KALANJIYAM - International Journal of Tamil Studies
KALANJIYAM – An International Journal of Tamil Studies is a quarterly bilingual publication in Tamil and English that seeks to enhance the knowledge and appreciation of Tamil literature and culture among scholars, students, and the general public through its rigorous, high-quality articles. The editorial team and contributors of KALANJIYAM consist of renowned experts in Tamil studies from around the globe, who contribute their expertise and insights to the journal. Each issue includes a variety of essays exploring different dimensions of Tamil literature, such as poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction, along with folklore and translation analysis. Additionally, KALANJIYAM features comprehensive book reviews that offer critical evaluations of recent academic works. This journal serves as an essential resource for anyone intrigued by Tamil literature and culture, enjoying widespread readership and citation among scholars and researchers. The significant contributions it makes to Tamil studies have led to several awards and honors. In addition to its printed version, KALANJIYAM is also available online, making its rich academic content easily accessible. With its dedication to scholarly rigor, thoughtful analysis, and promotion of Tamil literature and culture, KALANJIYAM is a must-read publication for anyone passionate about the vibrant heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Department of Library, Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College, Pollachi
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Seethalai Sathanar’s Manimekalai stands as a unique philosophical encyclopedia in the history of Tamil literature, shaped by an egalitarian perspective and a Buddhist foundation. This article analyzes—from both literary and logical standpoints—the epic's core Buddhist tenets, including Anitya (impermanence), Anatma (non-self), Dukkha (suffering), Karma (action and consequence), and Nirvana (liberation), while illustrating their practical application through the protagonist's renunciation of worldly affluence for an ascetic life. Furthermore, it explores profound concepts presented by characters such as Sathanar and Aravana Adigal—including the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, the Five Aggregates (Pancha Skandhas), and Dependent Origination (Pratityasamutpada)—ultimately demonstrating how Buddhism integrates individual spiritual liberation with social welfare through the alleviation of hunger, symbolized by the Amudhasurabi (the inexhaustible alms bowl).
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தமிழ் எழுத்தின் பெயர் – சில விமர்சனங்கள்
The origin and development of the Tamil script constitute an important area of research in Tamil linguistics, epigraphy, palaeography, and cultural history. Inscriptions serve as primary sources for tracing the historical evolution of Tamil script, as they provide valuable evidence concerning letter forms, graphic changes, word structures, grammatical usage, personal names, place names, and records of donations. The development of Tamil script was not a sudden phenomenon but the outcome of a gradual linguistic and palaeographic evolution over several centuries. The emergence of Tamil-Brahmi, followed by Vatteluttu, medieval Tamil script, and the transformations associated with the printing era, demonstrates the dynamic nature of Tamil writing traditions. The nomenclature assigned to the early Tamil script also requires critical examination. Terms such as Brahmi, Damili, and Dravidi have been used in different scholarly contexts, while the designation Tamil-Brahmi emerged as a later scholarly classification for the ancient script forms associated with Tamil. Therefore, this study critically examines the origin, development, and nomenclature of the Tamil script by integrating evidence from inscriptions, archaeology, numismatics, manuscripts, literary sources, and palaeography. The study emphasizes the need for an interdisciplinary approach to understand the historical identity and evolutionary trajectory of the Tamil script.
நாட்டுப்புற மக்களின் இறைநம்பிக்கையில் நேர்த்திக்கடன் சடங்குகள்: மானுடவியல் மற்றும் இலக்கியவியல் ஆய்வறிக்கை
The traditional deity worship practices that have prevailed in the Indian cultural landscape since ancient times are deeply intertwined with the daily life and social structure of the people. Conceptualizing the great forces of nature and supernatural elements as deities, folk people surrendered to these gods to protect themselves from fear and diseases. The primary ritualistic method undertaken by people to attain divine grace and to express gratitude for the fulfillment of their prayers is called 'Nertikadan' (votive offering/fulfilling a vow). This research paper comprehensively examines the role of votive offerings in Tamil folk religious beliefs through anthropological, sociological, and folkloric perspectives. Based on ritual intensity, physical effort, and psychological background, this paper classifies vows into two major categories—'Mild Votive Offerings' (Menmai-t-thanmaiyulla Nertikadangal) and 'Severe Votive Offerings' (Vanmai-t-thanmaiyulla Nertikadangal)—and explains their cultural norms. Furthermore, by establishing the historical continuity of this vow-fulfilling tradition through Sangam literature, Silappatikaram, and later ethical texts, it critically analyzes regional ritual variations using field-study data from modern open-access journals.
