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
Our journal adopts CC BY License Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License http://Creativecommons.org//license/by/4.0/ . It allows using, reusing, distributing and reproducing of the original work with proper citation.
Literary Representation of Barter Economy in Sangam Society
This study examines the literary representation of the barter economy in Sangam society, drawing on evidence from the all eighteen texts of Sangam literature (Ettuthogai and Pattuppattu). Sangam literature serves as a vital source for reconstructing the socio-economic life of early Tamil communities. The concept of Paṇḍam (commodity) and Paṇḍa-Matrru (barter) reflects a structured system of exchange based on ownership, value, and reciprocity rather than a primitive Tamils mode of trade. The analysis highlights how goods such as elephant tusks, calves, paddy, salt, fish, meat, and toddy functioned as key commodities within this exchange network. Literary references reveal that barter transactions were often carried out across ecological regions Kuṟiñci, Mullai, Marutam, Neital and Palai indicating regional specialization and interdependence. Liquor shops and market streets emerge as important centres of exchange, while salt-producing areas also contributed to inland trade. Importantly, the study foregrounds the active participation of women in barter and trade, as evidenced by their roles in selling goods and facilitating exchanges across regions. The texts further demonstrate that commodities carried both economic and cultural significance, embodying social values and everyday practices. Additionally, the presence of equivalence and negotiated exchange suggests an early understanding of value systems and transactional fairness. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach, this study connects literary analysis with economic and anthropological perspectives to reconstruct the dynamics of the barter economy in Sangam society. It argues that Sangam literature not only documents economic practices but also encodes the cultural logic underlying exchange systems, thereby offering a comprehensive understanding of early Tamil socio-economic organization.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
This article examines the unprecedented occurrence of selecting characters with a commercial background as the protagonists in Silappatikaram, the first epic composed in the Tamil literary tradition. The paper highlights how the Jain religion, while using the epic Silappatikaram to give literary form to its philosophy, simultaneously elevates the mercantile community—which heavily supported it socially and held immense influence in contemporary society—to the prestigious position of leading the epic narrative. The commercial dimension of Silappatikaram is uncovered by analyzing the intersections that trade maintained with governance, religion, and philosophy within the epic. This study reveals how religion, philosophy, and commerce functioned in harmonious tandem within the text to ensure their respective long-term stability. Furthermore, through the references to trade in Silappatikaram, this research demonstrates how the commercial sphere effectively created Silappatikaram as its own literary representation.
Etti (a title bestowed on prominent merchants)
The Multifaceted Role of the Yazh in the Tamil Musical Tradition of the Sangam Period
During the Sangam period, assemblies of learned scholars played a crucial role in the development and promotion of the Tamil language and Tamil music. The Literary works of the Sangam corpus provide substantial evidence for the cultural and musical traditions of the era. In particular, the texts belonging to the Ettuthokai & Patthppattu, which are part of the classical Sangam literature, contain numerous references to Tamil music and musical instruments. The Yazh was a stringed instrument that produced music through vibrating strings. The string and wind instruments that existed during the Sangam period were generally categorized. Among these instruments, the Yazh was considered the most significant string instrument. It was played in both Akam & Puram contexts in Sangam socity. Various types of Yazh were used across the landscapes associated with the five ecological regions (Thinai) of ancient Tamil culture. Several varieties of the instrument have been identified in Sangam Literature. Such as: Siriyazh, Periyazh, Senkootu Yazh, Sakota Yazh, Karungottu Yazh & Vil Yazh. These varieties differed mainly in their structural design and number and arrangement of strings. The yazh played an important role in the daily lives of people in the Sangam period. It was used by professional muscians such as Panar & Viraliyar to entertain audiences. Provide emotional comfort, celebrate victories in war, and accompany dance and ceremonial performances. Therefore, the Yazh occupied a significant place in the cultural and social life of the Sangam people. In the Sangam period, when technological development had not yet advanced significantly, the Yazh nevertheless exhibited remarkable sophistication in its construction, performance technique, and musical application. This study aims to examine the structure, development, performance techniques, and musical significance of the Yazh. It also seeks to revisit and document the available literary evidence concerning the instrument in order to introduce its musical heritage to contemporary generations who may not be familiar with ancient Tamil musical traditions. Although several studies have been conducted on the structure, performance techniques, varieties & cultural significance of the Yazh, systematic research remains limited. Furthermore, the Yazh gradually disappeared from practical musical usage over time, largely due to the emergence and evolution of other musical instruments. As a result, references to the Yazh are mostly preserved in literary sources rather than in living musical practice. This research focuses on examining the references and descriptions of the Yazh found in Sangam literature. The study relies on both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources include the Sangam literary texts & their commentaries, while secondary sources include scholarly research works, academic articles & journals. This research adopts historical, descriptive & analytical methodologies to study the musical instrument in relation to literary evidence and the cultural practices of ancient Tamil society..
