The Lifestyle of Performing Artists in Sangam Literature

சங்க இலக்கிய ஆற்றுப்படை கலைஞர்களின் வாழ்க்கை முறை

Abstract

Sangam literature possesses unique qualities, enriched both in literary excellence and grammatical sophistication. It stands as evidence of the long-standing Tamil culture, its refined civilization, intellectual growth, ancient traditions, and scientific knowledge. The lifestyle of the Sangam-age people was closely intertwined with nature. Their food habits, occupations, customs, entertainment practices, mental attitudes, and religious beliefs are all vividly portrayed in the Sangam poems. Among these, the lives of āṟṛuppaṭai artists—professional performers such as pāṇar (bards), kūthar (dancers/actors), viṟaliyār (female performers), and poruṇar (war-bards)—who excelled in singing, dancing, and music, form an important aspect. The aim of this article is to explore the lifestyle of these performing artists as represented in the Sangam āṟṛuppaṭai poems.