வெ. சாமிநாத சர்மாவின் ‘எனது பர்மா வழி நடைப் பயணம்’ – ஊர், நகரம், நாடு - நிலவெளிப் பதிவுகள்
Human populations within specific geographic regions systematically cultivate distinct customs, belief systems, and sociocultural practices engineered by their immediate physical environments. As these localized practices achieve broader consensus, they evolve into systemic cultural paradigms that define a region's overarching identity and dictate the lived experiences of its inhabitants. In literary study, geographic landscapes are increasingly recognized not merely as passive backdrops, but as active, performative agents integral to narrative structure. Utilizing the theoretical framework of Spatial Theory (literary spatiality), this paper examines the urban and national topography depicted in Ve. Swaminatha Sharma’s travelogue, Enathu Burma Vazhi Nadai Payanam (My Journey Through Burma on Foot), analyzing how constructed environments and geographical representations function as dynamic entities that shape socio-cultural identity.
கிராமவெளி விருப்பும் நகரவெளி மறுப்பும் (இமையத்தின் கோவேறு கழுதைகள், ஆறுமுகம், செடல் நாவல்களை முன்வைத்து)
Imayam’s novels Koveru Kazhudhaigal (1994), Arumugam (1999), and Sedal (2006) are centered on the binary opposition between rural and urban spaces. Although the characters in these novels get opportunities to move toward urban spaces, they either return to the rural fold or face broken, fragmented lives within the urban environment. While the rural space operates as a site that reproduces caste, gender, and economic oppressions, the urban space offers alternative possibilities of living—such as education, employment, economic progress, and individual freedom. However, in Imayam’s early novels, the urban space fails to establish itself as a realm of liberation; instead, the cultural draw and social control of the rural space are depicted as overriding. This paper analyzes, through the lens of the concept of 'Space', this fictional perspective that prioritizes the rural space while rejecting the urban space.
ஆழ்வார் பாடல்களில் தத்துவமும் உளவியலும்: ஓர் விரிவான ஆய்வு
In the history of Tamil literature, the period from the 6th century CE to the 9th century CE is considered the golden age of the Vaishnava Bhakti Movement. Immersing themselves fully in the divine qualities of Lord Vishnu and reveling in the flood of devotion, the twelve Azhwars bestowed the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, which stands as an incomparable philosophical and psychological treasure of Tamil religious literature. This research paper comprehensively examines the deep connection between God and the soul, the emotional dimensions of the human mind, child psychology (Vatsalya Bhava), the philosophy of surrender (Saranagathi), and the Visistadvaita philosophical doctrine of Tattva Trayam (Chit, Achit, Ishvara) as revealed in the hymns (Pasurams) of the Azhwars. Furthermore, this paper provides a detailed analysis, supported by contemporary evidence, of the socio-psychological elements conveyed through the dialogues of Vaishnava Acharyas such as Ananthazhwan and Nanjeeyar, along with the psycho-social significance of Vaishnava religious vows (Vratas) and festivals.
பக்தி இலக்கியங்கள் காட்டும் தமிழரின் வாழ்வியல்: ஓர் விரிவான சமூக-பண்பாட்டு ஆய்வு
The primary objective of this paper is to comprehensively study the noble cultural traits of the Tamils—such as love, equality, social service, women's liberation, compassion for all living beings, and ecological values—through the life principles depicted in Bhakti literature1. Transcending the moral doctrines of the post-Sangam period, Tamil society, whose lifestyle during the Sangam era was rooted in Agam (inner life) and Puram (outer life/warfare) across various landscapes, blossomed into the Bhakti movement between the 7th and 9th centuries CE, bridging divine consciousness with humanism1. This paper critically analyzes humanistic philosophies, social equality opposing the caste hierarchy, the ethic of charity and service to the marginalized, a lifestyle in harmony with nature, and the spiritual autonomy of women, as expressed through Saiva and Vaishnava Tamil literature, namely the Panniru Thirumurai, Naalayira Divya Prabandham, and Periya Puranam.
