பொன்னியின் செல்வன் Complete Set

பொன்னியின் செல்வன் #1-5

by Kalki Krishnamurthy

Ponniyin Selvan Full Complete Set (Parts 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5)

Ponniyin Selvan, authored by Kalki R. Krishnamurthy, is a brilliant novel set in the Chozha dynasty. It is a historical fiction, which recounts the story of Raaja Raaja Chozhar I.

Ponniyin Selvan means ‘The son of Ponni’. It chronicles the story of Arulmozhivarmar, who was eventually crowned as Raaja Raaja Chozhar I. This novel details many of the real historical figures from the renowned Chozha dynasty, such as Vijayaalaya Chozhar, Kulothunga Chozhar I, Kandaraadhithar, Arinjaya Chozhar, Paraandhaka Chozhar II, Kundhavai, Madhuraandhakar, Uthama Chozhar, among other characters. Arulmozhivarmar was the second son of Paraandhaka Chozhar II and the Queen Vaanamaadhevi. Kundhavai was Arulmozhivarmar’s elder sister, for whom he had immense admiration and respect. He built a temple, the Brihadheesvarar Koil, well-known as Thanjai Periya Koil. This novel is a must for history aficionados who wish to learn more about the Chozha dynasty and the famous temple. This book is considered as one of the best historical novels ever written in the Tamil language, by one of the most revered writers, Kalki R. Krishnamurthy.

Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Classics, Novels, Indian Literature, Historical, Fantasy

1520 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1954

About the author

Tamil language Novel Writer, Journalist, Poet & Critic late Ramaswamy Aiyer Krishnamurthy also known as ‘Kalki’. He derived his pen name from the suffixes of his wife name Kalyani and his name Krishnamurthy in Tamil form கல்யாணி and கிருஷ்ணமூர்த்தி as Kalki (கல்கி). His name also represents “Kalki avatar”, the tenth and last avatar of the Hindu God Vishnu.

His writings includes over 120 short stories, 10 novelettes, 5 novels, 3 historical romances, editorial and political writings and hundreds of film and music reviews. Krishnamurthy’s witty, incisive comments on politics, literature, music and other forms of art were looked forward to with unceasing interest by readers. He wrote under the pen names of ‘Kalki’, ‘Ra. Ki’, ‘Tamil Theni’, ‘Karnatakam’ and so on.

The success that Krishnamurthy attained in the realm of historical fiction is phenomenal. Sixty years ago, at a time when the literacy level was low and when the English-educated Tamils looked down on writings in Tamil, Kalki’s circulation touched 71,000 copies – the largest for any weekly in the county then – when it serialised his historical novels. Kalki had also the genius to classify the historical and non-historical events, historical and non-historical characters and how much the novel owes to history.

Reviews

[Poorna Rajaraman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its my all time favorite. I have read this book about 15 times and would read it even more times in my life... I have read this putting myself in the place of
1. வந்தியத்தேவன்
2. பூங்குழலி
3. குந்தவை
4. ஆழ்வார்க்கடியான்
5. அருள்மொழிவர்மன்
6. நந்தினி
and more

The characters I like the most is
1. வந்தியத்தேவன்
2. பூங்குழலி
3. கரிகாலன்
4. நந்தினி.
5. குந்தவை
I have seen me in every one of these characters and thats the victory of this novel as far as I can see it.

[Ashish Iyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ponniyin Selvan is a Tamil historical fiction novel written by Kalki based on real events. It narrates the story of Arulmozhivarman (later crowned as Rajaraja Chola I), one of the kings of the Chola Dynasty during the 10th and 11th centuries. This historic novel serialised for a period of three and a half years.

The story is based in the 11th century Tamil empire of the legendary Cholas (Chozhas), with the great Raja Raja Chola being one of the characters. Other characters are interspersed into the story seamlessly and the action moves at a furious pace with bits of historical facts here and there to enable the reader understand the characters, their place in the history of the region and the situation prevailing in those times better. They act as a guide to the Chola Kingdom. Each chapter ends with a cliffhanger, making you rush to the next. War, palace intrigue, description of nature, culture, religion, all are part of the script. The author gives you vivid description of the ancient Tamil nation, politics and culture. Most of the times I felt as if I was living among the characters and I am planning to visit the places that are mentioned in the book. It has an excellent and interesting story-line and has strong and well portrayed characters from both genders. There is not even one boring moment in this 2100 page book. Suspense is maintained throughout the novel and when you think you have understood his storyline, the characters themselves reveal that they are not who you think they are. Even the last book is a page turner due to the unexpected turn of events. For a novel of this size, there are many characters like spies, magicians, warriors, soothsayers and Buddhists, and since the novel is this big, we get to know each of them very well. The book is full of mystery, drama, thriller, conspiracy and romance.

