Identifying Ancient Kingdoms in India

The question asks about the Indian state where ancient kingdoms like Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor were located. These were notable small-time kingdoms during different periods of history in South India.

Location of Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor

Let's examine the options provided and identify the correct state based on historical evidence.

• Kolathunadu: This kingdom was located in the northern part of present-day Kerala, covering areas like Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
• Valluvanad: This kingdom was situated in central Kerala, primarily in the areas that now constitute parts of Palakkad and Malappuram districts.
• Thekkumkoor: Also known as Thekkumkur, this kingdom was located in the southern part of central Kerala, covering parts of Kottayam and Alappuzha districts.

All three kingdoms - Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor - were historically significant political entities within the geographical region that corresponds to the modern state of Kerala.

Analyzing the Options

Let's consider the other options to confirm why they are incorrect:

• Karnataka: Karnataka also has a rich history with various kingdoms like the Vijayanagara Empire, the Hoysala dynasty, and princely states like Mysore. However, Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor are not associated with the historical regions of Karnataka.
• Bihar: Bihar was home to powerful ancient empires like the Mauryas and Guptas, and later kingdoms like the Pala Empire. Its history is centered in North and East India, far removed from the location of Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor in South India.
• Gujarat: Gujarat in Western India was associated with kingdoms like the Maitrakas, the Solankis, and various Sultanates. These kingdoms are distinct from the ones mentioned in the question, which are specific to the southern part of India.

Based on the historical locations of Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor, the correct state is Kerala.

Conclusion

Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor were historically significant small kingdoms located within the boundaries of modern-day Kerala.

Revision Table: Ancient South Indian Kingdoms

Additional Information: Kerala's Historical Geography

Historically, the region that is now Kerala was not always a single political entity. It was often divided into various smaller kingdoms and chiefdoms. These kingdoms frequently engaged in conflicts or formed alliances. The major political powers in the region's history include the Chera dynasty, followed by numerous smaller independent states during the medieval period before the rise of larger kingdoms like Travancore, Cochin, and Calicut (under the Zamorins) in later centuries. Kolathunadu, Valluvanad, and Thekkumkoor represent some of these medieval smaller principalities that played a role in the complex political landscape of historical Kerala.