In The Beginning (The Legend of Ponnivala [Series 1, Book 1])

"The Legend of Ponnivala" is a vast, ancient epic from the Kongu region of South India, where it is known as the "Annanmar Kathai" or "Elder Brothers' Story." It is the story of three generations of a farming family who through their exploits and the intercession of the Hindu gods rise to become kings of their region. Previously only told orally by bards in the local area, it is surprisingly accurate in its accounts of historical events, and has close ties to the Mahabharata.

In Episode 1: The Goddess Parvati creates nine farmer-brothers. A Chola king gives them land in Ponnivala. Lord Shiva curses the eldest due to the death of some cows.