Tamilmanam International Research Journal of Tamil Studies
Tamilmanam International Research Journal of Tamil Studies ISSN: 3049-0723 Online is a pioneering multidisciplinary Multilingual online journal dedicated to the rich and varied field of Tamil studies. Published monthly from India, this journal serves as an essential platform for researchers, academics, and students eager to share their insights, research findings, and innovative ideas in the realms of Tamil language, literature, culture, history, and more. In an era where academic discourse is becoming increasingly digital and accessible, Tamilmanam stands out as a beacon for those seeking to contribute to and engage with the Tamil intellectual community worldwide. Name of Journal : Tamilmanam International Research Journal of Tamil Studies Variant Title (In Regional) தமிழ்மணம் சர்வதேச தமிழ் ஆய்வு இதழ் Journal Abbreviation: Tamilmanam IRJTS Journal Category : Multidisciplinary Year of Journal Started : 2024 Publishing frequency: Monthly Publication Format : Online Mode Publication language: Multi Language Tamil (தமிழ்) & English Publisher : Department of Library Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College Publisher Address: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Nallamuthu+Gounder+Mahalingam+College/@10.6636515,76.9942182,17z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x3ba838331c739ae9:0xe3dc6665316c5869!2sNallamuthu+Gounder+Mahalingam+College!8m2!3d10.6636515!4d76.9967931!16s%2Fg%2F11gbldrzfk!3m5!1s0x3ba838331c739ae9:0xe3dc6665316c5869!8m2!3d10.6636515!4d76.9967931!16s%2Fg%2F11gbldrzfk?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D">90, Palghat Road, Pollachi 642001 Publication Guidelines : Follow the author's guidelines Editor in Chief: Dr. B. Aruljothi, M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D., NET Profile Review Process : Open Peer Review Method Acceptance Period : Based on review 1 to 2 weeks.
Department of Library, Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College Autonomous - Pollachi 642001 Tamilnadu, INDIA e-Mail : ngm@ngmc.org
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வரலாற்றுச் சிறப்புமிக்க ஆனந்தூர் (தொல்லியல் சான்றுகள் அடிப்படையில்)
The Tamils, who held valor in high esteem, honored Warriors Who achieved victory Without ever turning their backs on the battlefield. If a warrior laid down his life in battle, a hero stone Was erected to commemorate his bravery and honor his memory. Wishing to pay tribute to the fallen warrior – to behold his glory and sing his praises – others carved his mortal form into stone, immortalizing him forever. Beyond merely carving the Warrior‘s figure, they also inscribed his heroic deeds onto the stone in enduring script. Krishnagiri district stands as a historically significant region rich in archaeological evidence. The hero stones found in the Anandur area exemplify the traditions of valor, warfare tactics, cattle protection, and social culture of the times. Notably, there is evidence reflecting the influence the Gangar, Nolambas, Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties. Furthermore, an inscription belonging to a merchant guild from the reign of kulothunga cholas III serves as key evidence of the thriving trade organizations in the area. A clear transition in artistic style – shifting Nolambas tradition to the cholas style – is also evident in these hero stones. This study examines the archaeological evidence found in Anandur from a historical perspective, highlighting the social, political, economic and cultural insights they reveal.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
கரிகாலச்சோழன் பெருவளத்தானின் பன்முக ஆளுமை: சங்க கால அரசியல், கடல்சார் வணிகம் மற்றும் கல்லணையின் நீரியல் பொறியியல் மேலாண்மை குறித்த ஓர் உன்னத வரலாற்று ஆய்வு
The primary objective of this article is to examine in detail the multifaceted personality of Karikal Peruvalathan, who stands as the hallmark of the Chola Empire in the history of Sangam-era Tamil Nadu. The Kallanai (Grand Anicut) built by him ranks among the oldest hydraulic structures in the world. Based on the Sand Bed Scouring Principle of the riverbed, the engineering excellence of this structure—built using massive stones without any modern cement mixture—continues to amaze global engineers to this day. Furthermore, Karikalan’s military victories in the Battle of Venni and the Battle of Vagai Paranthalai not only expanded the borders of the Chola nation but also brought about a strong political unification in Tamil Nadu. Through Sangam literature such as Pattinappalai and Porunaratrupadai, along with later historical sources, Karikalan's philanthropy, international Roman trade, and water resource management are subjected to comprehensive historical and scientific analysis in this article.