Pearls and Pearls diving in Sangam Literature: Symbolism, Economy, and Cultural Imagination
Pearls occupy a significant place in Sangam literature, functioning not merely as objects of ornamentation but as complex cultural symbols. This paper examines the multifaceted representation of pearls in major Sangam texts such as Akanānūru, Naṟṟiṇai, Pathitr̥uppattu, and Maduraikanchi. It explores how pearls operate across both akam (interior) and puram (exterior) traditions, symbolizing beauty, emotional states, political authority, economic activity, and ecological imagination. Special attention is given to the practice of pearl diving (muthu kulithal), as depicted in these texts, highlighting the labor, skill, and maritime knowledge of the Parathavar community, as well as the risks and rituals associated with the profession. The study also emphasizes the role of pearls in articulating feminine subjectivity, royal power, and coastal economies. By analyzing literary references and thematic contexts, this paper argues that pearls, together with the cultural practice of pearl diving, serve as a unifying motif that connects the inner emotional world with the outer material, social, and ecological realities of ancient Tamil society.
Copyright (c) 2026 Prof. D. Uma Devi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
திருக்குறளில் தகவல் தொழில்நுட்பச் சிந்தனைகள்
Today's world is moving towards the pinnacle of Information Technology (IT) development. The internet, artificial intelligence, databases, social media, e-governance, and online education have completely transformed human life. Although information technology offers various conveniences to human society, it has also brought challenges such as data insecurity, moral degradation, privacy violations, the spread of fake news, and cybercrimes. In this context, the Thirukkural—which emerged two thousand years ago—not only provides ethical guidance for human life but also offers profound insights relevant to the modern information technology world. This study comprehensively analyzes the concepts of Thirukkural in fields such as communication, data security, internet ethics, leadership, artificial intelligence, time management, social media usage, and educational technology. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity of humanity and ethics in the technological world.
Although modern humanity masters numerous arts and sciences to navigate the external world, we often neglect the essential spiritual "mantras" required to navigate life itself without suffering. The Thirumandiram serves as a profound guide to this existential alchemy, revealing the subtle life secrets (vazhviyal sutchamam) that link moral discipline to physical longevity. By daily cultivating the eradication of excessive desire, practicing absolute truthfulness, maintaining ethical conduct, and mastering the five senses, an individual aligns their internal energy with cosmic principles. Thirumoolar’s wisdom emphasizes that such a disciplined lifestyle is not merely a moral choice but a biological necessity; it ensures that both the mind and body remain resilient, free from disease, and sustained in a state of holistic well-being for a long and meaningful life.