செம்மொழியில் தமிழ்ச்சித்தரியலும் இயற்கைக் கோட்பாடுகளும்: ஓர் விரிவான அறிவியல் மற்றும் மெய்யியல் வரலாற்று ஆய்வு
Classical Tamil literature and Siddha texts serve as repositories of knowledge, seamlessly integrating nature, human physiology, traditional medicine, and philosophical thought. This research paper aims to examine in detail the natural lifestyle principles and Siddha philosophies reflected in Tolkappiyam, Ettuthokai, Pattupattu, Pathinenkilkanakku ethical works, Thirumandhiram, and the writings of revered Siddhars. This paper establishes the scientific framework through which ancient Tamils, regarding nature as an integral foundation of life, maintained bodily equilibrium based on the Five Elements theory (Pancha Bhuta) and the Three Doshas theory (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). The ancient medical knowledge of the Tamils is demonstrated by battlefield surgical care, cotton wound dressings, the use of suture needles during the Sangam era, and the prescribed dietary regimens in Natrinai. Furthermore, the diagnostic methods highlighted by Thiruvalluvar, the Yoga-Kayakalpa concepts of Thirumoolar, and the alchemical, herbal, and subtle scientific techniques of Siddhars—including Agathiyar, Bogar, Yugi Muni, and Gorakkar—are detailed extensively. Drawing upon the perspectives of Western scholars such as Sir John Evans and Scott Elliot, the antiquity of human origins in the South Indian region is also examined. Ultimately, Classical Tamil literature and Siddha medicine serve as timeless foundational resources offering guidance for modern global pursuits in environmental protection, sustainable development, and holistic health..
தமிழகத் தொல்லியல் வரலாற்றில் மட்கலன்களின் முதன்மையும் குயவர்களின் பங்களிப்பும்
Ancient Tamils have left behind their cultural elements as remains in the very places where they lived. Furthermore, the literature, inscriptions, sculptures, paintings, architecture, and monuments of the ancient Tamils greatly help in understanding their history. The hand-crafting techniques of the ancient Tamils are revealed through the earthenware, copper plates, tools, and ornaments made by them and recovered from excavations. Buried and hidden structures speak volumes about the creativity of that era. Additionally, terracotta figurines and burial monuments serve as vital evidence for uncovering ancient history. Thus, among all archaeological evidences that reflect the lifestyle and intellect of the ancient Tamils, pottery and earthenware are the most essential. These earthenware objects highlight the diverse customs and supreme intelligence of the ancient Tamils. The primary objective of this research article is to showcase the artistic skill and cognitive brilliance of ancient potters through these artifacts.
பழந்தமிழரின் பன்னாட்டு வணிகத்தில் முத்துக்கள்
Sangam literature, supported by archaeological evidence and accounts from classical foreign chroniclers like Pliny, Ptolemy, and Marco Polo, provides vital insight into ancient Tamilakam’s distinct social, economic, and cultural landscape. Central to this prosperity was the pearl trade, centered in the Pandyan port city of Korkai, which supplied highly sought-after gems to Roman royalty and international markets. Excavations at sites like Keezhadi and Arikamedu—alongside literary references and the adage "Pandya Nadu Muthudaittu"—confirm that pearls were far more than luxury ornaments for kings and women; they represented sophisticated pearl-diving technology, extensive maritime networks, economic strength, and deep-seated cultural traditions. Ultimately, this study uses literary, archaeological, and historical sources to analyze the multifaceted role of pearls as a cornerstone of ancient Tamil wealth and identity.
