The Sangam Age represents the dawn of history in South India. It is named after the Sangam assemblies of Tamil poets held under the royal patronage of the Pandya kings of Madurai.
According to Tamil tradition, three Sangams were held, but only the works of the third Sangam survive today.
| Sangam | Venue | Chairman | Surviving Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Thenmadurai | Agastya | None |
| Second | Kapatapuram | Agastya / Tolkappiyar | Tolkappiyam |
| Third | Madurai | Nakkirar | Ettutogai, Pattupattu |
The Sangam literature describes three major dynasties ruling the Tamilakam.
The Cheras: Ruled Kerala region. Capital was Vanchi/Karur and ports included Muziris. Their emblem was the Bow. Senguttuvan established the Pattini cult.
The Cholas: Ruled the Cauvery delta. Capital was Uraiyur and port Puhar. Their emblem was the Tiger. Karikala built the Kallanai dam.
The Pandyas: Ruled southern Tamil Nadu. Capital was Madurai and port Korkai. Their emblem was the Fish. Nedunjeliyan defeated rivals at Talaiyalanganam.
Sangam literature is the most authentic source for understanding this period.
Tolkappiyam: A work on Tamil grammar that also provides insights into social structure.
Ettutogai: Collection of eight anthologies.
Pattupattu: Collection of ten long poems.
Silappadikaram: Story of Kannagi and Kovalan.
Manimekalai: Buddhist-influenced sequel.
The Five Landscapes (Tinais):
Kurinji → Hilly (hunting)
Mullai → Pastoral
Marudam → Agricultural
Neydal → Coastal
Palai → Arid
Economy: Agriculture was based on rice cultivation.
Trade with Rome: Roman gold coins found at Arikamedu show strong trade links.
Exports included spices, pearls, ivory, and textiles.
Murugan: The primary deity, later identified with Kartikeya.
Other deities included Vishnu, Indra, and Varuna.
Hero Stones: Memorial stones for warriors.
Status of Women: Women had relative freedom and literary participation, though practices like Sati also existed.