Among the twentieth century poets, Subramania Bharati and Bharathidasan are regarded as important poets who deeply expressed Tamil consciousness in their poems. Both poets considered the Tamil language as life, mother, and sweet nectar, and revealed their intense love for Tamil through their literary works. This article examines their deep attachment towards Tamil, Tamils, and Tamil Nadu, and their desire to spread the greatness of the Tamil language throughout the world. The study explains how Bharati and Bharathidasan praised Tamil as Tamil Mother, life-breath, delight, and social responsibility. Bharati emphasized that Tamil should spread across the world and insisted on various efforts needed for the growth of the language. Bharathidasan glorified Tamil as life, nectar, honey, mother, and light, and expressed an inseparable relationship between himself and Tamil. Further, the article comparatively analyses the Tamil consciousness, love for Tamil, concept of Tamil Mother, sweetness of Tamil, and Tamil service reflected in the poems of both poets. The study concludes that both poets valued Tamil above their own lives and dedicated their entire lives and activities to the growth and glory of the Tamil language.
தியாகி களப்பால் குப்புவின் சமுதாயப் பிரச்சனைகள்: தஞ்சை மண்டலப் பண்ணையடிமை முறை மற்றும் நிலவுடைமைச் சமூகக் கட்டமைப்பின் மீதான ஓர் விரிவான ஆய்வு
Using Vaimainathan’s historical novel "Thyagi Kalappal Kuppu" as its primary source, this article provides a detailed analysis of the serfdom system (pannaiyadimai), caste structures, economic exploitation, and the rise of communist movements against these systems during the early and mid-20th century in the integrated Tanjore district. The study explores the various dimensions of the tears, poverty, untouchability, and slavery of the working class hidden behind the fertility of the Tanjore soil. It explains how the life of Martyr Kalappal Kuppu served as a symbol for social change. Furthermore, the article discusses the food shortages caused by World War II, the class struggle between Mirasadars (landlords) and serfs, and the historical background leading to the enactment of the Tanjore Tenants and Pannaiyal Protection Act of 1952, incorporating other historical evidence.
Sani-paal Punishment (Cow dung water punishment)
Tanjore Tenants and Pannaiyal Protection Act (1952)
திருஞானசம்பந்தர் தேவாரப் பாடல்களில் இயற்கையும் சூழலியலும்: ஒரு விரிவான ஆய்வுக் கட்டுரை
It can be said that in the history of Tamil literature, there isn’t a single poet who has not sung about nature. From Sangam literature to contemporary modern poetry, nature has continuously remained an inseparable element of human life. Specifically, during the era of devotional (Bhakti) literature, worshipping nature and perceiving the Divine within the beauty of the natural world were primary paths toward spiritual realization. The hymns of Thirugnanasambandar, who brought about a religious renaissance in Tamil Nadu during the 7th century, are richly infused with both deep devotional sentiment and profound ecological values.
Thousands of species are born and live on this earth. Humans have categorized them from one-sensed to six-sensed beings. Every living creature possesses a unique trait. Similarly, humans are distinguished from other species by qualities such as love, character, charity, valor, passion, anger, jealousy, pride, and the drive to help others. The world honors and praises those who internalize more than one of these noble virtues. Pari is one such sublime patron praised by the world. Much of literature speaks of Pari's character; this article aims to analyze those traits through the lens of Purananuru.
எஸ். ராமகிருஷ்ணன் நாவல்களில் சிறுதெய்வ வழிபாட்டு மரபுகள்: ஓர் ஆழ்நிலை ஆய்வு
“Do not reside in a village that lacks a temple” is a proverb deeply ingrained in Tamil tradition. People hold a profound belief, viewing all the auspicious events in their lives as divine grace and their hardships or ill-effects as divine wrath. This faith emerged during the dawn of human civilization from a primal fear of nature; it later evolved into nature worship and, over time, progressed into the worship of minor and major deities. Among rural folk, the worship of minor deities is intricately interwoven with their culture, history, and social structure. In the landscape of modern Tamil literature, S. Ramakrishnan—a leading contemporary writer—meticulously records the soil, the people, and the beliefs of the Karisal (black soil) region in his novels. This paper analyzes the methods of minor deity worship, rituals, beliefs, and their social backgrounds as depicted in S. Ramakrishnan’s novels Thuyil, Sancharam, and Nimitham. Various dimensions, such as clan deities (Kuladeivam), guardian deities, goddess worship, and beliefs in malevolent spirits, are explored in detail through this study. Furthermore, this research establishes how folk deities serve as "Crisis Deities" for the people and how the author reveals social truths through literary fiction..