புறநானூற்றில் பெண்கள்: சமூக வாழ்வியல், வீரத் தாய்மை மற்றும் சங்ககாலப் பெண்ணியக் கட்டமைப்பு
Purananuru, one of the primary anthologies of Sangam literature, stands as a foremost historical testimony capturing the external social values and political traditions of ancient Tamil society. Comprising four hundred poems, this work deeply records not only governance, warfare, philanthropy, and friendship, but also the multifaceted social status of women during the Sangam era. This research paper comprehensively examines the position of women in Purananuru based on its poems, the works of female poets, and modern critical theories. Aspects such as motherhood, wifely virtues, hospitality, the heroic valor of martial women (Moothin Mullai), the diplomatic and political contributions of female poets, and the penance of widows (Aanandhappaiyul) are critically analyzed in this paper. This paper aims to analyze from a dual perspective both the high esteem women held in Sangam society and, at the same time, the social restrictions imposed on their bodies and lives.
திருக்குறள் காட்டும் வாழ்வியல் நெறிமுறைகளும் நவீன உலகளாவிய அறவியலும்: பன்முகத்தன்மை, கணித ஒழுங்கு மற்றும் மனித உரிமை விழுமியங்கள் குறித்த ஓர் ஒப்பீட்டு ஆய்வு
This research paper comprehensively explores the living standards and ethical principles proposed by Tirukkural, which stands as an outstanding book of justice and a universal scripture in the history of Tamil literature. In particular, by comparing the moral and ethical rules formulated by Thiruvalluvar with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) proclaimed by the United Nations in 1948, this study establishes the noble ethical foundation held by Tamil civilization centuries ago. Furthermore, the precise mathematical order and logical cause-and-effect structures embedded within Valluvar's poetic lines are analyzed. Through deeper second- and third-level philosophical concepts, this paper extensively discusses how the principles of 'Arivudaimai' (Wisdom) and 'Vaanshirappu' (The Greatness of Rain/Nature) in Tirukkural serve as a moral guide in the modern technological era—specifically regarding data-driven Artificial Intelligence (AI) decision-making and ecological ethics concerning global climate change.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
முருகனும் முத்தமிழும்: திருமுருகாற்றுப்படை வழி அறுபடை வீடுகளின் தத்துவார்த்த, சமூகவியல் மற்றும் இலக்கியப் பகுப்பாய்வு
This research paper undertakes a detailed examination of the philosophical bond between "Murugan and Mutthamizh" as articulated in Nakkeerar’s Thirumurugatrupadai, the first long poem of the Sangam literary anthology Pattupattu. The paper analyzes the connection between the components of Mutthamizh—Iyal (prose/poetry), Isai (music), and Nadagam (drama)—and the six sacred abodes (Arupadaiveedu) of Lord Murugan within literary, sociological, and philosophical contexts. Furthermore, it explains the evolution of Murugan worship through the framework of Sangam Tamil societal structure, archaeological evidence, and the literary conventions of Pattupattu, contrasting these findings with data from global research journals.
கடல்சார் பொறியியல் கல்வி பயிலும் மாணவர்களின் மேஷ லக்ன ஜாதகங்களில் கோள்களின் தொடர்புகள் -ஆய்வு
This study examines the astrological configurations found in the horoscopes of students pursuing Marine Engineering who belong to the Aries (Mesha) Ascendant (Lagnam). Utilizing fundamental astrological principles, the research investigates planetary interrelationships to identify specific astrological combinations indicative of this field. Marine engineering inherently involves technical acumen, machinery, and maritime travel. Accordingly, the analysis focuses on the positions, aspects, and planetary associations of key significators: the Ascendant (Lagnam), Moon (Chandran), Mars (Sevvai), Mercury (Budhan), Saturn (Sani), and Rahu. By evaluating these celestial influences, the paper aims to outline the recurring planetary patterns that align with the choice and pursuit of marine engineering education.
