Original subtitles

A thousand years ago

before the dawn of the golden era

a comet appeared in the Chola sky.

Emperor Sundar Chol who ruled in Tanjore

had two sons and a daughter.

His eldest son, Aditya Karikalan, the brave warrior,

defeated the Pandyas on the Sevur battlefield,

beheading their King Veerpandya.

To avenge their king’s death,

Pandyan assassins infiltrated the Chola kingdom,

vowing to destroy the Chola dynasty.

The younger prince, Arunmozhi Varman

had arrived in Lanka with his vast fleet to win that land.

Meanwhile, the tempestuous Aditya Karikalan

was leading an army to the north to conquer the Rashtrakutas.

While his father, the Emperor, lay ailing in Tanjore.

The Emperor and his two sons were in mortal danger.

In the sky the comet was baying for royal Chola blood…

Fireballs!

Attack!

Look, Malayaman has hoisted our flag! Victory!

Victory!

Victory!

Victory is ours!

Victory is ours!

Victory is ours!

Hail to Prince Aditya Karikalan!

The Chola flag flies high! Hail to Prince Aditya Karikalan!

Prince, the king of the Rashtrakutas, King Khottiga lies at your feet.

Khottiga.

I welcome a warrior’s death.

Hail to…

Go!

I will not slay another unarmed foe.

-Go! -Aditya, don’t spare me.

Do not show pity! You condemn me to a life without dignity.

Slay me!

Aditya, you’re making a grave mistake.

A wounded elephant is a tiger’s mortal enemy.

Hold this. The crown prince awaits us. Come, Semba. Let’s go.

Salutations to the Chola crown prince.

Vanthiyathevan, you have bathed So quickly?

Nice clean clothes, flowers too?

Flowers of glory. I drank…

-Drank? -No, I said my prayers.

Prayed in a temple? Or tavern?

Give me your dagger.

Prince, will you dismiss me from your army because I drank a drop?

I asked for your dagger.

You must go to Kadambur

My Prince, Parthibendran knows the Chola kingdom well,

send him there. I'll stay here with you.

On the next full moon,

an untoward event will take place at the Kadambur palace.

Our spies warn us.

Find out what they are plotting. Will you go?

From there

journey on to Tanjore and inform the emperor.

My sister Kundavai is in Pazhayarai Palace.

Tell her what you have found out.

O River Kaveri, your beautiful form. See the sky bow before you

You are like a flowing line on earth’s brow

Twisting and turning you sway

The brave set up their tents on your shores

Their horses quench their thirst in your waters

-Oh to see the River Kaveri -I must ride on

-Like a mischievous girl -I must ride on

-The sparkling dusk -The weather so fine

-Is like her silvery veil -I must ride on

-Beyond the fields -I must ride on

-Gushing waterfalls -I must ride on

-Streams upon streams -A treasure to behold

Semba!

Semba!

Where were you? I was worried.

The scenery stops my heart

-Golden crops -Shining like gold

Pebbles like pearls

My heart bids me to stay

But I must reach my journey’s end

Semba!

O River Kaveri!

Her song calls out to me

I go to kiss the land of the brave

Flying like

a quivering arrow

My friend, do not stop

Keep riding on

Oh to see the River Kaveri

Like a mischievous girl

The sparkling dusk

Like her silvery veil

O lovely one

Together with you

In my love for you

Drenched in your colours

My heart is captive How can I stay?

Who is passing?

The most powerful Chola Chieftain, Parvateshvar.

Asking such a foolish question will get you thrashed.

Semba! Be quiet.

Fool! Your brain is stuffed with straw!

If my brains are stuffed with straw, yours are full of mud.

His sacred marks look like 50 clay pots stacked on his brow.

Don’t talk of my sacred marks, or I’ll cut your tongue.

I have the power of six shastras in me. I am Alwarkkadiyan Nambi.

Six shastras? I took your belly for a mountain of sweets.

Don’t you dare talk about my belly! You garbage basket!

Oh get out of here, you fake!

All Gods are One, son.

-Really? Are they all one? -Yes!

Then the one God is Mahavishnu.

Lord Shiva is greater.

Don’t quarrel! Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are both Gods.

We are all gods. God is in you, in me, in everything.

-So God is in this staff! -Yes.

Watch God hitting another.

Ayyo, oh God!

Hey, tuft of hair. Big belly!

Then this sword is a more powerful god than your staff.

Oh God!

He's killing me. I am Mahavishnu’s fearless servant.

Fearless servant indeed!

Well, tell me now. Who is the greater god?

Shiva? Or Vishnu?

When you’re sitting on me, you’re the greatest of all.

Get up.

You seem strong and you look intelligent.

Let's settle this quarrel. Who is the supreme God? Vishnu? Or Shiva?

I politely asked both Gods the same question.

They said they were of the same height.

I even asked Brahma.

-You know what He said? -What?

"Vishnu and Shiva are the same. Those who do not believe it, must eat mud."

Stop it!

I’ll thrash you.

Oh God!

Stop!

The Protector of the Chola Dynasty!

A brave warrior who carries 64 wounds from 24 battles.

Treasurer of the Chola empire! Here comes Parvateshvar!

-He is Lord Parvateshvar. -I know.

Who is in the palanquin?

The Chieftain controls the Chola kingdom and his young wife controls him.

Her name is Nandini. She is the queen of Pazhuvoor.

Ayyo! Who took my veil!

-Catch him! -Semba!

Hey brave warrior!

Semba. Stop!

-Can I ask something? -You’re greater than Vishnu. Now go!

-Go! -It’s not that.

Who are you? From where? Where to?

Three questions. One reply. Who are you to question me?

My name is Thirumalai. Also known as Alwarkkadiyan.

I exist to spread Vishnu’s glory. I am a devoted Vaishnavite.

And I exist to serve beautiful women. I am a devotee of beauty.

So be it.

One more question. Are you going to Shambu Narayan’s palace?

Kadambur Palace? Why would I want to go there? Move aside.

A huge feast has been organized there.

Parvateshvar is on his way there.

There will be music, dance and other festivities.

I’ve always wanted to see Devaralan dance.

Semba, enough!

Take me there as your servant. I will be most obedient.

If you will not take me there,

-may I ask a favour? -What?

Will you give the lady in the palanquin a message from me?

-Your big belly has love too! -Please…

Semba, let’s go before we burst his belly.

Wait! Take me with you. Please!

Go! Make your way there!

You won’t get past the Fort gates.

Shame on you!

You disguise yourself as a holy man and tease women?

-Clear off! You with your tuft of hair. -Oh God!

Stop! Stop!

Where are you headed? Stop!

What’s your name?

Vallavarayan Vanthiyathevan from Vallam. Arayan is my title.

-He says he's Vallava…or something. -Whoever he is,

we have orders to keep the gates shut.

Your Prince Kandhamaran is my friend. We fought against the Rashtrakutas.

Thousands of soldiers fought alongside the prince.

Thousands of donkeys too.

Is this one of those donkeys?

Let go of my horse. I’m going.

This donkey has quite a temper.

Let go!

He barged in as if he was the prince!

Semba, charge!

Look!

Burn, burn, burn! Burn it!

Kandhamaran. Kandhamaran!