எஸ். அர்ஷியாவின் புதினங்களில் நடப்பியல் அரசியல்
This study explores the nature of realist political discourse in the novel Sottangal by S. Arshiya. It critically investigates the tension between democratic ideals and lived political practices, with particular attention to party-centered propaganda, uncritical leader worship, ideological inconsistency, caste- and religion-based mobilization, politically sanctioned violence, and institutional compromise within law enforcement and the judiciary. Adopting a qualitative, text-oriented analytical framework, the study approaches these novels as interpretive representations of socio-political realities rather than as empirical historical accounts. The analysis demonstrates that democratic participation is frequently transformed into performative spectacle, while the preservation of power becomes the dominant organizing principle of political conduct. By engaging both realist and existential perspectives, these novels emerge as significant literary sites that document and critique contemporary political culture in Tamil Nadu.
நம்மாழ்வார் காட்டும் இராமாவதாரக் கொள்கைகள்
Nammalvar, revered by Vaishnavites as the Kulapati (head of the lineage) and the Prathama Acharya (the first teacher), possessed an immense devotion to Lord Rama. He was so distinguished in his piety that he is often regarded as a reincarnation of Rama himself. This article provides a detailed exploration of how Nammalvar’s hymns elegantly illustrate the principles and attributes of Sri Rama—highlighting his prowess as a warrior, his virtuous character, his compassionate heart, his unwavering commitment to truth, and his profound respect for his parents. வைணவா்களால் குலபதி என்றும் பிரதம ஆச்சாரியார் என்றும் போற்றப்படுபவர் நம்மாழ்வார் இராமபிரான் மீது பெரும் பற்றுக் கொண்டவர். இராமனின் மறுஅவதாரம் என்றழைக்கும் வகையில் சிறந்தவர். இராமன் எத்தகைய வீரன் குணநலன் மிக்கவன், கருணையுள்ளம் கொண்டவன், சத்தியம் தவறாதவன். தந்தை, தாயை மதிப்பவன் என்ற எண்ணற்ற குணநலன்களை தன்னகத்தே கொண்ட ஸ்ரீ இராமபிரானின் கொள்கைகளை நயம்பட எடுத்துக்கூறி நம்மாழ்வார் பாடியுள்ள திறத்தினை இக்கட்டுரையின் வழியே விளக்கமாக காணலாம்.
முழுமையான ஆரோக்கியம் மற்றும் நல்வாழ்விற்காக ஆயுர்வேதம் மற்றும் யோகாவை ஒருங்கிணைத்தல்: ஒரு விரிவான ஆய்வு
Yoga and Ayurveda are two interrelated branches of Vedic knowledge that together offer a comprehensive approach to holistic health and well-being. While Ayurveda primarily focuses on the maintenance of physical health through diet, lifestyle, and herbal interventions, Yoga emphasizes mental, emotional, and spiritual development. Despite their distinct roles, both systems share common philosophical foundations and often overlap in their approaches to health promotion and disease prevention. This paper explores the integrative framework of Yoga and Ayurveda, highlighting their complementary functions within the Vedic system. It also examines how their combined application can enhance overall well-being by addressing the body, mind, and consciousness. The study underscores the relevance of this integrative approach in modern healthcare for promoting sustainable health and self-realization. Ayurveda, one of the four Upavedas—alongside Gandharva Veda, Sthapatya Veda, and Dhanur Veda—represents the application of Vedic knowledge to the science of life and holistic healing. Rooted in the ancient Vedic tradition, it is closely aligned with Yoga, both emerging from the same philosophical foundation aimed at understanding the nature of the universe and human consciousness. Vedic knowledge, described as a mantric science developed by seers and yogis, provides insights into the inner workings of existence and guides individuals toward self-realization and liberation. Within this framework, Ayurveda focuses on maintaining physical health through balanced living, while Yoga emphasizes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Together, they form a complementary and integrative system that addresses all dimensions of human life. This paper explores the interconnected roles of Ayurveda and Yoga within the Vedic system and highlights their relevance in promoting holistic health and well-being in contemporary society..