புறநானூற்றில் பெண்பாற் புலவர்கள் கூறும் தமிழர் பண்பாடு
Language has evolved from the spoken word to written form and eventually into literature. Female poets stood on equal footing with their male counterparts in the art of composing poetry. Numerous texts elucidate the heroic age depicted in Sangam literature. Through their verses, these women—possessing tender hearts—have articulated themes of heroism, the unique identity of women, and Tamil culture. The study highlights the distinct qualities, valor, and poetic prowess of these female poets. Their works encompass diverse subjects such as widowhood, the anguish of loss (kaiyaru-nilai), the significance of friendship and virtue, the ascetic life, and various other themes. Furthermore, their compositions offer invaluable historical insight into the socio-political dynamics, ethical codes, and domestic structures of ancient Tamil society. By challenging the traditional dichotomy between male-dominated war poetry (Puram) and internal emotion (Agam), these poets brought a nuanced, empathetic lens to the realities of conflict, statecraft, and sacrifice. Ultimately, this research underscores how the literary contributions of Sangam female poets not only enriched Tamil literature but also cemented their role as pivotal custodians of cultural identity and moral philosophy.
இந்திய அறிவு மரபு (Indian Knowledge Systems - IKS) மற்றும் தமிழ் இலக்கியங்கள்: Viksit Bharat 2047 நோக்கிலான ஆய்வுகள்
This paper explores the application of Digital Humanities technologies—including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and Natural Language Processing (NLP)—to preserve and digitize over two millennia of Tamil linguistic heritage currently threatened by physical decay. It examines the technical challenges of parsing ancient script variations and damaged physical artifacts like palm-leaf manuscripts and stone inscriptions, while evaluating modern computational tools and Tamil-specific Large Language Models (such as Tamil-LLaMA and AI4Tamil). Ultimately, the study highlights how integrating AI-driven workflows safeguards invaluable historical knowledge, advances computational Tamilology, and makes Tamil intellectual heritage globally accessible.
This study examines how the Indian Knowledge System (IKS)—a holistic repository of philosophy, ethics, and science—is deeply embedded within the rich continuum of Tamil literature from the Sangam era to the modern age. By analyzing foundational Tamil texts that address governance, ethics, social justice, and environmental stewardship, the research explores their direct alignment with the five key pillars of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision: economic growth, environmental sustainability, social justice and inclusivity, effective governance, and cultural resurgence. Ultimately, bridging traditional Tamil wisdom with contemporary development objectives serves as a vital framework to guide India's sustainable progress while preserving its cultural identity on the global stage.
செயற்கை நுண்ணறிவு (AI) மற்றும் Prompt Engineering வழி தமிழ் இலக்கிய ஆய்வு: புதிய ஆராய்ச்சி அணுகுமுறைகள்
Tamil literary research has traditionally been rooted in textual analysis, comparative study, and historical approaches. However, recent advancements in Large Language Models (LLMs) and Prompt Engineering techniques have introduced new tools and methodologies to the field of Tamil literary studies. This paper explores how artificial intelligence and Prompt Engineering techniques can be applied to Tamil literary research. Specifically, focusing on language models, datasets, and evaluation metrics developed for Tamil within the context of low-resource languages, this paper describes how these can be utilized for tasks such as text analysis, sentiment analysis, summarization, translation, and question-answering systems. Additionally, the paper highlights the challenges, ethical concerns, and the necessity of human expertise when adopting these technologies.
மொழியியல் பார்வையில் இறந்தகால உருபுகள்: பழந்தமிழ்ச் சொல்லமைப்பில் ஓர் ஆய்வு
Old Tamil literature differs completely from Modern Tamil in both word structure and sentence structure. Tense markers or infixes play a crucial role in denoting the tense of verbs. Although Tolkappiyar defined the tenses as three, he did not analyze and specify the exact tense markers for them. It was Nannular, who came later, who categorized the four markers—-t- (-த்-), -ṭ- (-ட்-), -ṟ- (-ற்-), and -in- (-இன்-)—as past tense infixes. Beyond these boundaries, various allomorphs and morphophonemic variations were in practice in Old Tamil. This paper comprehensively examines past tense markers using evidence from Sangam literature, grounded in the theories of Descriptive Linguistics, Historical Comparative Grammar, and Morphophonemics. In particular, it categorizes phonologically conditioned allomorphs, final consonant doubling (gemination), and other past tense markers not mentioned by traditional grammarians (-tt-, -nt-, -i-, -n-, -y-, -k-) from a morphological perspective, providing a detailed explanation of their historical background and universal linguistic parallels.
