Thirukkural: Commentary Techniques

Abstract

Thirukkural is the most celebrated work in Tamil literature, having received numerous commentaries. Many commentaries on Thirukkural continue to be published over time; they are countless. Ten commentators Dharmar, Manakkudavar, Thamatthar, Nachchar, Parithiyar, Parimelazhagar, Thirumalaiyar, Mallar, Paripperumal, and Kalingarhave written commentaries on Thirukkural. Their period is known to be from the 10th century AD to the 13th century AD. Of these ten, only the commentaries of Manakkudavar, Paripperumal, Parithiyar, Kalingar, and Parimelazhagar are available to date. This article focuses on examining the Tolkappiyam techniques employed in Parimelazhagar’s commentary.