September 6, 2022 – Nandini Karky's Musings

In this episode, we perceive a portrait of a king through the dynamic depiction of his hands, as illustrated in Sangam Literary work, Puranaanooru 14, penned about the Chera King Kadunko Vaazhiyaathan by the poet Kabilar. Set in the category of ‘Paadaan Thinai’ or ‘praise of a king’, the verse brings in a nuanced contrast in its depiction of a physical feature.