The Urn (Thāzhi) and the Makers of Urns in Sangam Literature: An Archaeological Perspective

தொல்லியல் நோக்கில் சங்க இலக்கியத்தில் தாழியும் வனைவோரும்

Abstract

The cultural elements of ancient Tamilakam were preserved and transmitted by the people belonging to the four ecological landscapes (thinai). In general, systems of worship were naturally practiced among the ancient people. Among these were tree worship, water worship, hero-stone worship (Nadukal), and Aappi rituals. (Puram 249:10–14). The term Aappi refers to the dung used during ritual practices; it is not itself a form of worship but rather a ritual practice followed by ancient Tamils after death. However, scholar Aru. Ramanathan identifies Aappi itself as a form of worship. Additionally, totemic worship, mother-goddess worship, and the worship of Kotravai were also practiced within the thinai-based social structure. These worship practices reveal the religious and cultural traditions that existed within early Tamil society.