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Chola Warlords: Who Were the Paluvettaraiyars?

Ponniyin Selvan I movie poster showing actor Sarathkumar as Periya Paluvettaraiyar and actor Parthiban as Chinna Paluvettaraiyar. In 2024, Oxford University Press published  Minor Majesties: The Paluvēṭṭaraiyars and Their South Indian Kingdom of Paluvūr, 9th–11th Centuries A.D ., a groundbreaking study by historian Valerie Gillet. In the book’s opening chapter, A Tentative Biography of the Paluvettaraiyars , Gillet delves into the lineage and origins of this influential fami ly.  These Chola warlords traced their lineage to the formidable Maravars, an ancient warrior tribe renowned for their valor. However, I believe that while the Paluvettaraiyars were indeed of Maravar descent, they likely forged alliances through intermarriage with those of the Kallar and Agambadiyar clans, further solidifying their power and influence. Prominent figures in the medieval Chola era, the Paluvettaraiyars played a pivotal role in shaping the empire’s political and military landscape. Through st...
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Hanuman, Thoth and Sun Wukong


Hanuman

Most of you would have known about Hanuman, the Monkey God in the epic Ramayana. Hanuman is known for his strength, speed, ability to fly, devotion, friendship, sacrifice and loyalty. He is also known as Anjaneya, the son of Anjana.

The worship of Monkey God exist in other religions too. China has Sun Wukong, Egypt had Thoth. The names are different. But there are alot of similarities in it.

Thoth
For example, Thoth is a mediator between good and evil just like how Hanuman was for Rama and Ravana. Thoth directs the movement of the heavenly bodies, Hanuman is able to control Shani (Saturn).

Hanuman is known to be playful and prone to creating havoc. He burned the entire Lanka by jumping around after his tail was lit. Sun Wukong wrecked havoc in the Heavenly Kingdom.

There are many more things which can be compared to reveal the similarities.

Sun Wukong
I believe that whether it is about Hanuman, Thoth or Wun Wukong, it is most probably referring to the same character and events. The difference is in the manner it is being told.

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