I can't stop pondering over the fact that today we have such popular novels like lord of the rings, harry potter and game of thrones and amazing on screen adaptations of these too. I imagine how grand it would be if someone got Kalki's writings on screen. Such an enchanting story entwined with real history would be a delight to see on screen!

If you can read Tamil then don’t miss this book. If you can’t read Tamil then at least read a translation. You can thank me later.

[Anu · Rating 5 out of 5]

தமிழின் மிக சிறந்த வரலாற்று நாவல்களில் மிகவும் முக்கியத்துவம் வாய்ந்தது. இந்த புத்தகம் படித்த பிறகு தஞ்சாவூர் மற்றும் இலங்கை போய் ஒரு முறை சுற்றி பார்க்க வேண்டும் என்று கட்டாயம் அனைவருக்கும் தோன்றும்.
வந்தியத்தேவன், குந்தவை, ராஜா ராஜா சோழன், பழுவேட்டரையர், நந்தினி, ஆழ்வார்க்கடியான் அனைவரையும் ஒரு முறையாவது பார்க்க வேண்டும் என்று ஆவல் உண்டாகும்
உண்மை நிகழ்வுகளோடு அங்கங்கு கதை சேர்த்து கல்கி பிணைத்திருக்கும் இக்காவியம் என்றும் படித்தவர் அனைவர் மனதிலும் வாழும்.
இக்காவியத்தை நான் என்றும் அனைவருக்கும் பரிந்துரைப்பேன்.

[Vijay Raj · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ponniyin Selvan
Kalki

[Edit Oct, 2022: Checking this after some sudden activity recently in this post. And yes, the movie is finally made yay! I know, the review looks too "basic", I wrote it 10 years back when I was 21 when I clearly liked the adventure in the book, but now I think I like the political drama more! Happy reading/ watching! :)]

Done with Ponniyin Selvan! I would say, I have been living a life with the kings, the princes, the warriors, and the other characters of Ponniyin Selvan from the day I started reading the novel. The novel narrates the story of the Chozhas and their beautiful lives in the 11th century. It has a fictional story said through real historical incidents centering around the real historical characters.

Of the five books, I loved the second and the fifth volume a lot. The war in the middle of the river Tondaimaan and cyclone in the #2 is one thrilling incident that made me read it many times. And fifth volume, the most interesting one, it took me a very short time to complete compared to other books, despite the fifth being the longest of all. Each chapter from one to the end has an interesting twist revealing.

I am a little worried that there hasn't been a movie so far based on the novel. (Tried and dropped 2 times - one during the MGR period and now Maniratnam). I wish the novel is soon made into a TV/film series.

And one more thing - I find the English Wiki pages lacking content about the novel (Tamil Wiki has detailed pages) and as an enthusiast of Ponniyin Selvan and Kalki, it is our duty to add more details and pages about the novel. I have already added a character list to the main Ponniyin Selvan page and I have decided to add individual pages for each Volume and each character of the novel. I also request other readers to contribute content to Ponniyin Selvan Wiki pages.

[Bharath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a large number of books on my ‘To be read’ pile and as with many other readers, it continues to grow at an alarming rate, seeming more out of reach every passing day. No book has felt heavier on my tbr than ‘Ponniyin Selvan’. Whenever I have conversed with people who have read the book, it felt as though I had been vastly overestimating the diversity of humankind. It seemed that there were only two kinds of people – those who had read ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ and those who had not. After all, it is regarded as the greatest historical Tamil novel ever. I have also heard of the respect which readers hold Kalki and the pall of gloom which set in across Tamil Nadu when he passed away. He is known also for the life he led and many other writings (which I must read), though ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ is his most ambitious novel – released in serialized form in the Kalki magazine over a period of nearly 3.5 years.

