PANIMALAR ENGINEERING COLLEGE

An Autonomous Institution, Affiliated to Anna university, Chennai

(JAISAKTHI EDUCATIONAL TRUST)
Bangalore Trunk Road, Varadharajapuram, Poonamallee, Chennai – 600 123

23TA1101- HERITAGE OF TAMIL

QUESTION BANK
REGULATION-2023
UNIT I Language And Literature
PART B
4.

5.
 UNIT II HERITAGE - ROCK ART PAINTINGS TO MODERN
ART – SCULPTURE

PART A
1. What is hero stone?

In the ancient Tamil tradition, performing last rites to the dead soldiers and fixing the hero stone
was in practice. The stones that kept were called ‘hero stone.

2. What is art of Painting?

Painting includes drawing, composition and aesthetic oriented activities on paper, fabric, wood
and glass. It is an art that uses coloured coating on media such as concrete to express the painter’s
idea.

3. What is Sculpture?
Sculpture is a 3D object. It is formed by shaping hard (or) flexible materials.

4. What is Impon (Bronze Icon)?

The combination of gold, silver, copper, brass and iron is called Impon.
5. What is the composition of Impon?
Cu- 85%, Brass-13%, Iron- 2%, Silver and Gold very little(gms).

6. Write any 4 characteristics of Indian Tribes.

(i) Indian tribes do not follow any religion.
(ii) They do not follow any written text.
(iii) They worshipped nature.
(iv) They do not have a normal type of political form.

7. What is Marappachi dolls?

Marappachi toys are medicinal toys made from Eeti wood used by children in Tamil Nadu. These
explain various family relationships. They are also be the images of Gods.

8. What are the types of temple cars?

(i) Long temple car, (ii) Golden temple car, (iii) Kondinji long temple car, (iv) Kodi temple car,
(v) Anikol temple car.
9. What are Chithira Ther and Kattu Ther?
If the temple cars are parked with a permanent decoration, they are called Chithira Ther.
If the temple car is parked in a simple position without any decorations, they are called Kattu
Ther.
 10.What is Terracotta Sculpture?
The sculptures made by clay and fired in kiln is called terrcotta sculptures.

11. What are suthai sculptures? How are they made?

Suthai sculptures are also a types of terracotta sculptures. These sculptures are made with lime
and wooden sticks.
(i) Making it permanent in temples and towers.
(ii) Another is to make it temporary for festivals and dissolve it in water.

12. What are Nattar Deities?

The village deities worshipped by the folk are folk deities (or) Nattar deities.
13. Name the chemical used to protect Thiruvalluvar Statue.
Eposite is the chemical used in the making of statue which protects degradation.
14. Mention the names of any 4 Folklore deities.
(i) Mariyamman (ii) Ayyanar (iii) Katteri (iv) Muneeswaran.
15. What are the two kinds of sticks used to play Parai?
(i) Chimbu Kuchi (ii) Uruttu Kuchi.

PART B
1. Describe the contribution of modern sculptors related to the conventional modern metal sculptures
and the non-conventional modern metal sculptures.

Modern sculptors, sculptures and their specialties

Among the sculptors of this period, the famous sculptors who created the best works in their own
styles are also skilled in the art of painting. The best sculptors in modern sculpture and painting and
their characteristics are given below.

a. Kalai Chemmal Mookaya

Terracotta Sculptures
He is skilled in making terracotta sculptures. There are no classical elements in his terracotta
sculptures. It is connected to folk types. They are more modern in nature.
b. S.Dhanapal

He was a great sculptor, painter and dancer who headed the Chennai school of painting. He
created his sculptors with great involvement by infusing the Indian culture in the western
style.

Terracotta and Wood Sculptures

He made many sculptures out of terracotta. He has created many modern sculptures in wood
and ceramic with artistry and sensibility

Non-Traditional modern metal sculptures

(i) Avvaiyar: The sculpture of Avvaiyar created by him is slightly bent with a stick in
her hand, mouth without teeth, long ears and a bag on her shoulder has an
excellent artistic look.
(ii) He has beautifully carved the figures of Jesus Christ, political leaders (Periyar,
Kamarasar) and scholars (Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, Doctor A.Lakshmana Swami
Mudaliar)
c. K.M.Gopal
He is a sculptor from Cholamandala Painting Village. He received Tamilnadu Govt’s Kalai
Chemmal Award. All his works are of Hindu deities cast in metal.

Unconventional Modern Metal Sculptures

(i) Vinayagar Idol: The big belly of Ganesar has been carved with small and that is
special about it.
(ii) Bala Ganapathy: This sculpture is made to look like a child sitting with legs stretched
out.
d. Vidya Sangha Stapthi

He worked at Kumbakonam College of Arts and Crafts. He served as a bridge between

tradition and innovation. He was very much attracted by rural arts and terracotta sculptures.
So, he used the strategy of exaggerating the truth without distorting the image of the village
sculptures.

Traditional Modern Metal Sculptures

(i) Agni (God of Fire)

 (ii) Ravanan

Unconventional Modern Metal Sculptures

(i) Yuvathi Sculpture

(ii) Mithuna Sculpture
2. Explain the subtlety of impon metals. Also explain the method of making impon idols.

