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சிவகாமியின் சபதம் #2
சிவகாமியின் சபதம், பாகம் 2: காஞ்சி முற்றுகை
Kalki is very famous for his historical novel Ponniyin Selvan. He has also written many social novels.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1944
67 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 11, 2017
Another epic novel. Gripping story as always.
Off to Volume 3.
Off to Volume 3.
July 25, 2018
Enjoying my audiobook very much :)
May 7, 2022
Kalki contrasts the relationship of Kamali and Kannabiran to that of Sivakami and Mamallar to illustrate the tumultuous nature of the latter relationship. The insecurity and tangling of emotions and the ensuing drama is engrossing. We also see the flaws/short-comings of many characters including Aayanar, Sivakami, Mamallar and Mahendra Varmar.
Mahendra Varmar is on display in this volume. His tactics could be seen as particularly competent, but also seen as cold and calculating because of his lack of care for the feelings of the people involved. He definitely comes off as an emperor first and a father second. The ruses and strategies to capture his foes and to prepare Kanchi for the impending invasion were quite fascinating. I'd say it's a solid read, if you ignore the fact that there weren't clear explanations/descriptions of how Mahendrar staved off Pulikesi for nine months.
Mahendra Varmar is on display in this volume. His tactics could be seen as particularly competent, but also seen as cold and calculating because of his lack of care for the feelings of the people involved. He definitely comes off as an emperor first and a father second. The ruses and strategies to capture his foes and to prepare Kanchi for the impending invasion were quite fascinating. I'd say it's a solid read, if you ignore the fact that there weren't clear explanations/descriptions of how Mahendrar staved off Pulikesi for nine months.
December 25, 2022
Absolutely loved Gundodharan (especially the part with his "aval mootai"). The spy and war strategy portions were incredible! But the Sivagami-Maamallar love story is slightly underwhelming.
March 12, 2022
Liked it more than the first. Will be moving to the third one soon.
May 8, 2025
I feel like a scam marking these books as complete but each book in the series is just a continuation of the next, like the story doesn’t ever have an ending. Either way, I like reading it in bite size portions
September 14, 2025
Kalki describes the Pallava sculptures in Mahabalipuram with so much intrinsic detail that it makes me want to visit the place myself soon.
Pacing wise, the Sivakami portions were a chore to get through but Gundodharan character shines in this book with his witty dialogues.
Pacing wise, the Sivakami portions were a chore to get through but Gundodharan character shines in this book with his witty dialogues.
October 4, 2025
பொல்லாத காதல்
பெரும் போரில் முடிந்தது, அளவுக்கடங்காத சூட்சுமங்கள்.
காஞ்சியை ஆண்ட மகேந்திர பல்லவர் தொடங்கி,
நீலகேசி (புக்த பீஷு) வரை
பற்பல சூழ்ச்சிகள் செய்தனர்.
கலை மீது இருந்த மோகம் நீங்கி,
கலைவாணியின் மேல் கொண்ட காதலினால்
தம்பியையும் துறந்தான்;
தன்னையும் மறந்து பித்துப்பிடித்தவனாய் நின்றான்.
பல ஆயிரம் உயிர்சேதம்,
புரவி, யானை சேதம்.
போதும் இந்த மானுட காதல்
என்று இறைவனை சரணடைந்தாள், சிவகாமி.
ஸ்ரீ ❤️
பெரும் போரில் முடிந்தது, அளவுக்கடங்காத சூட்சுமங்கள்.
காஞ்சியை ஆண்ட மகேந்திர பல்லவர் தொடங்கி,
நீலகேசி (புக்த பீஷு) வரை
பற்பல சூழ்ச்சிகள் செய்தனர்.
கலை மீது இருந்த மோகம் நீங்கி,
கலைவாணியின் மேல் கொண்ட காதலினால்
தம்பியையும் துறந்தான்;
தன்னையும் மறந்து பித்துப்பிடித்தவனாய் நின்றான்.
பல ஆயிரம் உயிர்சேதம்,
புரவி, யானை சேதம்.
போதும் இந்த மானுட காதல்
என்று இறைவனை சரணடைந்தாள், சிவகாமி.
