Vatakkiruttal (, 'fasting facing north'), also Vadakiruthal and vadakiruttal, was a Tamil ritual of fasting until death. The Tamil kings pledged a martial vow (, 'vow') to meet their death "facing north", refusing to turn their backs in battle. Fasting was either performed alone or as a group among the supporters of the captured king. The practice was especially widespread during the Sangam age.
Examples Poet Kapilar fasted at Kabilar Kundru following the death of his friend King Vēl Pāri in battle. King Kopperuncholan and his friend, the poet Pisiranthaiyar, committed suicide by Vatakkirruttal together.
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