Consider the following statements regarding the Ay kingdom of ancient Kerala: 1. The Ay kingdom held sway over the southernmost parts of Kerala, encompassing parts of modern Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts. 2. Podiyil Hill, associated with Sage Agastya, was a prominent landmark located within the ancient territorial boundaries of the Ay chieftaincy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Ay kingdom was an ancient Tamil dynasty ruling the southernmost region of Kerala, centering around the Podiyil Hill and spanning present-day Thiruvananthapuram and parts of southern Tamil Nadu. Both statements accurately reflect the geographical expanse and cultural associations of the Ay polity as documented in Sangam literature. They controlled vital southern trade routes connecting the West Coast with Madurai across the mountain passes. The Ay rulers frequently engaged in conflicts and alliances with the Cheras and Pandyas.