In the history of Tamil literature, Jainism has played a significant role in disseminating noble philosophical ideals such as virtue, morality, renunciation, non-violence (Ahimsa), the doctrine of karma, and the cycle of rebirth through literary works. Among the Aimperumkāppiyaṅkaḷ (Five Minor Epics), Yasodhara Kāvyam stands out as an important epic that artistically presents the fundamental principles of Jainism. Rather than being merely a narrative, the epic serves as a philosophical work that expounds the ethical values essential to human life. Throughout the epic, Jain doctrines such as non-killing, the impermanence of worldly pleasures, the consequences of karma, the superiority of ascetic life, and liberation from the cycle of rebirth are consistently emphasized at every stage of the narrative. The objective of this study is to examine and interpret the Jain philosophical principles embodied in Yasodhara Kāvyam from both literary and religious perspectives. Yasodhara Kāvyam is not merely a religious text intended for doctrinal propagation; it is also a philosophical work that explains the principle of cause and effect in human existence. The concept of Ahimsa fosters humanitarian values, the doctrine of karma establishes ethical responsibility, and the idea of the cycle of rebirth guides human beings toward spiritual advancement. These three principles are closely interconnected and are presented in an integrated manner throughout the epic.
திருவாலவாயுடையார் திருவிளையாடற் புராணத்தில் கலிவிருத்தங்கள்
Originating in the ancient region of Kalinga in Odisha, Odissi is one of India's oldest classical dance traditions—recognized as one of the country's eight official classical dances—renowned globally for its fluid body movements, sculptured postures, rich emotional expressions (abhinaya), and spiritual depth. Deeply tied to temple worship traditions, particularly in the iconic Jagannath, Konark Sun, and Lingaraj temples, the art form draws its foundational posture, hand gestures, and footwork from temple carvings, while historically preserved through the Mahari (temple dancers) and Gotipua (young boys performing in female attire) traditions. Characterized artistically by its signature postures like Tribhanga (a three-bend stance) and Chauka (a stable, square posture representing divine energy), Odissi encompasses pure dance (Nritta), expressive dance (Nritya), and dramatic enactment (Natya) to convey emotions ranging from devotion to heroism. Despite declining under British rule, the art form underwent a significant revival post-Independence through the efforts of scholars and gurus, evolving today into a internationally taught and performed classical art. This study explores the historical, religious, aesthetic, and cultural evolution of Odissi, analyzing its interconnections with temple architecture, sculpture, and devotional literature, while emphasizing the vital need for its preservation, academic research, and global dissemination as a living testament to Kalinga’s rich cultural heritage.
Virayachilai is an ancient village situated about 23 km southwest of Pudukkottai in Thirumayam Taluk of Pudukkottai District, Tamil Nadu. The village occupies a significant place in the historical geography of the region owing to its rich epigraphical heritage. Inscriptions preserved in its temples constitute valuable primary sources for reconstructing the political, social, economic, religious, and cultural history of the village. They provide information on royal patronage, land endowments, temple administration, taxation, irrigation, and local self-governance during different historical periods. The epigraphical records indicate that Virayachilai flourished under the rule of the Pandyas, Cholas, Vijayanagara rulers, Nayaks, and Tondaimans. These records also demonstrate the continuity of settlement and the evolution of administrative institutions over several centuries. Despite its historical importance, Virayachilai has not received adequate scholarly attention. A comprehensive study of its inscriptions is therefore essential to reconstruct the historical development of the village and to understand its role in the wider historical context of Pudukkottai. Accordingly, this article critically examines the origin, historical growth, and significance of Virayachilai based on epigraphical evidence, thereby contributing to the regional historiography of medieval Tamil Nadu.
மருதத்திணைப் பாடல்கள் உணர்த்தும் ஊடல் வழி வாழ்வியல் அறம்
Due to significant transformations in the lifestyle and social structure of the people of the Marutham region, this region appears more advanced than the other landscapes. The heroine of the *Marutham* landscape is recognized for her excellence in managing the household and her commitment to preserving noble social traditions for future generations. The *Parathai* (courtesan) is the primary cause of the lovers' tiff—a characteristic feature of this landscape. Poets depict the heroine expressing her displeasure regarding her partner's misconduct through the use of *Ullurai* (implicit imagery), drawing upon natural phenomena, the behavior of other living creatures, and various occupations and events. One can discern how a sense of comparative justice is conveyed through the *Marutham* poems by juxtaposing the heroine’s feigned lovers' quarrel—triggered when the hero deviates from noble conduct—with the ethics of warfare. These poems establish the agency of women by highlighting the life-affirming principle that a lovers' quarrel, when resolved through reconciliation, paves the way for human flourishing.
