Who was the first scholar to translate the epic Mahabharata into the Tamil language, creating a Tamil version for local readers?

Introduction / Context:
Regional language translations of major Sanskrit epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata played a vital role in spreading these stories across India. In Tamil literature, the question of who first rendered the Mahabharata into Tamil is an important fact. Competitive exams often test this specific name because it links classical Sanskrit tradition with the growth of Tamil literary culture.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The work in question is a Tamil version of the Mahabharata.
• The focus is on the first known translator into Tamil.
• Several famous Tamil poets and scholars are given as options.

Concept / Approach:
While Kamban is associated with the Tamil Ramayana, the first translation of the Mahabharata into Tamil is traditionally attributed to the poet Perundevanar. Knowing which poet is linked to which epic helps you avoid confusion between different literary traditions and works.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Kamban is mainly known for Kamba Ramayanam, a Tamil version of the Ramayana. Step 2: Identify Perundevanar as the poet associated with the first Tamil Mahabharata. Step 3: Note that other names such as Bharavi and Sundaramurthi relate to different works and traditions. Step 4: Among the options, match Mahabharata into Tamil with the name Perundevanar. Step 5: Select Perundevanar as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard general knowledge and Indian literature question banks consistently state that Perundevanar translated the Mahabharata into Tamil. If you form the association Perundevanar and Mahabharata and Kamban and Ramayana, it becomes easier to remember which poet is linked to which epic in Tamil literary history.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, Kamban, is famous for his Tamil Ramayana, not for the Mahabharata. Option B, Bharavi, was a Sanskrit poet associated with works such as Kiratarjuniya. Option D, Sundaramurthi, is a Tamil Shaivite saint, not the first translator of the Mahabharata. Option E, Appar, is another Shaivite saint, again unrelated to this specific translation.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners often see a familiar name like Kamban and choose it without recalling that his fame is tied to the Ramayana. Others may simply guess based on which name sounds most literary. To avoid such errors, always memorise pairs like Kamban and Ramayana, Perundevanar and Mahabharata.

Final Answer:
The first scholar who translated the Mahabharata into Tamil was Perundevanar.