my ratings :(personal experience)
1. Karnataka .. 9pm is perfect time to reach ndls.... latest by 7,30am bpl .... 10am office/exam centre etc
2. TN ... best time 10.30 pm at ndls ..can have early dinner by 8.30pm , rare co-pax seen carrying dinner ..directly board and sleep by 11pm... rare local pax/vendors ,,, no need to keep vigilance over luggage in SL class.. just relax n sleep .. its almost Duranto like till bhopal .
3....
more... SEB .. NZM location is not convenient and far too many stops + 'intermediate halt ' UP/MP pax disturb in SL corridors,doors, toilet area + luggage safety maybe issue in SL