You invited me! Where are you?

Step back!

Burn, burn, burn! Burn it!

Kandhamaran! Where are you?

Kandhamaran!

Destroy, destroy, destroy! Destroy it!

Kandhamaran!

Vanthiyathevan, is that you?

Now it’s bound to rain in Kadambur.

-Welcome! -At last!

Oppressors must not be spared. Slay the oppressors!

Oppressors must not be spared

Was he not making trouble at the gates?

Rise, rise, riseup. This is war!

Flow, flow, flow. Let blood flow!

-Who is he? -A friend.

Vanthiyathevan. A Vanar Clan prince.

The Vanar Clan? In whose army do you fight?

I fought alongside the crown prince in the Rashtrakuta war.

But I am no longer in his army. I am here, before you.

They say you have sixty-four battle scars.

Don’t you believe it? Want to count them?

I grew up counting tales of your bravery.

You have a way with words. Go, watch Devaralan dance.

O God of Gods!

O Lord Murugan!

You are the Lord of Weapons

The Writer of Sacred Texts

We live under Your protection

We fight with Your weapons

You are the King of Kings

We are nourished by Your compassion

Will the rain fall again?

Will our land be bountiful again?

Will this kingdom prosper again?

Will our hopes be fulfilled again?

Forge ahead, fight, live! Live, fight, forge ahead!

With all your might let it pour

Forge ahead, fight, live! Live, fight, forge ahead!

With all your might let it pour

Let the conch shell blow. Your strength will multiply

Sacrifice royal blood to defeat your enemy

If the Goddess seeks sacrifice, spill blood as sacrifice

If She demands the crown, lay it before Her

If She wants a young head, lay it before Her

The cobra spreads its hood. The raven cries a shrill cry

Spill blood as sacrifice. If She demands a crown

Spill blood as sacrifice. Sacrifice a young head

Spill blood as sacrifice. Sacrifice a young head

If She demands the crown, lay it before Her

Offer a sacrifice!

How did Sundar Chol become emperor?

Kandar Aditya had the right to be emperor twenty-four years ago.

But that did not happen.

So his nephew Sundar Chol ascended to the throne.

It was not his birthright. We made Sundar Chol emperor.

We placed the crown on his head.

Because Kandar Aditya’s son Madhurantakan was a child then,

so we left the Chola kingdom in Sundar Chol’s care in the meantime.

But when Madhurantakan came of age, he had the right to the throne.

Instead, Sundar Chol

anointed his eldest son, Karikalan, the crown prince.

By then Madhurantan had come of age.

No one asked him if he desired the throne.

Sundar Chol did not seek our advice either. Was anyone consulted?

He did consult someone.

He consulted Sembiyan Maadevi and Kundavai Devi.

He did not consult us Chola Chieftains.

Instead, he asked the women in his palace.

-You find it amusing? -Pardon me.

Something is concerning me, and others share my concern.

What is it?

If he’s blamed for consulting women, the same can be said of you.

We hear you consult your young wife about everything.

Vinayak, stop! Who dare you accuse?

I do not accuse falsely, but when we speak of political matters,

why must your queen be present?

Your question is fair. I am honour bound to answer.

Can you wait till our deliberation is over?

Parvateshvar, so what do we decide?

Should Kandar Aditya's son, Madhurantakan, be emperor?

Or the grandson of Kandar Aditya's younger brother?

What does the Chola land dictate?

Kandar Aditya was the elder of the two brothers,

-so Madhurantakan must be emperor. -Will Sundar Chol agree?

If we all agree, I shall convince him.

What about Madhurantakan? I hear the throne does not interest him.

-He is a fervent Shiva devotee. -You shall soon see.

Vinayak, let me now address your accusation.

Prince, will you kindly step out?

The Chieftains who wish to make you emperor await you.

Prince, it is you?

Prince Madhurantakan Devar!

Long live Prince Madhurantakan.

Long live the Prince!

Prince, was it you in the palanquin all this while?

Do you grace my humble abode?

Yes. I am Kandar Aditya's son.

I have a right to the Chola throne.

I seek all your help.

You are my only support

Hey, Vaishnavan!

-Alwarkkadiyan! -Hurry! Row!

Let this rogue take the next boat.

Nambi, stop!

Hold the reins.

You there, big belly!

Mind your tongue!

But you responded when I called you “big belly”.

Wait! I’m coming.

Start rowing!

Where are you going?

To enjoy eating malpuas at the Srirangam temple. What’s it to you?

How did you scale those high walls? If you had fallen, you would’ve

-cracked open like a pumpkin. -Scaling high walls? Who, me?

Nambi, if you don’t want to drown in the river, out with the truth.

You play the devotee with your sacred markings?

- Props of an actor? -Blasphemy!

I’m a devotee of the Azhwars.

Nambi, the Kaveri is full of crocodiles.

They love malpua-eating Vaishnavas. Shall I throw you in?

If you hurt me, Mahavishnu will not spare you.

Crocodile, crocodile!

Why did you scale the Fort walls?

The Fort walls? Who? Me?

Really?

Wait. I'll tell you why. I was looking for you.

For me?

They refused to let me in and I cannot wield a sword.

If I sang devotional songs, they’d have burst my belly open.

So I had to scale the walls to watch Devaralan dance.

Did you see the dance?

I saw nothing. Only Devaralan’s bottom.

Some men were performing a ritual.

They drew their swords and took… What was really going on?

-So you heard nothing? -No. Did you hear anything?

Never mind.

How are you related to the palanquin lady?

Why send her a letter?

Oh that letter? A tiny letter!

The truth!

You’ll turn me into a fish if you keep drowning me.

In Pazhayarai, we lived next to the Purohit Ramanand's house.

One day he found a baby at his doorstep.

He called this child "Nandini".

She was like a sister to me.

I hoped Nandini would grow up to become a Vaishnavaite.

Suddenly, she was gone, disappeared into the night.

When I saw her again, she was the Lord Parvateshvar’s wife.

I could not talk to her.

That’s why I wanted to send her a message.

What message?

"Lord Krishna is waiting for you."

Semba, there goes Madhurantakan!

Do you wish to see the prince?

Why? We must never miss a good opportunity.

Move! My horse is blind.

Prince, your men are manhandling my horse.

-Prince, save us! -Arrest Him!

Who are you?

Speak up! Who are you?

Pardon me. Are you the Chieftain’s queen?

Tell me the truth.

Why did you charge into my palanquin?

Let go, brother.

Forgive me, Devi.

Alwarkkadiyan, who claims to be your brother,

has sent you a message.

-Are you his servant? -No, Devi.

I am Aditya Karikalan’s friend. He bid me go to Tanjore.

Karikalan?

Yes. I fought alongside him.

Very well.

We must not talk now. There may be spies amongst my palanquin bearers.

Come to my palace tomorrow.

Show them my Signet Ring. They’ll let you in.

Semba!

What a majestic Fort! We'll build one just like it in Vallam.

-You dare mention Parvateshvar! -Are you a Pandyan spy?

- Who took my dhoti? -Semba!

You fool! Not again! Don’t show me your face. Go!

Don’t you dare follow me.

Do you wish to get to heaven from the guards trampling you?

No one can question the Velakara guards.

