Sangam Lit

Follow Sangam Lit
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Sangam Lit is an English podcast by Nandini Karky on 2000 year old classical Tamil poetry from the Sangam Era. Explore ancient lands and minds through these reflections. Travel to the past, connect to the present and gather lessons for the future. Get lit!

Nandini Karky

Chennai, India


    • Jul 30, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 6m AVG DURATION
    • 1,448 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from Sangam Lit with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Sangam Lit

    Aganaanooru 48 – Love in the mountain air

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 7:07


    In this episode, we listen to how an intricate message is conveyed, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 48, penned by Thankaal Mudakotranaar. The verse is situated amidst the soaring peaks of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape' and sketches the first interaction between the man and the lady.

    Aganaanooru 47 – Rise up and move forward

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 6:20


    In this episode, we listen to words of encouragement, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 47, penned by Aalamberi Saaththanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'drylands landscape', the verse presents a glimpse of the beauty of an ancient hill town.

    Aganaanooru 46 – Return of the truant buffalo

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 5:33


    In this episode, we listen to words of fury, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 46, penned by Alloor Nanmullaiyaar. Set amidst the lotus-blooming fields of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse echoes a refusal to the man's attempt at appeasement.

    Aganaanooru 45 – Suffering of separation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 6:01


    In this episode, we perceive the angst of a lady, parted from her beloved, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 45, penned by Velliveethiyaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse presents a variety of similes from nature and history.

    Aganaanooru 44 – Hasten the chariot homeward

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 6:40


    In this episode, we observe the eagerness of a man to return home, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 44, penned by Kudavayil Keeraththanaar. The verse is situated amidst the speeding roads of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest Landscape' and offers an account of people and places involved in an ancient battle.

    Aganaanooru 43 – Rain of togetherness

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 5:39


    In this episode, we perceive a clear decision in a man's mind, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 43, penned by Madurai Aasiriyaar Nallanthuvanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse portrays the intensity of the rainy season.

    Aganaanooru 42 – Relief of the rains

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 4:56


    In this episode, we experience a downpour of joy, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 42, penned by Kabilar. Set in the rain-soaked ranges of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape', the verse talks about the transformative effect of an event.

    Aganaanooru 41 – Spring’s here and I’m not there

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 4:32


    In this episode, we perceive worry about another's pain, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 41, penned by Kundriyanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse illustrates the sights and sounds of a season.

    Aganaanooru 40 – A wish for the parted heart

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 6:00


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's lament, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 40, penned by Kundriyanaar. Set amidst the roaring waves of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape', the verse depicts the deep yearning in the lady to be with her beloved.

    Aganaanooru 39 – The fire of separation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 7:07


    In this episode, we hear heartfelt words of appeasement, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 39, penned by Madurai Chenkannanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse paints the inner and outer world at a particular space and time in exquisite detail.

    Aganaanooru 38 – The appearance of absence

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 5:40


    In this episode, we listen to how a hidden message is subtly conveyed, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 38, penned by Vadama Vannakkan Peri Saathanaar. Set in the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape', the verse paints picturesque images to etch the past and present.

    Aganaanooru 37 – The season of togetherness

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 7:11


    In this episode, we perceive the distress in the lady's heart, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 37, penned by Vitrootru Mootheyinanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse presents a unique portrait of the season of spring.

    Aganaanooru 36 – Louder than a battle cry

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 7:59


    In this episode, we listen to the angry words of a wife, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 36, penned by Madurai Nakeerar. Set amidst the fish-filled ponds and blooming trees of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands Landscape', the verse conveys facets of nature and nuggets of history.

    Aganaanooru 35 – A prayer for her

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 6:38


    In this episode, we listen to a mother's fervent prayer, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 35, penned by Kudavayil Keerathanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse depicts the life and worship of an ancient tribe and also, the lament and love of a mother.

    Aganaanooru 34 – Make her wish come true

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 5:52


    In this episode, we perceive the yearning in a man to return home speedily, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 34, penned by Madurai Maruthan Ilanaakanaar. Set in the rain-soaked 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape', the verse portrays scenes in the wild and its consequences on a man's mind.

    Aganaanooru 33 – Now is not the time to turn back

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 5:21


    In this episode, we listen to thoughtful words spoken to the heart, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 33, penned by Madurai Alakkar Gnaazhaar Makanaar Mallanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse highlights the conflict between work and love in those times.

