The Controversy Surrounding Tamil Sangam Literature and its Pre-Vedic Claims

The relationship between Tamil Sangam literature and the Vedas has long been a subject of debate, particularly in light of claims that the former predates the latter. This article delves into the historical context, cultural dynamics, and scientific evidence that shed light on this intriguing issue.

Origins and Discovery

The discovery of Tamil Sangam literature in the early 1900s marked a significant moment in the study of South Asian languages and cultures. According to historian U V. S. Swaminatha Iyer, a Brahmin, this literature was first meticulously documented. Simultaneously, Tamil elites like the Mudaliars, Chettiar, and Saiva Velalas were competing for jobs against Brahmins, often finding themselves at a disadvantage. This context nurtured a sense of superiority among the Brahmins and a corresponding inferiority complex among the elites. To bolster their status, the elites began to claim that Tamil Sangam literature predated the arrival of Aryan Brahmins.

The Cultural Backdrop

The period around 1900 AD saw the composition of the Tamil Thai Vaazhthu song, a poetic ode to the Tamil language, which not only praised Tamil but also condemned Sanskrit, which was perceived as a dying language. This song was written by Manonmaniam Sundaram Pillai, a prominent Saiva Velala, who was notable as the highest ranking Dravidian caste in the ritual hierarchy. Despite his efforts to distance himself from Sanskrit, his name, "Manonmaniam" and "Sundaram," are Sanskrit words, revealing the deep-seated influence and connection to Sanskrit cultura.

Scientific Evidence: A Historical Perspective

The claim of Tamil Sangam literature's primordial nature is further scrutinized through the lens of scientific evidence. Indologist Dr. Saroj Bala M.A. has provided compelling evidence from the Rig Veda, the earliest repository of human knowledge. According to Dr. Bala, the Rig Veda recorded a direct observation of the Ashwini Stars in the Aries constellation, indicating the use of astronomical observations for the year's beginning. Dr. Bala's analysis, using planeterium software, reveals that the Winter Solstice occurred on December 19, 7000 BCE, and the heliacal rising of Asvini Nakshatra on January 5, 7000 BCE. These observations highlight the ancient Indians' sophisticated understanding of precession and its impact on the calendar.

German Indologist Dr. Hages

Supporting the scholarly consensus, German Indologist M. Hages posits that the Rig Veda is the earliest repository of human knowledge. French historian and expert on Shaivite Hinduism, Alain Daniélou, reinforces this view by highlighting the extensive body of Sanskrit literature. He notes that the sheer volume of Sanskrit texts and the subsequent translation and adaptation of other languages into Sanskrit have led to a scarcity of ancient literature in other languages.

Conclusion

The debate around Tamil Sangam literature's pre-Vedic status is multifaceted, rooted in cultural and historical contexts. While the literature undoubtedly showcases the rich and complex interplay of ideas and influences, the scientific evidence from the Rig Veda and the scholarly consensus support the claim that the Vedas and subsequent Sanskrit literature predate Tamil Sangam literature. This understanding enriches our appreciation for the cultural tapestry of ancient South Asia, shedding light on the intricate relationships between different cultural streams.