Sangam Age Literature And Society
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EXAMIVERSE
Society, Economy, and Culture
- Society divided into four varṇa-like groups: Brahmins (priests), Kṣatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (merchants, agriculturists), Śūdras (laborers).
- Agrarian economy with rice cultivation, land grants to temples, and cattle rearing.
- Thriving trade in pearls, spices, and textiles via seaports like Musiri and Tondi.
- Guilds (kaṇmai and kaḷam) regulated artisans, merchants, and maritime commerce.
- Patronage of temple construction, bronze casting, and dance–music traditions.