    Aganaanooru 32 – Saying no and meaning yes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 5:57


    In this episode, we perceive a romance brewing, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 32, penned by Nalvelliyaar. Set amidst the millet fields in the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse paints a vivid portrait of inner emotions and outer reactions.

    Aganaanooru 31 – No one to blame him

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 6:16


    In this episode, we perceive the fearsome nature of the region, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 31, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse offers insights about the extent of the domain, ruled by ancient Tamil kings.

    Aganaanooru 30 – A word of care

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2025 4:57


    In this episode, we relish intriguing similes on ancient professions, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 30, penned by Mudangi Kidantha Neduncheralaathan. The verse is situated amidst the roaring seas of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape' and relays a hidden rebuke.

    Aganaanooru 29 – Right here with you

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2025 7:26


    In this episode, we understand perspectives about the pursuit of wealth, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 29, penned by Vellaadiyanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse echoes the emotions of the one who parted away and the one waiting for their return.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 28 – Act as if it’s true

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 5:15


    In this episode, we perceive the communication of a hidden message, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 28, penned by the Pandya King Arivudai Nambi. The verse is situated amidst the millets fields and parrot sounds of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape' and persuades a person to choose the path of permanent happiness.

    kurinji
    Aganaanooru 27 – How can he leave?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 6:07


    In this episode, we listen to an interesting argument for allaying fear, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 27, penned by Madurai Kanakkaayanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse reveals the perceived power of the lady's beauty.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 26 – Then and Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 6:50


    In this episode, we perceive a moment when the heart wins over the head, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 26, penned by Paandiyan Kaanapereyil Thantha Ukkira Peruvazhuthi. The verse is situated amidst the lush fields of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape' and sketches the nuanced changes in a woman's life after childbirth.

    Aganaanooru 25 – He’ll be back

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 6:07


    In this episode, we hear words of consolation rendered to a grieving heart, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 25, penned by Ollaiyoor Thantha Boothappaandiyan. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse highlights the picturesque changes in the season of spring.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 24 – Here and there

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2025 4:45


    In this episode, we perceive a man's angst, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 24, penned by Aavoor Moolankizhaar. Set amidst the flowering bushes of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape', the verse sketches the pain in parting with vivid images.

    Aganaanooru 23 – Isn’t it time?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 5:06


    In this episode, we relish the beauty of changing seasons, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 23, penned by Orodakathu Kantharathanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse echoes the anxiety of a maiden waiting for the return of her beloved.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 22 – Ritual and Rationale

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 6:34


    In this episode, we hear a strong statement defending a person, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 22, penned by Veri Paadiya Kaamakanniyaar. Set amidst the cascades and slopes of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse paints a portrait of the beliefs and rituals of those times.

    Aganaanooru 21 – A nudge to a falling heart

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 8:30


    In this episode, we perceive a path to face the fall in motivation, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 21, penned by Kaavanmullai Poothanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse portrays an attempt to boost a flagging heart.

    Aganaanooru 20 – From Freedom to Confinement

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 6:10


    In this episode, we perceive a subtle plea for a change in action, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 20, penned by Ulochchanaar. Set amidst the sands and groves of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape', the verse vividly sketches a day in the life of Sangam maiden.

    Aganaanooru 19 – Return to her fold

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 4:48


    In this episode, we observe a person's dilemma at the crossroads, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 19, penned by Porunthil Ilankeeranaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands Landscape' and relays a conversation between a man and his heart.

    fold paalai
    Aganaanooru 18 – Swimming in love’s wild river

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2025 5:30


    In this episode, we perceive the dangers in trysting, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 18, penned by Kabilar. Set amidst the wild streams of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape', the verse presents a persuasive plea for a change in action.

    Aganaanooru 17 – Little feet of a delicate daughter

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 5:55


    In this episode, we listen to a mother's lament, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 17, penned by Kayamanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse echoes the thoughts of a mother at the juncture of her daughter's elopement.

    Aganaanooru 16 – Love for a child

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 6:07


    In this episode, we listen to a response to a denial, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 16, penned by Saakalaasanaar. Set amidst the lush lotuses of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse brings out the relationship dynamics in a household.