Aren't they Sundar Chol’s personal bodyguards?

They're Parvateshvar’s puppets now.

Last week a boy got into trouble for saying that. He is dead now.

-Who are you? -The temple flower-man. Sendhan Amudhan.

Can you take me to the emperor?

Come eat at the temple, and sleep.

Who are you to meet the Emperor? The Pandya King?

-What is this scroll for? -I write poems.

Have you any ink?

I want to rewrite Chola history. I must hurry before the gates close.

-You can’t go inside. -I bet on my horse Semba.

If I come back, I’ll reclaim Semba. If I don’t, you keep him.

Using a wager so I’d look after your horse. Cunning!

I live near the temple. What's your name?

My Commander,

I am innocent.

-Your name? -Kalidas.

I did not utter Parvateshvar's name.

I was talking about a mountain, a parvat.

-Are you the Pandyan spy? -No. You’re mistaken.

Commander!

He tried to enter by showing us the Signet Ring.

Let go! Commander, I come from Kanchi.

The crown prince has sent a message for the emperor.

This scroll is for the emperor.

The other is for Princess Kundavai.

There’s nothing of significance in it. I’ll give it to the emperor.

No. I was asked to hand it over in person.

Don’t you trust me? Or did the crown prince insist you do it?

No, it was your brother, Parvateshvar, who insisted.

You met my brother? Where?

-At Kadambur Palace. -Kadambur?

He gave me this Ring.

-Why didn’t you say so? -No one let me speak.

Take him to the emperor.

Commander, the Ring...

Vanquisher of the Pandyas, Cheras and Lanka, may the emperor live forever!

Who are you?

My Queen! I am Vallavarayan Vanthiyathevan.

Prince Aditya Karikalan’s friend. He sent me here.

Karikalan has built a golden palace in Kanchi.

-He wants you to visit. -Forgive me, Your Highness.

The scroll was written by me. A pretext to meet you.

The crown prince sent me here.

-How do I know you are his messenger? -I wondered that too.

He said, "The emperor will recognise my messenger.”

He sent me to Kadambur and tell you what I heard there.

Kadambur?

Your Highness, the Chola Dynasty is in great danger.

Those who swore to protect it, now conspire to destroy it.

-Who plots? What do you mean? -My Queen.

The Chieftains met at Kadambur Palace under Parvateshvar's leadership

and plotted to overthrow the throne.

That is why the crown prince sent me there to spy.

Why didn’t you inform Karikalan at once?

He ordered me to first inform the emperor of any danger,

then inform Princess Kundavai.

Did you really fight alongside my son?

Yes, Your Highness.

It my good fortune to fight alongside him in the Rashtrakuta war.

Did you use this sword?

No, Your Highness. This sword belongs to the crown prince.

When he sent me here, he exchanged his sword for my dagger.

-This sword... -...was forged in my armoury.

I gifted it to him.

He gave it to you as a sign.

Your Highness, come to Kanchi with me. You are in grave danger...

I am in grave danger, Your Highness.

I seek your help.

I am the sole survivor of the great Vanar Clan.

Please return my kingdom to me.

Forgive me, Your Highness. He was allowed in by mistake.

Commander, he is Aditya’s friend. He invites me to Kanchi.

The Commander has read the message.

I will reply tomorrow.

He is our guest.

Commander, take good care of him.

I shall indeed!

Your Highness, I must return the sword.

Thank you, my Queen.

So, where is my palace?

-You’ll see it soon. -It’s beautiful.

You’ll sleep soundly. Meals served on time.

Let me have a look around first.

Who will face the Commander? We’ll be dead if we let you go.

Follow me.

If this palace doesn’t please you, there’s another underground.

Is that Velkarar’s army?

-Yes. -Splendid procession!

Don't let him escape.

Catch him!

There he goes!

Forgive me, Devi.

-Can you take me to Pazhayarai? -Thief! Thief!

Move!

Watch out!

Don’t be scared. I am a Prince!

-Mother, is that buttermilk? -Yes, son.

Give me some.

Here.

To think I jumped over Fort walls for buttermilk!

How much?

It’s free.

It’s a gift from Queen Sembiyan Maadevi.

Free? God bless her!

There’s the spy. Catch him!

Catch him!

Don't let him escape.

This is the crown Prince's sword. I must return it.

He has nine lives.

Oh God!

Climb!

Careful.

-What are you staring at? -Is that really you?

Yes, it’s me. Who else could I be? Careful, we may be seen.

Last time you had a big moustache.

You’re so clever.

I’ll come bald the next time. Someone might see us.

-Hurry. Devi is waiting for you. -I’ll follow you.

Oh, beauties!

Whose beautiful palace is this?

Devi, the Sorcerer’s assistant is here.

You?

Yes, me.

What sorcery allowed you inside at this hour?

No sorcery. I climbed up a rope ladder.

If you had showed them my Ring, they would’ve let you in.

Why enter like a thief?

I was escaping the Commander's soldiers and I saw the rope ladder.

You mean Chhote Parvateshvar?

Is he not in charge here? I showed him your Ring.

Don’t worry. I didn’t mention you.

I said Parvateshvar gave it to me in Kadambur.

But he did not believe me.

-Where is the Ring? -I have kept it safely.

I would not lose a Ring given to me by you.

You said Karikalan sent a message.

It was Alwarkkadiyan. He said he was like a brother to you.

-He sent the message. -What message?

He said: "Lord Krishna is waiting for you."

I lost the right of becoming a devotee ages ago.

I do not believe that.

Why not?

If Lord Krishna saw you,

would He not abandon Bhama and Rukmini?

And forget His 16,000 wives.

Men often praise me to my face.

If you turn your back to me, I’d praise you even more.

Enough! You certainly know how to charm.

-Now you're praising me. -Then turn your back to me.

I never turn my back in war or before a woman. I stand fearless.

You can praise me to my face.

You are indeed a true magician!

The protector of the Chola dynasty.

A brave warrior who carries 64 wounds from 24 battles.

The Treasurer! Parvateshvar has arrived in Tanjore.

Why so worried, brother?

Vallavarayan Vanthiyathevan came from Kanchi

with a message for the emperor.

How did he get in?

He showed us the Signet Ring you gave him in Kadambur.

I did not give it to him. So what was the message?

Only an invitation for the emperor to visit Kanchi.

I overheard the messenger warn him of danger.

Where is this messenger? Bring him here.

We held him prisoner,

but he escaped. We're looking for him.

He cannot have gone far.

Why did I make you the Fort Commander? Any fool can dupe you.

Shame on you!

Keep the door open.

The Pazhuvur lord is coming.

-You did not tell me your name. -It’s Vanthiyathevan.

-My title is Vallavarayan. -And your kingdom?

The sky above, the earth below.

You can win your kingdom back.

It is not impossible.

Devi, I have no interest in ruling.

He had your Signet Ring. That’s how he gained entry.

I gave it to no one.

How did he get it? Who gave it to him?

-Who do you suspect? -Your dear wife.

Mind your tongue or I’ll cut it off!

No!

-Get rid of her. -Silence!

Do me a favour.

I give my life for beautiful women. For you, I’d die many times over.

But now I must go to Pazhayarai.

I have a scroll for the Chola Princess Kundavai.

