Here's a breakdown of what we know:
Historical Background:
* Ancient Tamil Kings: Tamil history is replete with powerful kings who ruled various kingdoms, including the Cheras, Cholas, Pandyas, and Pallavas. These dynasties rose and fell over centuries, with their reigns often marked by territorial expansions, wars, and cultural advancements.
* No Official "Last Seven": There is no official historical record or inscription that mentions a specific group of seven kings as the "last" rulers of any particular dynasty or region.
* Modern Interpretation: The term "Kadai Yezhu Vallal" emerged as a modern interpretation, likely popularized through Tamil literature and folklore. It is based on the idea of seven notable kings who ruled during a period of political and cultural decline in Tamil Nadu.
Possible Candidates for "Last Seven":
While there is no definitive list, some prominent kings often associated with the "Last Seven" include:
* Kulasekhara Pandya: The last significant Pandya king, known for his patronage of arts and his struggle against the invasion of the Delhi Sultanate.
* Sundara Chola: A Chola king who faced difficulties against the Pandyas and other rivals.
* Vikrama Chola: Another Chola king who attempted to revive the Chola dynasty during a turbulent period.
* Kopperunchinga: A Vijayanagara emperor who ruled over parts of Tamil Nadu and engaged in conflicts with the Nayaks.
* Tirumalai Nayak: A Nayak ruler who expanded his kingdom but faced challenges from the Marathas and other rivals.
* Viswanatha Nayak: Another Nayak king who ruled over Madurai and faced internal conflicts.
Literary Significance:
The concept of "Kadai Yezhu Vallal" has found its place in Tamil literature, particularly in works like "Kadai Yezhu Vallal Charithram" (The History of the Last Seven Kings). These works often depict the kings as heroic figures facing challenges, battling against invaders, and struggling to maintain their kingdoms during a period of decline.
Conclusion:
The term "Kadai Yezhu Vallal" represents a modern interpretation of Tamil history, focusing on a group of notable kings who ruled during a turbulent period. While the term itself has no firm historical basis, it has become a popular concept in Tamil literature and folklore.
Remember, historical research continues, and our understanding of the past may evolve as new evidence emerges.