The combination of gold, silver, copper, brass and iron is called impon.

S.No Metal Percentage Science Involved in it

1 Copper 85 To attain the power of Sun
2 Brass 13 To attain the power of Kethu graham
3 Iron 2 Tot attain the power of Saturn (Avoid negative
feelings)
4 Silver Very little To attain the power of Venus (Emotion Control)
5 Gold Very little To attain the power of Jupiter (Direct request to god)

Methods of Impon Idol Making

Mould (or) Casting Method

First of all, the wax of the model of the idol is made. This wax idol is coated with
suitable clay and its cast. A small hole is placed at the lower part of the casting. Its then
thoroughly dried in sunlight.

Procedure

After the lay dries, the mould is heated in an oven and the wax iniside is expelled
throught the hole. The well melted impon is poured through the hole in the casting. After a
day of cooling, the clay is broken and the metal idol inside is taken out. These idols are
rubbed and made smooth and then polished.

3. List the handicrafts made by tribal.

(i) Clay dolls
(ii) Wooden dolls
(iii) Paper Toys
(iv) Tanjore plate making
(v) Artefacts using cattle horns
 (vi) Pottery making
(vii) Metal Handicrafts
(viii) Tribal Textiles
(ix) Tribal Jewellery
(x) Products from bamboo
(xi) Organic farm products
(xii) Longpi Pottery
4. Write a note on the structure of the temple car and parts and describe the temple car.
5. Write a note on the characteristics of terracotta sculptures and some important village deities.
6. Classify the Folk deities. Also write about the beliefs of the worshippers of these deities.
7. Thiruvalluvar statue at the cape of Kanyakumari – Describe.
8. Write an essay on the role of temples in the economic development of Tamils.
9. (i) Write about the musical instruments of Tamils.

(ii) What is the role of temples in the socio-economic life of Tamils?

 UNIT III FOLKS & MARTIAL ARTS
PART-A

1. Briefly describe Therukoothu ?

A drama that takes place on the streets is called Therukoothu.Stories,Dramas,Dances
and songs are all a part of Therukoothu
2. Explain about Karakattam ?
It is a dance performed with a flower-decorated brass jug on the head.The dancer
moves to the rhythm of the musical beat without letting the jug fall down.
3. Explain about Villupaatu ?
Villupaatu is a musical-story telling done using a bow.It is one of the most prominent
art forms of Tamilnadu.
4. How did Villupaatu originate ?
The exact period of Villupaatu’s origin cannot be determined.When hunting was the
only job of man,the bow helped him win.Fascinated by the melody of the bells
attached to the Bow,man might have found a new art form known as Villupaatu to
describe his pursuits.
5. Explain about Thol paavai koothu ?
Thol Paavai Koothu or paavai koothu is done using leather and a doll.The art of Thol
paavai is a medium to let common people know about legendary events.It is also
called Pubbetry.
6. Explain about Silambaattam ?
Silambaatam is a Tamil martial art and a sport performed by Warriors.This is also
known as Kambu sutrudhal.
7. Describe Oyilaatam ?
Oyilaatam is a beautiful dance form done by tying a coloured cloth on the head, while
waving the same coloured cloth in sync with the music.
8. Mention some of the heroic sports of Tamilians ?
Eruthaluvudal,Silambaatam,sadugudu,Ilavattakkal,Urimaram amd Marpor are some
of the heroic sports of Tamilians.
PART-B
9.Explain the structure and method of dance “ Therukoothu”?

 Therukoothu conducted during village festivals, during the months of Panguni and
Aadi.
❖This is performed where three or four streets meet; in open air, the place being lit by gas
lights.
❖A wooden bench is set up to seat the singers and the musical troupe.
❖Here, makeup and costumes are considered of prime importance.
❖Only men take part; the female roles also played by them.
❖The performance consists of storytelling, dialogue-rendering, songs and dance, all
performed by the artistes.
❖Thus the artists should have a very good performing ability, being an all-rounder.
❖The stories are taken from Puranas, epics and also local folklore.
❖The play starts in the late evening and gets over only during the small hours of the nights.
❖The performance is so captivating that the audience are spell-bound unaware of the longs
hours.

10.Highlight the role of Villu Pattu in the lives of Tamils.

❖ There will be at least five peoples in Villu Pattu.

❖The main singer here uses main instrument, the Villu or Bow, fixed with bells.
❖When villu is struck rhythmically, the bells jingle in tune.
❖The main singer narrates a tale, interspersed with lively songs.
❖The main singer here is accompanied by a chorus and other musical instruments.
❖Villu pattu troupes usually perform for festivals associated with deities such as Sudalai
Madan, Mutharamman, Pechiamman, Isakkiamman, etc.
❖The local government sometimes utilises this as a vehicle for social messages and
propaganda.
11.Explain in detail about karakattam,oyilattam,Puliyattam