Code of conduct specific to the landscape
புறநானூறு முன்வைக்கும் நிலையாமை தத்துவமும் அதனால் தனிமணித – சமுதாய சூழலில் ஏற்பட்ட தாக்கமும்
While modern behavioral psychology was formalized by Western thinkers starting in the 18th century, its core concepts were already deeply integrated into the daily life of ancient Tamil society. This early psychological understanding is evidenced by Sangam-era literature, specifically Purananooru (dating between 200 BC and 200 AD), which alongside foundational works like Tolkappiyam, documents a highly evolved civilization contemporaneous with the Roman Empire and Han Dynasty. Rather than just serving as historical artifacts, these literary texts reveal a sophisticated society built on strict ethics, robust educational systems, and self-governing human values. By anchoring their societal harmony in practical virtues—most notably the profound acceptance of life's impermanence—the ancient Tamils demonstrated an advanced application of behavioral concepts centuries before they were formally theorized in the West.
பண்டிதமணி கதிரேசன் செட்டியாரின் திருவெம்பாவை உரை வளம்
Panditamani Kathiresan Chettiar's contribution to the domain of Tamil commentaries is remarkably distinguished. His commentary on Thiruvempavai—an integral part of the Thiruvasagam—combines grammatical excellence, literary beauty, the nuances of Saiva Siddhanta, and etymological research. This paper comprehensively analyzes the structural layout, literary elegance, philosophical explanations of Siddhanta, and the significance of this commentary in the field of Tamil studies. தமிழ் உரைப்பரப்பில் பண்டிதமணி கதிரேசன் செட்டியார் அவர்களின் பங்களிப்பு மிகவும் சிறப்பு வாய்ந்தது. திருவாசகத்தின் அங்கமாகத் திகழும் திருவெம்பாவைக்கு அவர் எழுதிய உரை, இலக்கணச் சிறப்பு, இலக்கிய நயம், சைவ சித்தாந்த நுட்பங்கள் மற்றும் சொல்லாராய்ச்சி ஆகியவற்றை ஒருங்கே கொண்டது. இக்கட்டுரை பண்டிதமணியாரின் திருவெம்பாவை உரையின் அமைப்பியல், நயங்கள், சித்தாந்த விளக்கங்கள் மற்றும் தமிழியல் தளத்தில் அவ்வுரையின் முக்கியத்துவம் ஆகியவற்றை விரிவாக ஆராய்கிறது.
Among Tamil novelists, Balakumaran is a pioneer in articulating contemporary feminist thoughts. He has registered in his novels that both men and women possess individual emotions and rights. Transitioning from an era where women were subjugated in family and social life, women have acquired education and are contributing at all levels of society. However, they are still unable to break free from bearing family responsibilities and being economically dependent on others. Even when assuming high-level positions and performing various duties in society, they have not completely freed themselves from old conventions. Upon returning home, they continue to perform routine chores such as childcare, cooking, and other tasks. It can be said that all the modern appliances invented to make their lives easier only promote a new form of enslavement rather than aiding liberation. Balakumaran has keenly analyzed the lifestyle of women at all levels of society and illustrated through various characters how significant women's rights are in their lives..
ஆத்தங்கரை ஓரம் நாவலில் பழங்குடியினரின் பண்பாடு
The novel 'Aathankarai Oram' written by Ve. Iraiyanbu is centered on the cultural identity and life struggles of the tribal people living in the Sindhur region. It describes how these indigenous people, forced to leave their ancestral land due to dam construction, staged various forms of protest against the government, only to find themselves in a situation where these protests bore no fruit. This article examines the cultural elements of the tribal people, including their food habits, hospitality, love of nature, attachment to the land, modes of worship, traditional occupational knowledge, ability to predict climate change, marriage rituals, faith in education, and qualities of leadership. This study establishes that the novel realistically portrays the cultural change and loss experienced by indigenous people who live in harmony with nature when they are relocated to an alternative place. Through characters such as Simon and Radha Padengar, the leadership qualities of the tribal people and their attachment to the land are brought out. Ultimately, the main aim of this study is to raise social awareness regarding the cultural preservation of indigenous/tribal peoples.