What scroll?

I can help you escape from the Fort.

On one condition.

The reply the Princess gives to this scroll

must be brought to me. Understand?

Devi, it could be dangerous.

You will be rewarded.

And rewarded way beyond your wildest dreams.

As you command.

This secret passage will lead outside.

You’ll pass a treasure chamber.

Do not let the treasures there tempt you.

I stand before a shining treasure.

Are you dazzled?

A little.

Who are you?

Salutations to the Pazhuvur lord!

Where is my queen?

Where is Nandini?

Where is the Signet Ring?

-Have you lost it? -Is that what brings you here?

Did you not come to see me?

-Who are you? -The Sorcerer!

How do you know me?

You’re a Sorcerer and so am I.

See? The Signet Ring.

Let go! Someone’s coming.

Do you know the Ring's value? A spy has stolen it.

He did not steal it. I gave it to that soldier.

He is a spy, not a soldier.

I knew he was a spy, so I asked him to come here.

I met him near Tanjore.

I realised he was a spy, so I asked him to come here.

Must we not know who he works for?

Or why he was heading here?

He is Karikalan’s spy.

How did your brother guess?

Wasn't it my Ring that made him suspicious?

Yes, but he let him escape.

Does the Commander know where he is going now?

To see Kundavai in Pazhayarai.

Whatever is her reply will be brought to us.

Did I do wrong?

My eyes see only your beauty.

Your beauty veils your intelligence. I am helpless.

Madhurantakan is on his way.

Salutations to the Pazhuvur lord and Nandini Devi.

Welcome!

You no longer need to enter through the secret passage.

You shall soon enter as emperor, astride the royal elephant.

If Shiva wills it.

Ravidas.

You’ve forgotten the promise you made to King Veerpandya,

and the oath we took to avenge our king’s death.

Those wounds still burn in me.

I forget nothing.

Stop this play-acting! It is our duty to destroy the Cholas.

Have you been swayed by luxury since becoming the Pazhuvur queen?

Yes.

I have been won over.

Will you behead me?

Kani.

Here are the Lanka coins you asked for.

Go to Lanka and bring me the young Prince’s head.

May Goddess Kottravai be aware of this

May Goddess Kottravai be aware of the dead king's wrath

May the Pandyas’s bravery be known, and Your feet be washed with Chola blood

The Pandyan kingdom is where the Pandyan Emperor lives.

This forest is Madurai to us.

Behold Amarabujanga Pandiyan, son of Veerpandya.

He graces the Pandyan throne.

Beautiful dark-skinned Goddess Kali

Goddess of the waves, mountains, the arts. Hail Kali!

Let us pledge our lives.

Red-blooded Goddess Kali. Grace us with victory, Goddess Kali!

We pledge our lives to the Pandya flag!

We pledge our lives to the Pandya flag!

We pledge our lives to the Pandyan emperor!

We pledge our lives to the Pandya emperor!

For killing our beloved King Veerpandya,

we will sever the head of the Chola Prince Aditya Karikalan.

Revenge!

Death to his brother Arunmozhi Varman!

Death to the Chola Emperor Sundar Chol!

We’ll offer their blood to Kottravai.

We will! We will!

-Are you the spy? -Hush!

I am the crown prince’s friend. That’s why Parvateshvar is after me.

I must go to Pazhayarai at once. But I do not know the way.

-Come with me. -Me?

-Who will conduct the temple prayers? -Prayers!

I must meet Princess Kundavai.

If you do not come with me, and I’m caught,

you’d be responsible for my death.

I will come back as a ghost and drink your blood.

Very well.

“Attention! A spy has escaped from Tanjore.

“If you see anyone acting suspiciously,

“alert the soldiers.

“The emperor’s command.”

Your mind is in peril.

I’ve come to awaken your good sense

Your mind is in peril.

I’ve come to awaken your good sense

O Demon uncle! O Sun of the night

Laughter not fury rises from you

It seems you have lost your mind

O Demon uncle! O Sun of the night

Laughter not fury rises from you

It seems you have lost your mind

Brave. Braver. Bravest is my Uncle

His arms are as strong as banyan roots

-Salutations to Kundavai Devi. -Sendhan, what brings you here?

I heard the announcement. Are they looking for you?

Princess, I’m a poor temple flower-man. Who’d look for me?

-They’re looking for a spy. -A spy?

I met a man in Tanjore. Maybe it was him.

He was cunning. He stormed in and met the emperor.

I am a storm. A raging storm

There’s no one to match my might

No god, no power, no force, no devotion can defeat me

I am Kamsa. I am unique

O small child!

I have won all the worlds, seas and mountains too

There’s no king like me. No, no, no

Not here, not there, or anywhere There’s no one to match my might

I am a wicked sorcerer. Everyone agrees with me!

I ride on the wind. I wear the mark of the sun

All the elements are my slaves

Here’s a pill of wisdom! Take it, dear Uncle

My heart is still a child. Have some shame! Why must you scare me so?

What did this spy look like?

Like a spy.

He claimed to be the crown prince’s friend.

Sometimes he disguises himself as the demon Kans.

Kans?

He insisted that he must see you alone.

If you see the spy again…

Should I hand him in and collect my reward?

No, bring him to me. I have a task for him.

O Uncle!

O Uncle!

O Demon Uncle. Dance away!

O Demon Uncle. Dance away!

O Uncle!

Sister!

Boatman, careful.

Water and I don’t get on. Careful!

King Kans, you said you wanted to see me alone?

Sendhan Amudhan told me.

Kans will answer. But who are you?

Who did you want to meet?

The Chola emperor’s daughter, Karikalan’s younger sister.

Arunmozhi Varman’s older sister.

The illustrious Chola Princess Kundavai Devi.

I am the one to bear all these titles.

Kans, the King of fires, has a fear of water?

Kans? Scared?

Demons don’t swim in water.

We swim in a sea of flames.

I'm just playing the part of Kans!

Princess!

What a transformation! From demon to spy.

I had no choice. Parvateshvar is after my blood.

And a fake Vaishnavan Nambi follows me everywhere.

Why were you looking for me?

Devi, Karikalan sent me to Kadambur A secret meeting took place there.

Prince Madhurantakan was taken there in Nandini Devi’s palanquin.

I have only one question.

Did Madhurantakan agree to the conspiracy?

Yes. He wishes to be emperor.

The lust for power surpasses the lust for beauty.

Very well. Where is my brother’s message? Do you have it?

Yes, Devi. I wrote the message myself. Coming empty-handed did not seem right.

Show it to me.

"This messenger is a great warrior..."

Such modesty!

Books say modesty must not dwarf truth.

What book? The one you're writing?

Yes, Devi.

In the war against the Rashtrakutas, did you not fight alongside my brother?

Shoulder to shoulder. I killed over a thousand soldiers.

All right. A hundred? About fifty?

I cannot lower the number, or my bravery will be in doubt.

So shall I send you on a mission, befitting a brave warrior?

Is that my reward?

After all, you are a brave warrior and have slain over 50 soldiers.

That is true. I await your command.

You will go to Lanka.

Find my brother Arunmozhi and bring him to me. Can you do that?

I will seek the Lord of Death, if you command me.

Really?

I swear on you.