வண்ணதாசனின் இயற்கை சார்ந்த மானுட வளர்ச்சி சிந்தனைகள்
This research paper deeply analyzes the thoughts on nature-based human development expressed in the short stories and poems of Vannadasan (Kalyanji)—one of the premier creators of contemporary modern Tamil literature—from an ecocritical perspective. Vannadasan employs a literary technique that connects Tolkappiyar's Ainthinai (five landscapes) theory and Karupporul (native flora, fauna, and elements) traditions with modern contemporary realism. Rather than viewing nature as a mere background decoration, he establishes it as a spiritual extension of human emotions and an essential ecological balance. This paper explores how the Thamirabarani River, trees, flowers, and birds serve as driving forces for cultural and internal human development in his works. Furthermore, this paper highlights the creator's ecological warning: how the degradation caused to the Thamirabarani River by modern industrialization and sand mining inflicts deep fractures on human personality and moral values.
நவீன தொழில்நுட்பச் சூழலில் மானுட நோக்கில் மனித விழுமியங்களின் இன்றைய நிலைப்பாடு
The rapid evolutionary growth of technology in the twenty-first century—particularly the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI), social media, automation, and mobile communication devices—has deeply altered the foundation of human values. Although this digitalization offers humans borderless connectivity and productivity, it presents major challenges to fundamental values such as personal privacy, empathy, integrity, and social justice. This research paper comprehensively examines the crises faced by human values in a modern technological environment and their solutions from a humanistic perspective. By comparing the ethical principles found in ancient Tamil literature—such as Thirukkural, Purananuru, and other literary works—with international philosophical frameworks like modern "Digital Humanism" and the "Vienna Manifesto," this article presents a new ethical paradigm. Furthermore, this study offers a detailed analysis of recent sociological statistical data regarding "Technoference" and "Phubbing" (phone snubbing) caused by mobile phones in spousal and family relationships. Finally, the paper recommends mindfulness-based approaches and value education as practical solutions to balance technology with humanity.
சமகாலச் சமூகச் சவால்களும் மானுட நோக்கில் அதன் இன்றைய நிலைபாடும்: சிக்கல்களும் தீர்வுகளும்
Structural shifts in the twenty-first century—such as globalization, rapid technological advancement, economic inequality, and climate change—have fundamentally altered the living environment of human society. This paper comprehensively analyzes contemporary social challenges through Western Humanistic Psychology and sociological theories, as well as the anthropological perspectives of ancient Tamil ethical literature, namely Thirukkural and Purananuru. Rejecting liberal approaches that view humans merely as mechanical entities and factors of production, this study examines how a humanistic approach—which prioritizes self-awareness, autonomy, creative potential, and emotional connections—can provide sustainable solutions to modern crises. Economic data from Tamil Nadu, innovations from green startups, climate risk indicators, and school-based psychological support systems are compiled here with evidence. Ultimately, this paper proposes a global policy framework that integrates individual psychological well-being with structural social justice.
மானுட நோக்கில் இன்றைய மனித சமுதாயத்தின் நிலைப்பாடு: ஓர் மதிப்பீட்டாய்வு
This research paper evaluates the lifestyle and position of modern human society within the context of contemporary globalization through comprehensive anthropological and sociological theories, based on the classical and ethical literary backgrounds of ancient Tamils. It deeply analyzes the humanistic thoughts embedded in Tolkappiyar’s philosophical classification, Sangam era Purananuru poems, and the secular, universal values of Thirukkural. Furthermore, the Marxist humanistic trends of 20th-century social reformer A. Madhaviah and revolutionary poet Bharathidasan are compared with contemporary modern poetry (Pudukavithai). The paper discusses the shifts in family structures and social relationships within today's money-centric society against the backdrop of Lewis Morgan's property rights theory, Lévi-Strauss's structuralism, and postmodern moral decay. Finally, policy guidelines are presented regarding the essential role of humanistic education systems—ranging from John Amos Comenius to contemporary international journals—in restoring humanity eroded by modern mechanization, as well as the responsibilities of social institutions in disaster and environmental management.