ஸ்ரீ ❤️
February 18, 2017
Addictive narration
Gripping story amidst glorious Tamizh history. A hidden gem that is an epic no less. Must read for Tamizh lovers
Gripping story amidst glorious Tamizh history. A hidden gem that is an epic no less. Must read for Tamizh lovers
May 16, 2025
4.5/5
A great continuation of part 1 with all its twists and turns.
A great continuation of part 1 with all its twists and turns.
October 21, 2022
I don't know how but I finished the second part faster than the first. This part is very engrossing than I expected it to be. I'm still wondering what this novel has to do with Sivagamiyin Sabadham?
Is it again like Ponniyin Selvan where the lead character will be missing when the most important of events happen? That's how I'm feeling so far.
Even in this novel, Kalki takes a dig at Religious Gurus who intervene in Politics and try to play a role in it. Eventhough it was a dig at Buddhists and Jain it can very well be interpreted to other religions as well in the current context.
I liked how Kalki Spoon feeds readers with Kamali-Kannabiran and Sivagami-Maamallar relationships. The great difference both the relationships has.
He also says in this book "People will equal status should not fight but be harmonious but people below the status should be beaten or to be shown their place" it kinda irked me. Eventhough the story is about Mahendra Varman and Pandiya King (Whose army was smaller during the time of Pallavas), we can again interpret it as anything we want *hint* *hint*.
Anyways, Kalki's fans will come to defend him tooth and nail and I'm not in the mood to go through a drama there. Whatever interpretations you can take, you can.
Also, I don't know why does Kalki hate Teenagers and Adults in their early 20's? Be it in Ponniyin Selvan or this he depicts them as sharp-tongued and as a brat. Even people at age group this can be as mature as older people in fact these kids can be even more mature than the oldies/Boomers. Looking to finish the 3rd volume as fast as possible. Let's see.
Is it again like Ponniyin Selvan where the lead character will be missing when the most important of events happen? That's how I'm feeling so far.
Even in this novel, Kalki takes a dig at Religious Gurus who intervene in Politics and try to play a role in it. Eventhough it was a dig at Buddhists and Jain it can very well be interpreted to other religions as well in the current context.
I liked how Kalki Spoon feeds readers with Kamali-Kannabiran and Sivagami-Maamallar relationships. The great difference both the relationships has.
He also says in this book "People will equal status should not fight but be harmonious but people below the status should be beaten or to be shown their place" it kinda irked me. Eventhough the story is about Mahendra Varman and Pandiya King (Whose army was smaller during the time of Pallavas), we can again interpret it as anything we want *hint* *hint*.
Anyways, Kalki's fans will come to defend him tooth and nail and I'm not in the mood to go through a drama there. Whatever interpretations you can take, you can.
Also, I don't know why does Kalki hate Teenagers and Adults in their early 20's? Be it in Ponniyin Selvan or this he depicts them as sharp-tongued and as a brat. Even people at age group this can be as mature as older people in fact these kids can be even more mature than the oldies/Boomers. Looking to finish the 3rd volume as fast as possible. Let's see.
February 16, 2025
Sivakami's Vow is easier to follow as compared to Ponniyin Selvan due to the small geography it targets - it's centred in and around Kanchipuram.
Additionally, the main cast is limited to Sivakami, Mamallar, Mahendrar, and Naganandi.
Meanwhile, Ponniyin Selvan had a wide array of characters, with far-flung locations including Kalinga, Uraiyur, Nagapattinam, and Sri Lanka.
I'm enjoying the series so far - there's a good amount of drama and the tension is palpable. Is love worth sacrificing your country for? Is your duty as a king more important than your duty as a father?
There are no easy answers.
The translation does get better, but I wish it had been edited well.
Additionally, the main cast is limited to Sivakami, Mamallar, Mahendrar, and Naganandi.
Meanwhile, Ponniyin Selvan had a wide array of characters, with far-flung locations including Kalinga, Uraiyur, Nagapattinam, and Sri Lanka.
I'm enjoying the series so far - there's a good amount of drama and the tension is palpable. Is love worth sacrificing your country for? Is your duty as a king more important than your duty as a father?
