The recent news of the Prime Minister of India paying homage to the eminent Tamil poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar, on Thiruvalluvar Day has drawn attention once again to this iconic figure. Thiruvalluvar Day is typically celebrated on 15th or 16th January in Tamil Nadu and marks an integral part of Pongal festivities.
About Thiruvalluvar
Thiruvalluvar, also revered as Valluvar, was a notable Tamil poet-saint. Although there are debates around the period during which he lived along with his religious identity, it is generally accepted that he existed between the 3rd-4th century or the 8th-9th century. There are theories linking Thiruvalluvar to Jainism, while some versions state that he belonged to Hinduism. Notably, Dravidian groups claim him as a saint due to his rejection of the caste system.
Thiruvalluvar’s greatest contribution is the Tirukkural or ‘Kural’, a significant addition to the Sangam literature. This work comprises 133 sections, each containing 10 couplets and is divided into three books: Aram (virtue), Porul (government and society), and Kamam (love). The universal relevance of the Tirukkural has led to its comparison with the highly esteemed books of the world’s major religions.
The Sangam Literature
The term ‘Sangam’ derives from the Sanskrit word ‘Sangha’, which translates to a group of people or an association. The Tamil Sangam was essentially an academy of poets who thrived in three distinct periods and locations under the Pandyan kings’ patronage. The literature composed during these Sangams, specifically from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century CE, was usually written in poetic format revolving around themes of love and war.
According to Tamil legends, three Sangams were held in ancient South India, popularly known as Muchchangam. The First Sangam, believed to have been held at Madurai, included gods and legendary sages as attendees, though no literary works from this time survive today.
The Second Sangam occurred at Kapadapuram, with only ‘Tolkappiyam’ surviving from this era. The Third Sangam also took place in Madurai. Some of the literary works from these Sangams have survived, providing valuable insights into the Sangam period’s history.
The Significance of Sangam Literature
Primarily sourced from the third Sangam, the Sangam literature provides extensive details about people’s life around the beginning of the Christian era. These literary works delve into several secular aspects concerning public and social activities like government, war charity, trades, worship, agriculture, etc.
Sangam literature includes the earliest Tamil works such as the Tolkappiyam, the ten poems (Pattupattu), the eight anthologies (Ettutogai), eighteen minor works (Padinenkilkanakku) and the three epics. Each one of these pieces is a testament to the rich cultural literary heritage of ancient south India.
Source: PIB