KARAKATTAM
❖Karagam is a folk dance with musical accompaniment, performed balancing a pot on the
head.
❖Traditionally, this dance was performed by the villagers in praise of the rain Goddess
Mariamman and river Goddess, Gangai Amman, performed with water pots balanced on their
heads.
❖ In Sangam literature, it is mentioned as 'Kudakoothu'.
❖This dance has two divisions - one, Aatta Karagam and the other 'Sakthi Karagam'.
❖Sakthi Karagam is limited to the premises of sacred temples of Tamil Nadu,
❖Aatta Karagam is performed on public platforms too.
❖Today, the pots have transformed from mud pots to bronze ware and even stainless steel in
modern times.
❖The pots are decorated with a cone of flower arrangements, topped by a paper parrot.
❖This dance is danced by an individual or two persons.
❖Both male and female performers participate in this.
OYILATTAM
❖Oyil means beauty. This dance is hence the dance of beauty.
❖Traditionally, it is danced only by men. Ten years ago women also began to participate.
❖First a few people will stand in a row and start dancing with rhythmic steps with musical
accompaniment.
❖Then gradually the row will become longer as the new comers and guests all join and
dance along as they like.
❖The dancers have coloured kerchiefs tied to their fingers and wear ankle-bells.
❖Normally, the dance is performed with the accomplishment of musical instruments and
songs.
❖ It is performed near the temples or public places in the morning and evening hours, at
times even till midnight.
❖This dance is prevalent in the south districts and Kongu Nadu in particular
PULI ATTAM(TIGER DANCE)
❖Puli Attam is a dance performed by young men dress up as tigers.
❖They painted with yellow and black coloured stripes on their bodies,
complete with fangs, head gear with ears, paws with claws and long tail.
❖Their every move is like that of a ferocious tiger.
❖Wildly beating drums add frenzy to the performance.
❖Sometimes, a goat is tied and brought along with the dancers, who pretend to pounce on it
and kill it.
❖This dance is regularly performed during temple festivals, drawing large crowds.
12.Explain the various sports games of Tamils
 UNIT IV THINAI CONCEPT OF TAMILS
PART-A
1. What is meant by Agam?
Agam means Heart. It explains the affectionate feelings between a man and woman.

2. What is meant by Puram?

Puram means the outer self. Puram describes virtues, things, status education valour and
rewards.

3. What is Agathinai? What are they?

Agathinai describes the relationship between a man and a woman in love. Agathinai comprises
Kaililai, Kurinji, Mullai, Marudham, Neithal, Paalai, and Peruthinai.

4. Mention the five types of affection

Kurinji, Mullai, Marudham, Neithal and Paalai are the five types of affection.

5. What is Purathinai? What are they?

Purathinai talks about virtues, things, status, education, valour, and rewards. Purathinai
comprises Vetchi, Kanandai, Vanji, Uzhinayai, Nochi, Thumbai, Vaagai, Paadam, Poduviyal,
Kaikilai and Perundinai.

6. Write a note about Tolkaapiyam.

This is a literature book that shows the Antiquity of Tamil Grammar. This is the first Tamil
literary book, written by Tolkaapiyar.

7. How many chapters are there in Tolkaapiyam? Mention them.

There are three chapters in Tolkaapiyam
Eluttadigaaram
Solladigaaram
Poruladigaaram

8. Who wrote the first text of Tolkaapiyam?

Ilampooranaar

9. How are the mountain and mountain related regions called?

They are called as Kurinji

10. Who is considered the God of Mountain regions?

Lord Muruga

11. What is meant by Virtue?

Virtue means righteousness. This is a word used to denote honesty and truth.

12. Mention some of the ports of Chera kingdom.

Thondi, Musiripandar, and Kodumanam are some of the ports of Chera Kingdom.

13. Mention some ports of Pandya Kingdom.

Korkai and Kaayal

14. Mention some ports of Chola Kingdom.

Kaaveripoompattinam
15. Which are the most important cities of the ancient era?
Pugar, Uraiyoor, Thanjai, Vanji, Kaanji, and Madurai

16. Where did underground excavations take place?

Underground excavations took place in Sivagangai. It is at distance of 20Km from Madurai.

17. Which district is Aadicha Naloor?

AadichaNaloor is situated on the banks of Thamirabarani river flowing in Thoothukudi.

PART-B
1.Write a description of the information on plants in the Sangam literature.
The Sangam Society was split into five distinct ecological zones according to ancient Tamil
literature. Each zone is called Thinai.
There are five Thinais which are called Ainthinai.
Each of these have their own God or Goddess, Flowers, Flora, Fauna, Occupation, People
and Cultural life which is related to the environmental conditions of that region.
The five Thinais are:
Kurunji - hilly or mountain region
Mullai - Forest or pastoral region
Marutham - Fertile riverine valley
Neythal - Coastal region
Paalai - Desert region
Kuṟinji Mullai Marudam Neithal Pālai

Landscape Mountains Forest, pasture Agricultural Seashore Parched

areas wasteland
Flower Kuṟinji Mullai Marudam Water lily Pālai
(Jasmine)

Flora Jackfruit, Konrai Mango Punnai Cactus

bamboo, venkai

Fauna Monkey, Cow, bull, Water Buffalo, Crocodile, Fatigued

elephant, horse, sheep, goat freshwater fish shark elephant, tiger,
bull, Tiger and deer. or wolf

Avifauna Peacock, parrot. Sparrow and Heron Seagull. Eagle

wild fowl.