In the research-intensive approach presented to the world by Tamil scholars of history; Economics as the primary example; Migration is the primary focus of human social life engaged in industry. The continuation of the bureaucratic conflict between the primary locational society and the migration society, as well as the religious conflict, is found in historical records (embedded). The study is guided by the fact that language and religion continued to be a subsidiary factor in stabilizing the power of the people who moved to a new place. இடம் விட்டு இடம் நகருதல் கால ஓட்டத்தில் தன்னிலைப் படுத்திக்கொள்ளும் மானிட இனக்குழுச் சமூகத்தின் வாழ்வியல் நெறியே. மானுடம் முதலில் உணவிற்கு நகர்ந்து இருப்பிடத்தையும் பண்பாட்டு நெறியையும் வகுத்திருப்பதை திணை வாழ்வான நிலமும் உரிப்பொருளும் தக்கச் சான்றுடன் விளம்புகிறது. பின்னர், மொழி வளமான நாகரிகப் பண்பாட்டை நிலம் சார்ந்த இனக்குழு தகவமைத்ததை செவ்விலக்கியங்கள் வரையறை செய்கின்றன எனலாம். மானுடச் சமூகம் நாகரிகம் அடைந்த பன்னூற்றாண்டின் பின்னர் வாழ்வின் சூழமைவு எதிர்கொண்ட சமூகம் புலம் பெயர்வு என்னும் இடப்பெயர்வை காலம்தோறும் தகவமைப்பதை மொழி, மதம், பொருள் என விரிந்த நோக்கத்துடன் ஆய்வு அமைந்துள்ளதை விளம்புகிறது.
Countless events are happening across the globe every single minute. Journalism is the art of capturing these events and presenting them to the world. Even in an era where computerized communication devices dominate information exchange, the contribution of journals and magazines remains uniquely significant. The role of journalism in social development, manifested in written and printed forms, serves as a vital record for the future. Journals are capable of performing various general and specialized functions. Among the many publications that serve as archives of news collection, Puthiya Thalaimurai magazine holds a noteworthy and distinct place. This article discusses how Puthiya Thalaimurai magazines present essential ideas with social awareness, demonstrating a deep-seated concern for the younger generation.
எஸ். ராமகிருஷ்ணன் நாவல்களில் சிறுதெய்வங்கள்
The proverb states, “One should not reside in a village without a temple.” People believe that if good things happen in their lives, it is due to the grace of God, and if bad things occur, they are due to the anger of God. In this way, we can understand that rural people worship folk deities with a sense of faith mixed with fear. In the beginning, nature worship emerged due to fear of natural forces. Later, as religion developed, forms of worship evolved into the worship of major deities, while the worship of minor (folk) deities continued among rural people. Thus, religious belief developed through various stages. Folk deities are referred to as minor deities. This system includes several types, such as clan deity worship, family deity worship, and village deity worship. This study is structured to explain the ideas related to the worship of minor deities as presented in the novels of S. Ramakrishnan.
Balakumaran is a significant writer in the landscape of the Tamil novel. His works are deeply rooted in both family and society. In particular, his novels provide extensive space for exploring family relationships. By centering his narratives on middle-class individuals and those leading ordinary lives, his novels offer a profound understanding of the family as an institution. Balakumaran illustrates through various life situations how human relationships and conflicts serve as the driving forces behind social dynamics. The novelist captures diverse mindsets where the perception of life varies for every individual and presents them as compelling fiction. Ultimately, he records the indispensability of the family for the continuous progression of human life through a simplified lens in his creative works.