There are no easy answers.
The translation does get better, but I wish it had been edited well.
May 9, 2026
Synopsis
The second part continues the political tension and romance of the first book, while moving closer toward the major siege of Kanchipuram.
Eight months have passed since the earlier events. Paranjyoti returns to Kanchi transformed. He has abandoned his original dream of education and instead become an important military commander of the Pallava kingdom, now placed in charge of Kanchi fort. He has spent months fighting alongside King Mahendravarman I against the forces of Pulikesi II and helping push them back.
Prince Narasimhavarman I welcomes him warmly. Though they have never met before, the king has written letters about Paranjyoti, so the prince already admires him. Their friendship forms instantly.
The next day is Sivagami’s birthday. A secret love letter from the prince reaches her, declaring his love and longing. She is overjoyed. But the mysterious monk Naganandi suddenly returns after months of absence and begins influencing events again.
Meanwhile, in the war camp, spies inform Mahendravarman that Naganandi has been secretly meeting multiple contacts. A separate message deeply saddens the king, and he changes his plans: Narasimhavarman must now go to war against the Ganga king Durvinita. Before leaving, he is allowed one chance to meet Sivagami.
At the same time, Naganandi manipulates Sivagami into doubting the prince’s loyalty, suggesting he has other women in his life. He convinces Sivagami and her father Ayyanar to travel with him and showcase her dance talents across Tamil lands.
During their travels, floods and military conflict intensify. Narasimhavarman heroically rescues Sivagami and Ayyanar during dangerous floodwaters, and the prince and Sivagami finally spend meaningful time together, deepening their love. But danger remains close: Naganandi is secretly watching them and is even suspected of attempting to assassinate the prince.
Later, Mahendravarman himself appears in disguise, along with trusted agents, to meet Sivagami and Ayyanar. He gently but painfully explains the political reality: the Pandya kingdom wants its princess married to Narasimhavarman. If that alliance happens, the Pandyas will support the Pallavas against Pulikesi.
The king asks Sivagami to sacrifice her love and write to the prince asking him to forget her. Heartbroken, she is left devastated.
Meanwhile, Naganandi steals the royal lion insignia and uses it to spread false news that Mahendravarman has been captured by the enemy. Panic erupts in Kanchi before the king dramatically returns and exposes the deception. He then reveals that he himself had entered enemy territory in disguise to mislead Pulikesi with false information.
The novel ends with the warning that the enemy army is near, and the siege of Kanchi is about to begin.
Review
Overall, I loved this second part too. The story becomes more intense and suspenseful compared to the first book because everything is moving toward war and siege.
What stood out most is how cleverly Kalki Krishnamurthy handles politics. Kings, spies, fake messages, disguises, shifting alliances, and emotional sacrifices all happen together. It makes the story feel grand and strategic rather than just romantic.
Mahendravarman continues to be one of the best characters. He is intelligent, calm, and always several steps ahead of everyone else. Even when he asks something painful of Sivagami, he does it with kindness and dignity.
The relationship between Narasimhavarman and Sivagami also becomes stronger here. Their rescue scenes, conversations, and longing add emotional depth amid all the war preparations. At the same time, the presence of Naganandi adds mystery and danger in every chapter.
Paranjyoti’s growth is also enjoyable to watch. He began as a young man seeking education, but now he has become a respected military leader and close friend to the prince.
Final Thoughts
This was an excellent continuation of the story. It builds tension beautifully and prepares for bigger events ahead. With romance, war strategy, spies, betrayal, and sacrifice, the book keeps getting better. I’m especially excited for the upcoming siege and to see how the characters handle what is coming next.
The second part continues the political tension and romance of the first book, while moving closer toward the major siege of Kanchipuram.
Eight months have passed since the earlier events. Paranjyoti returns to Kanchi transformed. He has abandoned his original dream of education and instead become an important military commander of the Pallava kingdom, now placed in charge of Kanchi fort. He has spent months fighting alongside King Mahendravarman I against the forces of Pulikesi II and helping push them back.
