Answer: A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death
Notes: The correct answer is [D] A king defeated in a battle committing ritual suicide by starving himself to death. This practice is a unique socio-cultural theme found in Sangam literature, particularly in the Purananuru.
- Vattakirutal (Statement D – Correct): Literally meaning "sitting facing the North," it was a ritual of honor. When a king suffered a humiliating defeat in battle or was wounded in the back (seen as a mark of cowardice), he would sit facing North and starve himself to death. His loyal companions often joined him in this act of ultimate sacrifice.
- Historical Instance: A famous example involves the Chera King Peruncheralathan. After being wounded in the back during the Battle of Venni against the Chola King Karikala, he felt dishonored and performed Vattakirutal.
- Philosophical Context: It reflects the high value placed on "Maanam" (honor) and "Veeram" (valor) in ancient Tamil society. It bears a resemblance to the Jain practice of Sallekhana, though Vattakirutal was specifically tied to martial honor and political defeat.
- Other Options (Incorrect): While Sangam literature mentions women bodyguards (Option A), royal assemblies (Option B), and girls guarding fields (Option C), none of these terms correspond to Vattakirutal.