பண்டிதமணியின் திருவாசகத் திருச்சதக உரையில் சைவ சித்தாந்தம்: ஓர் ஆழமான மெய்யியல் ஆய்வு
This research paper deeply analyzes how the philosophical tenets of Saiva Siddhanta align with and are illuminated in Panditamani M. Kathiresan Chettiar's commentary on Thiruchathagam from Thiruvasagam (titled Kathirmani Vilakkam). Thiruchathagam, which stands as Manikkavasagar's sublime sharing of spiritual experience, is rooted in the eternity (Anadi) of Saiva Siddhanta’s three categories—Pati (God), Pasu (Soul), and Pasa (Bondage)—as well as the theory of Satkaryavada (causality). Panditamani’s commentary shines with word-by-word philosophical depth and fine Siddhanta nuances. Specifically, through the usage of the term 'Pollamani' (uncut/unblemished gem), he explains the eternal impurity-free nature of the Supreme Being, and through 'Moovarkon', he elucidates the supremacy of the Supreme Lord above the Trinity. Furthermore, through the phrase 'Sathuraale Saarvaan', Panditamani clarifies the limits of human ego, and through the 'bee-honey' metaphor, he explains the Siddhantic methodology of attaining the state of silent contemplation (Mauna Samadhi). Additionally, by offering comparative analyses with contemporary philosophical studies and concepts of sense restraint, this paper thoroughly analyzes how this commentary serves as an experiential commentary of a Jivanmukta (liberated soul).
எம்.ஜி.ஆர், சிவாஜி திரைப்படங்களில் அமைப்பியல் கூறுகள்
Studies applying the scientific theory of structuralism to both traditional and modern narratives - thereby analyzing their constituent elements—have been conducted worldwide. Screenplays represent a further evolution of storytelling. Consequently, the objective of this study is to explore the feasibility of analyzing the elements of screenplays through the lens of structuralism. In this context, this research paper undertakes an analysis of selected films featuring M.G.R. and Sivaji by applying structuralist theory.
வள்ளலாரின் உரைநடை நூல்களில் சித்தமருத்துவச் சிந்தனை
From the very beginning of human existence to the present day, it is a universally acknowledged truth that human beings are naturally subject to physical, mental, linguistic, and spiritual afflictions. In an effort to overcome these sufferings, people seek remedies through various systems of medicine, such as traditional indigenous medicine and modern allopathic medicine. However, the fundamental truth is that the real remedy ultimately lies within the individual. A well-known Tamil proverb states: "Ālum Vēlum Pallukku Uṟudi; Nālum Iraṇḍum Sollukku Uṟudi," meaning that just as the banyan and neem strengthen the teeth, wisdom and disciplined speech strengthen one's life. Physical well-being and inner well-being largely depend upon the state of one's mind, and a healthy mind is cultivated through noble thoughts. In this context, the noble teachings and compassionate philosophy of Vallalar (Ramalinga Adigal) serve as a remedy for both physical ailments and the afflictions of the mind. This paper seeks to demonstrate how Vallalar's profound thoughts contribute to the healing and well-being of both the body and the inner self.
மதுரைக்காஞ்சியில் தலையாலங்கானத்துச் செருவென்ற பாண்டிய நெடுஞ்செழியனின் வீரம், வெற்றி மற்றும் ஆட்சிச் சிறப்பு: ஒரு வரலாற்று ஆய்வு
Comprising 782 lines, Maduraikkanji, composed by Mangudi Maruthanar, stands as the longest literary work among the Pattupattu (Ten Idylls) anthology in Sangam literature. This work historically and morally frames the martial prowess, political maturity, righteous governance, and economic management of Madurai city under Pandyan Nedunjeliyan, the victor of the Battle of Talaiyalanganam. This paper analyzes Nedunjeliyan's early entry into war, his historically renowned vow of resolve (Vanjina Urai – Purananuru 72), and his battlefield sacrifices (Porkkala Velvi) within the context of Sangam society. Furthermore, this paper critically examines modern scholarly debates surrounding the Arangkuru Avayam (court of justice) and Iruperu Niyamam (the twin major markets) described in Maduraikkanji. Finally, the article comparative-analyzes the victory at 'Nellin Oor' mentioned in Sangam literature (identified with the Yavanas' port of Nelcynda/Nelkinda) against the later victory at 'Nellore' in Andhra achieved by Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan I in Later Pandyan history, thereby clarifying chronological and geographical contradictions.
