Lecture on the Sangam Era

Introduction

• This lecture is about the Sangam Era, which holds importance in Indian history.
• Sangam is an era when poets, writers, and scholars of South India gathered.

Introduction to the Sangam Era

• Location: Allahabad (Prayagraj)
• Poets and Writers: All Tamil poets, writers, and other creators were part of this literary gathering.
• Purpose: To create a great literary work.
• Meaning of Sangam: Union or conference.

Sangam Conferences

• First Sangam: Conducted by the Pandya kings, where gods and sages participated.
• Second Sangam: Many literatures and poems were written during this.
• Third Sangam: Significant literature was also created in this.

Sangam Literature

• Sources: Tirukkural and other texts.
• Author: Tiruvalluvar, a Tamil poet and philosopher.
• Main Themes: Religion, economics, and Kama Sutra.

Features of the Sangam Period

• Society: Divided into social classes - Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
• Economy: Predominantly agricultural.
• Local Chiefs: Velirs, were local chiefs.
• Marriage System: Introduced by Aryans.

Major States

• Cheras: In Kerala, famous king Cheran Senguttuvan.
• Cholas: In Thanjavur and Tiruchirappalli, prominent king Karikalan.
• Pandyas: In Madurai, a main reason for organizing the Sangam.

Major Contributions of Sangam

• Literature: Works like Silappatikaram and other Puranas.
• Art and Culture: Megalithic structures and social organizations.

Economic Activities

• Trade: Export and import of materials.
• Agriculture: Rice was the main crop, along with millet, cotton, and spices.
• Handicrafts: Spinning and weaving.

Cultural Aspects

• Status of Women: Education was accessible but not equality.
• Art: Music and dance were prevalent.

Importance of the Sangam Era

• This era is a significant period for studying South Indian history and culture.