Very well. I command you to jump into this river.

Not the river, Devi.

You’ll have the message for my brother before you go.

But the crown prince is waiting for me.

I shall let him know. He’ll wait for you.

And so will I.

There’s a big reward on your head. Mind you don’t lose it!

My life belongs to you, Devi.

I will stay alive to fulfil your mission.

King Kans!

Do me a favour.

When Lord Krishna Himself asks, can Kans refuse?

Will you give Ponniyin Selvan a message from me?

Certainly!

Let’s go!

Salutations, Prince.

Salutations, mother.

My child, is what I hear true?

What have you heard?

-That you wish to ascend to the throne. -Mother, the throne belongs to me.

To you? Who told you that?

Your father gave it to Sundar Chol.

I want it back.

You’ll take back what was given by your father?

You raised me as a Shiva devotee against my wishes.

I am not a Shiva devotee. I am a king.

I was not born to be a devotee.

The Chola throne belongs to me.

I am the elder.

My son, you do not know how to rule.

Karikalan and Arunmozhi are great warriors,

while you can barely wield a sword.

Mother, I have the support of many great Chieftains.

They have vowed to back me.

I am your mother. You cannot have the throne without my consent.

Your father wished you to live as a Shiva devotee.

You cannot stand against the Emperor.

What kind of mother are you?

You stand by those who want to snatch my kingdom from me?

But I will not surrender my rights to the throne.

Even if my dead father were to ask me.

Here, have these prayer beads!

Break it down!

Break it down!

Charge!

Charge!

Victory! Victory!

Aditya, now we can go home.

No! We shall defeat the Kalingas next.

Your kingdom is in danger.

Karikalan, anything can happen at any time.

Your father, your brother and you are in danger.

There is a plot afoot to overthrow the throne.

That's why I sent Vanthiyathevan to Kundavai. She’ll take care of things.

Aditya, your sister is skilled in politics,

but she lacks experience.

Victory is ours!

Do not underestimate Parvateshvar.

This Chieftain is like a fierce lion.

An old toothless and clawless lion.

Do not misjudge an old man who marries a young woman.

Especially one with poison in her blood.

Karikalan, you are the Chola crown prince.

You must protect Tanjore. You are duty-bound.

-The kingdom is your responsibility. -Enough!

I will not set foot in Tanjore.

You and your brother must protect the emperor.

Stop!

Enough, Grandfather!

Why such anger?

Anger?

Who is angry?

Prince, I’ve noticed you get angry whenever she is mentioned.

So you know! So?

Forget her. That's the only way.

Forget her?

I must first cut my heart out.

She was mine from childhood.

She is Parvateshvar’s wife. Desiring another man's wife is a sin.

Parthibendran.

She married that old man... because of me.

When she folded her hands,

they looked like a lovely lotus.

She was as delicate as a flower.

A pure white flower.

I was the crown prince. She was

a singer at the temple.

The entire royal Chola family turned against us.

My father warned me. But I did not listen to anyone.

Then one day,

she disappeared.

Nandini!

A man dies many times in a lifetime.

That was my first death.

Then I saw her again.

Many years had passed.

We were waging war against the Pandyan emperor.

Veerpandyan had fled the battlefield.

We hunted him in mountains and forests.

I found him inside a small hut.

That day

I died for the second time.

I became a walking corpse.

This wine, song, blood, war!

Everything I do is a struggle to forget.

Forget her, forget myself.

Everything I do is a struggle to forget.

Tiger flag, war flag. Our flag flies high.

Let us touch the sky with heads held high

See the flag fluttering in the wind

A warrior comes from every home

We celebrate the glory of martydom

We salute the brave!

Sometimes we rise or fall, lost on the battlefield

We paint ourselves in victory’s colour

All heads bow before you Chola, Chola!

Let me lay down the world at your feet

I will moisten the land with my blood

Protect this paradise from all

But this drunk lover sways

Calls out to you, O beloved

I will moisten the land with my blood

Protect this paradise from all

But this drunk lover sways

Calls out to you, O beloved

O beauty

Your eyes have pierced through me

I feel the open wounds

The scars of war have all healed But my heart still lies broken

Love is intoxicating. Drink the nectar of love

Stay steady and firm

Never let your sword fall

Tiger! Do not falter

Inebriated we fly

on the wings of victory

Driven by myriad desires and passions

I dreamt of a land

Made from destroying our enemies

We made Death dance for us

We forgave those who bowed before us

Those who lay down their weapons were forgiven

Those who surrendered were allowed to go free

This is the way of Chola life. We live and swear by it

From the earth to the sky

Sing praise of its glory

Let us touch the sky with heads held high

See the flag fluttering in the wind

A warrior comes from every home

We celebrate the glory of martydom

See the flag fluttering in the wind

A warrior comes from every home

I beg you.

Spare his life.

Nandini.

No!

No!

Charge!

Wait! Wait!

Charge!

Attack!

Make sure the prince is protected!

Victory is ours!

He has arrived.

The Vaithulya Bikshu Sangam salutes the Chola Prince.

Master, you invited me, so here I am.

A comet was seen in the sky.

We have consulted ancient texts to find its means.

A great king like Emperor Ashoka has risen among us.

You display all the signs of such a king.

The Maha Bodhi Sangam invites you to be Lanka’s emperor.

This is the throne where sat Ashoka’s successors.

All the kings of this island are first anointed to this throne.

We ask you

to kindly accept this crown.

Justice must prevail and Lord Buddha’s wisdom must rule.

This can take place in your reign. Accept the crown!

Accept the throne!

Accept the throne!

Master,

I shall bear arms only for the Chola kingdom.

As defender of the Chola kingdom and servant of its people,

I cannot accept another crown.

I cannot defy my father’s orders.

I cannot accept, even if God or you bid me, Master.

I seek your blessings.

One who bows low is destined to rise high to the sky.

May you live forever. May all your wishes come true!

Wait.

Let her come to us.

-Prime Minister. -Princess.

Is all well? Has the emperor’s health improved?

Chinese physicians are treating him. He recovers well, my princess.

What concerns the people these days?

They ask why the emperor’s daughter is still unmarried.

What did you say?

That a noble prince worthy of the princess is yet to be born.

By the time he is born and of marriageable age,

I shall be an old woman.

Her shadow shines like the moonlight

Her shadow clashing with the roar of thunder

Two rival shadows of nature

O Eternity! Can these shadows co-exist?

Welcome, Princess!

Your arrival has turned this palace into a place of beauty.

I hear the palace contains all the world’s beauty.

You’re right. But beauty is in captivity here.

Captivity?

I thought you were given a golden throne.

Yes, but the gold has aged.

Faded gold is the most precious.

Gold shackles are still shackles. Are they not?

But the key is in our hands.

Can anyone ever outwit the princess?

Welcome.

Father, our enemies are amidst us.

They want to replace Aditya Karikalan and Arunmozhi with another.

Karikalan’s warrior friend said the same thing.

Who is conspiring against us?

Who do they wish to crown?

Your cousin, Prince Madhurantakan.

This decision was taken by Parvateshvar

and the other Chieftains at Kadambur Palace.

I cannot believe it.

Parvateshvar raised me with much affection.

But he is not the same.