திருக்குறளும் நாலடியாரும் சுட்டும் நல்லாட்சிக் கோட்பாடுகள்: அறவியல் நோக்கில் ஒரு ஆய்வு
Good governance is a universal concept applicable to all times and all nations. Ancient Tamil literary works, Thirukkural and Naladiyar, detail the fundamental elements of good governance from an ethical standpoint. The primary objective of this study is to analyze the principles of good governance presented by these two texts, identify their similarities and differences, and examine their relevance to contemporary systems of governance. Based on a qualitative research methodology, this study uses the Porutpal (Book of Wealth/Politics) of Thirukkural and the political-related chapters of Naladiyar as its primary sources. Thirukkural emphasizes the qualities of a ruler, impartiality, citizen welfare, and the key elements of governance: army, citizens, ministry, friendship, and fort/defense. Naladiyar focuses on the qualifications of a leader, the impermanence of political power, the qualities of noble lineage, and the ethics of charity. Although both texts align in prioritizing public welfare on an ethical foundation, they differ in their structure, authorial perspective, and mode of explanation. Specifically, while Naladiyar explains ethics with Jain religious influences, Thirukkural, as a universal creed (Ulagappodhumarai), presents universal ethics for all humanity. The principles of good governance stated in these works show strong alignment with modern democracy, management, and leadership theories. Ultimately, this study affirms that the ethical values stressed by Thirukkural and Naladiyar are timeless truths that transcend eras and continue to guide future modes of governance.
தமிழ் இலக்கண மரபினில் வேற்றுமைத் தொகைமொழி
Compound structures serve as an indispensable syntactic and grammatical component within the Tamil grammatical tradition. Tolkappiyar classifies these compound structures into six distinct categories. Among these, two divergent perspectives currently exist regarding the structure and definition of case compounds. One school of thought argues that a case compound is formed merely by the elision of case markers between two constituent words. Conversely, another school contends that beyond the mere elision of case markers, these constituent words must fuse indivisibly to function with the "nature of a single word." This article comprehensively analyzes these contrasting viewpoints by comparing the commentaries of traditional grammarians, the interpretations of grammatical scholars, and the theories of modern linguists. By prioritizing semantics—the fundamental core of language—this study establishes that it is grammatically appropriate to define a case compound as a compound syntactic structure that not only conveys case meanings but also functions organically as a unified, single lexical unit without any phonetic hiatus.
வில்லிபாரதத்தில் நிரை கவர்தலும் மீட்டலும்
In the Tamil literary tradition, the raiding (capturing) and retrieving of cattle hold a significant place among warfare methods belonging to the Purathinai (outer/war ethics) tradition. Tamil grammatical texts, namely the Purathinaiyiyal of Tolkappiyam and Purapporul Venbamalai, codify these traditions through the poetic themes (thinai) of Vetchi (cattle raiding) and Karanthai (cattle retrieval). This paper aims to investigate where the occurrences of cattle raiding and cattle retrieval are found within Villi Bharatham, a prominent Tamil adaptation of the Mahabharata. Furthermore, this study demonstrates how the events of cattle raiding and retrieval depicted in Villi Bharatham align with the grammatical rules and traditions articulated in Tolkappiyam and Purapporul Venbamalai.
தமிழ்ப் பக்தி இலக்கியங்களில் நம்பிக்கை மற்றும் மனநல மீட்பு: நவீன உளவியல் கோட்பாடுகளின் வெளிச்சத்தில் ஒரு ஆய்வு
In a modern world where stress and mental health issues are on the rise, ancient Tamil devotional literature serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the depths of the human mind. The primary objective of this research is to analyze the concepts of faith and mental health recovery found in Tamil Bhakti literature through the lens of modern psychological theories. Adopting a qualitative research methodology, this study relies on primary devotional texts such as Thiruvasagam, Nalayira Divya Prabandham, Thayumanavar Songs, and Kandar Sashti Kavasam. These are analyzed alongside key modern psychological frameworks, including Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalysis, Carl Jung’s analytical psychology, Martin Seligman’s positive psychology, and Aaron Beck’s Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The findings of this study reveal that faith in devotional literature is not merely religious devotion; it functions as a potent psychological force that reduces stress, regulates emotions, and provides purpose and meaning in life. Manikkavasagar's expression of inner darkness in the Thiruvasagam aligns with self-expression and emotional catharsis techniques used in modern psychological therapy. The verses of the Alwars in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham offer comfort and psychological security to the mind through collective emotional resonance and archetypal metaphors. The songs of Thayumanavar deeply analyze the mind's workings, recalling CBT techniques used to reframe negative thoughts. Protective literary works such as Kandar Sashti Kavasam dispel mental fear, acting as protective shields and affirmative declarations for the mind. Thus, ancient Tamil devotional literature offers significant contributions to contemporary mental healthcare, including emotional expression, instilling hope, mental mindfulness/focus, social connection, and imparting meaning to life. Future research focusing on developing mental health therapeutic interventions based on these literary works would be highly beneficial.
