Arts and Tamil Literature

கலைகளும் தமிழ் இலக்கியமும்

Abstract

‘AayKalai’ (Sixty Arts) is a term used by Avvaiyar; some also attribute it to Kambar. It means arts that have been studied and counted. Commonly, this number is said to be sixty-four. There is debate about the accuracy of this number. Lists found in collections like ApithaanaSindhaamani and Tamil Kalaikkaalanjiyam are based on the Sanskrit concept of ‘Shastrangam.’ Arts such as alchemy, speaking with spirit, and assembling or collaboration are also mentioned. These arts involve skill, practice, talent, and attraction, with a strong aesthetic awareness. The list also includes disciplines like economics, history, and scientific fields such as mathematics. These categories merit further study."