The Chieftains have come to Tanjore in secret?

Did you know?

They meet in the palace to plot against you.

Where does it lead to?

Wonderful!

Please come.

-Welcome! -My respects to Parvateshvar!

Welcome!

Meeting in secret like thieves is not right.

What if we are seen?

Chote Parvateshvar,

do you not want Madhurantakan to be our next emperor?

Your presence makes it legitimate, Commander.

Princess Kundavai has asked Aditya Karikalan to return to Tanjore.

-He will come with a large army. -We must act before he arrives.

We shall tell Sundara Chol

to hand over the throne at once.

We’ll spread a rumour that the two Princes march towards Tanjore

to challenge their own father.

Sister, are we meeting Nandini Devi?

No. We shall meet the conspiring Chieftains.

To imprison them?

-No. To unsettle their plans. -How?

Through you!

Prince Madhurantakan must be crowned without delay.

It must be done before Aditya Karikalan arrives.

-We’ll inform the emperor tomorrow. -We Chieftains have decided.

If the Princes join forces,

our plans will be ruined.

What is that?

-Princess Kundavai Devi is on her way. -She is here.

- Kundavai Devi is coming. - The Princess? Here?

Remain seated.

What is there to fear?

Can the Chieftains not wish to meet me, the Treasurer?

Her shadow shines like the moonlight

Her shadow clashing with the roar of thunder

Two rival shadows of nature

O Eternity! Can these shadows co-exist?

May I come in? Or do I offer my respects from here?

The Princess is here unannounced.

There must be something important.

Please come.

Welcome, Devi.

My respects to you.

It’s rare seeing you two brothers together.

My respects to the Chieftains.

I was passing by when I heard you were all gathered here.

So I thought I’d pay my respects.

We came here to meet you, Princess.

But we decided to first discuss tax matters with the Treasurer.

That’s what brings me here, too. We must lower certain taxes.

Why?

Princes Aditya Karikalan and Arunmozhi

are to marry soon.

The princes are to marry?

-Yes. They are of marriageable age. -And their brides?

We need not look very far.

You all have daughters.

There’s Manimeghalai, your daughter.

Chhote Velaar’s daughter, Vanathi, is standing outside.

Vinayak-ji, your daughter's name is Madhavi, right?

My granddaughter is Tanishka.

My daughter is Thamarai.

There is no lack of brave women in our kingdom.

Let us see whose horoscopes match those of the princes.

Is that not the custom?

Do not worry. Arunmozhi is yours.

There must be an uproar by now.

“Commander, what is going on?

“Your grand plans have been thwarted by a young girl.”

That wily Kundavai! Must she always interfere?

No one in the Chola kingdom is more cunning than she.

Get away!

Aditya Karikalan may arrive with his army at any moment.

Kundavai has sent a spy to bring Arunmozhi back.

If the two brothers return

they will split the Tanjore Fort into two.

They will kill the emperor and say it was your doing.

People will say it was out of your desire for the throne.

Let them come.

I will deal with them. Have I not waged countless wars?

Is a conflict within the Chola kingdom a good thing?

It’ll give our enemies a chance to enslave us. It will be the end of the kingdom.

And the blame will fall on me.

There is only one way to stop it.

We must stop Arunmozhi and Karikalan from joining forces.

We must let Arunmozhi come here alone.

If the younger brother is inside the fort, the elder brother will not attack.

I have a suggestion.

If you permit, may I share it?

Hey, boat girl!

Poornima!

Are you playing with me?

I'll lose my temper.

Samudra Kumari!

Poornima!

In the embrace of a shell drops turn into pearls

In the embrace of a black lamp light turns bright

The eyes can tell a thousand tales

Have you any salt?

Salt? Take it from the sea.

The tinkling of the night stirs the moon to dance

These are love’s myriad secrets. Understand it as you will

Feelings unfurl in words. Understand it as you will

Poornima.

Is Sendhan Amudhan your lover?

Did that silly flower-man say that?

If he said that to my face, I’d throw him into the sea.

So, you’re not planning to marry him?

Why?

Sendhan Amudhan is my friend. I cannot betray his trust, but…

But?

Do I stand a chance then?

What are you doing? Put that away!

Do your work. I'll sleep.

-Is this the Lankan shore? -Yes.

-What do you want? -Can you give me what I want?

Certainly.

I don’t believe promises that men make.

I swear on the sea,

the sky, the earth and the ten directions, I’ll keep my word.

-Are you meeting Ponniyin Selvan? -Yes.

Ask him…

if he remembers Samudra Kumari.

Is that your secret?

So your song was for him!

Even if he does not ask about you, I will remind him.

Poornima, I’ve looked everywhere for you. Where were you?

Kamal Nayan brother! What news?

I’ve found a rich passenger He’ll pay well.

I need money now.

Why?

-For the wedding. -Whose wedding?

Your daughter’s? You didn’t tell me.

Girl, you don’t see my true value.

I mean our wedding.

In your dreams! Why save money for empty dreams?

Why have they come here?

To find tiger-claws and elephant tail hairs for the emperor. Medicinal herbs.

We must gather all our rebels in Dambulla.

Our mission is to kill Arunmozhi, come what may.

Aadhan Maran, Soman and I will look for the prince.

Varaguna, you look for King Mahindan of Lanka.

I will find the prince.

I will kill him.

No! You will ruin our mission.

What have you ever done right?

Ravidas, stop!

I’ve never hesitated in taking a life, or giving mine.

But the timing must be right.

I’ll wait here.

I cannot enter without the the emperor’s bidding.

It’s difficult to meet Parvateshvar these days.

Your Highness, I am your servant.

Until you are well,

your physicians have advised us not to trouble you.

What if I never recover? Does that mean I cannot see my friends?

Your Highness, we are here to obey your command.

Is it true what I hear

that Madhurantakan wishes to sit on the Chola throne?

I also hear the Chola Chieftains

have chosen him as the next emperor.

Your Highness...

I do not care who plots against me, but my word will remain law.

Your Highness, I must speak the truth.

Your sons compete with one another for the throne.

Arunmozhi covets my crown? Who claims this?

It may be lies.

-People are talking... -Did you not cut out their tongues?

You can stop these rumours, if you asked your sons to come here.

Let Arunmozhi declare his brother is the next emperor.

It’ll end all rumours.

True.

We’ve invited Karikalan to Tanjore many times, but he refuses to come.

Our messages do not reach Arunmozhi. Periya Velaar stops them.

How do we make sure the princes come back here?

We must invite Arunmozhi.

We’ll send him a message in your name.

But if he still refuses, he’ll be arrested and imprisoned.

-Imprisoned? The prince? -A mere threat.

Imprison him? On what grounds?

The monks of Lanka offered their crown to Arunmozhi.

He refused it. He did not have the right to do so.

That crown belongs to the Chola kingdom.

He owes the emperor an explanation.

If he still refuses, he shall be imprisoned.

Then he’ll be condemned for defying his own father.

He’s accused of that already, my queen.

Very well.

Prepare my command.

How can a father imprison his own son?

How is that possible? And in our rule?

It is my body that is ailing, not my mind.

Why do this then?

I want Parvateshvar to bring Arunmozhi here safely. That’s all I want.

Let them believe they’ve won.

