Infographic on Pandyan Kings

Infographic on Pandyan Kings

Pandyan Kings

Pandya Dynasty: Origins and Founding

🔹 Who Founded the Pandyas?

• The exact historical founder is not definitively known due to the ancient nature of the dynasty.

• Early Sangam literature mentions Pandyas ruling from Madurai even before the Mauryan period (3rd century BCE).

• The dynasty is believed to have been founded by Kulasekara Pandya, a semi-legendary king, though he may represent a title more than an individual.
  

🌍 Geographical Location

• The Pandya kingdom was based in southern Tamil Nadu, with Madurai as its capital.

• Their domain included Korkai (ancient port), Kayalpatnam, and Thoothukudi.

📜 Historical Sources

• Sangam literature like Purananuru, Akananuru, and Maduraikkanchi.

• Accounts by foreign travelers like Megasthenes, Ptolemy, Pliny the Elder, and Marco Polo.
  

🕰️ Timeline of Rule

• Early Pandyas (Sangam Age): ~3rd century BCE to 3rd century CE.

• Medieval Pandyas (Revival Period): 7th century CE to 14th century CE.

• Post-Pandya decline: Faced invasions by the Delhi Sultanate (Malik Kafur in 1310), after which they faded.
  

👑 Notable Features

• Among the Three Crowned Kings (Moovendhars) of Tamilakam along with Cholas and Cheras.

• Prominent in trade, literature, and temple architecture.

• Known for their patronage of Tamil language, especially during the Sangam period.