The Sangam Age

(Relevant for Historical Section of General Studies Paper Prelims/Mains)

Sangam Age

The period roughly between the 3rd century B.C. and 3rd century A.D. in South India (the area lying to the south of river Krishna and Tungabhadra) is known as Sangam Period. It has been named after the Sangam academies held during that period that flourished under the royal patronage of the Pandya kings of Madurai.

As per Tamil legends, the ancient South India witnessed three Sangam (Academies of Tamil poets) collectively known as Muchchangam:

• The First Sangam, traditionally said to have taken place in Madurai, was attended by gods and legendary sages. Unfortunately, no literary works from this Sangam have survived to this day.
• The Second Sangam convened at Kapadapuram, and from it, only Tolkappiyam has endured as a literary work.
• The Third Sangam, also held in Madurai, left behind a few Tamil literary compositions that serve as valuable sources for understanding the historical context of the Sangam period.
• These academies were instrumental in compiling Sangam literature, which includes Tolkappiyam, Ettutogai, Pattuppattu, Pathinenkilkanakku, and two epic poems known as Silappathikaram and Manimegalai. These literary treasures offer insights into the socio-political landscape of the era.

Sangam Polity and Administration:

• The form of government during the Sangam period was hereditary monarchy.
• Each dynasty in the Sangam age had its own royal emblem, such as the tiger for the Cholas, carp or fish for the Pandyas, and bow for the Cheras.
• The king was supported by various officials organized into five councils: ministers (amaichar), priests (anthanar), envoys (thuthar), military commanders (senapathi), and spies (orrar).
• Military administration was well-structured, with each ruler having a regular army at their disposal.
• The primary source of state revenue was land revenue, supplemented by custom duties on foreign trade.
• The royal treasury was also enriched through the capture of spoils during wars.
• Roads and highways were maintained and protected to prevent robbery and smuggling.

Sangam Society:

• Tolkappiyam categorized the land into five divisions: Kurinji (hilly tracks), Mullai (pastoral), Marudam (agricultural), Neydal (coastal), and Palai (desert).
• The society comprised four main castes: arasar (Ruling Class), anthanar, vanigar (engaged in trade and commerce), and vellalar (Agriculturists).
• The Sangam period was home to ancient primitive tribes like Thodas, Irulas, Nagas, and Vedars.

Position of Women during Sangam Age:

• Women enjoyed respect and were permitted to engage in intellectual pursuits. Notable women poets like Avvaiyar, Nachchellaiyar, and Kakkaipadiniyar thrived during this era and made significant contributions to Tamil literature.
• Women were allowed to choose their life partners, although the lives of widows were often difficult.

The Sangam period slowly witnessed its decline towards the end of the 3rd century A.D. The Kalabhras occupied the Tamil country post-sangam period between 300 AD to 600 AD, whose period was called an interregnum or ‘dark age’ by earlier historians.

Sample Question for UPSC Sociology Optional Paper:

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Sangam Age, Tamil Literature, Pandya Kings, Sangam Academies, Ancient South India, Tolkappiyam, Silappathikaram, Manimegalai, Social Structure, Political Governance, Position of Women, Ancient Tribes, Sangam Society

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