Manimekalai

The Manimekalai is an ancient Tamil epic poem that forms part of the Tamil literary and cultural heritage. It narrates the life of Manimekalai, a Bodhisattva and the daughter of the Hindu epic hero Kovalan. The story explores themes of spirituality, compassion, and renunciation, highlighting her journey toward enlightenment and her efforts to promote Buddhist teachings. The text combines poetic storytelling with philosophical reflections, reflecting the religious diversity and rich poetic tradition of ancient South India. It is valued for its literary artistry and its insights into early Indian religious and cultural life.