ஸ்ரீ வால்மீகேஸ்வர ஸ்வாமி சன்னிதியின் இலக்கிய மற்றும் வரலாற்றுப் பின்னணி
Located in the Tondai Nadu region of Chennai city, the Thiruvanmiyur Sri Valmikeswarar (Marundeeswarar) Temple stands as the 258th shrine among the 274 Paadal Petra Sthalams (shrines praised in the Devaram hymns). According to the temple's sacred history (Sthala Puranam), the place derived the name "Vanmiyur" because Sage Valmiki worshipped the deity here. This research paper comprehensively analyzes the mythological background of this sacred shrine, literary evidence from the Devaram, the historical architecture of the temple, and the origins of the Lord's various divine names. Furthermore, it explains the growth and patronage the temple received during the eras of Tamil dynasties—the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara rulers—alongside a comparative analysis highlighting its similarities with other Paadal Petra Sthalams. Based on textual analysis and local historical records, this study demonstrates how ancient Tamil temples served as a confluence of literature, history, and society, through the specific lens of the Valmikeswarar shrine.
பழமனின் அறிமுகமும் - நந்தியாவட்டம் புதினத்தின் பாத்திரப்படைப்பும் – கட்டமைப்பும்
A Study of Kongu Regional Novel Literature and the Social Impact of Water Scarcity Novel literature is a widely cherished genre that depicts human life and events—either real or imagined—in prose form. Over time, regional literature from the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu has evolved to realistically portray the living conditions, culture, traditional lifestyles, and characterization within its narratives. This study focuses on analyzing the characters, setting, narrative style, and themes depicted by the author. Specifically, it explores how water—a fundamental necessity for all living beings—impacts human existence. The research highlights the harsh reality that poverty is not limited to food, but extends to water scarcity as well. Ultimately, this study aims to reveal how water shortage acts as a critical turning point in an individual's life, driving changes in daily activities and giving rise to pressing social issues like forced migration.
தொல்காப்பியப் பொருளதிகாரம் சுட்டும் சூழலியல் உணவுக் கோட்பாடும் பழந்தமிழர் வாழ்வியல் அறமும்
The objective of this study is to comprehensively examine the ecological food theory highlighted in Tolkappiyam Porulathikaram within the context of contemporary ecological, linguistic, and posthumanist theories. Treating land and time as primary elements (Muthalporul), Tolkappiyam gives paramount importance to food—which serves as the abode for human existence among the essential elements (Karuporul). This paper details the Thinai (landscape-based) foods suited to climatic conditions, the eight types of food mentioned in the section on genetics (Marabiyal), and the biodiversity food chain. Furthermore, this study discusses how the five-fold land (Ainthinai) food systems, culinary techniques, and ecologically oriented principles of nurturing biodiversity depicted in Sangam literature align with modern Ecolinguistics and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through this, the research deeply highlights the ecological principles used by the ancient Tamils to preserve the balance of nature, alongside their ethical way of life.
