The Sangam Age

Introduction

An important period in South Indian history, the Sangam Age is mostly connected to the Tamil region. This time period is well known for its contributions to Tamil literature, culture, and society. It roughly corresponds to the years 300 BCE to 300 CE. The academies of Tamil poets and scholars that flourished during this period are referred to as "Sangam". The Pandyan monarchs are thought to have called these academies to Madurai. Sangam literature is the collective term for the literary works created during the Sangam Age, and it offers a wealth of information on the socio-political and cultural landscape of the time.

 

Historical Background and Chronology 

 

Scholarly disagreement exists on the precise dates of the Sangam Period, however the range is usually accepted to be between 300 BCE and 300 CE. There are three distinct phases within the Sangam Age:

1. First Sangam (Mudhal Sangam): Out of the three, this is the most legendary and least studied. There is very little to no surviving literature from this era, and it is thought to have taken place in the now-lost city of Then Madurai.

2. Second Sangam (Idai Sangam): It was said that Kapadapuram hosted this. It is cloaked in legend, much like the First Sangam, and not much of its literature has remained.

3. Third Sangam (Kadaich Sangam): This Sangam, the most extensively recorded and historically noteworthy of the three, took place in Madurai. Most of the literature referred to as Sangam literature comes from this era, including the poetry of poets like Thiruvalluvar.

Contributions in Literature Sangam literature is an impressive collection of historical Tamil writings, mostly composed of poetry. It falls into two categories: Puram (war) and Aham (love). These poems are further divided into 10 idylls called Pathuppaattu and eight anthologies called Ettuthokai.

 

Ettuthokai (Eight Anthologies):

 

1. Akananuru: A collection of 400 poems focusing on the theme of love. 

2. Purananuru: Consists of 400 poems dealing with war, politics, and public life. 

3. Kurunthokai: Short poems, also on the theme of love. 

4. Ainkurunuru: Another collection of love poems, numbering 500. 

5. Natrinai: Contains 400 love poems. 

6. Paripadal: Poems dedicated to deities and religious rituals. 

7. Kalithokai: Poems written in a distinctive meter called Kali. 

8. Pathirruppathu: Poems eulogizing Chera kings. 

 

Pathuppaattu (Ten Idylls): 

 

1. Thirumurugarruppadai: A guide to Murugan worship. 

2. Porunaraatruppadai: A guide for patrons and kings. 

3. Perumpanarruppadai: Describes the prosperity of a Chola kingdom. 

4. Sirupanarruppadai: Similar to Perumpanarruppadai but smaller in scale. 

5. Malaipadukadam: Describes the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu. 

6. Mullaippattu: A poem about mullai (pastoral) lands. 

7. Mathuraikanchi: A poem about the city of Madurai. 

8. Nedunalvadai: Describes the hardships of a journey in winter. 

9. Kurinjippattu: Focuses on the kurinji (mountainous) landscape. 

10. Pattinappalai: Describes the port city of Kaveripoompattinam. 

 

Social and Political Life 

 

The Sangam Age witnessed the rule of three major dynasties: the Cholas, Pandyas, and Chera. These kingdoms were known for their wealth, valor, and patronage of the arts. The society was predominantly agrarian, with trade and commerce also playing significant roles.  

Kings and Chieftains: The rulers of the Sangam period were not only warriors but also patrons of arts and literature. They encouraged poets and scholars, who in turn immortalized their achievements in their works. Some notable kings include the Pandya king Neduncheliyan, the Chola king Karikala Chola, and the Chera king Senguttuvan. 

Social Structure: The society was stratified but not rigidly so. There were four primary divisions: Arasar (rulers), Anthanar (priests and scholars), Vanigar (merchants), and Vellalar (farmers). The warrior class, known as Kshatriyas, played a crucial role in defending and expanding territories. 

 

Women in Sangam Society: Women enjoyed a relatively high status in Sangam society. They were educated, could choose their partners, and were involved in various economic activities. Notable women poets like Avvaiyar left a lasting impact on Tamil literature. 

 

Economy and Trade 

 

The economy of the Sangam Age was diverse and thriving. Agriculture was the mainstay, with rice being the staple crop. The fertile river valleys, especially the Kaveri delta, were highly productive.  

Trade and Commerce: The Tamil region had extensive trade links with the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and other parts of India. The ports of Kaveripoompattinam, Arikamedu, and Muziris were bustling centers of trade. Roman coins and artifacts found in these regions testify to the vibrant trade with the Roman Empire. The exports included spices, pearls, textiles, and ivory , while imports consisted of gold, wine, and horses. 

Crafts and Industries: The Sangam period saw the development of various crafts and industries. Weaving, metalworking, bead-making, and pottery were some of the prominent crafts. The artisans were highly skilled and produced goods that were in demand both locally and internationally. 

 

Religion and Beliefs 

 

The religious landscape of the Sangam Age was diverse. The people worshipped a variety of deities, including Murugan, Shiva, Vishnu, and various mother goddesses. Nature worship was also prevalent, with deities associated with natural elements like rivers, mountains, and forests. 

Murugan: Murugan, the Tamil god of war, was particularly significant during this period. He was revered as the protector of the land and its people. Numerous poems and literary works from the Sangam Age are dedicated to Murugan. 

Folk Beliefs and Practices: Alongside mainstream religious practices, various folk beliefs and rituals were also prevalent. Ancestor worship, animal sacrifices, and the veneration of spirits were common. The people believed in the concept of Tinaimurai , which categorized life and landscapes into five distinct tinai (regions), each associated with specific deities and cultural practices. 

 

Art and Architecture 

 

The Sangam Age witnessed significant developments in art and architecture. Although much of the early architecture has not survived, literary references provide insights into the grandeur of the period. 

 Architecture: The Sangam literature describes magnificent palaces, forts, and temples. The city of Madurai, the capital of the Pandyas, is often depicted as a city of temples and grand buildings. The use of stone and brick in construction was common. 

 Sculpture and Paintings: The period saw the emergence of exquisite sculptures and paintings. Terracotta figures, stone carvings, and metal images from this era display a high level of

craftsmanship. The motifs often included gods, warriors, and scenes from daily life. 

 

Conclusion 

 

Tamil Nadu has a rich cultural and literary history, which is attested to by the Sangam Period of ancient India. The literary and intellectual output of this era has left an enduring influence on Tamil literature and are still honoured today. The religious variety, economic success, and socio-political framework of the era offer insightful information about ancient South India's way of life. The Sangam Age's legacy, kept in Its literary works and customs continue to be an essential component of India's the fabric of history and culture.