The impending release of the movie directed by Mani Ratnam provided the motivation and I just finished the translation by C.V. Karthik Narayanan (at ~2100 pages across 5 books), which was recommended by a few friends. I can imagine those who have read the original in Tamil smirking – reading a translation is just not the same. Nevertheless, this comes across as an honest and good translation. It retains sprinklings of local dialect – just enough for authenticity and hence non-Tamil readers should not have a problem reading it. I do also hope to listen to the audiobook sometime.

A brief synopsis as it is very easy to find it in many places. The story starts with Vandiyathevan carrying a scroll with a message from Crown Prince Aditha Karikalan for the emperor Sundara Chozhar and his daughter Kundavai. The Chozha kingdom is strong – they are practicising Hindu Saivites but allow Vaishnavism and also Buddhism to thrive. There are rumours that the king is ill and it is the Pazhuvettaraiyar brothers who are running the show. Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar is married to a much younger and beautiful Nandini who exerts a lot of influence over him. A succession controversy is brewing between Madurantakan and Aditha Karikalan, the former was sidestepped being young when Sundara Chozhar was crowned. Vandiyathevan is shrewd and manages to navigate the palace in Thanjavur to convey the message. He is given a critical assignment by Kundavai to carry a message to Arulmozhi Varman, younger brother of Aditha Karikalan, based in Lanka. Arulmozhi Varma is referred to as Ponniyin Selvan (also in history as Raja Raja Chozhan), as he was saved from drowning in the Ponni river by a gracious lady. There are a wide range of other characters – Azhwarkadiyan Nambi (a Vaishnavite spy), Poonguzhali (a boat woman), Vanathi (friend of Kundavai), Senthan Amuthan (a flower seller) & his mother, Brahmarayar (the Prime Minister), Parthibendran (friend of Aditha Karikalan), Ravidasan (magician who often meets Nandini), Mandakini Devi (mute woman who saved Ponniyin Selvan), Kandha Maran (friend of Vandiyathevan), Manimekalai (sister of Kandha Maran), Kundanthai Josiyar (respected astrologer) and a few others.

This is a novel which is both plot and character driven. The entire book largely covers a period of around 8 months with brief references to past events. In many ways this is an excellent reference for some amazing historical writing – the characters are introduced gradually, the pace is excellent despite the size, the plot is intriguing and everything ties up beautifully at the end. There is a salient differentiating feature of the book – a lot of the story is told through the characters of the non-royals, and all characters are exceptionally well-developed. The character of Ponniyin Selvan is introduced only towards the end of the first book and yet, you can feel an aura of his personality well before that. The book has no dull moment and I was drawn to all the characters – and especially Ponniyin Selvan, Vandiyathevan, Kundavai, Poonguzhali will stay with me for long, very long. Some of the plot elements felt a bit simplistic but there is always a touch of charm. The convergence at the end is excellent, with no loose ends. In the afterword, Kalki mentions that he received many angry letters that the book had ended abruptly and there was potential to continue the story. But his justification that he did not want to state the obvious since it is based on real events is very logical. Kalki also points out that the Chozha kingdom’s legacy lends itself to great storytelling – and that certainly comes across as true, though it still required a great storyteller to bring it to life so vividly.

Now, I can say I understand why ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ fans rave about the book so much - a tour-de-force it is for sure. The translation seems to carry the pulse of the original, though being largely literal the verses in the book I suspect would evoke more vivid imagery in the original. There were quite a few typos in the Kindle version, but understandable for a large book digitized many years after it was published and translated.

[Prabhu R · Rating 5 out of 5]

கல்கி ஒவ்வொரு முறையும் தஞ்சையைப்பற்றி வர்ணிக்கும் பொழுதெல்லாம்...கண் முன்னே நான் சுற்றிய இடங்கள் தோன்றும்.முதல் அத்தியாயம் , ஆடி பெருக்குடன் துவங்கும்.நான் சிறு வயதில் ஆடிப்பெருக்கிற்கு ஆற்றில் பூஜை பொருட்களை விட்ட ஞாபகம் தொட்டுப் போகும். நதிகள்,நதியோற மரங்கள் பற்றி வரும் பொழுதெல்லாம் கரூர் வழியே தஞ்சை வரும் மார்கம் தான் நினைவிற்கு வரும்.

