Pattupattu

Pattupattu is a collection of ten classical Tamil poetic works that were compiled during the Sangam period. These poems are considered some of the earliest surviving works of Tamil literature and offer invaluable insights into the life, culture, and society of ancient Tamilakam. The anthology is divided into two main parts: the Akam (inner) poems, which deal with themes of love and domestic life, and the Puram (outer) poems, which focus on heroism, war, and public life.

The ten poems within Pattupattu are Murugattrupadai, Nedunalvadai, Sirupanatrupadai, Perumpanatrupadai, Malaipadukadam, Maduraikanchi, Kurinjippattu, Pattinappalai, Mullaippattu, and Ahananuru. Each poem is attributed to different poets and showcases a diverse range of poetic styles and thematic explorations. The works are known for their rich descriptions of nature, intricate metaphors, and nuanced portrayal of human emotions and societal structures.

The compilation of Pattupattu is believed to have occurred around the 3rd century CE, though the individual poems themselves might be older. These poems have been instrumental in understanding the political landscape, religious practices, economic activities, and artistic traditions of the Sangam era Tamils. The linguistic sophistication and literary artistry displayed in Pattupattu have cemented its status as a foundational text in Tamil literary history and a significant contribution to world literature.