எட்டுத்தொகையில் தமிழர்களின் வாழ்வியல் கூறுகள்
Furthermore, these texts serve as a crucial socio-historical repository, shedding light on the transition of ancient Tamil society from early tribal organization to structured agrarian and urban states. By applying a cultural anthropological framework to Ettuthogai, this study systematically analyzes how these literary representations reflect everyday practices, moral values, and governance systems. Ultimately, this research offers a comprehensive understanding of the foundational roots of Tamil cultural identity, providing invaluable insights into early South Asian civilization and its enduring heritage.
நவீன தமிழ்ச் சிறுகதைகளில் வாழ்வியல் அழகியலும் மானுட உறவுகளின் இயக்கமும்: வண்ணதாசன் படைப்புகள் குறித்த ஓர் ஆழமான பகுப்பாய்வு
This research paper extensively analyzes the livelihood aesthetics, character portrayal, and various dimensions of human relationships reflected in the short stories of Vannadasan (S. Kalyanasundaram), considered one of the most prominent creators in the world of modern Tamil short fiction. Vannadasan’s stories capture the everyday lives and internal conflicts of ordinary people with poetic undertones and subtle descriptions. In this paper, primary short story collections such as Nadugai, Thanumai, Micham, Nabikkamalam, Kuthukkal, and the Sahitya Akademi Award-winning Oru Siru Isai are subjected to detailed analysis. Furthermore, based on academic data published in leading research journals such as Modern Thamizh Research and Shanlax International Journal of Tamil Studies, his linguistic artistry and the cultural challenges encountered when translating his stories into English are comprehensively evaluated. Entwined with the fluidity of the Thamirabarani River and the realism of the Tirunelveli regional dialect, his works illustrate how humanity is reclaimed within the mechanized context of contemporary life.
நற்றிணையில் சமூகக் கூறுகள்: பழந்தமிழர் வாழ்வியல் விழுமியங்களின் பன்முக ஆவணம்
Sangam literature serves as a historical repository recording the internal (Akam) and external (Puram) lives of ancient Tamils. Among them, Natrinai, which is praised as the first text in the Ettuthokai (Eight Anthologies), centers on inner love traditions while offering incomparable historical data through the embedded social elements in its background. This paper comprehensively examines the family structure, women's personality and social status, moral codes of love, landscape-based (Thinai) occupations, barter-based commercial economy, the culture of hospitality considered the primary virtue of ancient Tamil life, ecological values, and the political framework portrayed in the poems of Natrinai. In particular, using literary evidence, this article analyzes how individual ethics laid the foundation for overall social stability in Sangam society, and how the relationship between nature and human beings encompassed principles of eco-feminism.
நற்றிணையில் பெண்கள்: சங்ககாலத் தமிழ்ச் சமூகத்தில் பெண்ணின் நிலை, சமூகப் பங்களிப்பு மற்றும் உளவியல் - ஓர் விரிவான ஆய்வு
Natrinai, the foremost among the Ettuthokai (Eight Anthologies) texts, is a rare literary treasure that delicately and realistically portrays the inner life (Akam) of Sangam Tamils. This study aims to examine the status of women in Sangam Tamil society, the social constraints they faced, their contributions to family and society, and their psychological struggles. Against the backdrop of feminist theories, the characterizations of female figures depicted in Natrinai—such as the Heroine (Thalaivi), the Companion (Thozhi), the Biological Mother (Natray), the Foster Mother (Sevilithay), and the Courtesan (Parathai)—are analyzed in detail. Specifically, this paper explores moments of elopement (Udanpokku) marking the transition from childhood to married life (Song 179), elements of ecofeminism (Song 172), and the differing perspectives between male and female poets in depicting bodily aesthetics. Ultimately, this study demonstrates that Sangam women were not merely family members, but personalities endowed with autonomy and mental resilience.
