சங்கஇலக்கியங்களில் நீர்நிலைகளின் பயன்முறைகள்

The Uses of Water Bodies in Sangam Literature

Abstract

Sangam literature constitutes a significant body of literary works that reflects the life, culture, and economy of the ancient Tamils. Within this literature, extensive references to water resources and water management can be found. Water bodies such as springs, ponds, and rivers are widely cited in Sangam literature as fundamental resources for agriculture. These water bodies were utilized according to climatic changes, demonstrating that the ancient Tamils employed complex and efficient irrigation methods.

Springs were natural fountains, providing pure water that emerged from hilly regions and forests. In Sangam texts, they are referred to as 'Neerootru' and were considered a vital resource for irrigation during periods of drought. Ponds were man-made reservoirs used to store rainwater. Referred to as 'Kulam,' they served as the hub of the village economy. Rivers, as major watercourses, enriched farmlands by depositing fertile alluvial soil. Rivers such as the Kaveri, Vaigai, and Thamirabarani are renowned in Sangam literature.

Climate-based irrigation methods are clearly documented in Sangam literature. Irrigation techniques were adapted to the seasons, namely summer, monsoon (rain), and winter. During the monsoon season, irrigation was conducted via rivers, while in times of drought, it was sourced from ponds and springs. As agriculture was the primary occupation of the ancient Tamils, water management was given paramount importance. To manage irrigation, people used calendars to monitor climatic changes, which enabled the sustainable use of water resources over time.

These accounts in Sangam literature reveal the sophistication of ancient water management systems. Water management practices included the construction of irrigation canals, dams, and lakes. Today, as we confront the challenges of water scarcity, this traditional knowledge can help us identify new pathways for conserving water resources. The descriptions of springs, ponds, rivers, and climate-based irrigation methods found in Sangam literature exemplify the water resource management wisdom of the ancient Tamils, which serves as a cornerstone for sustainable agriculture.