People Vettuvar and Kovalar or Vellalars Meenavarand Maravar

Kuravar Ayar Umanar

Occupation Hunting and Animal Agriculture Fishing and Highway

gathering husbandry salt robbery,
collection

Main Deity Muruga Vishnu Indra Varuna Kotravi

2. Explain and write down the Tholkaappiyar’s Akam and Puram theory.
Aham and Puram concept from Tholkappiyam and Sangam Literature
Thinai is a type of poetic mode or theme in which classical Tamil poems are set in classes
which refer to a particular habitat or ecozone.
These poems are also based on one of the two themes which are:
1. Akathinai - The word Akam means interior. It is related to situations related to love and
family life. Tholkappiyam divides the akathinai into 7 types as
Kurunji – Union of lovers
Mullai – Patient waiting on the part of wife
Marutham – Lovers quarrel
Neythal – Bemoaning the lover’s absence
Paalai – Separation of lovers
Kaikilai*- One side love
Perunthinai*- Forcing love
*The Kikilai and perunthinai were not accepted by Tamil Scholar.
 Features Kurinji Mullai Marutam Neytal Palai
Akathinai Making love Patient waiting on the Lovers quarrel Bemoaning Separation of
part of wife for the due to hero’s the lover’s lovers
return of her husband infidelity absence
from a journey

2. Purathinai - The word Puram means exterior. It deals with exterior factors mainly with war
and heroism .
Tolkappiyar mentions the seven purathinais as Vetchi, Vanchi, Uzhijnai, Tumbai, Vagai, Kanchi
and Patan.
The grammarians who came after Tolkappiyar divided the Purathinai into twelve. They were
called Vetchi, Karanthai, Vanchi, Kanchi, Uzhinnai, Nochi, Tumbai, Vagai, Patan, General,
Kaiklai, Peruntinhai.

No Types Details

1. Vetchi Cattle raiding, Before starting a war against an enemy country,

the king, who thinks that no harm should be done to the anirai
in that country, sends his soldiers to capture the goats and
cows that are the anirai. Those warriors will wear
Vetchipoo. Nirai means goats and cows. This is called cattle
attraction.
2. Karanthai Anirai metal
They wear Karanthipo to bring back their cows and goats lured
away by Vetchi soldiers.
3. Vanji Territorial war Warriors fight by wearing vanchipoo to conquer
other country.
4. Kanchi Fight against enemy who came to conquer the country by
wearing Kanchipoo.
5. Uzhinnai War at fort Wearing the Uzhinai flower and entered the fort of
Matarasana with his soldiers and captured the wall.
6. Nochi Defends the wall by fighting with the enemy king from outside.

7. Thumbai Battle The opponents will wear thumbai flower and fight together
with their soldiers with one goal of victory.
8. Vagai, Victory The victorious king will be rejoicing by wearing vagai
flowers.
9. Patan Thinai: Patu + Man + Thinai = Patanthinai
Patan Thinai sings in praise of education, bravery, wealth, fame,
 kindness etc. of a man who is qualified to sing.

10. General States about Public welfare

11. Kaikilai* One side lust

12. Perunthinai* Love between 2 persons of long age gap

3. Explain the virtues of the Tamils.

Aram is the morals followed by the people living in the society.
Tamils used to focus Aram on every field of their lives.
The Aram was present in all activities such as domesticity, asceticism, love, warfare and
politics.
There are many virtues to be followed in life.
The benefits of Charity
‘ ; ;
;
, ;
, .

A bowl of rice to eat; Two clothes to wear, top and bottom. This is the rule of
everyone. Therefore, the benefit of wealth is to give to others.If you think that you will enjoy it
yourself, you will lose a lot.
Giving is pleasure
The act of giving should be done with the intention of doing it as a good deed, and
not with the commercial motive of doing virtue in this birth will help in rebirth.
‘ ’
;
,
.
-
Universality
The world is one. All the men living on this one planet are all related. Only the
perpetrators are responsible for their actions, both good and bad.
"

-
Good manners
Doing good requires Wealth.Do not do evil even if you are unable to do good.
That is the norm that everyone wants.
"
"
-
Sharing
Even if we get the nectar of Indra's world, We have to share it.
, ; ;
,
;
-
Gratitude
‘

Cutting the cow's udder; Mutilation of the fetus of a woman wearing a thali; abuse of a
priest;There is a remedy for such sins.
But even if the world turns upside down, "There is no rest for those who have forgotten
gratitude," the hymn sings.
Thiruvalluvar also points out the same

