The Sangam Age, a pivotal period in ancient South Indian history, spans from 300 BCE to 300 CE. This era, characterized by the flourishing Sangam literature, witnessed the emergence of three Tamil dynasties—Chera, Chola, and Pandya. To aid government job aspirants in competitive exams, we present 10 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) focused on the Sangam Age, each accompanied by detailed answers and explanations.
MCQs with Answers and Explanations:
1. Where was the second Sangam held?
- Thenmadurai
- Madurai
- Kabadapuram
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Kabadapuram
The Sangam period was a significant era in the history of South India, and it produced a rich body of literature known as Sangam literature. The term “Sangam” refers to a gathering or assembly, and there were three Sangams held in ancient Tamilakam, each contributing to the literary and cultural heritage of the region.
2. Which Sangam is associated with the works Tolkappiyam Mapuranam, Isainunukam, Bhutapuranam, Kali, Kuruku, Vendali?
- First Sangam
- Second Sangam
- Third Sangam
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Second Sangam
Tolkappiyam Mapuranam, Isainunukam, Bhutapuranam, Kali, Kuruku, Vendali are important works of the second Sangam. The second Sangam had 3700 poets, patronized by 59 kings, and lasted for 3700 years.
3. Where was the third Sangam held?
- Madurai
- Thenmadurai
- Kabadapuram
- Vellore
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Correct Answer: Madurai
The third Sangam was hosted in present-day Madurai, Tamil Nadu, with 449 poets, including Nakkirar, Iraiyanar, Kapilar, and others. Its literary contributions comprised works like Nedumthokai, Kurumthokai, and Nattinai. The third Sangam was patronized by 49 kings and continued for 1850 years.
4. Which Sangam is associated with the works Nedumthokai, Kurumthokai, Nattinai, Ainkurunnu, Pathittupattu, Paripadla, Kuttu, and Vari?
- First Sangam
- Second Sangam
- Third Sangam
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Third Sangam
Nedumthokai, Kurumthokai, Nattinai, Ainkurunnu, Pathittupattu, Paripadla, Kuttu, and Vari are works of the third Sangam. It lasted for 1850 years and was patronized by 49 kings.
5. Identify the person who founded the first Sangam.
- Tolkappiyar
- Sage Agastya
- Kapilar
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Sage Agastya
The first Sangam, founded by Sage Agastya, had its seat in Thenmadurai in South Madurai and was patronized by 89 kings. It gave rise to notable works like Agathiyam, Paripadal, Mudukurugu, and Kalariyavirai. Approximately 4449 poets and bards were associated with this Sangam.
6. Which Sangam is associated with the works Agathiyam, Paripadal, Mudukurugu, and Kalariyavirai?
- First Sangam
- Second Sangam
- Third Sangam
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: First Sangam
The important works related to the first Sangam include Agathiyam, Paripadal, Mudukurugu, and Kalariyavirai. As many as 4449 poets and bards are associated with the first Sangam.
7. Who wrote Silappadikaram?
- Tolkappiyar
- Ilango Adigal
- Sattanar
- Senguttuvan
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Correct Answer: Ilango Adigal
The Tamil epics of the Sangam period, such as Silappadikaram by Ilango Adigal, are considered gems of early Tamil literature. Silappadikaram narrates the love story of Kovalan, who chose the courtesan Madhavi over his noble wife Kannagi.
8. Under whose patronage were the three Sangams held?
- Pallava Kings
- Chola Kings
- Pandya Kings
- Chera Kings
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Correct Answer: Pandya Kings
The three Sangams or assemblies were held under the patronage of the Pandya kings of Madurai.
9. Which of the following is also known as the Red or Good Chera?
- Udiyanjeral
- Nedunjeral Adan
- Senguttuvan
- Kudakko Ilanjeral
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Correct Answer: Senguttuvan
According to the Chera poets, Senguttuvan is their greatest king and is also known as the Red or Good Chera. He led many successful military expeditions and is mentioned in the post-Sangam text Silappadikaram.
10. Who wrote Tolkappiyam?
- Tolkappiyar
- Tiruvalluvar
- Sattanar
- Senguttuvan
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Correct Answer: Tolkappiyar
Tolkappiyam is not only the most ancient book on Tamil grammar but also the oldest surviving work of Tamil literature. It forms an integral part of the Sangam literature corpus.
Sangam Age Notes for UPSC Exam
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