Kadaiezhu Vallalkal as shown in Puranaanuru

Abstract

The Sangam period is from BC 48 to 300 AD. Through ancient Tamil literary works, one can learn about the lifestyle of the kings and poets of that time. Sangam literature helps to know the cultural messages of the people: types of food, types of dress, houses they lived in, occupations they did, social messages, customs, etc. Purananuru, an ancient Tamil literary work, reflects the lifestyle of the individuals of that time. The kings of those times were talented. They enjoyed giving gold and material to the poets who sang for them. Sangam literature tells us that the kings took pride in being sung by poets. References to many benevolent kings are widely available in the classical literature. In ancient times, charity and gifts were seen together. In ancient times, kings were tributaries. Through classical literature, the joy of giving abundant gold and material to poets and others who are singing to him can be felt. Paari, Kaari, Ori, Athiyan, Began, Nalli, Ai, Andiran, etc. were hailed as the Kadaiezhu Vallalkals (seven benevolent kings). Paari and Began became indestructibly famous by giving a chariot to a jasmine creeper plant and a blanket to a peacock. It is found that the Aatruppadai literature speaks of the generosity of the kings. The generosity of the kings can also be seen through inscriptions and coins. This article examines the charity of Kadaiezhu Vallallkal of ancient Tamil land through Puranaanuru.