Tamil Inscriptions and Religious Interaction in Polonnaruwa Sri Lanka (11th–13th Centuries CE): An Epigraphic Perspective on Buddhist–Hindu Cultural Exchange
Studies of medieval Sri Lankan religious history have traditionally emphasized political conflict, dynastic change and the impact of South Indian intervention on the island’s Buddhist institutions. Comparatively less attention has been devoted to the role of Tamil epigraphic evidence in reconstructing the everyday interactions that connected Buddhist and Hindu communities within shared social, economic and administrative environments. This article examines a selected corpus of Tamil inscriptions from Polonnaruwa and related regions dating between the eleventh and thirteenth centuries CE in order to investigate the nature and mechanisms of Buddhist–Hindu interaction during a period of significant political transformation. Drawing upon epigraphic analysis supported by archaeological and historical evidence, the study analyses inscriptions associated with Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples, mercantile corporations, military organizations and royal administrative networks. Particular attention is given to records of religious patronage, land grants, temple endowments, mercantile activities, military obligations and institutional administration. Through a contextual examination of these inscriptions, the article explores how religious communities participated in broader structures of governance, economic exchange and political authority. The findings demonstrate that Tamil inscriptions reveal a pattern of sustained religious interaction that extended beyond doctrinal or ritual spheres and was embedded within the institutional foundations of medieval Sri Lankan society. Evidence from inscriptions such as the Vēḷaikkārar Charter, merchant guild records, temple endowment inscriptions and administrative grants indicates that Buddhist and Hindu institutions operated within interconnected networks of patronage, resource management and political legitimacy. Tamil-speaking merchants, military corporations, officials and local elites participated actively in the support, protection and maintenance of both Buddhist and Hindu establishments, thereby facilitating forms of cooperation that transcended rigid sectarian boundaries. The article argues that Buddhist–Hindu relations in medieval Polonnaruwa are best understood through the concept of institutional pluralism, whereby distinct religious traditions maintained separate identities while functioning within shared administrative, economic and socio-political frameworks. By foregrounding the evidentiary value of Tamil inscriptions, this study contributes to broader debates concerning religious coexistence, cultural interaction and state formation in South Asia and demonstrates the importance of epigraphy for reconstructing the complex religious landscape of medieval Sri Lanka.
தமிழுக்குத்தலை காவியம் உணர்த்தும் வருணனை
Kumanan was a patron who continued to generously provide for those who sought his aid, even after the era of the 'Seven Great Philanthropists' (Pegan, Pari, Ori, Kari, Athigan, Aay, and Nalli) had passed. Because he had lavishly bestowed vast wealth upon poets to foster he growth of the Tamil language, he incurred the wrath of his younger brother (Ilangumanan), lost his kingdom, and was forced to live in the forest. "Tamilukku Thalai" is a short epic that illustrates the extraordinary generosity of the Tamil patron - king Kumanan; he instructed his younger brother-who had set a price on his head-to take his head and use it to alleviate the poverty of the great poet. Perunchithiranar, who had come seeking his aid.
The origins of the world and living organisms remain mysterious to this day. Research regarding them has not confirmed any definitive conclusions; many ideas are put forward based on speculation. Among the visible living organisms, the human species stands out as the most advanced. Among the things created by humans, the most superior is language. This is considered the cradle of human civilization. Although language is referred to as a singular concept, it has multiplied and diversified in various ways depending on location and climate conditions. Linguists of the world have categorized them into 7,102 languages. Tamil is one among them. This language stands out as a unique language that has thrived without being subject to temporal constraints. One of the grammatical definitions of this language concerns its structure. This article aims to examine the concept of the initial letters of the language across different periods.
பட்டினத்தாரின் ஆன்மீக மனம் மற்றும் சித்தர் மெய்யியல் கோட்பாடுகள்: ஓர் ஆழமான தத்துவ ஆய்வு
If you ask the common people of Tamil Nadu to name a few Siddhas, the first name they mention will likely be Pattinathadigal. To that extent, his name holds immense renown among the public. Among all the Siddhas, none have sung about impermanence and spirituality as extensively as he did. Pattinathadigal brilliantly ascended from ordinary human devotion (bhakti) to the ultimate state of a Siddha. The environment is the driving force behind the actions of the mind. Similarly, the environment plays a pivotal role in awakening spirituality as well, and Pattinathar was no exception to this rule. It can be said that this environment is precisely what brought out the latent spiritual consciousness buried within him. Even though he was a highly successful merchant, it was his environment and mind that led him to embrace asceticism. The way his spiritual mind functioned after experiencing the divine is truly remarkable. This research paper deeply analyzes Pattinathar's spiritual journey, mental self-restraint, the impermanence of the physical body, and his social awareness, comparing these concepts with Shaiva Siddhanta principles as well as the philosophies of other contemporary Siddhas.
