Nature of Administration under the Pandyas
The Pandyas ruled over the southern region of India, primarily in present-day Tamil Nadu, for over seven centuries (6th century BCE - 13th century CE). Their administration was characterized by:
Centralized Monarchy:
- The Pandyas had a strong centralized monarchy, with the king or queen holding supreme power.
- The king was assisted by a council of ministers, known as the Amatyas.
- The capital city, Madurai, was the center of administration and religious significance.
Hierarchical Bureaucracy:
- The Pandyan kingdom was divided into provinces, each governed by a viceroy (Mandaleswara).
- Below the viceroys were district officers (Valanadus), village headmen (Nattars), and tax collectors.
- Each level of administration had specific responsibilities and reported to higher authorities.
Land Administration:
- The Pandyas adopted a complex land tenure system that classified land into various types.
- Land was granted to individuals, temples, and other institutions.
- The revenue from land was the primary source of income for the kingdom.
Revenue System:
- The Pandyas implemented a sophisticated revenue collection system.
- Taxes were levied on land, agricultural produce, trade, and other economic activities.
- Taxes were often paid in kind, such as grains, livestock, or cloth.
Military Organization:
- The Pandyas maintained a formidable army consisting of infantry, cavalry, and elephants.
- The army was divided into regiments, each with its own commander.
- The Pandyas also allied with neighboring kingdoms and engaged in diplomatic negotiations.
Religious Patronage:
- The Pandyas were devout Hindus and patrons of the arts.
- They supported the construction of temples, festivals, and religious institutions.
- The Pandyan period witnessed a flourishing of Tamil literature and architecture.
Local Government:
- Villages had their own elected assemblies known as Sabha or Ur.
- These assemblies were responsible for local governance, including taxation, justice, and water management.
- Local leaders, such as the Nattars, played a significant role in connecting the village communities to the central administration.
Social Structure:
- Pandyan society was divided into various castes and social classes.
- Brahmins occupied the highest position, followed by other castes such as Kshatriyas, Vaisyas, and Sudras.
- Slavery also existed in Pandyan society.