Once my sons arrive, I will deal with them all.

Kundavai, go to Nulambapadi and bring Karikalan here.

He is stubborn.

Only you can control his foolhardiness.

Why are you so downcast?

You want Arunmozhi to come, don't you?

Yes.

When I hear them talking, I sense they have a hidden motive.

Bring Karikalan to me. Go!

Captain, once you reach Lanka, and see the prince,

hand over the emperor’s orders to him alone.

Commander-in-Chief Periya Velaar must learn nothing of this.

Captain, are you aware what the emperor’s orders are?

My lord,

if my men knew we go to imprison the prince, they’d revolt.

They must not know.

The emperor’s orders are for Ponniyin Selvan alone.

As you command.

Remember no harm should come to the prince.

Let us set sail!

No!

That's too expensive.

Your guru is calling you.

Vanthiyathevan!

It's me. Nambi.

So you’re my guru now?

Look at my sacred markings!

I can't say I’m your brother-in-law! So, it’s guru.

No need to bow before me. I know you respect me.

Why are you here?

Are you a masseur? You have a firm grip on my throat.

Goddess Kottravai has sent two guides to help us.

-What are you doing here? -The same as you.

Exploring this Buddhist town.

Why must you keep following me? Who sent you here?

The Lord came in a dream and said

“I am tired of Sriangam, I will go and rest in a Dambulla temple."

Lord Buddha is a form of our god.

But has no mace, sword or discus. Nor can He fight.

-So Buddha is also Vishnu? -Yes!

What else did He say?

Did He ask you to snore less?

Vishnu said,

if I happen to meet a warrior from Vallam,

I must save him and keep him out of trouble.

Hey, friend! Did you see that?

I see Buddhist monks and beautiful women with flowers in their hair.

Not them! I meant the mahout.

Alwarkkadiyan, when beautiful women are looking at me,

why would I bother to look at a mahout?

How irresponsible! Your callousness shocks me.

How did the Princess entrust you with such a huge task?

-Why did you ring the bell? -Vishnu devotee!

-Can you come with me? -This is what I was waiting for.

Come.

Nambi! Where are you going? I’m coming too.

Go away!

Wait. I’m coming. Nambi!

Stop!

-And a horse for me? -I was asked to bring him alone.

We must follow them.

Lord Narayana!

Look after my bundle.

Stop!

-Give my scroll back. -Who is this for?

Who are you? Give it back.

Or you'll answer my sword.

Oho, here!

Can’t see your sword now.

If you are a true warrior, defeat me in a sword fight, then take the scroll.

Stop!

Delighted to meet you, Prince.

How did you know?

The fact you asked how I knew, that’s how.

Long live Ponniyin Selvan!

Long live Ponniyin Selvan!

Who are you? Why are you after Alwarkkadiyan?

Prince, I am Vallavarayan Vanthiyathevan,

of the Vanar Clan. I am Prince Aditya Karikalan’s messenger.

Who owns this sword?

The Prince gave it to me when I set out to meet Princess Kundavai.

My brother gave it to you and asked you to meet my sister?

Yes.

Brave warrior! Welcome to beautiful Lanka.

-Thank you. -Enjoyed my warrior’s welcome?

If you wish, we can resume our sword fight.

I can’t fight you. I’m answerable to my sister.

-The scroll is in invisible ink. -How do you know?

What does it say?

You must return to Pazhayarai.

Nambi, does nothing escape you?

It’s God’s grace! I am a mere servant.

Prince, I have another message for you.

-Guess who sent this one. -Did you write it?

Prince, he’s a fake Vaishnavan. Show him no mercy.

This letter is from Princess Vanathi.

She sent me a letter?

-Another of your skills? -Hush.

She gave it to me without Princess Kundavai knowing.

She didn’t want any fake Vaishnava present when you read it.

Nambi, let’s go.

-Your bundle! -Thank you.

Shall we enjoy some fish?

Ayyo! Blasphemy! I'm a Veera Vaishnavan.

The Prime Minister advises that you stay here longer.

Whatever this Prime Minister's spy may say,

Princess Kundavai insists you must go to Pazhayarai.

- Wait. - You wait.

I gave my word to the princess.

The Pandyan rebels are everywhere. You must be careful.

Prince, ignore him. He gets scared even if I utter the word "crocodile."

-Say it then! -Crocodile!

You want me to stay here.

And he wants to take me back.

What does the emperor want?

Until he commands me, I cannot leave Lanka.

You do not know what is happening there.

The Chieftains and Parvateshvar are plotting against your father.

Lord Narayana!

Hail to the Pandyas!

For our king Veerpandya.

Our sacrifice to Goddess Kali

Our sacrifice to Goddess Kali

Retreat! Retreat!

Lord Narayan!

Prince, here.

Stop shouting! It’s only a tiny scratch.

My sacred thread has been cut into two.

Nambi, who do you think attacked us? They didn’t look like Lankan soldiers.

No, Prince.

It was the Pandyan rebels. I warned you about them.

Prince, who rescued us?

Didn't she look familiar, Nambi?

Being beaten so much has made you insane.

He is not insane.

I think I have seen the lady before.

I have met Mouni Rani before.

Do you know why people call me “Ponniyin Selvan”?

Yes.

When you were young, you fell into the River Ponni by accident.

Mother Ponni saved your life. Thus… Ponniyin Selvan.

It was not Mother Ponni who saved me.

It was Mouni Rani.

When she pulled me out of the water, I saw her face.

A face that is now etched in my mind.

It was she who saved us yesterday.

I realised she could not speak. She was mute.

But who is she?

Why does she protect me as a goddess would?

How am I connected to her?

What do these cave drawings mean?

What mystery do they conceal?

It is a riddle beyond me.

Mother, who are you?

Hail to the beloved daughter of Emperor Sundar Chol, conqueror of Madurai.

Behold the Princess Kundavai! The princess approaches!

This old man is weary of seeing bloodthirsty soldiers.

Seeing my granddaughter fills me with happiness.

I seek your blessings, Grandfather.

Greetings.

Go, your brother is waiting for you.

Are you not Velaar’s daughter?

You are to marry Arunmozhi.

The elders have fed this dream into my hopeful heart.

If the prince changes his mind, you will all be to blame.

Until the day you marry Arunmozhi,

this old man shall not die.

Don’t make me wait too long.

You are the crown prince.

You must come to Tanjore to protect our father.

That is his wish.

Is that why he sent you here?

Everyone fears you, brother.

That is why I am here to take you to Tanjore.

Until Parvateshvar lives there, I will not come.

-Because of Nandini? -No. Because of you.

The emperor did not drive her out of the kingdom.

You did.

Yes, I told the queen about her.

She sent soldiers to throw her out.

-My life was ruined. -It was for your own good.

You were jealous.

Her beauty and intelligence put yours to shame.

She's an orphan.

She did not even know her lineage. She could not be a Chola queen.

I am not just your sister but also, a princess of the realm.

What matters to me are the Chola people.

None of us matter more.

You took her away from me.

And turned me into a monster.

I was indifferent to her tears.

I turned her into a poisonous snake.

Since then, day and night,

she continues to haunt me.

Aditya,

she is married. She is Parvateshvar’s wife.

Don’t I know that?