This article explores the advanced metallurgical knowledge and technological prowess of the ancient Tamils during the Sangam period. By synthesizing evidence from classical Sangam literature—such as Tolkappiyam, Purananuru, and Akananuru—with modern archaeological findings from sites like Adichanallur, Kodumanal, and Mayiladumparai, the study demonstrates that Tamils were pioneers in metalworking. The research details the extraction and processing of various metals including gold, silver, copper, and iron, highlighting the sophisticated techniques used to create tools, weapons, and intricate jewelry. Notably, the article cites archaeological evidence dating iron usage in Tamil Nadu back to 3345 BCE, suggesting that the Tamils were among the first in the world to enter the Iron Age and master the production of high-quality steel and specialized "Beta Bronze".
துயில் நாவலில் குறிப்பிடப்படும் நாட்டுப்புற நம்பிக்கைகள்
It is not possible to determine exactly when beliefs originated in human life. However, these beliefs play such a significant role that they can be said to guide human life itself. We can observe that these beliefs continue to persist in people’s everyday lives. Many ritual practices have emerged based on these beliefs. Together, they form an integral part of the emotional fabric of a society’s culture. Some of these folk beliefs have been recorded by S. Ramakrishnan in his novel Thuyil. This study aims to explain and elaborate on those beliefs.
இந்திய - சைகை மொழி: உலகத்தரமும் பண்பாட்டு ஆழமும் கொண்ட இயற்கையான, முழுமையான மொழி
This research paper explores Indian Sign Language (ISL) as a linguistically complete, culturally rooted, and socially significant natural language. Used by millions of Deaf individuals across South Asia, ISL possesses all the structural grammatical components of a human language: a formal phonology, productive morphology, rule-governed syntax, and a vocabulary capable of expressing nuanced, technical concepts. This paper argues that ISL is not merely a tool for communication but a "Great Language" based on its complexity, its ability to adapt to India's diverse cultural contexts, and its growing institutional recognition. The study examines the grammatical structure of ISL, its historical origins, dialectal variations, relationships with other sign languages, and current legal and educational frameworks. While recognition under the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution is still pending, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) and the National Education Policy (2020) have created unprecedented opportunities for the growth of ISL. The paper concludes that ISL, as one of India's most vital linguistic treasures, deserves full official recognition.
அட்டப்பாடி பகுதி இருளர் பழங்குடியினரின் பண்பாட்டு மாற்றங்களும் சடங்கியல் மரபுகளும்
The Irula tribe is one of the ancient indigenous communities inhabiting the regions of the Western Ghats in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Traditionally, the Irula people have depended on forests and hill ecosystems for their livelihood and have developed rich indigenous knowledge systems along with distinctive ritual practices. However, rapid socio-economic changes, land alienation, modernization, and increased interaction with mainstream societies have gradually influenced their traditional way of life. These developments have led to noticeable transformations in their cultural traditions and ritual practices. The loss or modification of such indigenous traditions represents not only a change within the community but also a broader cultural concern. In this context, the present study examines the cultural transformations that have occurred in the ritual practices of the Irula community residing in Karuvadam hamlet in the Attappadi region. Adopting an ethnographic approach, the study documents ritual elements and analyses the social and cultural factors that have contributed to these changes over time.
அழிந்து வரும் சிற்றலை வானொலிகள்: வரலாறு, வீழ்ச்சி மற்றும் எதிர்காலப் பார்வை
Shortwave radio has historically served as a vital pillar of global communication, utilizing high-frequency signals to bridge vast distances and connect the global Tamil diaspora to their linguistic roots. Beyond mere information sharing, these broadcasts fostered a unique sense of cultural belonging and provided a platform for language preservation during eras when digital connectivity was non-existent. This research paper meticulously examines the historical trajectory of Tamil shortwave services, analyzing their profound socio-cultural influence and the subsequent decline triggered by the rise of satellite technology and internet streaming. Furthermore, the study evaluates the contemporary challenges of high operational costs against the potential for a digital resurgence through Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM), ultimately assessing the medium's enduring relevance as a resilient communication tool in an increasingly digital-centric world.
