ஆறறபபட நலகளல கடப பணபட / The Culture of Generosity in Aatruppadai Books

The Pattuppattu (Ten Idylls) is a significant collection of long poems (Nedum Paadalgal) in the Pathinen Melkanakku Books of Sangam literature. In this collection, the Aatruppadai books occupy an important position and reflect the virtue of hospitality among the Tamil people. The term ‘Aatruppadai’ means ‘guidance’. The poet who receives hospitality from a patron directs fellow travellers to get the same benefit and goodwill from him. The songs portray the tradition of generosity which was an esteemed cultural practice in ancient Tamil society. The Aatruppadai poems depict various forms of hospitality offered to deities, by kings and common citizens. The rulers are often portrayed as noble patrons, offering food, shelter and gifts to the wandering minstrels and saints. The citizens are also described as welcoming and compassionate which reflects the communal spirit and care of others. Deities are also personified as benevolent figures by symbolizing divine grace and protection to the people. Through scenic imagery and lyrical expressions of the social virtues, the Aatruppadai poems capture the socio-cultural facts of the time and emphasize the values of generosity and compassion. These poems celebrate the virtue of hospitality and serve as historical evidence that portrays the ethical and cultural practices of ancient Tamil society. Thus, the Aatruppadai poems preserve and endorse the heritage of Tamil hospitality.