Sangam Lit

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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


    • Aug 27, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 6m AVG DURATION
    • 1,468 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Sangam Lit

    Aganaanooru 68 – Announcing an arrival

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 6:40


    In this episode, we listen to a friend's encouraging words, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 68, penned by Oottiyaar. The verse is situated amidst the flowing cascades of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape' and portrays a daring aspect of the man's personality.

    arrival kurinji
    Aganaanooru 67 – Despair of the drylands

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 4:48


    In this episode, we listen to a frustrated response, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 67, penned by Noy Paadiyaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse depicts the dreary state of the place the man traverses.

    Aganaanooru 66 – A child’s hold

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 6:41


    In this episode, we listen to the narration of a unique intervention, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 66, penned by Selloor Kosikan Kannanaar. Set amidst the wealthy streets of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse celebrates the presence of a child at a home.

    Aganaanooru 65 – A definitive decision

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 5:52


    In this episode, we hear news of a much-awaited decision, as depicted in Sangam Literary work Aganaanooru 65, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set amidst the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse portrays the change in a person's mind and its joyous consequences.

    Aganaanooru 64 – Return home to love

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 5:43


    In this episode, we perceive a man's fervent wish, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 64, penned by Aarkkaadu Kizhaar Makanaar Vellai Kannathanaar. The verse is situated amidst the moist red lands of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest Landscape' and sketches the yearning to return home after a mission.

    Aganaanooru 63 – Worry about her sleep

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 4:53


    In this episode, we listen to a mother's lament, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 63, penned by Karuvoor Kannam Pullanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse sketches the journey of a maiden in the mind's eye of her mother.

    Aganaanooru 62 – Delightful memories and Dashed hopes

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 6:40


    In this episode, we listen to the angst of unfulfilled expectations, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 62, penned by Paranar. Set amidst the soaring peaks and descending cascades of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape', the verse reiterates the presence of a renowned man-made structure in those times.

    Aganaanooru 61 – Duty Versus Beauty

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 5:31


    In this episode, we listen to a friend's encouraging words, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 61, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape'', the verse highlights some historic personalities and their renowned towns.

    Aganaanooru 60 – A taste of the future

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 6:01


    In this episode, we listen to an account of mother's nature, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 60, penned by Kudavaayil Keerathanaar. Set amidst the roaring waves of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape', the verse etches a unique instance of persuasive communication.

    Aganaanooru 59 – The care of the other

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 5:30


    In this episode, we listen to a subtle message of consolation, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 59, penned by Madurai Maruthan Ilanaakanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse refers to mythological elements to depict aspects of parting.

    Aganaanooru 58 – Flavours of absence and presence

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 4:34


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's angst-filled voice, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 58, penned by Madurai Panda Vaanikan Ilanthevanaar. The verse is situated in the soaring peaks of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape' and relays a subtle message seeking to change a person's heart.

    Aganaanooru 57 – Dreaming about past plenty

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 5:54


    In this episode, we listen to the man's reflection about his beloved, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 57, penned by Nakeerar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse echoes the yearning and suffering in parting.

    Aganaanooru 56 – Laughing at trouble

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 5:55


    In this episode, we listen to a mirthful tale, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 56, penned by Madurai Aruvai Vaanikan Ilavettanaar. Set amidst the blooming lilies and bubbling ponds of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse presents a unique technique of refusing a request.

    Aganaanooru 55 – On parting away

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 6:19


    In this episode, we perceive the intricate emotions of a mother, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 55, penned by Maamoolanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and presents a momentous historic event from the Sangam era.

    Aganaanooru 54 – Ride on to sweetness

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 6:47


    In this episode, we listen to a man's fervent plea, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 54, penned by Matroor Kizhaar Makanaar Kotrankotranaar. Set amidst the showers and flowers of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape', the verse etches exquisitely the urge to return home to a loved one.

    Aganaanooru 53 – The love of my love

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 7:59


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's response to her friend's consolation, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 53, penned by Seethalai Saaththanaar. Set amidst the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse offers intricate insights about elements of both nature and culture.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 52 – Don’t tell but Do tell

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 5:20


    In this episode, we perceive how a message is discreetly conveyed, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 52, penned by Nochi Niyamankizhaar. Set amidst the towering boulders and flowering trees of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse talks about the technique of presenting a dilemma to echo the seriousness of a situation.

    mountain kurinji
    Aganaanooru 51 – Better to be here

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 4:36


    In this episode, we perceive a clear response to a dilemma, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 51, penned by Perunthevanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands Landscape', the verse portrays the conflict between being with a beloved and parting away to earn wealth.

    paalai
    Aganaanooru 50 – A message to her beloved

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 5:11


    In this episode, we perceive a friend's concerned thoughts, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 50, penned by Karuvoor Poothanchaathanaar. The verse is situated amidst the leaping waves of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape' and describes the lady's state of lament.

    Aganaanooru 49 – Like an inseparable shadow

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 5:51


    In this episode, we listen to a mother's lament, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 49, penned by Vannappura Kantharanthanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse depicts an act of elopement from the mother's perspective.

    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.

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