சிவவாக்கியர் மற்றும் வேதாத்திரி மகரிஷி கூறும் காயகற்ப தத்துவம் - ஒப்பீடு
This research paper analytically compares the Kayakalpa philosophy of the prominent Tamil Siddhar Sivavakkiyar and the modern yogic philosopher Vethathiri Maharishi, examining them through psychological and scientific lenses. Kayakalpa is regarded as a holistic way of life that enhances physical health, mental peace, and spiritual progress by integrating the body, mind, and life-force energy. Sivavakkiyar explains Kayakalpa as a renunciatory spiritual path to attain the state of wisdom (Gnana) by controlling desires, lust, and mental impurities. Conversely, Vethathiri Maharishi frames it as a scientifically-oriented yogic practice that achieves body-mind integration through the protection of life-force (bio-magnetic energy), Ojas transformation, and meditation. By critically analyzing the similarities and differences between these two approaches, this paper emphasizes that Kayakalpa is not merely an ancient traditional knowledge system but an integrated lifestyle capable of addressing the physical and mental health challenges of modern humanity.
Copyright (c) 2026 மு. சாந்தி (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
This research explores the historical and cultural significance of the Mazhavar community as depicted in Sangam Literature. Residing in the Mazhanadu region between the Kolli Hills and the Kollidam River, the Mazhavar were a martial community renowned for their distinct aesthetics, including curly hair adorned with Kadamba flowers and peacock feather garlands. The study highlights their military prowess, specifically their expertise in archery and the maintenance of elephant and horse cavalries. Key cultural practices are examined, such as the Poondhodai festival for martial graduation and the tactical use of termite mound soil to remain silent during night raids. Furthermore, the paper discusses their leadership under figures like Athiyaman Neduman Anji and Valvil Ori, their ritualistic sacrifices to the goddess Kotravai, and their lifestyle as both warriors and highway robbers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. C. Parameswari (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
தலைமுறைகள், ஏற்கனவே சொல்லப்பட்ட மனிதர்கள் - ஓர் ஒப்பீடு யதார்த்தவியல், மீயதார்த்தவியல் அடிப்படையில்
Some novelists craft their work with a primary focus on realism, while others center their narratives around specific theoretical frameworks. Both approaches create distinct impacts on the reader's psyche. This essay explores this dichotomy as its central theme. By analyzing and contrasting these two literary styles, the essay highlights the strengths and weaknesses inherent in both approaches. நாவல்களை சில எழுத்தாளர்கள் யதார்த்தமாகவும் சில எழுத்தாளர்கள் கோட்பாடுகளை மையமாக வைத்தும் எழுதுகிறார்கள். இரண்டு வகை எழுத்துக்களும் இரண்டு வகையான விளைவுகளை வாசிப்பவர் மனதில் ஏற்படுத்துகிறது. இதையே தன் ஆய்வின் மையமாகக் கொண்டு எழுதப்பட்டுள்ளது இக்கட்டுரை. இருவேறு வகைப்பட்ட படைப்புகளை எடுத்துக்கொண்டு அவற்றிற்கிடையேயான ஒற்றுமைகளையும் வேற்றுமைகளையும் அலசி ஆராய்வதால் இரண்டு தரப்புகளின் நிறை குறைகளை இக்கட்டுரை சுட்டிக்காட்டுகிறது.
Copyright (c) 2026 S. Gowtham (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
In the landscape of twentieth-century Tamil literature, science fiction has evolved beyond merely constructing imaginary worlds. It has emerged as a rich field of thought that explores various human concerns such as philosophy, social transformation, and environmental issues. Contemporary Tamil writers are integrating scientific advancements with social realities, producing works that provoke reflection on the future of human life. In this context, the writer Tamilmagan has demonstrated a distinctive creative approach by incorporating sociological and ecological perspectives into his science fiction works, thereby highlighting the complexities of the human–nature relationship. The short story “Klimidon” can be seen as a significant literary text that employs the science fiction genre to examine humanity’s dominating attitude towards nature and its consequences. This analytical study proposes to approach the text through the theoretical framework of “Eco-humanism,” examining how the relationship between humans and nature is being re-evaluated. It further explores how modern scientific developments and technological advancements are disrupting this relationship, and how urbanization and industrial growth are leading to the exploitation of rural communities and natural resources.