Prince Narasimhavarman I welcomes him warmly. Though they have never met before, the king has written letters about Paranjyoti, so the prince already admires him. Their friendship forms instantly.
The next day is Sivagami’s birthday. A secret love letter from the prince reaches her, declaring his love and longing. She is overjoyed. But the mysterious monk Naganandi suddenly returns after months of absence and begins influencing events again.
Meanwhile, in the war camp, spies inform Mahendravarman that Naganandi has been secretly meeting multiple contacts. A separate message deeply saddens the king, and he changes his plans: Narasimhavarman must now go to war against the Ganga king Durvinita. Before leaving, he is allowed one chance to meet Sivagami.
At the same time, Naganandi manipulates Sivagami into doubting the prince’s loyalty, suggesting he has other women in his life. He convinces Sivagami and her father Ayyanar to travel with him and showcase her dance talents across Tamil lands.
During their travels, floods and military conflict intensify. Narasimhavarman heroically rescues Sivagami and Ayyanar during dangerous floodwaters, and the prince and Sivagami finally spend meaningful time together, deepening their love. But danger remains close: Naganandi is secretly watching them and is even suspected of attempting to assassinate the prince.
Later, Mahendravarman himself appears in disguise, along with trusted agents, to meet Sivagami and Ayyanar. He gently but painfully explains the political reality: the Pandya kingdom wants its princess married to Narasimhavarman. If that alliance happens, the Pandyas will support the Pallavas against Pulikesi.
The king asks Sivagami to sacrifice her love and write to the prince asking him to forget her. Heartbroken, she is left devastated.
Meanwhile, Naganandi steals the royal lion insignia and uses it to spread false news that Mahendravarman has been captured by the enemy. Panic erupts in Kanchi before the king dramatically returns and exposes the deception. He then reveals that he himself had entered enemy territory in disguise to mislead Pulikesi with false information.
The novel ends with the warning that the enemy army is near, and the siege of Kanchi is about to begin.
Review
Overall, I loved this second part too. The story becomes more intense and suspenseful compared to the first book because everything is moving toward war and siege.
What stood out most is how cleverly Kalki Krishnamurthy handles politics. Kings, spies, fake messages, disguises, shifting alliances, and emotional sacrifices all happen together. It makes the story feel grand and strategic rather than just romantic.
Mahendravarman continues to be one of the best characters. He is intelligent, calm, and always several steps ahead of everyone else. Even when he asks something painful of Sivagami, he does it with kindness and dignity.
The relationship between Narasimhavarman and Sivagami also becomes stronger here. Their rescue scenes, conversations, and longing add emotional depth amid all the war preparations. At the same time, the presence of Naganandi adds mystery and danger in every chapter.
Paranjyoti’s growth is also enjoyable to watch. He began as a young man seeking education, but now he has become a respected military leader and close friend to the prince.
Final Thoughts
This was an excellent continuation of the story. It builds tension beautifully and prepares for bigger events ahead. With romance, war strategy, spies, betrayal, and sacrifice, the book keeps getting better. I’m especially excited for the upcoming siege and to see how the characters handle what is coming next.
December 17, 2025
The second part of the series is also quite engaging like the first part.
It focuses the constrains imposed by the looming war on Paranjothi, Mamallar and Sivakami
But the focus is on Mahendra Varman whose Rajathanthram is on display here.
The interactions between Mamallar and Sivakami drags at places, otherwise the flow is great!
It focuses the constrains imposed by the looming war on Paranjothi, Mamallar and Sivakami
But the focus is on Mahendra Varman whose Rajathanthram is on display here.
The interactions between Mamallar and Sivakami drags at places, otherwise the flow is great!
March 14, 2021
I love Kalki's writing style and each book so far ends with an unexpected twist. Didn't known Tamil historical fiction existed before reading this series, and didn't realize it would be so well crafted.
June 12, 2023
un-putdownable towards the end especially
September 21, 2023
Rather slow paced, but cliff hanger!
January 11, 2024
Not as engaging as the first one. But keeps it engaging enough to go for the third one.
March 6, 2021
Volume 2 started with the romance between Narashima Varmar and Sivagami. The romance was so unbearable that I discontinued reading the book.
