Indian History: The Sangam Age

The Sangam Age (approx. 300 BCE to 300 CE) refers to the period in the history of South India when scholarly assemblies (Sangams) were held under the patronage of the Pandyan kings of Madurai.

The Three Kingdoms

• The Cheras: Ruled over central and north Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu. Their emblem was the Bow.
• The Cholas: Controlled the central and northern parts of Tamil Nadu (Cauvery delta). Their emblem was the Tiger.
• The Pandyas: Ruled from Madurai; known for their patronage of Tamil literature and pearl fishery. Their emblem was the Fish.

Sangam Literature

• Tolkappiyam: The earliest extant Tamil grammatical work, written by Tolkappiyar.
• Silappadikaram: An epic written by Ilango Adigal, telling the story of Kannagi and Kovalan.
• Manimekalai: Written by Sattanar, it is a sequel to Silappadikaram with Buddhist themes.
• Ettutogai: Eight Anthologies of poems covering themes of love (Agam) and war (Puram).

Question for you: Who was the most powerful Chola ruler of the Sangam Age, famous for the victory at the Battle of Venni?

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