Which medieval ruler of Venad is traditionally credited with the introduction of the Kollam Era (Malabar Era) starting in 825 CE?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Kollam Era commenced in 825 CE, and traditional chronicles attribute its inception to the Venad ruler Udaya Marthanda Varma or assembly of notables at Kollam following the reconstruction of the city. Ayyan Atikal Tiruvadikal issued the famous Tharisapalli copper plates during the same century. The establishment of this calendar era marked a major milestone in commercial and official documentation throughout medieval Kerala.