Water Pavilions (Thanneer Pandal) from a Historical Perspective

வரலாற்று நோக்கில் தண்ணீர்ப்பந்தல்

Abstract

To quench the thirst of humans and animals during the summer season, ancient people who upheld righteousness established thanneer pandals (water distribution shelters). This practice is considered a noble act. Therefore, references to such water pandals can be found in Jain epic works of the Sangam age such as Silappadikaram and Manimekalai.

The great emperor Ashoka, who ruled North India during the 3rd century BCE, proudly mentions in his inscriptional edicts that he established water pandals. He was a firm adherent of Buddhist principles. Through these instances, we can understand that both Jainism and Buddhism integrated the concept of water pandals with their ethical doctrines of dharma.