Tamil Epic Identified as Manimegalai by Satthanar

This explanation helps identify the specific Tamil epic attributed to the author Satthanar among the choices provided. Understanding the authors of classical Tamil literature is key to answering questions about these important works.

Understanding Tamil Epics and Authorship

Classical Tamil literature features several major epics that are foundational to the culture and literary tradition. Each epic has a distinct author or a debated authorship.

Analyzing the Options

The question asks to identify the epic written by Satthanar. Let's examine the primary authors associated with the epics listed in the options:

• Manimegalai: This celebrated Buddhist epic is widely attributed to the poet Seethalai Sathanar, often known simply as Satthanar. It tells the story of Manimegalai, the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi from the epic Silappathikaram.
• Seevaga Sinthamani: This Jain epic is attributed to Thiruthakka Thevar. It is considered one of the Five Great Epics.
• Silappathikaram: This foundational epic, often paired with Manimegalai, is attributed to Ilango Adigal.
• Valaiyapathi: This is another of the Five Great Epics, but its author is currently unknown, and only fragments survive.

Confirming Satthanar's Epic

Based on the established literary history of Tamil epics:

• Satthanar is credited as the author of Manimegalai.
• Ilango Adigal wrote Silappathikaram.
• Thiruthakka Thevar wrote Seevaga Sinthamani.
• The author of Valaiyapathi is unknown.

Therefore, the Tamil epic written by Satthanar is Manimegalai.