The Pandyas, Cholas and Cheras were blessed with fertile land where rice, ragi, sugarcane, pepper and spices were grown. The kingdoms were neatly divided into cities, towns, ports and villages. The royal palaces were well decorated and surrounded by gardens.
Nedunjeliyan’s palace was a marvel; it had priceless lamps, ivory beds and ‘beautiful cushions. The rich had houses built of brick, while the poor and the villagers lived in mud and thatched structures.
All the three kingdoms were known for their large armies comprising of elephants, horses, chariots and foot-soldiers. Horses were imported from overseas. The kingdoms of the south had good trade relations inland and abroad, and were a hub of art and crafts.
Religions of the south were greatly influenced by the north; though there were Brahmanas, Jains, Buddhists and Ajivikas, Brahmanas gained dominance over time. Local people also worshipped hero-stones that were erected when someone was killed in battle.
Picture Credit : Google