சங்ககாலத் தமிழர்களும் தொழில்நுட்பமும்: இலக்கிய மற்றும் தொல்லியல் சான்றுகளின் அடிப்படையிலான ஓர் ஆய்வு

Sangam Age Tamils and Technology: A Study Based on Literary and Archaeological Evidence

Abstract

The lifestyle of the ancient Sangam Tamils did not merely consist of a simple existence in harmony with nature; rather, this paper thoroughly investigates how they developed and utilized remarkable indigenous technologies to meet their daily needs and sustain great empires. By comparing various scientific and handicraft references found in Sangam literature with modern archaeological excavation data, this academic study establishes the scientific and technological prowess of the ancient Tamils. The primary objective of this paper is to analyze the scientific knowledge possessed by Tamils in fields such as agriculture, water resource management (Kallanai Dam), metallurgy (Kodumanal iron smelting factory), weaving, shipbuilding, and architecture. Supported by literary and archaeological data, this paper analyzes how the Sangam Tamils designed rare technological tools and methods through empirical experience, even in the absence of formal educational institution structures.