Why is the Sangam Age so Called?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: September 12th, 2023
The Sangam Age is called the meeting of musicians and poets where most Tamil literature got documented. Sangam Age is the era from the 3rd century B.C. to the 3rd century A.D. in south India. According to Tamil legends, there existed 3 Sangams called Muchchangam that functioned in ancient South India. These Sangams prospered under the monarchical business of the Pandya kings of Madurai.
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Sangam Age (Period)
The word ‘Sangam’ actually originates from the Sanskrit word ‘Sangha’, which means association. In south India, the Sangam Age lasted from the third century BC until the third century AD. According to Tamil traditions, there were three Sangams held in ancient South India named Muchchangam. The Pandya kings of Madurai provided these Sangams with the royal support they needed to flourish.
- The Sangam literature comprises Tolkappiyam, Pathinenkilkanakku, Pattuppattu, Ettutogai, and two epics named – Silappathikaram and Manimegalai. These epics play a key role in the culture of South India.
- Agribusiness was the principal occupation where rice was the most standard crop. Much like some of the regions in the Northern parts of India, South India also depended on agriculture to a good extent.
- The Puhar city became a port of foreign trade, containing precious goods.
- Roman Emperors like Tiberius, Augustus, and Nero allocated many silver and gold coins.
- During the Sangam period, handicrafts included metal pieces, weaving, carpentry, building yachts, and the making of embellishments.
- Major exports were cotton textiles, spices, ivory products, and precious rocks, whereas imports were sweet wine, horses, and gold.
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