கதையில் முக்கியமான வந்தியதேவன்,சோழ நாட்டின் வளமையைப் பார்த்து வர்ணிக்கும் பொழுது, திருவாரூர் செல்லும் சாலை, அதுவும் , அந்த பச்சை போர்வை போற்றிக்கொண்டு அழகாய் சிரிக்கும் வயல் வர‌ப்புகள் தான் நமது கண்முன்னே வரும்.நாயகன் தஞ்சையை விட்டு வெளியில் சென்று மீண்டும் ஊருக்குள் வரும் போது , தூரத்திலிருந்து ரசிக்கும் காட்சி , மாரியம்மன் கோவில் சாலையிலிருந்து நான் பார்த்த‌ பெரிய கோவிலை நினைவிற்குக் கொண்டு வரும்.

ரவிதாசனின் வில்லத்தனம்,நந்தினியின் சதித்திட்டம்,குந்தவையின் அரசியல் முடிவுகள்,சுந்தர சோழனின் த‌விப்பு,பழுவுடையாரின் வீரம்,கரிகாலனின் மனக்குழப்பம்,சிதம்பர இளவர‌சனின் துரோகம்,படகோட்டும் பூங்குழலி,ஊமைராணியின் தியாகம் போன்றவை இன்னும் என் நினைவிற்குள் (கதாபாத்திரங்கள்) சுற்றிக் கொண்டு தான் இருக்கிறது.

கடம்பூர் மாளிகை(நீடாமங்கலம் பக்கத்தில் உள்ள கடம்பூரா?),சிதம்பரம் கோவில் ,நாகப்பட்டினம் புத்தமடம்,உறையூர்,இலங்கை... போன்ற இடங்கள் கதையின் முக்கிய அம்சமாக அமைந்ததை படிக்கும் போது ,அந்த இடத்திற்கு நமது நினவுகளை கொண்டு செல்லும்.

கதையின் சுவாரஸ்யம் எனது உறக்கங்களை பிடுங்கிக் கொண்டது.வார இறுதியில் மட்டும் படிக்க நினைத்தது முடியாமல் போனது.தினமும் கிடைக்கும் நேரமெல்லாம் படிக்க தோன்றியது.சில சமயம் பாரதி சொன்ன‌து போன்று காலை எழுந்தவுடன் படிப்பு என்றானது.என்னை விட எனது நண்பன் ஒரு படி மேலே சென்று , இரவு முழுவ‌தும் படித்தான் .மேலும் கதையின் தொடர்ச்சி அவனை மறுநாள் அலுவலகத்திற்கு மட்டம் போட வைத்தது.

படித்து முடித்தவுடன் எனக்குள்ளே ஒரு பெருமிதம் இருந்தது .பெரிய கோவிலை மீண்டும் பார்வையிட வேண்டும் என்று ஓர் ஆசையும் வந்தது.அடுத்த ஊர் பயணத்துக்காக காத்திருந்தேன்.இனையதளத்தின் மூலம் பொன்னியின் செல்வன் பேரவையில் வரும் கலந்துரையாடல்கள் மற்றும் இதர பொன்னியின் செல்வன் சம்மந்தமான ப்ளாக் படிப்பது,

1.பொன்னியின் செல்வன் பேரவை (http://ponniyinselvan.in/)
2.பொன்னியின் செல்வன் கதை விளக்கும் படங்கள் (http://thanjaimainthan.blogspot.in/20...)
3.பொன்னியின் செல்வன்-அரிய ஓவியங்கள் (http://www.eegarai.net/t50562-topic)
4.பொன்னியின் செல்வன் புதினம் என்னும் புதுமை (http://www.seenuguru.com/2012/07/blog...)

மின் புத்தகம் எனக்குப் பிடிக்காத போதும் புத்தகத்தை வாங்க முடியாதோருக்கு மின் புத்தகம் தருவது, த‌மிழ் படிக்கத் தெரியாத நண்பர்களுக்கு ஆங்கில மின்புத்தகத்தைத் தருவது என்று எனது எண்ணமும் செயலும் பொன்னியின் செல்வனை சுற்றியே இருந்தது.
தமிழில்(pdf) ‍ (http://www.projectmadurai.org/pmworks...)
மின் புத்த்கம் (http://www.chennailibrary.com/login.php)
ஒலி வடிவில்(http://itsdiff.com/kalkips)

.நீங்க படிக்கும் முன்பு ,முடிந்தால் திருவாருர்-தஞ்சை(மாரியம்ம்ன் கோவில் வழியாக போகும் போது பெரிய கோவிலை பார்கவும்),தஞ்சை-கும்பகோண்ம்,கரூர்-தஞ்சை வழி பயணித்து பாருங்கள்.படிக்கும் போது கற்பனைகளுக்குக் கண்டிப்பாக உறுதுனையாக இருக்கும்.