4. Explain the education system of ancient Tamils.

TheTamilterm‘kalvi’
correspondstotheword‘Education’whichmeans‘drawingout’ofachild’slatentpotentialities
Tamils-themostliteratepeoples
Education ascommonforallmenandwomen,richandpoor,kingsandcommoners,high-bornandlow-born.
About 500 poets have lived on Sangaday.More than 50 poets were women.
Perungo bendu,Pari Mahalir,Kakai padiniyar,Kuriyeini, Ilaveini and Venni Kuyathi have become
greatpoets.
Avvaiyar, a respected scholar, was the poetess of Athiyaman and an ambassador at the court
of Kanji Thondaiman.
Noother country had so many poets during that period.
The place and the function of the teacher
The teachers were known as Kanakkayar, Asiriar, Asan,Ubattiyayar.
Those who taught
Literature and mathematical science were called Kanakkayar.
1. Music and dance were known as Aasan and
2. Martialarts ands words were known asVaathiyar.
3. The teachers of primary school were known as Ilampalarasiriar.
4. The teachers of a large number of pupils were known as Kulapati.
5. Many Scholars have been from all over the city. Parents had the privilege of sending their
children to study during the Sangam period.Nalaikizhavan and Kapilar are proof of this.
Kanakkayar Teachers of Literature and Mathematical Sciences
Asiriar Teachers of Grammar and Etymology
Asan Dance teachers
Vaathiyar Instructors of swords man ship and martialarts
kuravar A teacher of religious concepts and philosophies

Sangam, Pallis, Mandram, PrivatescholartraininghavebeenthefieldsofSangamteaching.

Sangam A system for reviewing and accepting new Tamil works

School A place to teach the arts and education

Mandram A venue for per for mingarts

Curriculumand thesubjecttaught
Knowledge in the Sangam period was under stood to be of two kinds:
Knowledge of Humanities ii)Knowledge of Science
The Humanities are represented by the study of languages and literature
The Sciences by Mathematics astronomy…
The two branches of knowledge are spoken of by Valluvar as the ‚two eyes‛ of a
rationalbeing

..
The pattern of education in the Sangam period was notmerely reading and
understanding of books,but listening to learned persons.
Though the education which prevailed in the Sangam Age was of a general nature, the
system of instructions varied between men and women.
Men were instructed in such subjects as making money, the art of war, and administration,
while women had a thorough grounding in family education.
Both sexes were well-trained in literary and artistic pursuits.
Learning Process
Tamil was the language of instruction during the Sangam period.Palm leaves were used for
writing on that day.
The pupils wrote on the dried palm leaves of size1x 2"using ezhuthaani.
One of the Eladis says that the best virtue is to give suvadi,food,ezhuthaani and clothes.
In order to write on the leaf without mistake, first the children were given writing practice by
spreading sandon the floor.
Teachers also administered corporal punishment on that day
Exercises like developing memory,verbal repetition,and developing the ability to create thousands
of verses were given.
Education–thedutyofparents
The parents are the first and the chief educators. A poem in the Puraurananuru collectionstates
thatitis thedutyofthefatherto educateandtomakehissonasascholar.
The kural says that‚a mother’s joy when she hears of her son’s greatness than his birth ‛
The Pandyaruler Nedunchezhian advised his people to take to learning either by giving all they
have to the teacher or by rendering service to him because
Even as a mother, she gives priority to an intelligent child.
The government will be done by the wiseman.
Even if he is born in alowercaste, education will advance him.
, ,
, !
, ;
;
,
,
-

People of Sangam era realized that education is needed to achieve excellence in all three
levels namely family, government and society.
It is revealed that all sects were educated in Sangam era. The Tamil society of the Sangam
Age was an advanced and civilized society and was in no way barbarous.

5. Describe and write about the cities of the Sangam age.

The Sangam Age saw the first urbanization in Tamilagam. Cities developed and they had brick
buildings, roof tiles, ring wells and planned towns, streets, and store houses. The towns
worked as ports and artisanal centres.
Arikkamedu, Kaveripoompattinam, Azhagankulam and Korkai on the east coast and Pattanam in
Kerala were port centres.
Kanchipuram, Uraiyur, Karur, Madurai and Kodumanal were inland trade centres.
Ancient Ports:
1. Musiri: Cheras port located on the west coast. The Romanians and Greeks bought pepper
here.
2. Tondi: Cheras port located on the west coast.
3. Korkai:
Pandiyas main port located near the confluence of Thampraparani with the Bay of Bengal.
It was famous for pearl fishery and chank diving.
4. Puhar(Kaveripattinam): Cholas Chief port townlocated near the confluence of Thampraparani
with the Bay of Bengal.

6. Explain and write about the exports and imports of the Sangam age.
Commodities from Tamilakam had a great demand in Rome. Black pepper, cardamom, pearls
and gemstones, especially Beryl which was mined from sites in Kodumanal, Padiyur and
Vaniyampadi, were highly sought after in Rome.
Arikamedu known as Poduk’e in the Greco-Roman world was a manufacturing hub of textiles
particularly of Muslin clothes, fine terracotta objects, jewelleries from beads of precious and
semi-precious stones, glass and gold. The city had an extensive glass bead manufacturing
facilities and is considered as ‚mother of all bead centres‛ in the world
The handicraft included weaving, metal works and carpentry, ship building and making of
ornaments using beads, stones and ivory.
These were in great demand in the internal and external trade that was at its peak during the
Sangam period.
A high expertise was attained in spinning and weaving of cotton and silk clothes. These were
in great demand in the western world especially for the cotton clothes woven at Uraiyur.
The port city of Puhar became an important place of foreign trade, as big ships entered this
port containing precious goods.
Other significant ports of commercial activity were Tondi, Musiri, Korkai, Arikkamedu and
Marakkanam.
Many gold and silver coins that were issued by the Roman Emperors like Augustus, Tiberius
and Nero have been found in all parts of Tamil Nadu indicating flourishing trade.
Major exports of the Sangam age were cotton fabrics and spices like pepper, ginger,
cardamom, cinnamon and turmeric along with ivory products, pearls and precious stones.
Major imports for the traders were horses, gold, and sweet wine.
 UNIT V CONTRIBUTION OF TAMILS TO INDIAN NATIONAL MOVEMENT AND
INDIAN CULTURE
PART-A
1. Mention the freedom fighters who fought for the independence of India.

