Nakeerars

Nakeerars were a group of Tamil poets who flourished during the Sangam period in ancient Tamilakam. Their works are a significant part of the Sangam corpus, a collection of classical Tamil literature. The term "Nakeerar" itself is believed to mean "great poet" or "master poet."

These poets were known for their lyrical and descriptive poetry, often focusing on themes of love (akam) and war or public life (puram). Their poems provide valuable insights into the social, political, and cultural landscape of ancient Tamil society. They were often associated with the Sangam assemblies, where poets gathered to compose and recite their works.

Specific Nakeerars are credited with composing poems within the eight anthologies of Sangam literature, particularly in Ettuthokai and Pathupattu. Their contributions are essential to understanding the evolution of Tamil poetry and its enduring legacy. The Nakeerars' style is characterized by its vivid imagery, emotional depth, and sophisticated use of language, setting a high standard for subsequent generations of Tamil poets.