Articles on Tamil Nadu History
Folk Dance and Drama During the Cankam Age
By J. Sumathi · Journal of Indian History and Culture, 2020
The Cankam period (circa 300 BCE–300 CE) in Tamil Nadu featured a rich tradition of folk dances and dramas, as evidenced by Sangam literature like *Tolkappiyam*, *Eṭṭutokai*, and epics such as *Silappatikāram* and *Manimekalai*. These works highlight diverse…
Jain-Buddhist Conflict in Early Tamil Nadu: Insights from Manimekalai
By M. Valliammal · Journal of Indian History and Culture, 2007
The article examines religious dynamics in early Tamil Nadu through the lens of *Manimekalai*, a post-Sangam Buddhist epic. It highlights the coexistence and occasional conflict between Buddhism, Jainism, and indigenous traditions during the Sangam and…
Chola Dynasty Inscriptions Unveiled: Archaeological Discoveries from Terriruveli and Maligaimedu
By S. Vasanthi · Journal of Indian History and Culture, 2003
The Journal of Indian History and Culture discusses the discovery of 8,400 inscribed potsherds from Maligaimedu and Terriruveli, offering insights into Tamil political and cultural history. These potsherds, found during excavations by Tamil Nadu's Department…
Temple Entry Proclamation and Social Equality Movements in Tamil Nadu
By C. Paramarthalingam · Journal of Indian History and Culture, 2002
The temple entry movement in Tamil Nadu during the 19th century was a significant social struggle led by lower-caste Hindus, particularly the Nadars, to challenge the exclusion from temple sanctums. Historically, temples restricted access based on caste, with…
Hero Stones of Tiruvannamalai: History and Cultural Significance
By M. Amirthalingam · Journal of Indian History and Culture, 1999
Hero stones, known as virakals, birkals, tirakal, lam kokals, and nadukals in Tamil, are memorial stones erected to honor soldiers who died in battles or skirmishes, as well as those who protected villages from wild animals. The practice dates back to 600…