Ponniyin Selvan: Part I

In the 10th century, the Chola dynasty thrived under the wise rule of Emperor Sundara Chola. This prosperous era was marked by military campaigns and cultural advancements in South India.

Emperor Sundara Chola delegates military leadership to his sons, Aditha Karikalan and Arulmozhi Varman. Aditha leads campaigns in Kanchi while Arulmozhi commands forces in Lanka, showcasing their capabilities as future rulers.

During the campaign in Kanchi, Aditha makes a crucial decision to spare the life of King Khottiga. This act of mercy signifies a noble approach to leadership, contrasting with the brutality of war.

Sensing treachery within the royal court, Aditha sends his loyal friend Vandiyadevan to investigate. His task is to uncover the truth and report back to his sister, Princess Kundavai, and their father.

Upon arriving at Kadamboor fort, Vandiyadevan overhears a conspiracy against Aditha orchestrated by the emperor's treasurer, Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar. This revelation raises alarms about the threats to the throne.

Vandiyadevan encounters Azhwarkadiyan Nambi, a Veera Vaishnavite spy who provides insight into the political intrigues. Nambi reveals personal ties that deepen Vandiyadevan’s involvement in the royal plot.

With Nandini's guidance, Vandiyadevan sneaks into the palace to expose the conspirators. Despite constant risks, he bravely presents his findings to Emperor Sundara, revealing the internal threats to the royal family.

In Thanjavur, tensions rise as Kundavai pressures Vandiyadevan to communicate with Nandini. The court is increasingly manipulated by Pazhuvettaraiyar, further endangering Aditha's claim to the throne.

Following a series of military successes, Aditha's feelings for Nandini come to the surface. Their tumultuous past complicates the unfolding events as Nandini seeks her own agenda fueled by revenge.

Nandini partners with Pazhuvettaraiyar to tighten their grip on power within the kingdom. Their conspiratorial efforts grow more severe as they plot to eliminate the rightful heirs to the throne.

As the landscape of power changes, an attempted ambush on Ponniyin Selvan highlights the escalating conflict. The stakes are raised as Vandiyadevan and Ponniyin Selvan attempt to thwart the plots threatening their future.

A dramatic storm leads to the presumed deaths of Ponniyin Selvan and Vandiyadevan, casting a shadow of despair over the kingdom. This tragedy propels Aditha into a vengeful pursuit against Nandini.

The news of the storm brings devastation to Emperor Sundara, Kundavai, and Aditha. The emotional toll shakes the foundations of their familial bonds and future ambitions amidst looming threats.

Amidst the turmoil, Oomai Rani, the mute queen and Nandini's mother, becomes embroiled in the treachery. Driven by her desire to rescue Ponniyin Selvan from the depths of the sea, her struggle adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.