Read the following passage and answer question. Internal trade was also brisk, caravans of merchants with carts and pack animals carried their merchandise from place to place and from fair to fair. Salt was an important commodity of trade and salt-merchants moved with their families in carts provided with spare axles against contingencies. Barter played a large part in all transactions: honey and roots, for example, might be exchanged for fish-oil and toddy, and sugarcane and aval (rich - fakes) for vension and arrack, while in musiri fish was sold for paddy. Agriculture was the mainstay of the national economy, and most of its operations were carried on by women of the lowest class (kadaisiyar) whose status appears to have differed little from that of the slave. The bulk of the land was owned by vellalar, the agriculturists par excellence, who commanded a high social rank. The richer among them did not plough the land themselves, but employed labourers to do it. Besides owing land, they held official post in the civil and Military administration.
The title of "enadi' was conferred at a formal ceremony to which of the following officials during the sangam age?
Chosen military commander
Understanding the Question on Sangam Age Titles
The question asks about the title "enadi" conferred during the Sangam age and to which officials it was given. To answer this, we need to understand the social and political structure of the Sangam period, particularly regarding titles and honours.
Analyzing the Provided Passage
The passage discusses various aspects of the Sangam age economy and society, including:
- Internal trade, merchants, commodities like salt.
- Barter system (honey, roots, fish-oil, toddy, sugarcane, aval, venison, arrack, fish, paddy).
- Agriculture as the mainstay.
- Status of women laborers (kadaisiyar).
- Land ownership by vellalar, their high social rank, and employment of laborers.
- Vellalar holding official posts (civil and military).
While the passage provides valuable context about trade, agriculture, social classes like vellalar and kadaisiyar, and mentions military administration roles held by vellalar, it does not mention the title "enadi" or who received it.
Determining the Recipient of the 'Enadi' Title
Since the passage does not provide the specific information about the "enadi" title, we must rely on historical knowledge about the Sangam age. Historical records and literature indicate that the title "enadi" was a significant honour bestowed upon individuals who distinguished themselves, particularly in military service.
The title "enadi" was typically conferred at a formal ceremony upon a person who demonstrated exceptional military prowess, leadership, and courage. It recognized their contribution to the kingdom's military strength and success in warfare.
Evaluating the Options for 'Enadi' Title
Let's examine the given options in light of our historical understanding of the "enadi" title during the Sangam age:
- Chosen military commander: This aligns with the historical understanding that "enadi" was a military title awarded for distinction in warfare and command. Military commanders were crucial figures in the Sangam kingdoms.
- Fallen heroes in wars: While fallen heroes were honoured, the title "enadi" was typically conferred during a person's lifetime for active service and achievement, not posthumously for simply dying in battle.
- Gatekeepers at the royal court: Gatekeepers (often called 'kaavalar' or similar terms) were important officials, but their role was related to security and access to the court, not military command or battlefield distinction which the "enadi" title signified.
- Rich merchant groups: The passage mentions rich merchants involved in trade. Wealthy merchants played a vital role in the economy, but the "enadi" title was primarily a military honour, not one associated with commercial success or merchant groups.
Conclusion on the 'Enadi' Title Recipient
Based on historical evidence regarding the Sangam age, the title "enadi" was conferred upon those who achieved prominence as military leaders and commanders. Therefore, the option that best fits the description of a recipient of the "enadi" title is a chosen military commander.
Summary of Findings
The passage provided describes various aspects of the Sangam economy and society but does not contain information about the "enadi" title. Historical knowledge about the Sangam age clarifies that "enadi" was an honour bestowed upon accomplished military commanders.
Therefore, the correct answer is the one identifying the recipient as a chosen military commander.
| Sangam Age Title | Recipient Type | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Enadi | Military Commander | Honour for military prowess and leadership |
Revision Table: Key Terms from the Passage and Sangam Age
| Term | Context in Passage / Sangam Age |
|---|---|
| Internal Trade | Brisk movement of goods by caravans. |
| Salt | Important commodity of trade. |
| Barter | Significant in transactions, exchange of goods. |
| Agriculture | Mainstay of the economy. |
| Kadaisiyar | Lowest class women laborers in agriculture, low status. |
| Vellalar | Agriculturists, owned bulk of land, high social rank, held official posts. |
| Enadi | (External knowledge) Military title conferred for distinction. |
Additional Information: Sangam Age Titles and Society
The Sangam age (roughly 300 BCE to 300 CE) in South India was characterized by a complex social structure and a system of conferring titles to recognize merit and status. These titles were often related to one's profession, land ownership, or service to the king. Some notable titles included:
- Velir: Chieftains or minor kings.
- Uzhavar: Peasants or cultivators.
- Kadaisiyar: Agricultural labourers (specifically women).
- Enadi: A title specifically given for military distinction.
The military was highly valued in Sangam society, and kings frequently engaged in warfare. Honours like the "enadi" title were ways to motivate and recognize brave and effective commanders, ensuring loyalty and encouraging military excellence.
Important Questions from Sangam Age
Which of the following term was used for the salt traders in ancient Tamil region?
Musiri is identified with which of the following archaeological site?
Which of the following places is mentioned by the author of Periplus to where all the pearls that were collected on its coast were sent and from where muslin and other textile products were exported?
Which of the following centre was famous for cotton trade in Sangam period?
- Which aspect of life is explored under the theme of akam in Sangam literary works?
