ஆற்றுப்படை நூல்களில் நல்லியக்கோடனின் கொடைச் சிறப்புகள்: ஒரு விரிவான வரலாற்று மற்றும் இலக்கியப் பகுப்பாய்வு

The Philanthropic Excellence of Nalliyakkodan in Aatruppadai Literature: A Comprehensive Historical and Literary Analysis

Abstract

In the history of ancient Tamil Nadu, the Sangam era stands as a golden age of art, culture, valor, and philanthropy. A person possessing the capability to rule a country is referred to as a king (Arasan or Mannan). When the territory is small, he is called a chieftain (Kurunila Mannan). A king is one who establishes a stable governance. A ruling monarch must govern efficiently, centering his administration on justice and neutrality. A king's glory depends entirely on the excellence of his reign.

Compared to contemporary rulers, the reign of Nalliyakkodan was loftier, purer, and deeply rooted in righteousness, much like the sacred right-coiled conch (Valampuri Sangu). His rule was more distinguished than even that of the three crowned monarchs—the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas. In the land under his righteous sceptre (Sengol), there were no bandits who ambushed, assaulted, and plundered the belongings of travelers for a living. His country was well-guarded, and there was no room for any evil to thrive. This section briefly analyzes the nature of Nalliyakkodan's country and the excellence of his governance.

Particularly, as depicted in Sirubanarruppadai, Nalliyakkodan is portrayed as a ruler who embodied the collective philanthropic virtues of all the Last Seven Patrons (Kadaiyezhu Vallalgal). This paper provides a detailed analysis of his philanthropic prowess, valor, character traits, and the archaeological and historical background of the Oiyma-nadu kingdom that he ruled.