UPSC Prelims 2023 · Question 4 of 97

UPSC Prelims 2023 question on Vattakirutal Practice

Which one of the following explains the practice of 'Vattakirutal' as mentioned in Sangam poems?

  1. Kings employing women bodyguards
  2. Learned persons assembling in royal courts to discuss religious and philosophical matters
  3. Young girls keeping watch over agricultural fields and driving away birds and animals
  4. A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death
Show answer

Answer: D. A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death

Verdict

Correct answer: A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death → Option (d).

Analysis

Sangam poems are pervaded with a warrior ethic. The goal of the hero of the puram poems was pukal (glory, fame) and a heroic death was greatly valued.

The practice of vattakirutal was one in which a defeated king committed ritual suicide by starving himself to death, accompanied by those who had been close to him during his lifetime.

The worship of memorial stones (natukal) was a corollary of the importance of the heroic ideal.

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