The ancient Tamil epic 'Manimekalai', composed by Sattanar, prominently propagates the philosophical doctrines and ethical codes of which religious tradition?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Manimekalai is a major post-Sangam epic poem authored by Kulavanan Sattanar that narrates the spiritual journey and ascetic life of Manimekalai, strongly advocating Buddhist principles and renunciation. Jainism is prominently featured in its sister epic Silappatikaram through the life and penance of characters like Kannagi and Kovalan. Ajivika philosophy found patronage during earlier Mauryan times in rock-cut caves rather than Sangam Tamil epics. Shaivism and Vaishnavism gained widespread prominence later during the Bhakti movement led by Nayanmars and Alwars.