POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - ECHOES OF THE WAR DRUM

ABOUT THE POEM:The poem ECHOES OF THE WAR DRUM glorifies a powerful and fearless warrior whose very presence strikes terror into his enemies. Adorned with the blessings of kings, he moves like a tiger leaping from its lair, unstoppable in battle. New warriors rise against him, overconfident in their strength and treat him as young and incompetent but he defeats them effortlessly. Not only does he rout his enemies on the battlefield, but he also pursues them into their own lands, devastating their forces and shaming their people. The poem emphasizes his unmatched courage, strength, and the overwhelming impact of his martial prowess.ECHOES OF THE WAR DRUMMy lord is onewhose very footfall bears strength.That foot gleams—adorned with garlandsplaced by bowing kings.It carries the terrorthat makes enemies tremble.Like a tiger within a cave,rising from its languor,stretching its sinews,and bursting forth toward prey,he has set out for war.Yet, scorning the iron of his heart—which no one can withstand—new warriors have risen,beating their chests, crying aloud:“We are the greatest,we are the mighty!A younger one has come to face us—today is our fortunate hunt.”They have miscounted.He will turn their backs to himand send them fleeing.Not content with routing them here,he will pursue theminto their own lands,lay them wasteuntil even their women bow in shame.To the thunder of his war-drum,he annihilates them.PURANANURU - 78POET: IDAIKKUNRUR KIZHARPATRON:PANDIYAN NEDUNCHEZHIYAN, WHO WON THE BATTLE OF THALAIYALANGANAM.