GNANA SOUNDARI - STORY IN ENGLISH

GNANASOUNDARI

Gnanasoundari,' a Christian folk myth.

 The legend of `Gnanasoundari', a rare example of a totally invented Christian mythological character, is probably developed from a Spanish folk tale. `Gnanasoundari Ammanai,' a folk poem, which attained much popularity from the 18th century, is the basis of the musical operas that were staged in Malayalam and Tamil. Popular drama troupes in Tamil Nadu staged this play throughout South India and it had its influence on the Malayalai audience also. 

Gnanasundari , daughter of King Philip, loses her mother when she was a child. She grows up as an ardent devotee of Virgin Mary. Out of fear that she may be banished if Gnanasundari ascends the throne after her father, Annisha her stepmother plays nasty tricks to kill her. For this evil plot Annisha takes the help of her faithful maid Kathri . When the king is away from the palace on a hunting expedition, Annisha engages her men to murder Gnanasundari. Out of mercy for their princess, Annisha's men leave Gnanasundari alive in the woods with her arms cut off and reports to Annisha that the princess is murdered. Philendran , prince of a neighbouring kingdom, happens to find Gnanasundari in the forest and takes her to his palace. King Sheemon  and Queen Mariana conduct the marriage of their son Philendran with Gnanasundari. 

While Philendran is away helping King Philip in battle, Gnanasundari gives birth to twin boys. Annisha comes to know that Gnanasundari is alive and is now the wife of Philendran. A message sent by Philendran to his parents is forged and manipulated by Annisha. Misguided by the message Sheemon sends Gnanasundari and her children to the forest. Gnanasundari prays to Virgin Mary to save her from the miserable plight and the mother of Jesus Christ descends to save her devotee. 

Philendran returns to the palace and is heart broken when he comes to know about the fate of his wife and children. He leaves the palace to search for them. He finds them in the forest, misunderstandings are cleared, Philendran and Gnanasundari return to the palace with their children. Annisha and Kathri are forgiven by Gnanasundari .