பரதநாட்டியப் பாணிகளின் வரலாற்றுத் தோற்றமும் அவற்றின் தனித்துவமான கலைக்கூறுகளின் அழகியல் பகுப்பாய்வும்
This study examines the historical evolution of the various Banis (styles) of Bharatanatyam and analyzes their distinctive aesthetic characteristics. Although Bharatanatyam is recognized as a unified classical dance tradition, it has developed unique stylistic dimensions through different guru–shishya (teacher–disciple) lineages and regional cultural traditions. The study traces the origins and development of the Thanjavur Bani, which was systematized by the Tanjore Quartet during the nineteenth century, along with its subsequent stylistic branches, namely the Pandanallur and Vazhuvoor Banis. It also examines the emergence of the Kalakshetra Bani, restructured by Rukmini Devi Arundale in the twentieth century, as well as the Kanchipuram and Melattur Banis. Furthermore, the research comparatively analyzes how each Bani differs in its execution of adavus (basic dance movements), hastas (hand gestures), abhinaya (expressional techniques), and costume traditions. It also investigates the aesthetic transformations that occurred as Bharatanatyam evolved from a temple-based ritual tradition into a modern stage performance art. Finally, the study emphasizes the significant role of these Banis in preserving the diversity and richness of Bharatanatyam while highlighting the importance of safeguarding these stylistic traditions within the contemporary cultural landscape.
தொல்காப்பியக் களவியலில் தலைவனின் மாண்புகள்
Tholkappiyar articulates universal truths regarding life—applicable to all people—within the Kalaviyal section of Porulathikaram, the third part of his grammatical treatise, Tholkappiyam. Kalaviyal depicts the life shared by a hero and a heroine who fall in love, marry, and live in union. Kalavu (secret love) and Karpu (wedded life) constitute the two divisions of Agathinai, which deals with the inner life of the heart. Kalaviyal extensively highlights details concerning the subject matter of Agapporul (inner life) and, specifically, the characteristics of the hero. Kalavu refers to the romantic bond formed between the hero and the heroine in secrecy, unbeknownst to others; in this phase, the hero plays a predominant role. This article examines the hero's virtues as depicted in Tholkappiyam's Kalaviyal, focusing on the specific details that highlight his contributions and character.
தமிழகப் பாடல் கல்வெட்டுகளும் அண்மைக்காலக் கண்டுபிடிப்புகளும் – ஒரு மீள்பார்வை
The Tamil community has lived in adherence to a poetic tradition since ancient times. Songs and poems have held a significant place across various stages of human life, from birth to death. As a continuation of this very tradition, messages have also been inscribed in poetic form on Tamil inscriptions. Although numerous inscriptions have been discovered in Tamil Nadu, poetic inscriptions are relatively few in number. During a recent field study, two new poetic inscriptions were discovered: The Hero Stone Inscription: One of the discoveries is a hero stone (nadukal) inscription dedicated to warriors. It records the glory of a warrior who attained martyrdom in battle, written with literary flair in a poetic format. Based on current research, this is considered to be only the second poetic hero stone inscription discovered in Tamil Nadu. The Sluice Pillar Inscription: The second inscription is associated with a sluice pillar (madaithoombu). Written in verse, it highlights the importance of water resources, the preservation of irrigation systems, and the nobility of public welfare work. Consequently, these two poetic inscriptions serve as rare historical evidence reflecting the heroic tradition, literary heritage, water management philosophy, and social culture of the Tamils. Furthermore, they stand as an important research contribution that adds fresh data to the history of Tamil inscriptional poetry.
தொல்வழிபாட்டின் சுவடுகள்: மெக்கன்சி ஆவணங்களில் பழங்குடியினரின் இறை வழிபாடு
Based on historical documents compiled by Colin Mackenzie in the early 19th century, this research paper examines the primal religious and worship traditions of South Indian tribal communities. The spiritual elements of five primary tribes—Irular, Kadavar, Vedar, Villiyar, and Kuravar—are discussed here. Using evidence from the Mackenzie Manuscripts, this paper establishes that their worship is centered around nature worship, female deity (Kannimar) worship, spirit/ancestor worship, and weapon/animal worship, which exist beyond the realms of mainstream deities and Agamic rituals. Furthermore, this paper highlights how their indigenous spiritual identities shifted over time due to Sanskritization and integration with plains-dwelling communities.