Iratham

Historical Background
Iratham (Tamil ரதம்) is a word in the Tamil language of Sri Lanka defined as a "chariot" or "coach" (an enclosed carriage). Alternatively, Irasam (இரதம்) or Irattam (இரத்தம்) may also be defined as "mercury, quicksilver" or "blood" respectively, possibly denoting Iratham's mechanical appearance and/or swift and violent nature.

Iratham is also the name of a playing piece in the ancient game caturaṅga (Sanskrit चतुरङ्ग) developed in Gupta India during the 6th century. The Iratham or Śakata (lit. Chariot) moves similarly to the Rook of modern Chess.