Ponniyin Selvan is a historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy, originally published in Tamil in the 1950s. The novel is set in the Chola dynasty in the 10th century and revolves around the political intrigue, love, and betrayal within the royal court.
The story follows the journey of Vandiyadevan, a brave warrior, and his involvement in the power struggle between the Chola prince Aditya Karikalan and his scheming uncle, Sundara Chola. Along the way, Vandiyadevan encounters various other characters such as the beautiful princess Kundavai, the mysterious Nandhini, and the loyal friend and confidante of Aditya, Arulmozhi Varman.
The novel is rich in detail and beautifully portrays the historical setting of the Chola dynasty, with vivid descriptions of the architecture, customs, and traditions of the time. The characters are well-developed and each has their own motivations and complexities, making the story engaging and immersive.
Ponniyin Selvan is a captivating tale of love, loyalty, and betrayal, set against the backdrop of a fascinating historical period. The novel has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved classic in Tamil literature. Fans of historical fiction and epic sagas will surely enjoy this masterpiece.