Context:
Two inscriptions along with the 800-year-old Shiva temple of the later Pandya period was unearthed in Melur, Tamil Nadu.
Pandya Inscription:
- Period: Reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandya I (Ascended in 1216 CE).
- Invaded Chola kingdom and took titles Kaliyugaraman, Adisayapandiyadevan and Sonadugondan (Conqueror of the Chola country)
- Inscription Details: Sale deed of Nagankudi waterbody, sold for 64 kasu (coins).
- Geographical Insight: Identifies Attur as the ancient name of Udampatti.
Pandya Dynasty:
- Among the 3 prominent Tamil dynasties (Cholas, Cheras, Pandyas).
- Ruled Southern India, especially Madurai and surrounding regions.
- Early Pandya kings engaged in maritime trade with Rome, Greece, and Southeast Asia.
- Maravarman Sundara Pandya I expanded the empire by defeating Cholas.
- Jatavarman Sundara Pandya (1251-1272 CE) strengthened the dynasty further.
- Patronized Tamil literature and temple architecture.
- Promoted Shaivism, but also supported Jainism & Buddhism.
- Madurai flourished as a cultural and economic hub.
- Strong trade ties with Roman Empire, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia.
- Major exports: Pearls, spices, textiles.
- Advanced water management systems ensured agricultural prosperity.
- Decline & Later Rule – Faced Delhi Sultanate invasions in the 14th century.
- Eventually weakened and fell to Vijayanagara Empire.
Source: TH
Previous Year Question
Building ‘Kalyana Mandapam’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) Chalukya
(b) Chandela
(c) Rashtrakuta
(d) Vijayanagara
Answer: (d)