Religion in Tamil Literature

Jainism in Silappadikaram: Philosophy and Narrative

The Tamil epic 'Silappadikaram' incorporates significant Jaina elements and philosophy, largely because its author, Ilango Adigal, was a Jain monk.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part I

Archived: 2016

Updated: 10 Jan 2026

Exam Year

2016

Evidence Source

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The epic, Silappadikaram refers to the

[CDS 2016 (II)]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

While Silappadikaram is a story of human virtue, it is deeply embedded with the religious philosophies of its time, particularly Jainism and Buddhism, reflecting the heterodox leanings of early Tamil society.

Authentic Source Evidence

Written by Ilango Adigal, who was a Jain monk, the epic incorporates Jaina teachings on 'Karma' and 'Ahimsa'. For example, the Jain nun Kavunthi Adigal accompanies the protagonists on their journey.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option B is correct. The narrative uses the tragedy of Kovalan as an illustration of the 'past karma' bearing fruit in the present.

Comparison: While its sequel Manimekalai is explicitly Buddhist, Silappadikaram is the premier Jain epic of the South.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who is the Jain nun in Silappadikaram?"

Kavunthi Adigal, who guides Kovalan and Kannagi to Madurai and preaches Jain ethics to them.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The presence of Jaina elements proves that Jainism was a mainstream intellectual force in the Tamil country during the early centuries CE."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Jainism 5 Karma 3 Ilango Adigal 2

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