Manimekalai is a Tamil epic poem attributed to the Sangam era poet, Sattanar. It is considered one of the five great epics of Tamil literature, alongside the Silappatikaram, Kambaramayanam, Periyapuranam, and Cilappatikaram.
Meaning:
* Mani: Jewel, precious stone
* Mekalai: Garments, robes
The name "Manimekalai" is often interpreted as "the jewel-clad one" or "the one who wears precious garments." This refers to the main protagonist of the epic, Manimekalai, who is a Buddhist princess and a symbol of virtue and righteousness.
Significance:
The Manimekalai is a story about the journey of a young woman named Manimekalai, who is the daughter of Kovalan and Kannagi from the epic Silappatikaram. The poem is renowned for its:
* Spiritual themes: It explores themes of dharma (righteousness), karma, and the teachings of Buddhism.
* Epic narrative: It features a complex plot involving love, loss, betrayal, and the search for enlightenment.
* Literary merit: It is praised for its lyrical language, vivid descriptions, and sophisticated use of poetic devices.
In summary, Manimekalai is a significant literary work in Tamil literature, known for its spiritual depth, compelling narrative, and beautiful prose.