Sangam period

South India in Sangam Period

Puhar-ILango

Sangam Period refers to a phase in the ancient history of southern India, specifically the region of Tamil Nadu and parts of Kerala, which lasted from around 6th century BCE to 3rd century CE. This era is marked by the production of an extensive body of Tamil literature, known as the Sangam literature, which was composed by poets in academies known as Sangams that were patronized by the Tamil kings. The literature from this period is a crucial source for understanding the social, political, and economic conditions of the time.

Historical Context

The Sangam period is traditionally said to have been hosted by three consecutive academies of Tamil scholars and poets in the ancient cities of Madurai, Theni, and Kapatapuram. These academies were purportedly established by Tamil kings to promote the arts, literature, and academic pursuits. The literature produced during this time provides insights into the life, governance, and commerce of the era, including the extensive trade relationships with the Roman Empire.

Sangam Literature

Sangam literature is predominantly composed of poems and is divided into two main groups: Ettuthogai (The Eight Anthologies) and Pathuppattu (The Ten Idylls). This body of work covers various themes, including love, valor, ethics, and governance, and provides a vivid picture of the Sangam society, detailing its geography, economy, and social structure. Notable works include the Tirukkural by Thiruvalluvar, which is a treasured guide on morality and statecraft, and the Ettuthogai, which contains eight collections of poetry on various subjects.

Political Landscape

The Sangam era was characterized by a complex political landscape with numerous Tamil kingdoms and chieftains. The three prominent Tamil kingdoms were the Chola, Chera, and Pandya kingdoms, which frequently engaged in warfare, alliances, and trade. These kingdoms had established a sophisticated administrative system and maintained active trade relations with distant lands, including the Greeks, Romans, and Chinese.

Economy and Society

The economy during the Sangam period was predominantly agrarian, with rice being the staple crop. However, there was also a significant emphasis on trade, both internal and with foreign lands. The society was organized into various occupational groups and was highly stratified, with a clear distinction between the elite and the common people. The Sangam literature also mentions the existence of urban centers, marketplaces, and the importance of seafaring and trade.

Religion and Culture

The Sangam literature provides evidence of a complex religious landscape that included worship of ancestral and nature spirits, alongside the reverence of Hindu gods such as Shiva and Vishnu. The period also saw the emergence of Bhakti movement, which emphasized devotion to a personal god. The cultural life was rich, with music, dance, and literature being integral to society.

Legacy

The Sangam period has left a lasting legacy on Tamil culture, influencing its language, literature, and arts. The Sangam literature, in particular, is considered a cornerstone of Tamil identity and heritage, celebrated for its poetic excellence and historical value.