சங்க இலக்கியம் - குறுந்தொகையில் மலர்கள்

Abstract

This article examines the literary use of flowers in Kuruntokai to elucidate the nature-centric thought found in Sangam literature. Kuruntokai, one of the Ettuttokai (Eight Anthologies), is a collection of poems centered on romantic love (akam). Within this work, elements of nature—specifically flowers—serve as significant symbols for expressing human emotions.

The flowers associated with the five landscapes (Aintinai) of Kuruntokai—Kurinchi, Mullai, Marutam, Neithal, and Palai—reflect both the natural environment of each region and the associated romantic sentiments. The Kurinchi flower signifies secret trysts; Mullai represents patience and waiting; Marutam denotes social life and prosperity; Neithal symbolizes the sorrow of separation; and Palai signifies an arduous journey.

Furthermore, flowers are employed through literary devices such as similes and metaphors to convey the beauty and emotional states of the beloved. This study also highlights the significant role flowers played in the cultural life of the Sangam era.

Thus, the study demonstrates that in Kuruntokai, flowers are not merely natural elements but serve as symbols of human emotion and culture.

Keywords

• Kuruntokai
• Flowers
• Aintinai (Five Landscapes)
• Akam Poetry
• Simile