The enormous wealth accumulated by the Nandas has been mentioned by which early Tamil author?
Mamulanar
Understanding the Mention of Nanda Wealth in Tamil Literature
The question asks about an early Tamil author who specifically mentioned the immense wealth accumulated by the Nanda dynasty. This connection between a North Indian dynasty and early Tamil literature is an interesting point in ancient Indian history.
Identifying the Tamil Author
Among the options provided, one particular Sangam period poet is renowned for his references to historical events and dynasties outside the Tamil region. Let's examine the possibilities:
| Author | Period | Known For | Connection to Nanda Wealth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kamban | Later Medieval Period (around 12th century) | Author of Kamba Ramayanam (Tamil version of Ramayana) | No known mention of Nanda wealth. |
| Kulasekhara Alwar | Alwar saint (likely 8th-9th century) | Devotional poetry (Perumal Tirumoli), ruler | No known mention of Nanda wealth. |
| Madhurkavi Alwar | Alwar saint (likely 9th century) | Devotional poetry (Kanninun Siruthambu), disciple of Nammalwar | No known mention of Nanda wealth. |
| Mamulanar | Sangam Period (likely 4th century BCE to 2nd century CE) | Sangam poet (poems in Agananuru, Kurunthogai) | Known for mentions of historical figures like the Nandas and their wealth, and events like the Mauryan expansion. |
Mamulanar's Reference to Nanda Wealth
The Sangam period poet Mamulanar is famous for incorporating historical references into his poems. In several of his poems found in the anthology Agananuru, he mentions the vast wealth of the Nandas, which was supposedly hidden in the Ganga river or guarded by them. These references provide valuable, albeit brief, external corroboration for the Nanda dynasty's reputation for immense riches, as also described in Puranic and other Indian texts.
Specifically, poems like Agananuru 265 and 251 are often cited as containing these references to the wealth possessed by the Nandas.
Conclusion
Based on the historical and literary evidence connecting early Tamil literature with references to the Nanda dynasty's wealth, Mamulanar is the correct author. His poems in the Sangam anthology Agananuru are the source for this mention.
Revision Table: Early Tamil Authors and Nanda Dynasty
| Author | Period Context | Mention of Nanda Wealth |
|---|---|---|
| Kamban | Medieval Tamil Literature | No |
| Kulasekhara | Bhakti Movement (Alwars) | No |
| Madhurkavi | Bhakti Movement (Alwars) | No |
| Mamulanar | Sangam Period Literature | Yes, in Agananuru |
Additional Information: Nandas and Sangam Literature
The Nanda dynasty ruled Magadha in North India during the 4th century BCE, preceding the Mauryan Empire. They were known for their large army and significant wealth. The mention of their wealth by a Sangam poet like Mamulanar is significant for several reasons:
- It suggests some level of awareness or connection between the far south (Tamilakam) and the North Indian kingdoms even during that early period.
- It supports the historical accounts from other parts of India regarding the Nanda dynasty's riches.
- Mamulanar's poems are considered historical sources within the Sangam literature tradition, providing glimpses into the political and geographical understanding of the time.
Sangam literature itself comprises a vast corpus of Tamil poetry from the Sangam period, divided into various anthologies like Ettuthogai (Eight Anthologies) and Pathupattu (Ten Idylls). Agananuru is one of the key anthologies within Ettuthogai, primarily dealing with Akam (internal, love) themes, but often containing valuable historical and geographical references woven into the narrative.
Important Questions from Tamil Bhakti movement - Teaching
With regard to Tamil Siddhas which of the following is not correct?
