Recent Trends in Dravidian Historiography
By S.Gopalakrishnan, P. Hymavathi, K.R.Basavaraja, T.P.Sankarankutty Nair, B.Narasingaraja Naidu, B. S. Chandrababu, V. Balambal
Summary
The book *Recent Trends in Dravidian Historiography* presents seven scholarly papers from a 2007 seminar, exploring diverse aspects of Dravidian history and historiography. Prof. S. Gopalakrishnan examines the Lemuria/Kumarikkantam theory, linking Madagaskar, Sethusamudram, and peninsular India as a Dravidian homeland, supported by archaeological, linguistic, and mythological evidence. Prof. P. Hymavathi investigates Sumerian-Dravidian cultural connections, highlighting linguistic parallels and trade links between South India and the Fertile Crescent. Prof. V. Balambal surveys Tamil Nadu’s historiography, emphasizing objectivity and the need for Tamil language proficiency and inscriptional studies. K. R. Basavaraja discusses Karnataka’s historical scholarship, citing works on Vijayanagara’s religious traditions, architecture, and comprehensive histories like *Karnataka Charitre*. T. P. Sankarankutty Nair critiques communalized historiography in Kerala, tracing the Mappilah uprising to 1792 rather than 1921 and warning against caste- and religion-based narratives. B. Narasingaraja Naidu analyzes the Justice Party’s influence on Mysore politics, countering claims of a purely Mysorean Non-Brahmin Movement. B. S. Chandrababu underscores Periyar E. V. Ramaswamy’s role in shaping Dravidian ideology through his anti-Brahmin and rationalist phases. The collection offers a valuable, interdisciplinary perspective on Dravidian studies, blending historical, linguistic, and cultural analyses while advocating for rigorous, objective scholarship.
Conclusion
This collection of scholarly papers presents a comprehensive exploration of Dravidian historiography, highlighting interdisciplinary approaches to understanding historical and cultural connections across South India and beyond. The contributors emphasize the need for objective historical writing, moving beyond colonial and Eurocentric narratives to incorporate archaeological evidence, linguistic studies, and regional sources. Key themes include the exploration of ancient theories like Lemuria, the analysis of Sumerian-Dravidian cultural parallels, and critical assessments of modern historiographical trends, such as communalization and the influence of political movements like the Justice Party. The volume underscores the importance of linguistic proficiency and primary source research, particularly in regional languages, to advance accurate and nuanced historical scholarship. By addressing gaps in existing literature and challenging conventional narratives, this work offers valuable insights for scholars and students of Dravidian history and culture.