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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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Paal Kudam or Panneer Kudam?


At first, I did not want to write this. I was afraid that some Hindu devotees including my own family members will be offended. However, I want my opinion to be heard, in a nice way.


We know that thousands of devotees offer Paal Kudam (Milk Pots) during each Thaipusam festival.

 Firstly, keep in mind that I have nothing against paal abishegam (ritual milk bath) in Hindu temples. It is not wrong at all.

 But when we do it together in a very large number, it actually matters a lot. There is a big difference between pouring just 10 litres and 100,000 litres.

 Perhaps the temple management can be the only ones who offer Paal Kudam. Probably 10 litres for ritual sake. 

 Devotees should be encouraged to bring Panneer Kudam (Rose Water Pots) instead of Paal Kudam as offerings during each Thaipusam especially in Batu Caves.

 The smell of rose water is far better than the smell of stale milk. It is also much more hygienic for the environment.

 Imagine walking into Batu Caves with a strong fragrance because of the tonnes of rose water poured.

 Think about it :)

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  1. UnknownMonday, 16 June, 2014

    Been telling this to every one I know. And I think only 1 milk bottle should be used for abishegam. The rest just collect and distribute to the tamil school for year long supply of morning milk. Isn't rose water consist of chemicals? And all this chemicals will flow into our river

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    1. US-NathanThursday, 08 January, 2015

      This is really fantastic ideology and further enhance the knowledge to educate everyone. we rather give the milk for the poor kids & families The GOD never against it and this for certain. This kind of ideologies should be part of the Tamil movie/dramas and to be viewed by our next generation to change for better.

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  2. US-NathanThursday, 08 January, 2015

    This is really fantastic ideology and further enhance the knowledge to educate everyone. We rather give the milk for the poor kids & families. Thee GOD never against it and it's for certain. This kind of ideologies should be part of the Tamil movies/dramas and this definitely will be the eye opener for next generations, if not now for the " unknown".

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