Pandya (Malayadhwaja Pandya) in the Mahābhārata
Pandya (Malayadhwaja Pandya) in the Mahābhārata 1. Introduction & Significance in the Mahābhārata The Pandya king mentioned in the Mahābhārata is generally identified with Malayadhwaja Pandya , also known as Sarangadhwaja Pandya , the ruler of the Pandya kingdom of the far south (Tamilakam) . He represents the southern Tamil polities in the pan‑Indian epic tradition and symbolizes the integration of Dravidian kingdoms into the Kṣatriya world of the Mahābhārata. His significance lies in: Representing southern India’s political and military participation in the Kurukṣetra War Being portrayed as a Maharatha‑level warrior , comparable to Karṇa, Bhīṣma, and Arjuna Demonstrating unconditional loyalty to dharma , siding with the Pandavas 2. Brief Biography of Pandya (Malayadhwaja) Name: Malayadhwaja Pandya (also Sarangadhwaja) Dynasty: Pandya Capital: Madurai / Korkai Father: Kulashekara Pandya (said to ...