(இன்னும் சற்று விரிவாக ... http://idaivaellai.blogspot.in/2012/0...)

[Vignesh Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

PART 1:

OH. MY. GOD! Why did I not start this before??

Ponniyin Selvan is one of the most popular oldest epics in Tamil literature. Kalki has mixed his imagination to the real Tamil dynasty in this book. In olden days, Tamil Nadu, in India, has been ruled by three emperor dynasties called Chera, Chola and Pandya. Our story takes place when Chera dynasty ruled the land. Our hero, Vallavarayan Vandiyathevan plays a pivotal role in that time when he was sent as a messenger to the King Sundara Chola, from the Crown Prince Aditya Karikalan. Meanwhile, internal politics takes place between the ministers to usurp the King.

I loved this book. It's soo good to read a book in your native tongue and feel the emotions it evoke directly into your heart. And Kalki has done a spectacular job in describing the events. It's so lyrical and the metaphors he used are so good that you are swept away by the feeling it provokes, that you want to dive into the book and live in that gorgeously descriptive world he wrote. The characters and the plot are really good and I loved Kundavai Pirattiyar, the Princess of Chola dynasty. She's a strong woman, who was idolized by her people.

Thank all the Gods and Goddesses that I finally took the book and read it. I am very eagerly waiting to see the movie and how they adapted it. One part is done and on to the next one!


Part 2:

I am loving this series sooooooooo much and it's becoming my all-time favorites!!

The story takes place right after where it ended in the first book. I will start gushing if I talk about the plot. The pace is so fast, full of beautifully descriptive language which will make you swoon. The characters are so human, so wonderfully developed, so complex. Now, I had to finish the next book!

Part 3

OMG!!! This is getting better and better and better and better. On to the next one!

Part 4

Part 4 is done and only one more big book to finish this epic novel! This is becoming my all-time favorite. I don't want this series to end!

Part 5

HOLY FREAKING GODS!!!!! THIS IS ABSOLUTELY AWESOME !!! I REALLY REALLY LOVED ALL THE 5 PARTS AND THIS SERIES BECAME MY ALL-TIME FAVORITES!!!!!

[Bhuvanesh Manivannan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is just amazing. It has everything in it. It gives one hell of a roller coaster ride where you can come across art, history, philosophy and more. You will end up loving all the characters whether its protagonist or antagonist.
Kalki's words and use of language is just mind blowing. I wonder how he had such an amazing knowledge about history, literature, psychology etc.,
This is my first book that I read in my Tamil Language and I am very much happy about it.

[Ujjwala Singhania · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect magnum opus for anyone who likes to read historical fiction. It is my first foray into Tamil literature, thanks to the recommendation by my friend Ashish. He not only recommended the book but made sure that I bought it and start reading it and it was totally worth it.

Kalki ji is a master storyteller and the English translation is done without losing the essence of the original writing. However, I still felt that reading it in Tamil would be pure bliss. The author has described the beauty of the southern lands, the majesty of the temples, the culture of the bygone era and each of these threads were woven like a delicate craft into the story of the Chola dynasty. I could almost hear the music and imagine myself in that distant past the words were so alive. Not once I felt reading this hefty book that its too long or the story is dragging rather I felt I have been cheated when I reached the end.

The characters were so vivid and lifelike, and the added bonus of illustrations in the version, that they will stay with me for time to come. The book has all the flavor that one could ask for and then some more - political intrigue, romance, betrayal, assassination, friendship, family drama, wars, et al. And all these painted at the backdrop of the life-giving revered Kaveri and the beautiful verdant land of Tamil Nadu.

