பெரும்பாணாற்றுப்படையில் அசைவுயிர் வளர்ப்பும் பயன்பாடும் / Breeding and Use of Livestock in Perumpaanatrupadai

Perumpaanatruppadai is one of the ten anthologies (Pathuppattu) of Sangam literature. It encompasses various fields of study and presents rare insights on Ancient Tamil Nadu. It contains information about the breeding of livestock and their uses. From the Sangam period to the present day, Tamils lived their lives very closely associated with animals. The people of the Sangam period lived in harmony with animals and it played a significant role in their lives. The livestock constituted a major part of their existence. In "Perumpaanatruppadai" animals such as cows, bulls, goats, elephants and horses are highlighted as primary resources for the people during the Sangam period. They served for purposes in agriculture, warfare, trade and food needs. The people of that time domesticated and raised farm animals according to their culture and customs. It is apparent that they understood how to train and manage the animals. This indicates the contribution of livestock to the social lifee, economic development and business of the Sangam society. The livelihood of the people was based on the breeding and utilization of these animals. They care for them and feed them which in turn brought them health and wealth. The Sangam people also utilized the parts of the dead animals to create tools and weapons. The dairy products like milk, yogurt and buttermilk obtained from livestock were significant food sources for the Sangam people. "Perumpaanatruppadai" provides such valuable information on the methods of breeding and uses of livestock according to the thinai environment. Therefore, the research paper explains the breeding and use of livestock as described in the “Perumpaanatruppadai”.