    Aganaanooru 15 – A mother’s prayer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 5:55


    In this episode, we get to know some historical characters, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 15, penned by Maamoolanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and portrays a mother's wish for her daughter's well-being.

    Aganaanooru 14 – Despair to Delight

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 7:07


    In this episode, we perceive a before-and-after story, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 14, penned by Okkoor Maasaathanaar. Set amidst the moist red earth of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape', the verse portrays an evening hour and a much-awaited arrival.

    Aganaanooru 13 – Wealth or Togetherness

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 6:28


    In this episode, we listen to a thoughtful response, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 13, penned by Perunthalai Saaththanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and paints a portrait of the pain in parting.

    Aganaanooru 12 – Fear not in vain

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2025 6:07


    In this episode, we perceive a strategy for course correction, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 12, penned by Kabilar. Set amidst the squeaks and squawks of squirrels and parrots in the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse attempts to offer a new perspective to a perplexed person.

    Aganaanooru 11 – If only…

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 6:49


    In this episode, we listen to a parted lady's anguish, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 11, penned by the prolific Sangam poet Avvaiyaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands Landscape' and expresses the regretful words of a person in the midst of a separation.

    sangam paalai
    Aganaanooru 10 – Fishing in life’s seas

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 5:15


    In this episode, we listen to persuasive words, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 10, penned by Ammoovanaar. Set amidst the waves and sands of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape', the verse transports us to an ancient shore.

    Aganaanooru 9 – Home is where the heart is

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2025 7:02


    In this episode, we perceive an exquisite moment of anticipation, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 9, penned by Kallaadanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and depicts the emotions in coming home to a beloved after a long separation.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 8 – Crossing the dark and dangerous

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 7:26


    In this episode, we perceive the dangers in trysting, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 8, penned by Perunkundroor Kizhaar. Set amidst the hills and slopes of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape', the verse presents the challenges in the situation and its resolution in a hidden manner.

    Aganaanooru 7 – A doe in the drylands

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 5:40


    In this episode, we look into the distraught emotions of a mother, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 7, penned by Kayamanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and vividly portrays a scene of separation and seeking.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 6 – Mock not my age

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2025 7:48


    In this episode, we perceive the ire of a lady, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 6, penned by Paranar. Set amidst the lush fields and ponds of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse portrays a strong reaction to an affront.

    Aganaanooru 5 – The mere thought of parting

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 7:51


    In this episode, we relish the micro-elements of expressed emotions, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 5, penned by the Chera King Paalai Paadiya Perunkadunko. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and etches a striking portrait of an anxious heart.

    Aganaanooru 4 – Blooming in the rains

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 6:07


    In this episode, we perceive the blooming beauty of a forest in the rains, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 4, penned by Kurungudi Maruthanaar. Set amidst the blooms of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest Landscape', the verse conveys a message of hope.

    Aganaanooru 3 – To part or not to part

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 7:01


    In this episode, we perceive the striking shades of inner conflict , as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 3, penned by Eyinanthai Makanaar Ilankeeranaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and sketches a man's dilemma in his quest for wealth.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 2 – Sweet nectar and sleeping monkey

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 7:07


    In this episode, we delve into the art of conveying a nuanced message, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 2, penned by Kabilar. Set among the rocks and boulders of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse reveals the sensory delights of this land.

    mountain monkeys sleeping sweet nectar kurinji
    Aganaanooru 1 – A promise to never part

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 8:10


    I'm delighted to begin our exploration of Aganaanooru, a collection of four hundred verses of poetry, arranged with precision to echo the inner life of ancient Tamils. In this episode, we perceive the emotions of a lady, parted away from her man, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 1, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands' landscape, the verse depicts intricate elements of land and love with equal finesse.

    Kalithogai 150 – A promise to return

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2025 9:29


    In this episode, we listen to the consoling words of the confidante, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 150, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and portrays trust in the goodness and compassion of a person.

    Kalithogai 149 – Past promises and present duties

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 5:34


    In this episode, we perceive abstractions on ethics in human behaviour, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 149, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and puts forth a well-thought-out plea!

    Kalithogai 148 – Dusk and Dawn

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 5:46


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's conversation with an evening, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 148, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and echoes the emotions of a parted maiden.

    Claim Sangam Lit

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel