The Hero Stones of Ilavelangal

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The year 1544 marked a significant chapter in history as various forces, including Travancore kings, Tiruvadanai Pandyas, Bharatavas, and Jayatunga Devar (Setupathi) of Bogalur, united in rebellion against the Vijayanagara supremacy. Responding to this uprising, Vijayanagara king Sadasivarayan dispatched his cousin and general, Vithalaraya (Vengala Rajan), leading an army to quell the rebellion.



Vithalaraya's military campaign unfolded in the south, beginning with the conquest and oppression of Tiruvadanai Padyas and Bharatavas in Tuticorin. Subsequently, the Travancore king suffered defeat, and Vithalaraya turned his attention to Kayathar to suppress the Pandyas. 



In 1547, a tumultuous event unfolded at Ilavelangal, near Tuticorin, when Tirunelveli Perumal Pandya, also known as Vettum Perumal, faced an unexpected assault from Vaduga (Nayaka) soldiers led by Vithalaraya. However, the Vaduga army, led by Vithalaraya, faced a significant setback in the ensuing battle. 

The conflict claimed the lives of numerous brave warriors who valiantly resisted the Vaduga army. 



In commemoration of these fallen heroes, Vettum Perumal, inscribed an inscription and erected hero stones for the ten army generals. These stones, bearing the names of the courageous soldiers and their inscription, are now preserved in the Tirunelveli Museum, serving as a unique and poignant testament to this historical episode.

Happy travelling.









Location: Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu 627002, India

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