[Ramblifixion · Rating 5 out of 5]

ஆதி அந்தமில்லாத கால வெள்ளத்தில் கற்பனை ஓடத்தில் ஏறி நம்முடன் சிறிது நேரம் பிரயாணம் செய்யுமாறு நேயர்களை அழைக்கிறோம்.
When I read this first line and subsequently a chapter of this epic in Tamizh, I immediately realised how lame I had been to read the English translation. The greatness of the Tamizh culture and heritage and the awe-inspiring dynasties that ruled over Tamil Nadu in the 10th century form the very core of this book, and it is almost unjust to have not read it in Tamil. The translation by Karthik Narayanan is what I picked up(bound by the inadequacies of my Tamil reading skills) and nevertheless, it is by far the most engrossing historical novel I have read. The historical facts and characters and the fictional plot are so seamlessly intertwined that I honestly had to check from multiple sources of it was indeed a work of fiction. It paints the greatness and the prosperity of the Chozha empire to such detail that one is completely transported to that era while reading the book and yearns to get back there long after completing it. The characterisation is extremely powerful, with each character so unique and not without his share of weaknesses and cunning that it is hard to pick a favourite(if I had to, I would pick Poonkuzhali - the embodiment of free spirit). Deceit, love, treachery, passion, power-lust and the other sentiments that form the backbone of the plot are so timeless that the story seems relevant despite being set in another era. The intriguing politics surrounding the succession of the Chozha throne make for a compelling page turner. The translation is a very fair attempt, though I am sure language being the essence of the book, the intended beauty in many parts is lost( the many many poems and pasurams quoted, to cite an example). The translation is very literal, and hence the language leaves a lot to be desired. However the attempt is laudable, more so the intent to reach the greatness of the Chozha dynasty and such an interesting novel to the Tamil illiterate.

[Srideepa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent ...

First read it to understand the plot.
Sencond time, for deeper plot understanding
Third time, read it completely with narrations of even silliest things.
Fourth time and subsequent times, to answer your doubts and for the happiness that this book provides you.

How did the author taught me about Chola a branch of chola dynasty?
How did the author tell that there is no good or bad. There are only views and actions based on views ?

I would have read many novels and will read many more. However, nothing can even come closer to the experience I had when I read this.

Still I have the characters living in my mind and I will have them forever.

[Ajay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book 2 years back. One of the best Tamil literature i have come across. Those who can read Tamil should read in original language. I read the translated one, it was really good. Highly recommended.

[Prasanthi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I have ever read. All tamils please read this book atleast once

[Ashwini · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I had to tell you in one sentence what I thought of ‘Ponniyin Selvan’, it would have to be this - One hell of a thrilling rollercoaster ride! Oh, to have been a fly on the wall in those times! History, mysteries, intrigue, conspiracies, secrets, romances, philosophy, art… it has everything.

This was my first step into Tamil literature, and I cannot think of a better book to start off with. The Chola empire is a familiar name, but my knowledge of Tamil history is confined to the very restricting pages of high school textbooks. Who were the Cholas, what were the kings’ names? Who were the kings’ families and friends? Who were their subjects? How did they live? The author has skillfully blended answers to these questions and more with his vibrant imagination and woven them all so intricately and beautifully into the story, and this in my opinion is the reason why it makes such a compelling read.

There isn’t much I can say about this series that hasn’t been said already by readers who have loved this story from the beginning when it was published as a serialized novel. I started off with the first book slowly, expecting it to be just another historical fiction, but soon ended up devouring all the six books in the series one after the other in just under a month.

I cannot read the book in original Tamil by Kalki, but enjoyed the English translation by Karthik Narayanan nevertheless. It’s not the polished language that an original English book would usually be written in, but I think that’s a good thing, because it very satisfyingly conveys the “mannina suvaasane” feeling (can’t think of a better way to say it) of the Tamil people and their glorious, ancient history.

[Srinivasan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lot of information about the activities of various kings came from inscriptions like these as well as copper plates like the Anbil one. The Thiruvalangadu copper plates state, “The Chozha people were very keen that after Sundara Chozhan, Arulmozhi Varman should ascend the throne and rule their country. But Arulmozhi Varman respected the right of his Uncle Uttama Chozhan, the son of his father’s younger brother, Kandaradithan, to the throne and crowned him King”.This was my first Indian historic novel and it gave a good idea of the Chola dynasty in a non-boring way.

