Arulmozhi Varman’s mind was greatly troubled. The main reason for this was the ever-increasing turmoil in Chola Nadu surrounding the question of royal succession. Wherever he went in an attempt to pacify the people, their fervor only grew stronger. Cries such as “Ponniyin Selvar is our king!” and “Arulmozhi Varman must be crowned!” rose up everywhere, echoing and resounding in all directions.

Competing with these were other slogans heard in certain places: “Long live the ancient clan of the Pazhuvettaraiyars!” and “Down with the tyrannical Kodumbalur Velar!” If the prince approached such gatherings, hoping to find greater support, those present would immediately begin to shout, “Long live Ponniyin Selvar!” Why was this so? Even the Pazhuvur soldiers, who had been newly assigned to guard the fort, upon seeing Ponniyin Selvar, abandoned their old slogans and joined in the chorus: “Arulmozhi Varman must be crowned!” “May the valiant conqueror of Lanka, Ponniyin Selvar, live long!”

Thus, not only did his efforts fail to win over the common people and the warriors, but Ponniyin Selvar found himself increasingly distressed by the mounting opposition to his wishes. For several days, Madurantaka Thevar had not been seen, which only deepened his anxiety. He was aware that the younger Pazhuvettaraiyar was accusing the Kodumbalur Velar of wrongdoing in this matter. There was some justification for this suspicion. Even Arulmozhi Varman himself could not entirely dismiss his doubts. The Kodumbalur Velar and the Thirukovalur Malayaman were determined to see him crowned. It seemed as if even the chief minister Aniruddha was conspiring with them. Had they all hidden Madurantaka Thevar away somewhere? Or, perhaps, had they brought harm to Madurantaka Thevar’s very life?

The Velar and Malayaman believed that the Pazhuvettaraiyars and the Sambuvaraiyars were responsible for the death of his beloved elder brother, Aditya Karikalan. Seeking vengeance, had they now done some harm to Madurantaka? Ah! What is wrong with these people? They act rashly, without thought. In the end, will not all the blame fall upon his own head? Today, the people of Chola Nadu utter his name with blessings. They urge that he must ascend the throne. But will the hearts of the people always remain thus? Is it not the nature of the masses to waver often? These very same people, tomorrow, might heap blame upon his name. They might say he is the sinner who had his uncle, Madurantakan, murdered to ascend the throne. Why, they might even accuse him of being responsible for the death of Aditya Karikalan at Kadambur Palace.

Oh, divine one! Was it for bearing such terrible accusations that the goddess Mandakini saved me from drowning in the Kaveri, instead of letting me die? Today, that very princess, now revered as a goddess, must save me from this perilous predicament. May she grant me her grace, that the worst of all infamies that can befall a man in life may not come upon me.

Stories of close kin in the royal family of Eelam killing one another