How could she forget me?

She once said she loved me.

Then she fell in love with Veer Pandiyan and tried to save him.

And then she married this old man. How could she?

I shan’t come to Tanjore till she is there.

I cannot.

Convince father and bring him to me.

I have sent Parthibendran to bring Arunmozhi here.

He'll be here soon.

I’ll take care of the rest.

Arunmozhi will not come here. He'll be brought to Tanjore.

Soldiers have sailed to Lanka with orders to imprison him.

The emperor’s command.

A Chola ship!

A Chola ship!

Wait, I’ll go and see.

How many soldiers are there?

At least thirty.

Is it a Chola ship?

It does not look like a merchant ship.

Where is Prince Ponniyin Selvan? Where in Lanka? Do you know?

Why are you looking for him?

Must I tell you why for an answer?

Who are we here to imprison, Captain?

Is your ship a prison ship?

Are we here to imprison Ponniyin Selvan?

Parvateshvar’s orders.

Lanka is under Periya Velaar’s command. Parvateshvar has no influence here.

So, are we here to take Ponniyin Selvan prisoner?

We were brought here without being told why.

The Chola people will not forgive us.

He is their treasure.

Turn the boats around!

Do you think I am here by choice? It is the emperor’s orders.

We cannot disobey his command.

Where is your King? King Mahindan.

“Inside my turban.

“Why don’t you take a look?”

Rascal! You said you came to gather medicinal herbs and I believed you.

Your greed brought us here.

Now you will take us to your King Mahindan.

“Over my dead body.”

Stop!

You will be richly rewarded.

King Mahindan will be rewarded too.

He cannot understand what you’re saying.

“They’ll kill you before you get near him.”

Do you want to see me die? Or will you be the one who will die?

Stop! Stop.

I will take you to the Lankan king.

I need more coins for my trouble.

But you must listen to me if you want to meet the king.

Come.

Come.

Your Majesty, he attacked your camp.

He threatened to kill all your soldiers unless they told him where you were.

I tricked him...

Tell him what you want.

I had to use these methods to see the great Lankan king.

"You came seeking the king. Now die at his hands."

Your Majesty, I have an important message.

A Chola ship arrived yesterday to take Arunmozhi prisoner.

Sundara Chol’s orders, Your Majesty.

I’ve seen them with my own eyes.

Arunmozhi will journey alone on that ship without his army.

Defenceless at sea!

You will not get another chance like this.

I am a Pandyan warrior. I want Arunmozhi Varman dead.

Why didn’t you tell us before?

My lord, give me twenty boats and fifty soldiers.

And Arunmozhi Varman’s head will lie at your feet.

That is the Pallava’s flag.

Periya Velaar is approaching too.

It's Parthibendran!

Salutations to Periya Velaar!

Vanthiyathevan! You?

Yes, it’s me.

-You? Here? -I am everywhere.

I heard you died at Parvateshvar’s hands.

Do I look dead to you?

Your tongue is sharper than your sword.

Test my sword someday.

You haven’t changed.

I have come with orders from Karikalan.

Yes, Parthibendran?

You must come with me to Nulambapadi.

The Chieftains in Tanjore have turned traitors.

They are conspiring against Karikarlan.

No one can defeat my brother.

"If anyone can defeat me, only my brother can.”

Karikalan always says that.

He believes you must be with him in these trying times.

He told to bring you to him.

Commander, what do you think?

Prince, a boat girl came with news this morning.

A Chola ship has moored at the River Thondaimaan.

It’s here to take you prisoner.

-Where is this boat girl? -Here.

Samudra Kumari, do you remember me?

How could I ever forget?

The prince once sailed in my boat.

I’ll never forget that day.

Did you really see those Chola ships?

-I overheard the soldiers too. -What did they say?

They are Parvateshvar’s men.

They’ve come with the emperor’s orders.

This is a conspiracy!

Even so,

if these orders carry the Chola royal seal, I must obey.

This is folly.

There are two orders one cannot disobey.

A father’s, and an emperor’s.

And he is both my father and the Chola ruler.

Poornima.

-Will you help me again? -Say no!

Command me.

I must go to the River Thondaimaan.

Arunmozhi, don’t go.

-I know the way. -Hey, girl…

Prince, heed us. You cannot go.

Your life is in danger.

You cannot put yourself in harm’s way.

Vanthiyathevan, do me a favour. Wear this crown.

Oh no! How can I? It is a prince's crown.

Prince, ask anything else of me.

It's not a request. It is an order.

It’s as though you had poured molten iron on my head.

One day you’ll wear a crown.

A Chola princess will be sitting next to you. I shall be there too.

Consider this a rehearsal.

Well, Veer Vaishnavan? How do I look?

Watch out!

The Chola crown has landed on your head.

Keep your head safe.

-Poornima. -Yes, my lord?

Will you ride the elephant with me?

I am blessed, my Prince!

We are surrounded by Periya Velaar's army.

Prince!

The prison ship must return without a prisoner.

The elephant has run amok.

Save the prince! Go!

Prince! Prince!

-Stop! -Don't go alone.

Soldiers!

I am not the prince. Ponniyin Selvan is astride the elephant.

The mad elephant ran into the jungle.

Find it. Go!

What a grand ship! So many soldiers.

Hey! Who are you?

I know many secrets.

I know why you are here. I know what will happen here.

Prince! Prince!

So why are we here?

To imprison the prince.

The young tiger is the first sacrifice.

Glorious Kali. Grace us with victory, Goddess Kali!

We will offer blood to Kali

We will offer blood to Kali

Stop!

Who are you?

Who are you? Imposter!

We didn’t catch the tiger, we caught its tail.

We didn’t catch the tiger, we caught its tail.

Brother…

Captain!

Prince, they’ve paid with their lives for trying to imprison you.

Kamal Nayan, what has happened?

They tricked me and fled without giving me my gold.

-Who? -The Pandyan rebels.

Captain!

He is not Arunmozhi.

Sorcerer, look carefully.

I am Arunmozhi. You can see my crown.

Punish me. I have failed.

Punish me.

The turban fooled me.

Devaralan has failed. I have failed.

Stop!

Back to the shore!

Ply the oars!

My lord.

Poornima,

The wind is not blowing.

The prince!

Kali! Two heads for you today!

-Hail to the Pandyas! -Hail to the Pandyan Emperor!

Prince, behind you.

Sail towards the ship! Hail to the Pandyas!

My lord!

O Mother Ocean!

Why oh sun,

Have you left without a word

I’ve sieved the clouds

The hearth is lonesome

River Ponni seeks you out. The Chola land seeks you out

River Ponni seeks you out. The Chola land seeks you out

What is it, Vanathi?

What's wrong?

The moon and stars seek you out

The dusk is all that is within grasp

How do I live without my life?

Look at me. Speak!

-Is it Arunmozhi? -Ponniyin Selvan...

What has happened to him?

Ponniyin Selvan is no more, Your Highness.

Heaven knows where my child is

Heaven knows where my child is

Composure in trying times is what makes a king a true king.

-Control your anger. -This is not anger. This is war!

-I will go to battle. -Think before you act.

This is Nandini's doing. I shall behead her.

Aditya!

She will die at my hands. Or I will die at hers.