தமிழர் இறைமரபின் அடையாளங்களும் குறியீடுகளும்

Symbols and Signs of Tamil Religious Tradition

Abstract

During the Sangam period, worship played an important role among tribal communities. It is believed that this worship may have originated in connection with valor and heroism. The practices of spirit and soul worship observed in tribal society are reflected in the tradition of hero stone (Nadukal) worship.

In mountainous regions, tribal people often fought to protect themselves from wild animals. Those who died heroically in such battles were honored with memorial stones known as hero stones or Nadukal. These stones were inscribed with the names and fame of the heroes so that future generations could remember them. The practice of installing stones in memory of the dead and worshipping them led to the origin of Nadukal worship among tribal communities.

Over time, these practices evolved and continued with rituals and respect from successive generations. In the present context, such traditions have become symbolic representations and identifiers of divine worship and have also laid the foundation for the worship of minor deities.