Ponniyin Selvan is a Novel of the century. It should be treasured and passed on to generations. It is our onus to appreciate and spread its greatness. There is a wonderful active community in the orkut for this book. Please do check it out .This book hasn’t been made in to movie yet, because of the budget constraint. However, Kalaignar TV has taken initiative to make it as a mega serial. “Marmadesam” Naga is directing the serial. I am hoping that someday it will be made in to a movie too and captivate millions of people. It is awesome even to imagine PS in the lord of the rings style on the big screen. "I will keep my fingers crossed”!.

[Selvi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good.. At the end of every chapter,there is a suspense.

[Brahadeesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not even a worthy person to write a review about the greatest historical novel I have ever read in both tamizh and english put together. For those who are curious to know the premise, it is basically about the life of a great chola(kingdom in south india circa. 1000 AD) king 'Raja Raja Chola' before he ascended the throne. It is narrated by a Vandhiya thevan who is also one of the protagonist. The story takes place during the time of political instability in the chola kingdom or to put it precisely the time before they discover about the impending threats to the kingdom.

There are a lot of cultural references in this book about the various religions that existed during that period. The most interesting part is the fight between a vaishnavite priest and shivites. The first two volumes of the book have a very fast pace with spying, flashbacks, intros, love etc.

The story toggles between Tamilagam and Sri lanka. And author has beautifully and vividly illustrated the places like dhanushkoti, northern parts of srilanka, thanjavur, and places near karaikal. I guess some of the places exists even today.

Well, I would run out of time if I keep talking about this book. I would say people who are interested in reading historical novels will definitely like this book.
I would advice you to read this book in tamil but people who don't know tamil can read the english translation of this book. In any case this book is definitely worth reading and is a kind of book that you would read over and over again.

[Thangaprakash Sengodan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many thanks to Kalki for bringing me the habit of reading books!!. When I was pursuing my Master's degree at Government College of Technology, Coimbatore, it was happened to read Kalki's "PARTHIBAN KANAVU" (thanks for my room-mate a good reader then), ofcourse I started the novel by 7.10 pm as a short time pass until the dinner 7.30 pm. But I was trapped by his writing and I lost my dinner that night and finally put down the book after 12.00. I never thought of reading a full book before, but it had happened by his fascinating narrating of the story. I could visualize the scenes, characters ofcourse every instants delivered in the book and hailed by the surprise almost in every page. Immediately I bought his other books, ponniyin selvan and sivagamiyin sabatham they are astounded then I switched to similar kind of novels and grew frantic in reading. I always believe "A good book can change your life". I don't want to review these three books (Parthiban Kanavu, Sivagamiyin Sabatham and Ponniyin Selvan)because these three books are such an extraordinary and exceptionally written in Tamil.

[Rajasekar Pandurangan · Rating 5 out of 5]

இலவசமாக் பொன்னியின் செல்வனை பதிவிறக்கம் செய்ய https://www.dropbox.com/s/tdhazvuhghi...

Welcome to Ponnyin Selvan Group
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1...

The best Tamil Historical novel about Chola dynasty. Most of the story based on Archaeological findings, Ancient Tamil poems, Stone and brone inscriptions, the great Thanjai Periya kovil (Temple) built by the Great Raja Rajan Chola,and folks.

No one can beat the story telling and presentation of this novel. Whenever the author introduce a character or a place in this story, he make me to visualize them through his description. So no more I'm reading the novel but I just start travel with it and can see what is happening in the story.

Every book lovers and Tamil History lovers must read this novel at least once in their life time.

[Pasupathy Narayanamurthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books in Tamil literature. When I am about to buy this book, I had hesitation, Can I go ahead and buy because of the obvious fear, will I read 1500 or more pages of this book? will I ever complete? It's only until I have started reading, but then I was extremely happy with my decision to buy this book. The very first page took me into the plot and with each page, I am more and more thrilled and excited to know what's next. To my surprise, I completed the book over a weekend.

The story of ancient Tamil kings and the politics that they have played to reach the throne is the crux. Beautifully woven characters with very interesting narration.

Anyone who is still thinking to read, please march ahead, you will definitely not be disappointed.

