Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

Sangam literature, composed between 3rd century BCE and 3rd century CE, is one of the earliest known literary traditions in India. It provides a rich account of early Tamil society, economy, and polity, offering insights into the lives, governance, and culture of the people of Tamilakam..

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Significance in Understanding Early Tamil Society:

• Social Structure
  • Society was organized into five physiographic divisions (Tinai), each associated with a distinct lifestyle:
    • Kurinji – Murugan, Mullai – Vishnu, Marudam – Indra, Neydal – Varuna, Palai – Korravai.
  • Caste-like classifications:
    • Avasar (Rulers), Anthanar (Priests), Vanigar (Traders), and Vellalar (Farmers) were recognized.
    • Brahmins played an increasing role, evident in references to Vedic rituals.
• Position of Women
  • Women poets like Avvaiyar, Nachchellaiyar, and Kakkaipadiniyar contributed to Sangam literature.
  • The practice of Sati existed among the elite, but self-earned love marriages (Kalavu) were also acknowledged.
• Religion and Beliefs
  • The predominant faith was animism and nature worship, with deities like Murugan, Varuna, and Kottravai (war goddess).
  • Manimekalai highlights the influence of Buddhism, while Silappadikaram reflects the Kannagi cult.
• Economic Aspects in Sangam Literature
  • Agriculture and Land Use
    • Paddy cultivation was dominant, especially in Chola and Pandya lands.
    • Pattinappalai praises the fertility of land and irrigation projects, including the Kaveri embankment built by Karikala Chola.
  • Trade and Commerce
    • Sangam texts highlight flourishing maritime trade with Rome, Greece, and Southeast Asia.
    • Ports such as Puhar (Kaveripattinam), Korkai, and Arikamedu were key commercial hubs.
  • Urban Centers and Craft Production
    • Cities like Madurai, Uraiyur, and Vanji were centers of politics and trade.
    • Textile and pearl industries were well-developed. Silappadikaram describes the silk-weaving skills of Puhar.
• Political Structure in Sangam Age
  • Dynastic Rule: The three major kingdoms—Chera, Chola, and Pandya—formed the backbone of Tamil polity.
    • Chera Dynasty: Controlled Kerala; known for trade and patronage of Buddhism and Jainism.
    • Chola Dynasty: Known for naval power, irrigation projects, and conquests (Karikala Chola).
    • Pandya Dynasty: Capital at Madurai, famed for its Sangam patronage.
• Governance and Administration
  • Hereditary monarchy with titles and emblems (Tiger for Cholas, Bow for Cheras, Fish for Pandyas).
  • Kings had a five-member council (Amaichchar - ministers, Purohitar - priests, Senapatiyar - army chiefs, Dutars - envoys, Orrar - spies).

Conclusion

Sangam literature serves as a mirror to early Tamil civilization, offering a comprehensive view of social structures, economic prosperity, and political systems. It highlights the interactions of Tamilakam with the larger world and provides an invaluable cultural legacy that continues to shape Tamil identity.