Beyond Ponniyin Selvan: Bengaluru Teen Authors Novel on Rajendra Chola’s Ocean Empire

A Class 11 student from Bengaluru has released his debut novel, Aazhikondan – The Conqueror of the Oceans, conceived as a creative continuation of Ponniyin Selvan by Kalki Krishnamurthy. With the book, young author Rounaak Shiv hopes to carry the grandeur of the Chola empire to a new generation of readers.

Interestingly, Rounaak cannot read Tamil fluently. His fascination with the epic historical world began with his grandmother’s vivid narrations of Chola history and the legendary tale. Inspired, he turned storyteller himself, imaginatively extending the saga beyond the era of Rajaraja Chola I into the reign of Rajendra Chola I and his famed maritime expeditions.

“Ponniyin Selvan opened the grand world of Chola history for me. I was fascinated by what happened after Raja Raja Chola, especially Rajendra Chola and his oceanic expansions. Aazhikondan depicts this expansion and his legacy,” Rounak tells tellmystory.in

Among the many iconic characters of the classic, he says he most resonates with Aditya Karikalan for his courage and intensity, and Vandiyathevan for his wit, charm and adventurous spirit.

Explaining how he overcame not reading the original Tamil text, Rounaak noted that he relied on translations, references and extensive research. “My grandma narrated the story to me. I deeply respect Tamil literature, so I ensured I engaged with the English translation and historical sources to preserve its cultural spirit. I wanted to portray Rajendra Chola as a ruler with deep civilisational vision while keeping the narrative gripping and relatable,” he said.

At a time when reading habits among youngsters are often said to be declining, the teen author stresses its importance: “Reading boosts creative thinking, focus and imagination. Historical fiction helps young readers connect with their culture and heritage in an engaging way.”

Published by Pustaka Digital Media Private Limited, the book is available in print, e-book and audiobook formats. Rounaak, who previously wrote short stories, has dedicated his debut work to Kalki, the literary legend who first brought the Chola era alive for millions.