பறநனறறப படலகளல அறய வரம வழககத தததவஙகள / Life Ethics as Seen in the Poems of Purananooru

In classical Tamil literature, the poems that deal with themes of love and personal conduct are categorised as Akam (interior) poems. At the same time, those that portray valour, generosity, governance and other civic virtues are referred to as Puram (exterior) poems. The ancient Tamils distinguished their identity between these two poetic traditions with clarity and precision. The “Purananuru” is an anthology comprising a wide range of Puram compositions written by various poets. This anthology features numerous verses that celebrate the lives and deeds of the Moovendhars (the three crowned Tamil kings), Kurinji chieftains, noble Velir lords, legendary patrons and esteemed poets. There are references to ancient Tamil towns, port cities, villages and urban places which provide valuable insights into the socio-political and cultural landscape of early Tamilakam. Therefore, Tamil scholars regard “Purananooru” as a historical archive of ancient Tamil civilisation. Puram poems reflect the ethical and philosophical reflections of the poets. These poems also express profound truths about life, authority, mortality and honour. It makes “Purananooru” an indispensable resource of Tamil ethical thought. Tamil scholars consider this work a treasure of practical wisdom and existential values. It offers a glimpse of the ancient Tamil people. This article analyses the life ethics as registered in “Purananooru.”