, sensing something beneath his words. “You look… troubled.” She said, her eyes roving over his troubled face. The tension in his brow was visible, and the tautness of his muscles too.

He hesitated, his voice softer than usual. “I just wanted to… remind you to be cautious, Vanathi. Not everyone is as they seem.”

Vanathi frowned, blinking. "What do you wish to say, Ponniyin Selvare?" She asked softly. Oh how he wished she'd call him Yaanai Paaga once again.

Arulmozhi decided to be blunt.

“You can’t talk to Ilavarasar Kumaran Maravan.”

Vanathi blinked, momentarily thrown by Arulmozhi’s abrupt tone. They stood alone in a secluded corner of the grand Pazhuvur Palace, where wedding festivities were underway, a lively hum of music and laughter filling the distant halls. Her gaze flicked up to his face, catching the unusual tension in his expression.

“Why can’t I speak to him?” she asked, tilting her head in confusion. “He’s…he’s my cousin. Surely there’s no harm in exchanging a few words?”

Arulmozhi hesitated, his jaw clenched as if fighting for the right response. “It’s… it’s not appropriate right now,” he said, choosing his words carefully. “There are things you don’t understand, Vanathi. It’s better if you just stay away from him.”

The reasoning sounded hollow, and Vanathi’s brows furrowed deeper. She had always known Kumaran to be respectful and considerate to everyone, his easy charm earning him friends across the kingdom. In fact, her own mother often spoke fondly of him, saying he carried himself with dignity beyond his years. Why, then, was Arulmozhi so intent on warning her against him?

“But, Ilavarase,” she insisted, a soft laugh escaping as she tried to lighten his mood. “What could possibly be the harm in a few words? Kumaran is my aunt’s son—he’s family.”

He looked away, visibly uncomfortable, rubbing the back of his neck as if hoping the right words would appear out of thin air. “Vanathi, there’s… there’s more to Kumaran than you know. He’s… let’s just say, he’s got a role to play. You can’t get tangled up in his affairs, even if he is family.”

His evasion only deepened her bewilderment. “Since when did you become so cryptic?” she asked, half-smiling in exasperation. “I’ve spoken to Ilavarasar Kumaran countless times, and there was never a problem. What’s changed now?”

Arulmozhi’s eyes flickered, the faintest hint of frustration creeping into his expression. “Things have changed, Vanathi. There are undercurrents you can’t see. Sometimes, even those close to us can be… involved in matters we aren’t meant to understand.”

She opened her mouth to argue but closed it just as quickly, an uneasy feeling settling over her. Why was Arulmozhi suddenly being so protective, so evasive? She trusted him, but his reluctance to explain made her feel like a child kept in the dark, shielded from truths she could just as easily understand.

“Ilavarase,” she said softly, trying to meet his eyes, “I’m not a stranger to the world we live in. You can tell me if there’s something more going on. I’d rather know the truth than be treated like I’m too delicate to handle it.”

He took a deep breath, looking torn, and for a moment, she thought he might actually tell her what was going on. But then he sighed, shaking his head with a faint smile. “It’s not about what you can handle, Vanathi. Some things are better left… unspoken. Please, just trust me.”

She felt a mix of frustration and concern simmering beneath her confusion. What was he so desperate to hide? And why did he look so determined to shield her from someone as kind as Kumaran?

Just as she was wondering, she caught his eyes. Something was amiss. The tightness in his muscles, his shallow breaths, the tension lines on his forehead, the erratic heartbeat which caused him to take rapid breaths...

She gasped softly when he huffed and grabbed her hand.

Arulmozhi was feeling his breath go awry when she questioned him, and he saw Kumaran coming to them. Vanathi, of course, couldn't see. It's now or never. He didn't wanted to lose her to Kumaran, or anyone in fact.

Vanathi was his Muraipenn, not of someone else. She was his Athai's daughter, she should be marrying him.

He suddenly grabbed her wrist and put her hand on his chest, watching how her cheeks turned red and breath shallowing. "Vanathi, I don't like seeing you with Ilavarasar Kumaran. I don't like how you laugh with him. I don't like how comfortable you are with him. I don't like you with him. You are my Muraipenn, he can't court you!" He exclaimed, an exasperated tone in end.

