As we can see from the above pic,this novel is a perfect mix of history and fiction.The novel takes sharp turns then and there akin to the movie Pulp Fiction. Most of the incidents in the novel are based on Thiruvalangadu inscriptions which are preserved in Government museum in Egmore. Other information is derived from the inscriptions on the Periya Kovil in Tanjore.
The novel speaks about the greatness of Arulmozhivarman who sacrificed the throne for his uncle Uttama Chola who ruled from 970-985 AD. The book begins with Sundara Chola (952-970 AD) falling ill and his elder son being murdered under suspicious circumstances. The younger son, arulmozhivarman is on a conquest and the story explains the attempts by Pandyas and other petty kings to overthrow the Chola Dynasty. Arulmozhivarman along with his friend Vanthiyathevan overcomes all the problems and in a stunning climax, sacrifices the throne for Uttama Chola. The story ends with the crowning of Uttama Chola by Arulmozhivarman.
The epilogue states that Arulmozhivarman was later known as RajaRaja Chola who started the medieval chola dynasty which ruled for another 200 years. He later conquered Lanka and went till Orisha. He built the famous Brahadeeswara temple in Tanjavore which is a UNESCO heritage site today. His son Rajendra conquered Kadaram which is currently known as Kedah in Malaysia.
The website here sells ponniyin selvan in audio only format. I presume this is for people who can't read tamil, particularly NRI kids.If you haven't read this book, it's time to grab one and read it!
Other Sources: http://historicaljourneys.blogspot.in,
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