தொல்காப்பியத்தில் தகவல் தொடர்பியல்

Abstract

This article, entitled Information Communication in Tolkāppiyam, examines the information communication methods of ancient Tamils through the text of Tolkāppiyam. The primary objective of this study is to explain how concepts that form the foundation of modern communication are represented in Tolkāppiyam. The article analyses the functions of various elements, namely Meyppādu (expressions of emotions), Maṭalēṟal (the public expression of love), Akapporuḷ and Puṟapporuḷ (the inner and outer domains of life), Iṟaicci (implicit meaning), Uṭaṉuṟai (implied meaning through metaphor), Thoothu (messenger communication), bird omens, the royal drum, and flowers as mediums of communication. Meyppādu explains the expression of emotions through body language, while Maṭalēṟal illustrates a mode of communication used to attract public attention. Iṟaicci and Uṭaṉuṟai function as techniques for conveying messages indirectly, whereas Thoothu serves as a means of maintaining interpersonal and social relationships. Bird omens represent a method of interpreting information through nature; the royal drum functioned as a medium for conveying royal announcements to the public; and flowers served as symbolic indicators of the nature of warfare. By examining these various elements of communication found in Tolkāppiyam, the study highlights the sophisticated ways in which ancient Tamils exchanged information through language, body language, symbols, nature, and social customs. It also brings to light their ways of life and ethical values.

Keywords

• Tolkāppiyam
• Information Communication
• Meyppādu
• Maṭalēṟal
• Iṟaicci
• Uṭaṉuṟai
• Thoothu
• Semiotics
• Ancient Tamil Life