Social Life: Society Structure: The society was divided into distinct categories known as the Five-fold division (Pancha-varna) – Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), Shudras (laborers), and Atiyars (outcasts). There was also a caste system with Brahmins at the top followed by nobles/warriors, traders, and peasants/workers. However, the caste system was more fluid than later periods. Women enjoyed relatively high social status and freedom during this period. They received education and could choose their own husbands in ‘love marriages.’ However, only upper caste women enjoyed such liberties. Economy: Agriculture played a significant role in the economy, and trade flourished. The coastal regions were actively involved in maritime trade, connecting with the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia. Literary Assemblies (Sangams): These were gatherings of poets, scholars, and intellectuals. The most famous were the three Sangams, which contributed to the rich Tamil literature we have today.

1. Social and religious life of the people during the
Sangam age.
Social and religious life of the people during the Sangam age.
Social Life:
● Society Structure: The society was divided into distinct categories
known as the Five-fold division (Pancha-varna) – Brahmins (priests and
scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and
farmers), Shudras (laborers), and Atiyars (outcasts).
● There was also a caste system with Brahmins at the top followed by
nobles/warriors, traders, and peasants/workers. However, the caste
system was more fluid than later periods.
● Women enjoyed relatively high social status and freedom during this
period. They received education and could choose their own husbands
in ‘love marriages.’ However, only upper caste women enjoyed such
liberties.
● Economy: Agriculture played a significant role in the economy, and
trade flourished. The coastal regions were actively involved in maritime
trade, connecting with the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia.

2. ● Literary Assemblies (Sangams): These were gatherings of poets,
scholars, and intellectuals. The most famous were the three Sangams,
which contributed to the rich Tamil literature we have today.
Religious Life:
● Polytheism: The people followed a polytheistic religion, worshiping a
multitude of deities. The major gods included Murugan (god of war and
victory), Indra (god of rain and thunder), and Varuna (god of the sea).
● Bhakti Movement: The Sangam age witnessed the emergence of the
Bhakti movement, a devotional trend in which individuals sought a
personal connection with the divine. This laid the foundation for later
devotional movements in the region.
● Temples and Rituals: Temples were centers of religious and social
activities. Rituals, sacrifices, and festivals were integral to religious
practices. The worship of nature and ancestors was also prevalent.
● Jainism and Buddhism: Jainism and Buddhism gained prominence
during this period. Kings like Chera, Chola, and Pandya supported and
patronized these religions.
● Tolerance: The society displayed religious tolerance. Different religious
communities coexisted peacefully, contributing to a diverse cultural
and religious landscape.

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