I have completed reading THIRUMALAI THIRUDAN last wseek and VAMSADHARA I & II this week - both written by our beloved and respected member Dhivakar from Vizag, active in Vizag Tamil Sangam, who is also more familiar to Andra Tamil readers. Published by Narmadha Padhippagam.
Dr. Prema Nandakumar / Srirangam, in her Foreward to Vamsadara, has aptly described: Kalki - thro' PS, SS, PK had outlined certain doctrines : Tamils' Bravery, Culture, story telling in line with available evidences, clear distinction between the Good and the evil, highlighting and praising Ideologists, outlining Tamil Classic Litertures, discussing religeous and devotional matters in detail without taking sides and simple - easily understandable style apart from mixing a couple of Fictionary characters with the Real ones and make the story telling gripping. Dhivakar has followed this perfectly and glad that Kalki tradition is alive through Writers' like him.
After reading both the Novels, I fully endorse Dr. Prema's views.
Thirumalai Thirudan is related to the interesting query whether Lord Venkatachalapthy (Head of Venkata Hills) is incornation of Vishnu or Siva. ( Another book, EZHUMALAIYAN PEEN DEYVAMA is written on this subject and is in circulation. Our group discussed this in detail already. ) The story revolves around Adhirajendra - Udayavar - couple of his disciples and chozha officials and suddenly the Sangu Chakram of the Lord disappears. Hearsay is that when Thulasi and Viboothi were kept in front of the Lord and the door closed, next morning Thulasi found on the Lord, but Viboodhi was not.
Dhivakar has unreeled an Excellent Climax on this subject. Very much interesting.
Vamsadara is a Kalinga Queen and Part I is related to how she is used a pawn in the politcal game involving Vengi - Chozhas - Kalingas. Part II is tracing her ancestry. Both Parts are very well written and gripping.
Dear SPS Glad someone else has read them They are fantastic arent they....A not so happy ending in Vamsadhara ....but he keeps you gripping till the end