Who has written the epic Kundalakesi?

The correct answer is Nathakuthanaar.

Key Points

• Nathakuthanaar
  • Nathakuthanaar is traditionally credited with writing the epic poem Kundalakesi.
  • Sithalai Sathanar's work provides valuable insights into the Buddhist philosophical traditions and social practices prevalent in Tamil Nadu during the period of its composition.
  • This Tamil epic is one of the five great epics (Aimperumkaapiyam) of Tamil literature.
  • While the complete text of Kundalakesi is unfortunately lost, significant portions of it have survived through quotations and references in other literary works and commentaries, particularly in Buddhist texts.
  • These surviving fragments offer glimpses into the narrative and the poetic style of Nathakuthanaar.
  • The story of Kundalakesi revolves around a beautiful princess named Kundalakesi who marries a thief.
  • The narrative takes a dramatic turn when she realizes her husband's true nature and eventually leads to his death.
  • Following this tragic event, Kundalakesi renounces worldly life and embraces Buddhism, eventually becoming a prominent Arahat (a perfected person who has attained nirvana).
  • The epic is significant for its Buddhist themes and its portrayal of a woman's spiritual journey and intellectual prowess in ancient India.
  • The surviving verses of Kundalakesi showcase sophisticated poetic techniques and delve into philosophical and religious discussions prevalent during the time of its composition.
  • The work is believed to have been written sometime between the 5th and 10th centuries CE, a period of significant religious and literary activity in South India.
  • The references to Buddhist doctrines and practices within the fragments highlight the influence of Buddhism in Tamil Nadu during this era.

Additional Information

• Thirutakka Deva
  • Thirutakka Devar was a Jain poet who lived around the 10th century CE.
  • He is best known for his epic poem Jivaka Chintamani (also spelled Civaka Cintamani), which is another of the five great epics of Tamil literature.
  • Jivaka Chintamani narrates the adventurous life and heroic deeds of Prince Jivaka, emphasizing Jain principles and ethics.
  • The epic is celebrated for its exquisite poetic beauty, rich descriptions, and intricate storytelling.
  • Thirutakka Devar's work is a significant contribution to Jain literature in Tamil and offers insights into the social and cultural life of the period.
• Ilango Adigal
  • Ilango Adigal is traditionally considered the author of the Tamil epic Silappathikaram, yet another of the five great epics.
  • He is believed to have been a Chera prince who renounced his royal life to become a Jain ascetic.
  • Silappathikaram tells the tragic story of Kannagi, who seeks justice for the wrongful execution of her husband Kovalan.
  • The epic is notable for its detailed portrayal of ancient Tamil society, its blend of poetry and prose, and its exploration of themes such as love, justice, and fate.
  • Ilango Adigal's work is highly regarded for its literary merit and its historical and cultural significance.
• Sithalai Sathanar
  • Sithalai Sathanar was a Tamil poet and is credited with writing the epic Manimekalai, which is the fifth of the five great epics of Tamil literature and is considered a sequel to Silappathikaram.
  • Manimekalai focuses on the life and spiritual journey of Manimekalai, the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi from Silappathikaram.
  • The epic emphasizes Buddhist teachings, ethics, and the importance of compassion and renunciation.