Part of: Tamil Nadu Gk set 28

Which Tamil king ruled Ceylon for 44 years?

Category: Tamil Nadu Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of Tamil kings and their influence in Ceylon.

Correct Answer: D) Ellalan

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The question pertains to the historical context of Tamil kings and their influence in Ceylon, which is now known as Sri Lanka. The correct answer is Ellalan, also known as Elara, who was a Tamil king who ruled Ceylon for 44 years. This period is significant in the history of the region and is often discussed in the context of the Chola dynasty and the broader Tamil influence in South Asia.

Ellalan's reign is notable for several reasons. He was a contemporary of the Chola king Karikala Chola, and his rule is often associated with the pre-Chola period in Ceylon. The Chola dynasty, which was a powerful Tamil dynasty that ruled parts of South India and Sri Lanka, had a significant impact on the region's history. Ellalan's rule is often seen as a precursor to the Chola dynasty's influence in Ceylon.

It is important to understand the historical context of the region to appreciate the significance of Ellalan's reign. Ceylon, or Sri Lanka, has a rich history of Tamil and Sinhalese influence, and the period of Ellalan's rule is a crucial part of this history. The Chola dynasty, which came to power after Ellalan, further consolidated Tamil influence in the region, and their rule is often studied in the context of the broader Tamil and South Indian history.

Ellalan's reign is also significant because it represents a period of Tamil influence in Ceylon that predates the more well-known Chola dynasty. This period is often studied in the context of the broader Tamil and South Indian history, and it is important to understand the historical context of the region to appreciate the significance of Ellalan's rule.

Understanding the historical context of Tamil kings and their influence in Ceylon is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and State PSC. These examinations often include questions on the history of the region, and a thorough understanding of the historical context is necessary to answer such questions accurately.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect because Tamil Nadu is a state in India, not a king. The question asks for a king who ruled Ceylon, not a geographical entity.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect because the USA is a country in North America and has no historical connection to ruling Ceylon. The question is about a Tamil king, not a modern nation.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect because Batticaloa is a district in Sri Lanka, not a king. The question asks for a king who ruled Ceylon, not a place.
  • Option D: This option is correct because Ellalan, also known as Elara, was a Tamil king who ruled Ceylon for 44 years. He is a significant figure in the history of the region and is known for his reign during the pre-Chola period.

Mnemonic: E for Ellalan, E for Empire, E for 44 years.

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