Introduction
The Pandyan dynasty, one of the oldest and most prominent Tamil ruling houses in South India, held sway over regions in present-day Tamil Nadu. Their rule spanned several centuries, with two major phases: the early Pandyas (pre-Sangam and Sangam era) and the later Pandyas (post-Chola period). During both phases, especially in the later medieval period (13th–14th centuries), the Pandyas developed a structured and efficient administrative system. This essay discusses the nature and characteristics of administration under the Pandyan state.
Political Structure and Kingship
The Pandyan state was a hereditary monarchy, with the king at the helm of political, military, and religious affairs. The king was regarded as the guardian of dharma and justice. He ruled with the help of a council of ministers and trusted officials. The Pandyas maintained royal titles such as “Maran,” “Varman,” and “Koon,” reflecting their legitimacy and lineage.
The king often played a ceremonial role in religious functions, temple donations, and public works. Inscriptions depict the king as a just ruler and warrior, underscoring his responsibility for the well-being of his people and the expansion of his territory.
Central Administration
The central government was composed of various departments, each headed by designated officers. The Amatyas (ministers) assisted the king in policy-making, military strategy, and finance. The central bureaucracy was relatively small but efficient, with revenue collection and land administration as its primary focus.
Important administrative officials included:
- Sandhivigrahika: Minister for foreign affairs and diplomacy.
- Dandanayaka: Commander of the army and law enforcement.
- Mahamatra: A generic title for administrative functionaries.
Provincial and Local Governance
The Pandyan kingdom was divided into administrative units such as mandalams (regions), nadus (districts), and kurrams (sub-districts). Each unit had its officials who ensured smooth governance and tax collection. Governors, known as Uparikas or Rashtrakutas, oversaw the functioning of larger regions.
Village assemblies or sabhas were vital components of local administration. These bodies handled local disputes, coordinated temple affairs, and organized public works such as tank-building and irrigation. Landowners and Brahmins played an influential role in local decision-making.
Revenue Administration
Revenue collection was central to Pandyan administration. Land tax (known as kadamai) was the main source of income. Land was categorized based on fertility and productivity. Other taxes included tolls on trade, taxes on artisans and professionals, and levies on forest produce.
Land surveys and revenue assessments were periodically conducted. Inscriptions provide detailed accounts of land grants and tax exemptions, particularly to temples and Brahmins, reflecting both fiscal policy and religious patronage.
Military Organization
The Pandyas maintained a standing army composed of infantry, cavalry, elephants, and chariots. Military commanders often received land grants in lieu of salaries. The army was instrumental in maintaining internal order and defending against external threats, especially from the Cholas, Hoysalas, and later Muslim invaders.
Judicial Administration
The king was the highest judicial authority, and justice was administered based on Dharmashastra and customary laws. Village assemblies acted as courts for civil and minor criminal cases. Severe offenses were tried in royal courts. Punishments ranged from fines and exile to corporal punishment, depending on the nature of the crime.
Temples and Public Administration
Temples were not just religious centers but also administrative hubs. They received endowments, managed land and water resources, and maintained local granaries. Temple committees managed festivals, education, and charity, functioning almost like municipal institutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the administration of the Pandyan state was a blend of central authority and decentralized local governance. Through efficient land revenue systems, vibrant village assemblies, and active temple institutions, the Pandyas created a robust administrative framework. Their model of governance significantly influenced subsequent South Indian polities and left an enduring legacy in Tamil cultural and political life.