An 800-year-old Shiva temple unearthed in Tamil Nadu.

Offers insights into region's rich cultural and historical heritage.

Why in News?

An 800-year-old Shiva temple of the later Pandya period was recently discovered at Udampatti, a village in Melur taluk, Madurai district, Tamil Nadu. This significant archaeological find sheds light on the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Key Features of the Temple:

• Temple Name: The temple's original name is Thennavanisvaram, as mentioned in the inscriptions found at the site.
• Historical Period: The temple dates back to the reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandya, specifically between 1217-1218 CE.
• Architectural Style: The temple's architecture reflects the distinct style of the Pandya dynasty, featuring stone carvings and idol placements typical of that era.

About Pandyan Dynasty:

• Capital: Madurai, known for its temples and rich cultural heritage.
• Symbol: Fish.
• Rulers: Notable Pandya kings include:

• Nedunjeliyan I (180 AD): A brilliant king mentioned in Silappadikaram.
• Kadungon (590-620 AD): Ended Kalabhra rule, ushering in a new era.
• Maravarman Sundara I (1216 AD): Expanded the empire, invading Chola country and Sri Lanka.
• Jatavarman Sundara Pandya: Extended control over Sri Lanka and consolidated power.

• Administration: The kingdom was divided into valanadus, nadus, and kurrams, with a strong emphasis on local governance.
• Economy and Trade: The Pandyas were known for their maritime trade with Rome, Southeast Asia, and China, exporting pearls, ivory, and spices.

Contributions to Art, Literature, and Culture

• Tamil Literature: The Pandyas patronized Sangam poets and scholars, contributing to the development of Tamil literature.
• Architecture: Pandyan architecture includes rock-cut and structural temples, such as the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai.
• Religion: The Pandyas supported both Hinduism and Jainism, promoting religious diversity.

Decline of the Pandya Kingdom

• Internal Disputes: Succession wars and family disputes weakened the kingdom.
• External Invasions: The Cholas and Delhi Sultanate invaded the Pandya kingdom, leading to its decline.
• Loss of Territory: The kingdom eventually lost territory to the Madurai Sultanate.

Source: The Hindu