நற்றிணையில் சமூகக் கூறுகள்: சங்ககாலத் தமிழ்ச் சமூக வாழ்வியலின் வரலாற்றுப் பகுப்பாய்வு
Narrinai, praised as the first among the Ettuthokai (Eight Anthologies) of Sangam literature, primarily focuses on inner life (Akam theme). Nevertheless, it stands as a social historical document that meticulously records the cultural excellence, economic structure, family system, women's social agency, occupational practices, and ethical principles of the Tamil society from two thousand years ago. This paper comprehensively analyzes the social elements embedded in the songs of Narrinai through the lens of landscape-based (thinai) lifestyle, social transitions from primitive communism to feudalism, moneyless barter economy, domestic ethics such as "hospitality even at midnight," and nature-oriented social eco-consciousness. Furthermore, utilizing supporting evidence from other Sangam literary texts, this paper establishes how family ethics, women's autonomous agency, hospitality, and social moral values found in Narrinai poems hold special significance from a modern socio-anthropological perspective.
தொல்காப்பிய மெய்ப்பாட்டியல் கோட்பாட்டின் அடிப்படையில் நற்றிணை அகப்பாடல்கள்: ஓர் விரிவான வாழ்வியல் மற்றும் இலக்கியத் திறனாய்வு
Narrinai, which is counted first among the Sangam literature, is an unparalleled Tamil literary treasure that vividly depicts the subtle emotions and states of love in human inner life ($Akam$). Tamil grammatical tradition defines ‘Meyppadu’ (physical manifestation of emotion) as the expression of deep emotions arising within the minds of the characters ($Akamaandhar$) through their outer bodily organs and behavior. In his Poruladhikaram, Tholkappiyar established a dedicated chapter called ‘Meyppattiyal’, where he detailed the eight primary emotions ($Enbehar\ Meyppadugal$), their source contexts ($Nilaikkalangal$), and the psychological states ($Avathai$) appearing in love characters, applicable to both theatrical Tamil ($Naadaka\ Thamil$) and literary Tamil ($Iyat-Thamil$). Based on the theory of Meyppattiyal formulated by Tholkappiyar, this research paper comprehensively analyzes how emotions are employed with poetic finesse and psychological vitality across the 400 $Akam$ poems in Narrinai. It analyzes with evidence how the eight primary emotions—Laughter ($Nagai$), Sorrow ($Azhugai$), Disgust/Inferiority ($Ilivaral$), Wonder ($Marudkai$), Fear ($Acham$), Pride ($Perumidham$), Anger ($Veguli$), and Joy ($Uvagai$)—along with their corresponding 32 source contexts, align with the landscape-based backgrounds ($Thinai$) and the speeches/monologues of the characters. Furthermore, by comparing Tholkappiyar’s Meyppattiyal with the Wheel of Emotions theory proposed by modern Western psychologist Robert Plutchik, this paper establishes the excellence of Sangam poets in portraying human emotions as well as their underlying life values.
சங்ககால தமிழர்களின் வாழ்வியலும் மருத்துவ முறைகளும்
The Sangam era (300 BCE – 300 CE) is widely regarded as the Golden Age of Tamil civilization, characterized by a lifestyle deeply attuned to nature, rich cultural traditions, and advanced scientific thinking. This paper examines the traditional medical systems practiced by the Sangam Tamils, detailing their foundational methods, objectives, and practical applications. Furthermore, it analyzes how these ancient healthcare practices have evolved into modern medical frameworks and highlights their potential relevance to global treatment practices today.
சஞ்சாரம் நாவலில் மொழியியல் மற்றும் அணிநடை அமைப்பியல் பகுப்பாய்வு
A creator's work is a mirror of time. When depicting the diverse emotions and lifestyles of fellow human beings, writers employ various techniques to effectively reach the people. Among these, the most crucial literary aspect is style. A literary work emerges from the high thinking of its creator, and writing creates a distinct style unique to them. Every piece of literature possesses its own style. Analyzing the manner in which a writer utilizes this style is known as stylistic study (linguistic style analysis). In S. Ramakrishnan’s Sahitya Akademi Award-winning novel Sancharam, language serves as a vital tool to capture the subtle nuances of rural life and the lived reality of folk artists. In this regard, this paper analyzes the stylistic features of the work. Furthermore, this article explores the various figures of speech (alankaras / rhetorics)—such as similes, metaphors, and personification—present in the novel that add beauty to its style. By examining these rhetorical devices, the study demonstrates how stylistic choices enhance the narrative flow, heighten emotional resonance, and reflect the unique creative personality of the author.