War in Ancient India c9.s3.40

c9.s3.40

Again, in the Tamil classic, Maduraikkāñji, of the early centuries of the Christian era, there is an excellent description of the fortification of Madura,⁶⁰ the capital city of the Pāṇḍiyan king. It was intersected by grand streets with palatial buildings on both sides. A forest dense with the trees and shrubs difficult for the enemy to march through surrounded it and served as a sort of protection. It was succeeded in turn by a very deep moat of pure and clear water. There were huge gates, lofty towers above, and massive walls around, one of which was full of ornamental paintings. The palace stood high above these, with its numerous storied buildings and crowned with flags of various hues. There were two extensive bazaar streets attracting all classes of people throughout the day. Women decked with ornaments and well dressed were seen standing in the front verandahs of their houses. Here the Brahmans, the Buddhists, and the Jains lived side by side and in harmony. There were merchants and artisans of various trades and professions.