Which one of the following explains the practice of ‘Vattakirutal’ as mentioned in Sangam poems? [2023]
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Which one of the following explains the practice of ‘Vattakirutal’ as mentioned in Sangam poems? [2023]
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The correct answer is: A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death. In Sangam literature, 'Vattakirutal' refers to the practice where a defeated king would commit ritual suicide by fasting to death after losing a battle, as a way to preserve his honor.
The correct answer is: A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death.
In Sangam literature, ‘Vattakirutal‘ refers to the practice where a defeated king would commit ritual suicide by fasting to death after losing a battle, as a way to preserve his honor.
See lessVattakirutal was an ancient ritual observed by South Indian rulers, particularly mentioned in Sangam literature, where a defeated king would choose to end his life through self-imposed starvation. This act was considered a way to maintain his honor and dignity after the loss in battle. Unlike ordinaRead more
Vattakirutal was an ancient ritual observed by South Indian rulers, particularly mentioned in Sangam literature, where a defeated king would choose to end his life through self-imposed starvation. This act was considered a way to maintain his honor and dignity after the loss in battle. Unlike ordinary suicide, vattakirutal was a ceremonial form of death, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for a fallen leader. The king, who had been dishonored in war, would refrain from food and water until death, and this act was
often accompanied by those loyal to him—advisors, warriors, or close companions—who also chose to die with him as a mark of their unwavering loyalty. One notable reference to this practice in Sangam literature mentions a Chera king who undertook vattakirutal after facing defeat, demonstrating the depth of this cultural and ritualistic belief in preserving royal pride through a dignified death. This practice reflects the deep sense of honor and martial valor prevalent among ancient South Indian rulers.
See lessVattakirutal was an ancient ritual observed by South Indian rulers, prominently described in Sangam literature, where a defeated king would choose to end his life through self-imposed starvation. This act was not simply viewed as suicide but as a ceremonial form of death, symbolizing the ultimate saRead more
Vattakirutal was an ancient ritual observed by South Indian rulers, prominently described in Sangam literature, where a defeated king would choose to end his life through self-imposed starvation. This act was not simply viewed as suicide but as a ceremonial form of death, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice and preserving the king’s honor and dignity after a humiliating defeat in battle. The king, dishonored in war, would refuse food and water until death, often accompanied by his closest companions—advisors, warriors, or loyal subjects—who also chose to die alongside him as a sign of their unwavering loyalty.
One notable reference to this practice is found in the case of Uthiyan Cheralathan, an early Chera king. After suffering defeat at the hands of the Chola king Karikala, Uthiyan Cheralathan, unable to bear the dishonor, is said to have performed vattakirutal. His act of ritual suicide highlights the depth of cultural belief in royal dignity and valor that was deeply ingrained in the ancient South Indian ethos. This practice reflected the ideals of leadership, loyalty, and martial pride prevalent in the kingdoms of the time, where even in death, a king sought to uphold his honor and ensure a dignified legacy.
See lessVattakirutal was a ritual in which a defeated king would take his own life through self-imposed starvation, often alongside his close companions. Sangam literature records an instance of a Chera king engaging in this solemn practice.
Vattakirutal was a ritual in which a defeated king would take his own life through self-imposed starvation, often alongside his close companions. Sangam literature records an instance of a Chera king engaging in this solemn practice.
See less