Pulithevar, Velu Nachiyaar, Marudu Pandiyar, Dheeran Chinnamalai, Veerapandia

Kattabomman, VO Chidambaram, Subramanya Shiva, Subramania Bharathi, Thirupur Kumaran,
Vaanjinathan.

2. What was the aim of the Self-respect movement?

The Aim of the self-respect movement was to uplift the people who were shunned by the
society and give them the rights they deserved. This was initiated to create a society which was
free from the rigid beliefs regarding the caste, creed and religion.

3. Who initiated the self-respect movement?

The self-respect movement was intiated by E.V. Ramasamy in 1925.

4. Where was the first conference of the self-respect movement held?

The first conference of the self-respect movement was held in Chengalpattu, near Chennai, in
the year of 1929.

5. What is the concept behind Inscriptions?

During ancient times, to immortalize a message about a famous personality, it was inscribed on
a rock, to ensure that it was easily understood by the people. The message would majorly
describe the feats and achievements of the person.

6. Where can inscriptions be found in Tamilnadu?

Thiruparankundram, Naagamalai, Aanaimalai, Kodumalai, Aadichanallur, Keelakudi,

Mandagapattu, Magendravaadi, Tiruchu, Pallavaram, Maamallapuram, and Talavanur are some
of the places where inscriptions can be found.

7. What is meant by Manuscript?

Manuscript or Transcript is a hand written or hand made scripture. It is usually written in

straws,Paper, Parchments, or other Flexible materials.

8. Which is the first printed book in tamil?

Tampiran Vanakam was the first Tamil book to be printed in the year 1578.

9. Who is the father of the Tamil printing Press?

Henriques

10. Where was the first printing press in Tamilnadu started?

 Thrangapadi

1. Describe the role of the Tamils in the Indian war of independence.

Introduction
Freedom Fighters in Tamilnadu played a pivotal role in the Indian Independence Movement.
Tamilnadu was home to several prominent leaders who fought for India’s freedom from British colonial
rule.
Tamils aggression against the British is very old.
There have been rulers who stood strong against the colonial aggression.
But the fate is that many have not been told to the world.
It is time for us to know the great leaders who still are the symbol of Bravery.
Prominent Freedom fighters of Tamilnadu1. ★ He was a polygar from Katalangulam
Maveeran Alagumuthu Kone (1710–1759) ★ The first Who opposed the British and to
- Polygar of Katalangulam stop the Polygars from paying tax to the
British was Veera Azhagu muthu kone
★ He lead and fought India’s first war against
the British in 1759 at Pethanayakanur.
★ He was captured and was asked to seek
mercy and pay tax.
★ He refused to both and was executed at
Nadukattur.

2. Veerapandia Kattabomman (1760-1799) Fought against tax collection by East Indian

-Polygar from Panchalankurichi
Company rulers.
1. A meeting with the British over the collection
of pending rents ended in violence when a
British officer was killed by Kattabomman.
2. Kattabomman escaped but the British put a
bounty on his head. This prompted many
polygars to rebel openly.
3. Kattabomman was ultimately captured after
he was betrayed by Ettappan, the Pudukottai
Raja.
4. He was sentenced to death and publicly
hanged at Kayatharu.

3. Rani Velu Nachchiyar (1730 -1780)
★ The British killed her and took away the
throne saying a Woman cannot inherit the
throne.
★ Extraordinary War Strategy defeated the
British forces and recaptured the throne of
Sivaganga Kingdom.

4. Maruthu Brothers (1748-1801)  Fought against East India Company.

  They were hanged to death along with their
families and commanders on palmyra trees
in Thirupathur.

5. V. O. Chidambharam Pillai (1872-1936)- ★ He challenged the British monopoly in

Kappalottiya Tamilan Maritime trade and established shipping
Company in 1906. Hencehe was called
Kappalottiya Tamilan.
★ The frustrated British for his political revolt,
arrested VOC.
★ VOC’s Lawyer Licence was stripped and at
prison he was asked to press oil. So he was
Known as Sekilutha semmal

6. Subramaniya Bharathi (1882-1921)  His songs and poems echoed the sounds of
Freedom struggle into every man’s heart.
 He was arrested and imprisoned several
times for his writings against british.

7. Tirupur Kumaran (1902-1932)  He died from injuries sustained from a police

- Kodi Kaatha Kumaran assault.
 At the time of his death, he was holding the
flag of the Indian Nationalists. So he was
known "Kumaran who protected the flag".