Copyright (c) 2026 V. Revathi, Dr. D. Meshak (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
யோகா: நிலையான மனித மேம்பாட்டிற்கான முழுமையான தளம் - ஒரு விரிவான ஆய்வு
Yoga is an ancient holistic practice originating from the deep roots of Indian philosophy. By integrating physical health, mental clarity, emotional balance, and ethical conduct, it provides a comprehensive foundation for long-term human development. In the modern era, global development is often measured solely based on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and technological advancements. Such external growth models neglect the inner well-being of individuals, resulting in widespread stress, environmental degradation, and social inequalities. By addressing both the internal and external aspects of life, Yoga serves as a fundamental tool for achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yogic techniques such as Asanas, Pranayama, and meditation enhance emotional regulation and calm the nervous system. Furthermore, the ethical principles of Yoga (Yama and Niyama) encourage compassion, environmental awareness, and responsible consumption habits among individuals. By integrating Yoga into education, healthcare, and corporate environments, a mindful and sustainable culture can be created. This research paper explores in detail how Yoga acts as a bridge toward global peace and sustainability through individual transformation.
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. K. Santhi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
சாகித்திய அகாதெமி விருது பெற்ற தமிழ்க் கவிதைகளில் உத்திகள்
Every field has its own unique set of techniques. In literature—specifically in modern poetry (Pudhukkavithai)—numerous techniques are found, such as simile, metaphor, imagery, symbolism, irony, paradox, satire, myth, pun (double entendre), dialogue, imagination, grammar, repetition, intertextuality, grammatical authority, folk elements, and ambiguity. These techniques play a major role in expressing the core theme of a poem. The thoughts of E. Sundaramoorthy are worth comparing here: "Literature does not shine through its message alone. It gains brilliance and life through its power of expression. Literary essence lies not in the subject matter, but in the skill of conveying it." P. Aravaanan highlights the significance of technique as a method of expression: "In the history of Tamil poetry, form once ruled supreme. When it did, the method of expression gained life. That life is the arrival and existence of modern poetry; the method of expression is the very heartbeat of a poem." This article examines how these techniques are employed in Tamil poems that have received the Sahitya Akademi Award.
Techniques in Sahitya Akademi award-winning Tamil poems
Copyright (c) 2026 G. Nirbankumar, Dr. V. A. Palaniappan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
நற்றிணைப் பாடல்களில் உள்ளுறை உவமக் கட்டமைப்புகள்: ஒரு விரிவான பகுப்பாய்வு
The excellence, utility, and evolution of a language are deeply interconnected with the activities of the society that speaks it. In the history of the world, numerous languages have perished or been eroded by the turning wheels of time. In such a context, Tamil stands as an unparalleled classical language that has survived for thousands of years. The grammatical treatise Tolkappiyam and ancient Sangam literature serve as the jewels that polish this unique language. In Narrinai, one of the Sangam anthologies, human internal emotions (Akam) are depicted as being inextricably linked with nature. Specifically, the technique of 'Ullurai Uvamam' (Implicit Metaphor)—where the thoughts and feelings of the characters are not stated directly but are conveyed through the hidden meanings within natural descriptions—is sublime. This study examines the five types of Ullurai Uvamam as defined by Tolkappiyar, applying them to the poems of Narrinai to explore their literary beauty and social impact in detail. Using Tolkappiyam and Narrinai as primary sources and supported by secondary texts, the objective of this article is to explain the typological perspective of implicit metaphors.
Copyright (c) 2026 T. Nandhinipriya, Dr. S. Periyanayaki (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0