சங்க இலக்கியத்தில் நடுகற்கள் - மீள்பார்வை

Heroic Stones in Sangam Literature - A Re-examination

Abstract

The human mind is like a fragile vine; it cannot stand alone or function independently. Its nature is to cling to something and flourish. Concepts such as magic, rituals, beliefs, and worship are the direct outcomes of the human psyche, coalescing over time into established traditions of worship. Just as humans evolved through various stages while living in harmony with nature, belief-based worship has similarly progressed. Evolving from nature worship to divine worship and the veneration of individuals, worship has secured an indispensable place in human life. In this context, references to heroic stones (Nadukarkal) are widespread throughout Sangam literature. Literary works bear witness to the practice of erecting stones to commemorate and worship warriors who died heroically in battle. This paper aims to analyze the records regarding these heroic stones.