Ponniyin Selvan by Kalki - Podcast

After introducing his friend to his mother & women folk in the andhapuram or women's quarters, Kandhanmaran continues showing his Kadambur Palace around to his friend Vandhiyathevan. Finally, the friends decide to watch Kuravai Koothu & Velanaatam being staged in the palace grounds. Kuravai Koothu is an ancient folk dance form performed by 7 to 9 women. It is practiced by rural women and staged in Murugan temples. It is a tribute to Lord Muruga where his valour and virtues are extolled through the song & dance. Velanaatam is a dance/drama form, where a man & a woman are dressed & made up in blood red. It is danced with lot of vigour, and, at the end the man tells some prophecies.

Vandhiyathevan goes to Kadambur palace, which belongs to the Sambuvarayars, a vassal of the Cholas. This palace plays an important role in Ponniyin Selvan as well as the history of the Cholas. Vandhiyathevan goes to meet his friend Kandhanmaran, son of Sambuvarayar. A feast is in progress & the way he gains entry itself is entertaining !

In this chapter, the story ambles along the Veera Narayana lake to enter the Vinnagara Koil, in present day Kaatumannarkoil. Azhvarkadiyan sings some beautiful pasuram here. He & Vandhithevan discuss about the possibility of staying overnight at Kadavul palace.

The scene is of a heated debate at a temple by the Veera Narayana Lake on Aadi Thirunal. Three debators - a Vaishnavite, a Saivaite & an Advaitha Vedanthist - are trying to prove that their Lord & their belief is the greatest. Of these, the Vaishnavite Aazhvarkadiyan Nambi is a colourful & important character introduced in this chapter. He plays an important role in this story which will be revealed as the novel progresses !

The opening scene of this novel is set by the huge Veera Narayana Lake on Aadi Thirunal. Vallavarayan Vandhiyathevan, the protagonist is introduced to the readers.