Manipravalam in Tamil Nadu and Kerala: A Linguistic Fusion of Sanskrit and Local Identities

The term Manipravalam, meaning a mixture of two languages, has an interesting backstory in the literature of both Tamil Nadu and Kerala, yet it represents slightly different linguistic blends in each region. This article explores how Manipravalam emerged, evolved, and took different forms in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, reflecting the unique cultural and linguistic contexts of these two regions.

Manipravalam as a Literary Style

Manipuravalam, a literary style that integrates a native language with Sanskrit, represents a unique blend of linguistic and cultural fusion. Both Tamil Nadu and Kerala developed their unique versions, but they share the essential idea of connecting a native language with Sanskrit's rich philosophical and theological content. In Tamil Nadu, Manipravalam refers to a mix of Tamil and Sanskrit, while in Kerala, it denotes a blend of old Malayalam and Sanskrit. This article delves into the details of each version.

Manipravalam in Tamil Nadu

In Tamil Nadu, Manipravalam emerged as a literary style that intertwined Tamil and Sanskrit, bridging the gap between classical Tamil literature and Sanskrit's theological and philosophical richness. The purpose of this blend was often to reach a wider audience, integrating the elegance of Sanskrit while maintaining Tamil as the base language.

Tiruppavai by Andal is one famous example in Tamil Nadu's Manipravalam literature. Although primarily written in Tamil, Tiruppavai incorporates Sanskrit words, especially in the verses praising Lord Vishnu, showing an influence of Sanskrit syntax and vocabulary within the structure of Tamil poetry. The Tamil Nadu version of Manipravalam served both as an artistic tool and as a medium to introduce complex Sanskrit concepts through a familiar language framework.

Manipravalam in Kerala

In Kerala, Manipravalam has its own twist, representing a unique mix of early Malayalam and Sanskrit. Early Malayalam was evolving from Tamil, but by the time Manipravalam flourished in Kerala, Malayalam had started developing its own identity. The mix of Sanskrit with early Malayalam created a distinct flavor different from Tamil Nadu's version. Malayalam was slightly less formal and rigid in structure compared to classical Tamil, resulting in a more flexible and diverse blend.

Lilatilakam, a 14th-century text on grammar and poetics, is a notable example of Manipravalam in Kerala. This text provides grammatical rules for the Manipravalam style used in Kerala, showcasing how old Malayalam phrases and grammar can be beautifully intertwined with Sanskrit words to create a hybrid literary style. This blend became popular especially in chakyar koothu and attakatha—forms of drama and performance literature in Kerala.

Distinctive Features of Tamil Nadu and Kerala Versions

Both Tamil Nadu and Kerala embraced Manipravalam but each region adapted it to its own cultural and linguistic context. In Tamil Nadu, Tamil remained the primary base with Sanskrit used mostly for specific vocabulary and phrases. In Kerala, the structure and flow leaned more towards early Malayalam with Sanskrit heavily embedded within sentences.

Here are two examples to illustrate the difference:

Tamil Nadu Manipravalam Example:

Thiruvinnulaan tirunaamame chonnaal
Arangarulagum kadavul thannadiyalum oru pugal
Illai ulagatharkku.

This mix keeps Tamil as the framework but adds the grandeur of Sanskrit vocabulary with terms like "Arangar" referring to Lord Ranganatha and "thirunaamam" holy name. Tamil syntax is primary but the Sanskrit words bring a higher spiritual nuance.

Kerala Manipravalam Example:

Nagaravane thalachona mahodare
Vedapadayorumathilulla shobhe

The beautiful one who is in the center of the city resplendent in Vedic wisdom

This verse shows the Malayalam structure embracing Sanskrit words like “Veda” knowledge and “shobhe” beauty, seamlessly creating a flow that appeals to speakers familiar with both languages.

Why Two Versions of Manipravalam?

The answer lies in the cultural and linguistic evolution of the regions. Tamil Nadu had a strong Tamil identity with deep roots in classical Tamil literature, so their Manipravalam style prioritized keeping Tamil as the dominant structure. In Kerala, Malayalam was still in its early stages of formation, and Sanskrit had a strong influence due to the significant presence of Hindu temples and rituals that necessitated Sanskrit's use. Therefore, Malayalam literature adopted Sanskrit more deeply into its linguistic structure, creating a distinct Kerala Manipravalam.

So both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have valid claims to Manipravalam, but each adapted it to fit their unique literary and linguistic landscapes.