POEM FROM TAMIL LITERATURE - TRIUMPH WITH GRACE

ABOUT THE POEM :The poem TRIUMPH WITH GRACE is a clarion call of the Sangam-era poet Kalladanar to Nedunchezhiyan, the victorious Pandya king, after his triumph in the Battle of Thalaiyalanganam. This battle saw the Pandya ruler defeat the powerful forces of the Chola and Chera dynasties, seizing their great war drums—symbols of their military strength and authority. The imagery of the sun and the moon disappearing suggests the overwhelming dominance of Nedunchezhiyan, who eclipses his rivals just as celestial bodies fade from view.Despite the king’s resounding victory, Kalladanar urges him to show mercy. He implores the Pandya ruler to ensure that the defeated warriors are spared, preventing their wives from experiencing the devastating grief of widowhood. The poet vividly describes the potential sorrow of the vanquished soldiers' wives—their anguish manifesting in them striking their own chests and undoing their hair in mourning rituals. These poignant images emphasize the deep emotional and social consequences of war.By advocating for clemency, Kalladanar subtly conveys the values of an ideal ruler—one who is not only a fierce warrior but also a compassionate leader. True greatness, he suggests, lies not merely in conquest but in the wisdom to temper victory with humanity. The plea also reflects the classical Tamil belief that kings should uphold dharma (justice) by ensuring that war does not lead to unnecessary suffering.This poem is a fine example of Sangam poetry's ability to blend historical events with profound ethical and emotional depth, highlighting the poet’s role as both an observer of war and a guide to moral governance.TRIUMPH WITH GRACEAmidst the field where moon and sun retire, You seized the drums of Chola, Chera’s might,Their battle cries now drowned in fate’s attire. Yet mercy, lord, let sorrow not ignite, Let wives not strike their breasts in mournful pain,Nor loosen tresses veiled in widow’s plight.Let foes live on, though lost their war-torn gain, Spare not their pride but spare their fleeting breath,For victory shines in mercy’s soft refrain. Purananuru - 25Poet: Kalladanar.Patron: Patron:Nedunchezhiyan, the victor of the battle at Thalaiyalanganam.