Risk Management in Civakasinthamani

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive exploration of Civakasinthamani, one of the five great Tamil epics known as Aimperumkappiyangal. Composed by the Jain poet-saint Thiruthakkadevar, the epic narrates the multifaceted life of Civakan, the valiant son of King Sachandhan of Emangadha and Queen Visaiyai. Traditionally revered for its literary depth and contributions to dance, music, poetics, and cultural criticism, Civakasinthamani has not yet been critically examined through the lens of risk management. This study seeks to fill that scholarly void by investigating the strategies of risk identification, mitigation, and management embedded within the narrative. The term "Sinthamani" symbolizes an undying brilliance—aptly reflective of Civakan’s enduring legacy of wisdom, diplomacy, and resilience.

The study centers around five key dimensions of risk management as reflected in the epic:

1. The leadership risks encountered by King Sachandhan.


2. The heroic and strategic agency of Queen Visaiyai.


3. Civakan’s diplomatic navigation following the king’s demise.


4. The relational and political risks involved in marrying eight women.


5. The unification of the masses to reclaim and secure the nation.

Ultimately, the epic underscores a timeless principle: that victory hinges not merely on valor, but on understanding one’s adversaries, strategizing astutely, and leading with insight.