Wikipedia
Vatakkiruttal
Vatakkiruttal , also Vadakiruthal and vadakiruttal, is a form of Tamil ritual by fasting till death. It was especially widespread during the Sangam age. The Tamil kings, in order to save their honour, and prestige, were prepared to meet their death facing North ('Vatakkiruttal') and never would they turn their back in battle. It was a Tamil martial . This was either done alone, or as a group with the supporters of the captured King.