8. Senbaga Raman Pillai (1891 –1934) ★ Coined the word of Indian war cry “JAI
HIND”. Forerunner of Netaji.

9. Maveeran Vanchinathan (1886-1911) On 17 June 1911, Vanchi who was 25,

assassinated Robert Ashe, the district
collector of Tirunelveli, who was also known
as Collector Dorai. He shot Ashe at point-
blank range when Ashe's train had stopped
at the Maniyachi Station, en route
to Madras. He committed suicide thereafter.
 The railway station has since been renamed
Vanchi Maniyachi..

10. C. RajaGopalachery (1878-1972) ★ Mootharignar Rajaji, was an Indian

statesman, writer, lawyer, and independence
activist. Rajagopalachari was the last
Governor-General of India, as India became a
republic in 1950.
★ First recipients of India's highest civilian
award, the Bharat Ratna.
★ Led imprisonment for Vedaranyam salt
Satyagraha

2. Explain the origin of the self Respect Movement and the change it has brought about in
Tamil Nadu.

SELF RESPECT MOVEMENT

1. Self-Respect Movement was started by E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker in Tamil Nadu in 1925.
2. This movement fought for people of the lower castes to have "self-respect" in society.
3. Thanthai Periyar believed that developing self-respect in individuals will end caste
discrimination and gives self confidence.
4. It was an egalitarian movement that propagated
 the ideologies of breaking down of the Brahminical hegemony
 equal rights for the backward classes and women in the society
 and revitalization of the Dravidian languages like Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam
4. Key Objectives:

● To build a society in which backward castes have the same basic civil rights as higher castes.
● Complete eradication of untouchability and establishment of a just and harmonious society.
● Friendship and fellow feeling should come naturally to everyone.
● To provide shelter for the destitute, orphans, and widows and to establish schools and
colleges.
● To discourage people from building new temples, mutts, Vedic Schools.
● People should drop the caste titles in their names.
● Common funds should be utilized for educational purposes and for creating employment
opportunities
● In Periyar's model of society, women were to be allowed access to contraception (the ways of
preventing a woman from becoming pregnant) and even permanent birth control measures.
● Women were given the right to choose partners as well as divorce them and remarry
● The campaign was a breakthrough moment for feminism in India.
Significance

1. The monopoly of power and influence enjoyed by the Brahmins was slowly lost due to
E.V.R.’s unceasing propaganda against orthodoxy. It filled with the sense of self-respect and
above all self-confidence, to fight against social injustice perpetrated by the Brahmins of the
day.
2. It led to the promotion of inter-caste and inter-religious marriages and legalization of
marriages without Brahman priest. Post independence, Tamil Nadu passed a law and became
the first state to legalise Hindu marriage without Brahmin priest.
3. The system of allotting separate places for Harijan members in the Municipal Councils
was also discontinued.
4. Due to relentless fight of supporters of the movement, the name boards of the hotels
were changed from “Brahmins Hotel” to “Vegetarian Hotel”.
5. People started taking pride in giving up their caste name.

3. Explain and write about Siddha medicine.

ROLE OF SIDDA MEDICINE IN INDIGENOUS SYSTEMS OF MEDICINE

 Saint Agathiyar, the popular person in the realm of Tamil Siddha Medicine System, is
one among the 18 Siddha’s.
 He is the chief exponent of Tamil Siddha Medicine System and hence, considered
“FATHER OF TAMIL SIDDHA MEDICINE SYSTEM”.
 He has recorded his discoveries in Siddha Medicine System in the form of palm leaf
manuscripts, which is now available in the form of text books after strenuous works of
conversion.
 His works range from curing small to big diseases by using simple herbs and mineral
combinations to the complex preparation of Siddha medicine.
 His works in the pathology division of Siddha Medicine system like Jeeva Nadi
(ஜீவநாடி) , Kandar Nadi muraigal (கந்தர்நாடிமுறைகள்), nadi noolgal
(நாடிநூல்கள்) are unparalleled.
 His works on preparation of Universal salt* (Muppu and Amuri) for both alchemical and
medicinal purpose is of high value………
 *Universal salt- muppu and amuri are called universal salt because, when added to
medicines in small amounts, they have the ability to potentiate the original medicine to
multiple times and it can be added to any medicine, hence they are called universal
solvent or salt.
 Food is Medicine; Medicine is Food” is one of the core doctrines mentioned in Siddha
classics for healthy life. This maxim acknowledges the emphasis laid by Siddhars on
healthy eating and the nutritional importance of a balanced diet. Siddha Medicine
describes the significance of balancing food (Thirithoda) ingredients namely pepper,
turmeric, cumin seeds, asafoetida, dried ginger, cardamom, fenugreek and garlic
maintain the homeostasis between the three humours namely Vali, Azhal and Aiyam..
4. Explain the inscriptions.