[Uthraa · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my most favorite books. Read all the 6 volumes about 3 times and I still cant get enough of it. I live in USA and whenever I miss my days in Pudukkottai(thats where I started reading this) I start reading a couple of pages from this. The characters are so well justified and every character is unique. My favorite is vandhiyathevan :-)

[Kaviya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me 4 full months to finally finish this. But I am glad I revised this book.

[Shakir Shakiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A spectacular novel on medieval cholas. I can now understand what that hype was all about. This is one of the best historical fiction that I have ever read, the other best being 'Sivakamiyin Sabatham' by the same legend. The characters here are strong, dynamic and have an ulterior motive. One even sympathizes with the anatagonist, Nandhini. Sometimes I even suffer from Stockholm syndrome wishing good ending for her. Such is her beauty, charisma and brains. The characters on the other end of the spectrum are Vandiyathevar and Arulmozhivarmar - brave, chivalrous, witty & fun to be with. The different perspectives around why Arulmozhivarmar is named 'Ponniyin Selvan' is fantastic. The story also progresses as the different points of view flows in. I have always been a fan of such narrative style. And ofcourse there are lots of love, lots of romance and lots of sacrifices. It consumes you like it consumed Kundhavai, Vanadhi, Poonkuzhali, Nandhini & Manimekalai :P There comes multiple points wherein the author compares his adorable women and they are sweet. Like honey-sweet. The women here are way progressive & revolutionary. Such a women empowering & bold novel. There are also more bolder moments on religion comparison, Vishnu & Shiva comparison. It comes even as a surprise that this was widely accepted in 1950s. And finally we learn love and let love. Revenge can tear a whole dynasty apart and take you to the brinks of extinction.

Kalki trilogy is now over and then there is void :)

[Ponniyinselvi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am seriously out of words to describe this EPIC of a novel by the GREAT Amarar Kalki..!! But if there's one word to describe this book, it would be "BRAMMAANDAM"..!!! This novel would make its readers want to travel to all the places mentioned in it. I'm so proud to be a Thamizhian..!!

Reading this book took me to a whole new world where I saw myself with the characters of this book.

My favourite charcters from this book are:

1. Vanthiyathevan
2. Kundhavai
3. Poonguzhali
4. Oomai Rani
5. Arulmozhi Varman
6. Aazhvaarkadiyaan
7. Aadhitha Karikalan
8. Manimegalai

It's a MUST MUST read for everyone. If you're someone who can read Thamizh, plz plz plz do read this novel..!!

"YAAM PETRA INBAM INDHA VAIYAGAM PERAVENDUM" ;-)

-->SPOILER<--

The author takes care to tie up almost all the loose ends. One thing I've learnt from reading this book is that everyone has a point of view and that we should not be judgemental about anyone. At first I hated the character Nandhini for all her doings. And then there came a part where the author justifies (atleast from her point of view) her actions.

This book also taught me to use my brain to its utmost. (courtesy: Vanthiyathevan)

[Shreyansh Thakur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thankfully I read this epic before watching the movie. Book is way better than movie.

[Shylu Vk · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me months to wake myself out of Thanjai, Ilangai and basically out of the Ponniyin Selvan world. It was Fantasy as never experienced before. The characters are still alive even years after reading this master-piece. Thibika Shanmugam's illustrations brought the whole Chozhan dynasty to life. Poonkuzhali is one awesome lady and she has earned my admiration through out the novel. LOVED HER!!

[Cyberjai · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the first 10 to 20 pages, i wondered why everybody likes this book. but after that, i gone mad about this ,I never felt like closing the book.

i suggested to all of my friends.

Basically i am from thanjavur (where the story belongs to), felt like how did i missed this till the time?

[Prasanna Venkataraman · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best novels which i read. Amazing description of the characters and perfect plot of the story.
Arul Mozhi varman will wander around our mind and heart even after we completed this Epic. Not only him, Vanthiya thevan and many other characters will also capture some good quantity of flesh from our heart.
One of the very few novels which i have planned to read it again.

[Vinoth kumr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ponniyin selvan is one of the finest historical fiction in tamil,you can't shelve this book in one genre has loads of everything - historical facts,romance,action,comedy,thriller....many of them tried this novel to cinema but could'nt,thats shows the scale of this masterpiece...A MUST READ!!!!!

[Ganesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unbelievable novel. A masterpiece. Makes you want to go back by centuries and live in the Chola era. A rare gem of a novel. Must-read!!