The Jewelled Crown: Ponniyin Selvan 4

by Kalki, Gowri Ramnarayan (translator)

In the fourth part of the sprawling Ponniyin Selvan series, we learn more about the intricate complexities and histories propelling our characters towards their ultimate destiny.
What will happen in Kadambur? Beguiling, breathtaking Nandini Devi requests a rendezvous with Chozha Crown Prince Aditta Karikalan. He is determined to meet her, despite opposition from friends and family. Does Nandini mean to persuade Karikalan to give up the crown or kill him? Meanwhile, in Tanjavur, the life of the ailing Emperor Sundara Chozha is under threat. Will his assassins succeed? The mute Mandakini Devi has been forcibly taken to Tanjavur, and Poonkuzhali rushes there to help her aunt. What will happen when the betrayed Mandakini meets the royal family?

As Kalki’s enthralling saga continues to unfold apace in The Jewelled Crown, Gowri Ramnarayan’s fleet-footed translation proves equal to the challenge of capturing its heightened momentum and suspense.

Genres: Indian Literature

416 pages, Hardcover

Published October 28, 2025

Reviews

[Ranjit · Rating 4 out of 5]

The focus shifts to Prince Aditha Karikalan in the fourth installment of this magnum opus, allowing us to understand his character far more deeply. Nandini makes a brief but impactful appearance towards the end, and the long-awaited meeting between the Prince and the young Queen stands out as one of the book’s highlights. The novel also delves into the origins and backstories of several key characters, adding welcome depth to the larger narrative.

Ponniyin Selvan himself has a limited presence here, but that hardly feels like a drawback given the richness of the other characters and the significant events that unfold. I did miss seeing more of Poonkuzhali, though the introduction of Manimekhalai partially fills that gap. King Sundara Chozha finally reappears after a long absence; some of his actions raise questions, perhaps deliberately so, setting the stage for further exploration in the next book. All in all, this instalment builds intrigue effectively, leaving me eager to move on to the next—and penultimate—chapter of the series.

[Preethi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good!! So many things that I didn't understand / didn't make sense from the movies are clicking now.

I was going to cry about how I have no idea when the final two volumes are coming out but it seems like they may have come out in August in India so maybe I'll be able to beg my aunt to send them to me around Christmas :'D

[Chaitanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ending was lackluster.Waiting for the subsequent parts!