“Parthiban Kanavu” is a historical novel by Kalki Krishnamurthy in Tamil. It was initially serialized in the Tamil magazine Kalki from 1941 to 1944 and later published as a novel in 1951.
The story is set in the 8th century CE during the rule of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II. It follows the journey of Vikraman, a young prince who is exiled from his kingdom and must find his way back to reclaim his rightful throne.
The novel is regarded as one of the finest pieces of Tamil literature. It is celebrated for its rich historical detail, engaging plot, and memorable characters.
The novel has been translated into multiple languages, including English, Telugu, and Kannada. Additionally, it has been adapted into numerous films and television series.
Here are some of the themes of the novel:
- The importance of family and loyalty
- The power of love and forgiveness
- The struggle between good and evil
- The importance of self-sacrifice
- The role of destiny in human affairs
The novel has been praised for its:
- Accurate and vivid portrayal of the Pallava era
- Compelling characters and storyline
- Beautiful and evocative language
- Exploration of important social and political themes
Parthiban Kanavu is a must-read for anyone interested in Tamil literature, history, or culture. It is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for generations.
Here’s a breakdown of some key aspects of பார்த்திபன் கனவு (Parthiban Kanavu):
Characters:
- King Parthiban: He is the Chola king with ambitions of establishing a great Chola empire. He engages in conflict with the Pallava king, Narasimhavarman II, and perishes in battle.
- Vikraman: He is the son of King Parthiban and becomes the central character of the story. Following his father’s demise, he is banished and endeavors to reclaim his rightful position.
- Narasimhavarman II: He is the formidable Pallava king who emerges victorious in the battle against Parthiban.
- Kundavi Devi: An astute and compassionate princess who plays a crucial role in Vikraman’s journey.
- Marappa Bhupathi: Vikraman’s uncle who betrays him at a pivotal juncture.
- Veerabadra Aachaari: A proficient warrior who transforms into Vikraman’s loyal friend and confidant.
Plot:
The Tamil Story depicts Vikraman’s challenges following the death of his father. He experiences exile, betrayal, and political intricacies in his quest to fulfill his father’s vision of a strong Chola empire. The narrative delves into themes of loyalty, revenge, and the ascent of a deserving successor.
Historical Setting:
The novel is set in the 8th century CE during the reign of the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II. It depicts the political and social landscape of the era, showcasing the rivalry between the Cholas and Pallavas, two prominent South Indian kingdoms. Kalki Krishnamurthy weaves historical facts with fictional characters, creating a vivid picture of this period.
