I studied in Pudukottai and Trichy. In between in located Narathamalai. nearby is the famous Vijayalayachozheeswaram. Whenever I utter this, I recall our silent member Srihari from Srilanka - who unleashed several mails on various dynasties ruled our country.
About 14 KMs west of Narathamalai is ANNAVASAL.
CHITTANAVASAL - aboput 20 Kms away - famous for Jain paintings - 2nd / 3rd AD - might have drawn its name from Annavasal. Recently when I happen to see a presentation on Ajantha, a method to prepare colours was described. In Chittavasal there are several HERBs. If one draws a line with a kind of herbal on a Stone, Blood Red line will be formed. Another one capable of making Green line.! Some one has to study these in detail.
ANNAVASAL Ananthars - followers of Meyvazhi - with Safron Turban and private cult - occupy the place Annavasal.
During my college days, it was rumoured that the Annavasal hillock contained Gold mines and even electricity was prohibited in this place. Out-sides were never permitted to stay there during nights. A kind of monstry set-up!