அகநனறறல பரளயல சநதனகள / Economic Thoughts in Agananooru

The development of a country is dependent on the natural resources and industries of a nation. The ancient Tamils divided the living landscapes into five categories. They are Kurinji, Mullai, Marutham, Neithal, and Palai. On considering the nature of the soil and water found in those lands, they engaged in various types of occupations to lead life. Through the barter system, they gave the goods they had to others and acquired the necessary goods from others. Sangam literary works like Agananooru describe the economic life and trade of the ancient Tamils. In Kurinji, Mullai, Marutham, Neithal, and Palai, the occupations are suited to each land, such as honey extraction, fruit gathering, agriculture, fishing, and hunting. After the barter system, the trade expanded further when currency came into circulation. Along with domestic trade, commercial relations were established with foreign countries as well in ancient Tamil Nadu. Such a system formed the foundation for the economic strength of Sangam Tamil Nadu. The Sangam economy developed through domestic and foreign trade. This study explores the modes of work, business, and economy practiced at Sangam times through Agananooru.