Experts in water management, agriculture (mostly near river banks) & fisheries.
Were eminent sailors and sea traders too.
Home to temples including Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, and Nellaiappar Temple built on the bank of the river Thamirabarani in Tirunelveli.
Were repeatedly in conflict with the Pallavas, Cholas, Hoysalas.
All together they were known as the Three Crowned Kings of Tamilakam.
(c. 1251)