After a while i gave it another try. Wowww. Past this boring romance portion, there was a wonderful story involving espionage elements that was better than even the first part. Gundotharan's character was well crafted. The portion where there was pulalur battle, varagha river geting flooded and subsequent reque were the highlights of this volume. This volume ends with the siege of kanchi.
After a while i gave it another try. Wowww. Past this boring romance portion, there was a wonderful story involving espionage elements that was better than even the first part. Gundotharan's character was well crafted. The portion where there was pulalur battle, varagha river geting flooded and subsequent reque were the highlights of this volume. This volume ends with the siege of kanchi.
February 19, 2022
தமிழ் வரலாற்று நாவல்கள் விரும்பும் அனைவருக்கும் கல்கியின் புத்தகங்கள் நிச்சயம்
ஒரு வரப்பிரசாதம். பொன்னியின் செல்வனில் தான் என் வாசிப்பு பயணம் தொடங்கியது. கல்கியில் அழகிய தமிழ் வார்த்தைகளில் மயங்கி புத்தகங்களினூடே பண்டைய தமிழ் உலகில் லயித்து வாழும் பலரில் நானும் ஒருத்தி.
பரஞ்சோதி யாத்திரையில் தொடங்கிய முதல் பாகம் சிற்பம், கலை, நாட்டியம்,காதல், கதைமாந்தர்களை அறிமுகம் செய்தல் எனத் தொடங்கி போர்க்காலத்தை நோக்கி பயணிக்கிறது.
காஞ்சி முற்றுகை என்ற இந்த இரண்டாம் பாகம் தளபதி பரஞ்சோதி, மாவீரர் மாமல்லர் போன்றவர்களின் வீர பராக்கிமங்களையும், மகேந்திர பல்லவரின் ஆளுமையும் மதிநுட்பத்தையும் பறைசாற்றும் பாகமாகத்திகழ்கின்றது. ஆயரின் கலை ஆர்வம் , சிவகாமியின் நாட்டியத் திறன், புத்தபிஷு நாகநந்தியின் சூழ்ச்சி, அதை முறியடிக்கும் மகேந்திரரின் ராஜதந்திரம் என விருவிருப்பாக செல்கிறது.சோதனைக்குள்ளாக்கப்படும் சிவகாமி மாமல்லரில் காதல் என்னவாகும்? புலிகேசியின் படையெடுப்புக்குத் தயாராகும் காஞ்சியில் நிலை என்னவாகும்? என்ற கேள்விகளோடு முடிவுக்கு வருகிறது இரண்டாம் பாகம்.
வழக்கம் போல் கண்முன் பண்டைய தமிழகத்தை விவரிக்கும், கவித்துவமான கல்கியின் எழுத்துநடை,விருவிருப்பான கதைக்களம் என அடுத்த பாகத்தை உடனே தொடங்கப் போகிறேன் காத்திருக்கும் கதைத்திருப்பங்களை அறிந்து கொள்ள.
June 29, 2023
Fast forward 8 months in time from the end of Book 1 - Paranjyothi's Journey, and Book 2 of Sivakami's Vow by Kalki, translated by Nandini Vijayaraghavan, The Siege of Kanchi begins.
Paranjyothi, now the valorous commander of Pallava forces, a trusted aide of Pallava king Mahendra Varman and a brother-like friend for the crown prince Narasimhar arrives at the Kanchi fort after spending months on the battlefield. He has some important news for the prince.
The king has ordered the prince to proceed with an army to defeat the turncoat Durvineethan, the Ganga king. The prince may meet his lover, the danseuse Sivakami before leaving on this mission. Thus, the stage for the Battle of Pullalur & centuries long Chalukya - Pallava rivalry is set. Though the Pallavas taste victory at Pullalur, Pulikesi attacks Kanchipuram. Bravery and resilience help Pallavas withstand the Chalukyan siege.
The Battle of Pullalur is as real as the battles of Plassey or Panipat. How Kalki crafts powerful fictional characters like Sivakami, Naganandi and Aayanar, uses socio-political milieu of the era, weaves in his imagination to create a gripping four volume epic is exemplary.
