ஐஙகறநற மரதத தணயல இயறக வளஙகள / Natural Resources of Maruda Thinai in Ainkurunooru

Tamil is one of the classical languages of the world which is renowned for its rich literature and grammatical findings. The ancient Tamil literature stands as a symbol of the Tamil language’s dignity. The terms "Paattu" (Song) and "Thogai" (Books) are significant in Tamil studies. It is as Ettuthogai and Pattuppattu. The eighteen books are known as Pathinen Melkanakku books which originated from Madurai during the late Sangam period. Among these, the third of the eight books is Ainkurunooru. Through five hymns, the Sangam poets express various aspects of life, food, clothing and shelter. The setting of all these is the unparalleled power of nature. Nature sustains life in this world and supports other beings. The living things depend on land, water and plants. This article aims to explore the natural resources found in the Marudham landscape of Ainkurunooru. Nowadays, human activities are gradually destroying nature and never care for its improvement. Population growth is one of the primary causes of environmental degradation. As the population increases, people exploit natural resources and cut mountains, extracting soil from dried water bodies and constructing settlements in the agricultural and river body areas. Therefore, water and land resources are being depleted and it will negatively impact future generations. So, it is the duty of every one of us to protect nature so that future Tamil communities can continue to prosper on this land.