Vanathi stood shell shocked at the sudden confession, suddenly realising as her eyes widened. Her Ilavarasar, he liked her.

He liked her like she liked him.

He loved her.

"Do- do you-" She couldn't find right words, but her voice shook with emotions. "Vanathi, allow me to Court you.." He said softly.

Vanathi’s heart stilled, each beat suspended as Arulmozhi’s words sank in. Court you. The words lingered in the air, tender and vulnerable, as if he’d placed his heart right there between them, fragile and open.

She could barely breathe, her mind racing to catch up, but her emotions overwhelmed her. A warmth bloomed in her chest, spreading through her like sunlight, each corner of her heart filling with a joy she hadn’t dared to dream of. Her vision blurred, and she felt a tear slip down her cheek, her happiness spilling over in a way words couldn’t capture.

She searched his face, seeing his own hope and uncertainty mirrored in his gaze. He loved her—he truly did. All the quiet moments, the glances they’d shared, the protectiveness in his actions, all suddenly made sense, weaving into this one, perfect truth.

Unable to trust her voice, she nodded quickly, a soft smile trembling on her lips as her eyes sparkled. She didn’t need to say a word. The relief and joy on her face spoke for her, her expression telling him everything her heart had longed to say.

He smiled finally, like the sun rising over the hills that covered the Thanjai, the same she often crossed when she had to travel to Kodumbalur. She was finally his. Or maybe she had been his since long, but he was just stupid.

Kumaran suddenly jogged over to them, clearing his throat. "Hopefully I'm not interrupting you two?" Arulmozhi somehow pushed the frown on his face down, and he gave a tight smile. "Definitely not, Ilavarase." He smiled, his expressions tight.

"I'm glad, Komagane." He smiled and turned to Vanathi. "Amma is calling you. She says that it's time we take Mangai Akka to Mandapam, Akka." He said the last Akka with a certain pressure, staring at Arulmozhi.

It dawned on Arulmozhi suddenly that what he thought was between Vanathi and Kumaran was actually the Sibling Bond they had, considering they were really close and his neck flushed red. He was so stupid! His jealousy didn't let him see things other way!

Vanathi nodded with a smile, unaware of all this as she left for Chandravadhani. Arulmozhi watched her go, his eyes sharp as she turned her head coyly, and shyly smiled at him before scurrying away.

@vishnavishivaa @mahi-wayy @yehsahihai @xxdritaxx @houseofbreadpakoda @ramayantika @warnermeadowsgirl @mayakimayahai @chaliyaaa @celestesinsight @sambaridli @zeherili-ankhein @krsnaradhika @thegleamingmoon @ulaganayagi @voidsteffy @nidhi-writes @thecrazyinktrovert @koklknthiapsara

[vishnavishivaa]

Thank you, @mahi-wayy for this beautiful aesthetic! This is an aesthetic for my upcoming few shot story on Vanathi and Arulmozhi, leading up to their first meet.

The first snippet will be out tonight!

@ahamasmiyodhah @thegleamingmoon @yehsahihai @mahaswrites @hum-suffer @theramblergal @moon-880 @arachneofthoughts @whippersnappersbookworm @rang-lo @celestesinsight @willkatfanfromasia @mahi-wayy @ragkee @houseofbreadpakoda @sambaridli @nidhi-writes @hollogramhallucination @writersiya @chaliyaaa @leoprincess21 @writersiya @nushkiespeaks

[philtstone]

even more (deeply unserious) ponniyin selvan + textposts

+ BONUS

[mahi-wayy]

giffing veera raja veera for girl purposes (2/2)

[perioddramapolls]

Period dramas dresses tournament: Orange dresses FINALS- Bahaar Begum, Kalank (gifset) vs Vanathi, Ponniyin Selvan (appears in the first gif of this gifset)

Propaganda for Bahaar's dress (written by a submitter):

She performs this gorgeous song in this outfit!