Kovalan and Kannagi did not have a daughter together. While their profound and tragic love story is a cornerstone of classical Tamil literature, particularly in the epic Silappatikaram, their union did not result in a child.
Kovalan's Daughter: Manimekalai
Although Kovalan and Kannagi had no children, Kovalan did have a daughter named Manimekalai with another woman, Madhavi. Madhavi was a celebrated dancer from Puhar, and Manimekalai inherited her mother's artistic talents.
The life of Manimekalai is the central theme of the ancient Tamil-Buddhist epic that bears her name. This epic describes her journey not only as a dancer but also as she dedicates herself to a spiritual path, ultimately becoming a Buddhist nun. The narrative portrays her transformation and her commitment to Buddhist principles. The esteemed poet Kulavanikan Seethalai Sataar is credited with penning the epic Manimekalai in the sixth century, providing a rich account of her story and the Buddhist philosophies she embraced.
Key Relationships in the Epics
To clarify the relationships among these significant figures in Tamil literature:
| Character | Relationship to Kovalan | Notable Role/Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Kannagi | Wife | Central protagonist of Silappatikaram, symbolizing ideal chastity and ultimately, righteous wrath. |
| Madhavi | Consort | Accomplished dancer and mother of Kovalan's only known child, Manimekalai. |
| Manimekalai | Daughter (with Madhavi) | The protagonist of the epic Manimekalai, who transitions from a dancer to a Buddhist nun. |
