INDIAN HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The Pandyas ruled regions in southern India which now lie in the state of Tamil Nadu, existing there alongside other dynasties such as the Cholas, the Cheras, the Pallavas, etc. Their capital was Madurai from 3rd century BCE to 1345 CE. The Pandyan kings were Jains in their early ages but later became Shaivaites.

Detailed explanation-2: -Madurai, capital of Pandyas is mentioned in Kautilya’s Arthashastra (4th century BCE) as ‘Mathura of the south’.

Detailed explanation-3: -Madurai was the preferred capital by the Pandya kings. It was popularly referred to as Koodal with great respect.

Detailed explanation-4: -Thirumalai Nayak shifted his capital from to Madurai.

Detailed explanation-5: -Puhar or Kaveripattinam was an important port of the Cholas and Madurai was the capital of Pandyas.