03. இரவணகவயததல வணகம

“Raavana Kaaviyam” is an epic that follows the traditions of classical Tamil literature. Based on the story of the Ramayana, it presents Raavana as the central heroic figure. This epic highlights both the cultural richness of the Tamil people and the greatness of Raavana. The development of a nation is often determined by its key sectors, such as agriculture and trade, which are regarded as its ‘eyes’. In Raavana Kaaviyam, the city of Lanka is portrayed as having textile factories, cloth shops, ornament stores, workshops for crafting gold and clay artifacts, carpentry workshops, and various trading centers. The barter system was also carried out through maritime routes with the help of ships. Through the barter system, they acquired gold and many other invaluable items. They exported a wide range of goods such as garments, peacock feathers, various gems, conch shells, pearls, and pepper. The merchants conducted their trade with honesty, ensuring that they did not charge excessively for what they sold and did not underpay for what they purchased. By conducting trade ethically, they led lives based on righteousness. In this way, this research article aims to explore the trade-related aspects found within Raavana Kaaviyam.