The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Citizen Kannagi

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, Jun 17, 2006

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Citizen Kannagi

This refers to the article "In praise of Citizen Kannagi" (June 16). Ilango Adigal, author of "Silappathikaram", was not a forest monk. He remained a state monk (Rajarishi) and stayed with his king-brother Cheran Senguttuvan, in whose favour he gave up his claim to the throne belying an astrologer's prophecy. Kannagi's act of burning Madurai should be viewed through the prism of the victim's turmoil and not by general standards.

Ismayil Ibrahim Liyakath,
Tirunelveli, T.N.

* * *

Great works of literature should be read in the right spirit and enjoyed accordingly. Kannagi will always be remembered for her courage in fighting for a just cause.

K. Murlidar,
Chennai

* * *

Kannagi wanted to prove her husband's innocence in the eyes of law. She knew that the death of the Pandian King would not meet the ends of justice because it was guided by emotions. Kovalan was falsely implicated in a crime by some people of Madurai, which was why she burnt the city. She also wanted to ensure that no other woman was similarly wronged. She is no doubt a role model for women.

R. Prathaban,
Pondicherry

* * *

The author's admiration for Tamil mythical/folk figures is amazing. The article bears testimony to the fact that even a common citizen can be inspired by works such as Silappathikaram.

Cecilia Abraham,
Secunderabad

* * *

The south Indian society, particularly Tamil culture, is very ancient. Its survival can be attributed in a big way to the tradition of delivering justice. The concept of justice and fair play can be traced to the glorious Sangam era, in which poet Nakkeeran told none other than Lord Shiva "even if you were to open your third eye [get angry], a mistake will remain a mistake." It is this tradition that should inspire us to set standards for ourselves.

V. Siva Sankar,
Bangalore

* * *

The article says Kannagi is a very relevant figure in the world today because she proved that it is possible for a person to fight all alone and win a case before the highest authority. It was possible for Kannagi to present her case because the Pandian King's court allowed free entry for all. He was one of the many Tamil kings who cared for the people and justice more than his safety. If the political leaders of today become accessible to the common man, the story of Kannagi will be as relevant in India as in New York.

T.S. Gopalakrishnan,
Chennai

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