சூழலியல் கோட்பாட்டு நோக்கில் பழந்தமிழரின் நில, நீர் சிந்தனைகள் / Thoughts of Classical Tamil People on Land and Water in Ecological Perspective

Abstract

The ancient Tamil transformed the barren, overgrown land into arable land with their tireless efforts and labour. The Tamil grow crops only during the rainy season, stored the water over time, and used it when needed. Thus, they fulfilled their food needs and lived themselves and other lives as well. It can be known through the ancient Sangam literature that the environment is protected and biodiversity is special due to their thinking. Sangam people not only led a life in harmony with nature but also enriched themselves according to natural resources. They have done well in agriculture according to the soil and season. It can be known from Tolkappiya Noorpa that the Tamils had this sort of nature-oriented idea. It can be understood that Tolkappiyar has given priority to land and says 'the first thing is land and time' in the three categories Mutharporul (primary), Karuporul (subject) and Uriporul (theme). Over time, the natural way of life has become commercialized due to the greed of mankind. Due to this, everything like land, water, air is out of balance and the environment has been greatly affected and the climate has changed. Humanity is facing many hardships due to this. Now, the life and the thoughts of Classical Tamil on the environment are much needed for certain reformation to keep our culture from demolishment. This article examines the pros and cons and the possibilities of modern environmental development with the classical Tamil life. It will help the future generations to live better with a good environment.

Keywords

• biodiversity
• environment
• ecological
• sangam people
• humanity.