Trade During the Sangam Age as Depicted in Sangam Literature
By S. Babu
Summary
The Sangam age, a pivotal period in Tamil history preceding and succeeding the Christian era, is extensively documented through Sangam literature, which provides insights into the political, social, and economic life of the time. This era saw the rise of political and economic institutions, with Tamil kings and chieftains patronizing merchants to enhance trade for prosperity. Sangam literature highlights vibrant commercial activities, including export, import, markets, port towns, and transportation. Trade was categorized into inland, coastal, Asiatic, and foreign, with barter being the primary system, particularly in rural areas, using paddy, salt, honey, and roots as exchange mediums. Deferred exchange practices like *kuriedirppai* were also prevalent. Coastal trade thrived through ports like Puhar, Korkai, and Musiri, facilitating exchanges of goods such as pearls, textiles, and gold ornaments with regions like Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and the Gangetic plains. The *Arthasastra* references Tamil exports like pearls and Madurai cotton fabrics, indicating trade with North India. Sri Lanka maintained close trade ties with Tamilakam, involving horse trading and Roman purchases of Sri Lankan goods via Tamil ports. Southeast Asia, particularly Java, served as a hub for spices, sandalwood, and textiles, with Tamil merchants engaging in lucrative exchanges. The study underscores the organized and expansive nature of Sangam-era trade networks, connecting Tamilakam with diverse regions and contributing significantly to its economic prosperity.
Conclusion
The study of trade during the Sangam age, as depicted in Sangam literature, reveals a sophisticated and multifaceted economic system characterized by vibrant inland and overseas commercial activities. The research highlights the role of barter, paddy as a medium of exchange, and the organization of trade networks across local, coastal, and international routes. The extensive trade connections with regions like Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and North India underscore the economic prosperity and maritime prowess of the Tamils, facilitated by strategic geographical location and political patronage. The exchange of goods such as pearls, textiles, spices, and precious metals not only enriched local economies but also fostered cultural and economic interdependence with distant regions. This period exemplifies the Tamils' advanced mercantile practices and their integration into broader ancient trade networks, offering valuable insights into the socio-economic dynamics of early historic South India.