In book 2, we learn more about the characters, esp Sivakami. Capricious, vacillating between extreme emotions; her thoughts, words and actions, we are shown, have a crucial role to play in the security & prosperity of the Pallava kingdom. Kalki mirrors a thunderstorm, breach in a dam and a raging war outside, all within Sivakami. He masterfully shows how nature mourns her separation from her lover, prince Narasimhar and celebrates their union. The multitude of twists slowed me down a bit but didn't annoy me. It did make me wonder if the book could have been shorter.
The 'Story thus Far' at the start of this book helps refresh one's memory of book 1 but it's not intended to make you skip reading book 1.
With spies on constant prowl, love, heartbreak, bravery, treachery, promises and secrets to keep, Sivakami's Vow is turning out to be a classical treat!
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
Paranjyothi, now the valorous commander of Pallava forces, a trusted aide of Pallava king Mahendra Varman and a brother-like friend for the crown prince Narasimhar arrives at the Kanchi fort after spending months on the battlefield. He has some important news for the prince.
The king has ordered the prince to proceed with an army to defeat the turncoat Durvineethan, the Ganga king. The prince may meet his lover, the danseuse Sivakami before leaving on this mission. Thus, the stage for the Battle of Pullalur & centuries long Chalukya - Pallava rivalry is set. Though the Pallavas taste victory at Pullalur, Pulikesi attacks Kanchipuram. Bravery and resilience help Pallavas withstand the Chalukyan siege.
The Battle of Pullalur is as real as the battles of Plassey or Panipat. How Kalki crafts powerful fictional characters like Sivakami, Naganandi and Aayanar, uses socio-political milieu of the era, weaves in his imagination to create a gripping four volume epic is exemplary.
In book 2, we learn more about the characters, esp Sivakami. Capricious, vacillating between extreme emotions; her thoughts, words and actions, we are shown, have a crucial role to play in the security & prosperity of the Pallava kingdom. Kalki mirrors a thunderstorm, breach in a dam and a raging war outside, all within Sivakami. He masterfully shows how nature mourns her separation from her lover, prince Narasimhar and celebrates their union. The multitude of twists slowed me down a bit but didn't annoy me. It did make me wonder if the book could have been shorter.
The 'Story thus Far' at the start of this book helps refresh one's memory of book 1 but it's not intended to make you skip reading book 1.
With spies on constant prowl, love, heartbreak, bravery, treachery, promises and secrets to keep, Sivakami's Vow is turning out to be a classical treat!
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
May 14, 2020
Part 2 shows the depth (or rather dual side) of each character especially Sivakami (lives in own world, extremely emotionally volatile), Mamallar (confused between love and war) and Mahendra Varma (Focused on saving Pallava kingdom - adopts strategies ignoring the sentiments/emotions of the people involved).
- (Interesting) War strategies of King Mahendra Varma
- Description of (contradictory) emotions experienced by a young woman in love - seems to be a distraction from the main story at few places - But may be the emotions are captured better in Tamil than in English translation
- (Interesting) War strategies of King Mahendra Varma
- Description of (contradictory) emotions experienced by a young woman in love - seems to be a distraction from the main story at few places - But may be the emotions are captured better in Tamil than in English translation
December 10, 2019
Lively
Well-written as if things were happening around, though fictional one can assume all the events that occurred post war were true in those days, thanks that we are in this independent era.
Well-written as if things were happening around, though fictional one can assume all the events that occurred post war were true in those days, thanks that we are in this independent era.
March 26, 2021
Again.. Masterpiece.. Kadhaiye ippo thaan start aaguthu.. Hero of the book again Mahendra Varaman.. Man of Awareness and Intelligent.. great continuation from part 1. Imagination panna vera leval la irukum guys. That's kalki's great Tallent. Can't wait to part 3.
July 9, 2019
Good read
Making us eager to read next episodes continuously. Great work by kalki.
Very eager to start with reading next part.
Making us eager to read next episodes continuously. Great work by kalki.
Very eager to start with reading next part.
October 29, 2024
What can you say, the author weaves magic by introducing fictional characters into real world and binding the story such that you feel immersed in it. Can't wait to read the next.
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