INSCRIPTIONS AND MANUSCRIPTS

1. Inscriptions Epigraphical information for the Sangam period is scanty.

2. The Asokan Edicts refer to the Chera, Chola and Pandya kingdoms.
3. The Hathikumba Inscriptions of the Kalinga king , Kharavela also mentions the three
Tamil Kingdoms.
4. The Kalugumalai inscriptions help us to know about ancient Tamil scripts called Tamil
Brahmi. (Tamili)
5. The Tirukkovalur inscriptions refer to the local chieftains and the tragic end of the Tamil
Poet, Kapilar.
6. The inscriptions at Thirupparankundrum mention the gift of cave beds to the Jain
monks.
7. The inscriptions found at Arnattar hills, near Pugalur belonged to the First Century A.D.
and these inscriptions furnish information regarding the Chera kings.
Manucsripts
Ancient Tamil works were obtained as Olai suvadigal manuscripts.
U.V.Swaminatha Iyer, was instrumental in the revival of interest in the Sangam age literature in
Tamil Nadu. He travelled all over the Tamil country, collecting, deciphering and publishing
ancient books such as Cilappatikaram, Kuruntokai, etc. He published over 90 books and
wrote En saritham, an autobiography.

5. Describe and write about the Palm-Leaf Manuscripts.

The Tamils who used to write on rocks later began to use palm leaves. Till the time of the
invention of the paper, the practice of writing on palm leaves existed in all Asian countries.
Everything that is thus written is called epigraph. The leaves written as a book were tied up and
compiled. These are called potthakam and potthakakavali. The word 'putthakam (book) is
derived from this.

A manuscript or hand-written script is a work written or made by hand. This can be

distinguished from print or digital. In the Tamil context, before the time of printing, all the
works were manuscripts. These include manuscripts as well.

They will choose a palm leaf. It will be chopped according to the size. He will gently remove the
nerves of the leaf as if cutting the nails of a kid. Then, dry them in the shade. It will be
processed in the snow. It will be warmed in warm water so that it softens. With a polished
conch shell or stone in their hands, they press the leaf and beautify it by rubbing it. They will
process them perfectly. Processing is to arrange the leaves so that they do not get twisted. They
will be soaked in turmeric water or rice porridge. In two places of the bundle of leaves, holes
are drilled with a nail. At one end, they tie a rope in a hole and tie it loosely so that the leaf is
separated, so that it can be easily turned to read without damaging the leaves. They apply the
juices of the kovai plant leaf and oomathai plant leaf. The charcoal along with mango leaves are
burned and ashes are applied to it. It is on this that they write with a nail-like pen. At the other
end of the leaf, a rope is tied to the hole and makes it a 'potthakam.'

Size of the Writing Leaf

It is specified in the Paatiyal books that a specific size(finger size) writing leaf was to be used for
each and every writer. Accordingly, it is stated in the following Kallaadanar Venpa that there
should be 24 virattralam for the Naanmaraiyaalar, 20 virattralam for the king, 18 virattralam for
the trade people, and 12 for the Vellalar.

Types of Leaves

Neettolai

The leaves that were used for the news of marriage and death were called "Neettolai".

Moola Olai

The practice of copying and preserving a leaf message existed at that time. These leaves were
called the "Moola Olai (original leaf).'

Surul Olai

The leaf documents were wrapped up and preserved like a curly earring worn by folk women.
These are called ‘ surul olai ( helical leaves). This can be seen in the song in Periyapuraanam.

Kuttramattra Olai

A leaf without a slit was called a Kuttramatra Olai ( Pure leaf)

Types of News Leaves

Naaloai

The leaf used for temple message in Tamil Nadu was called Naaloai.

Thirumanthira Olai

The leaves in which the king’s orders were written were called “Thirumanthira Olai”. In order to
write this, there was olai nayakam in the courts. Words such as Konolai and Chozhakon olai,
Which means by the kings orders; are found in the copper plate inscriptions.

Manavinai Olai

The leaf that convesy the news of the wedding is called the “Manavinai through this, the news
of the marriage was conveyed to the near and dear ones.
6. Write about typography, the art of print.

The First book published in Tamil was printed in Lisbon city in 1554. It is not in tamil
script but in roman script. The title of this book is Carthilaelingo tamul e portuges’ That book
publisher belong to the Kayathoothukudi area.

The first person who published printed books in Tamil -started the history of Tamil printing was
the scholar “ Andrik Adikalaar.

In the year 1578, the tamil book “ Thambiyin vanakam” was printed in kollam city and
published in Goa.

This book is 10 x 14 cm. in size and has 14 pages. Each page has 24 lines.

The first paper mill in india was set up by Ziegenbalg. He established a complete printing press
at Thrangambadi in 1709. This was India’s first printing press.

Thirukkural, on of the classic Tamil literary texts, was published in 1812. As a result, there was
resurgence among Tamil scholars in publishing the oldest classical Tamil literature of this
period.

In the nineteenth century, Tamil scholars C.Y Damodarampillai, U.V. Saminathar, etc. spent
their whole lives rediscovering Tamil philological literature.

At that time, palm leaves were ripened and written on with a staylus. A leaf written in this way
is called Olaichuvadi. It was U.V Saminathar who searched for such written traces, read them,
wrote them on paper and printed them as book.

Ex- Seevagasinthamani- 1887

Patthupattu -1889