This Tamil epic, written by the Jaina poet Tiruttakkadevar, narrates the adventures of a hero who excels in various arts, wins multiple brides, and ultimately renounces worldly life to become a Jaina monk. The work is known for its fantastical elements and influence from Sanskrit courtly traditions.

Which of the following Tamil literary works does this describe?
(a) Manimekalai
(b) Silappadikaram
(c) Sivaga-Sindamani
(d) Periyapuranam

Question

This Tamil epic, written by the Jaina poet Tiruttakkadevar, narrates the adventures of a hero who excels in various arts, wins multiple brides, and ultimately renounces worldly life to become a Jaina monk. The work is known for its fantastical elements and influence from Sanskrit courtly traditions.

Which of the following Tamil literary works does this describe?
(a) Manimekalai
(b) Silappadikaram
(c) Sivaga-Sindamani
(d) Periyapuranam

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

A third Tamil epic is the Sivaga-Sindamani which enumerates the exploits of the hero Sivaga or Jivaka, who excelled in every art from archery to the curing of snake-bite, and who wins a new bride only to become a Jaina monk after his many victories. The author was a Jaina named Tiruttakkadevar. His work is &lsquo;fantastic&rsquo; and lacks any contact with real life and is said to be influenced by courtly Sanskrit.

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This Tamil epic, written by the Jaina poet Tiruttakkadevar, narrates the adventures of a hero who excels in various arts, wins multiple brides, and ultimately renounces worldly life to become a Jaina monk. The work is known for its fantastical elements and influence from Sanskrit courtly traditions. Which of the following Tamil literary works does this describe? (a) Manimekalai (b) Silappadikaram (c) Sivaga-Sindamani (d) Periyapuranam