POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - THE INVINCIBLE LORD OF THE FIELD

ABOUT THE POEM:The poem THE INVINCIBLE LORD OF THE FIELD is a bold and vivid praise of a mighty chieftain’s invincibility. Using a series of striking rhetorical questions drawn from nature and daily life—such as deer fleeing a roaring tiger, darkness vanishing before the sun and a powerful bull overcoming any obstacle—it builds the idea that true strength admits no resistance. In the same way, the poet declares that when this warrior enters the battlefield, no enemy can stand against him or conquer his land. The central message is clear: his power is absolute, and opposition to him is futile.THE INVINCIBLE LORD OF THE FIELDLike a broken bangle, the kantal blooms in flame,And bee-thronged flowers breathe scent along the hill;When tigers roar, do herds of deer remain the same?In sky-drunk quarters where wide heavens thrill,If the sun burns bright, can darkness linger there?Can shadow stand where blazing light must fill?Where striped sands tear, where rocks no force can spare,A burdened cart, axle-deep in crushing weight,Is there a ground the proud bull cannot dare?O lord of the Mazhavar, strong and straight—Arms firm as fortress bolts, flawless in their span,If you stride to war, who can challenge your estate?None—no warrior lives to seize your land, O man,For fear takes root before your battle cry,And breaks the will before the clash began.PURANANURU - 90POET: AVVAIYARPATRON:ADHIYAMAN NEDUMAN ANJIபுறநானூறு - 90பாடியவர்: அவ்வையார். பாடப்பட்டோன் :அதியமான் நெடுமானஞ்சி.NOTE: 1.Mazhavar were a renowned warrior community mentioned in Sangam literature. They were celebrated for their physical strength, bravery and loyalty in battle. Often associated with hill regions, the Mazhavar were known to serve powerful chieftains and kings as fierce fighters. In poetry, they are portrayed as fearless men whose presence alone could intimidate enemies symbolizing martial pride and heroic valor.2.The kantal flower (a well-known flower in Sangam poetry) is admired for its striking beauty and fragrance often found in hilly landscapes. It is sometimes compared to a broken bangle because of its curved, delicate petals.