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


    • Nov 18, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 6m AVG DURATION
    • 1,527 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Sangam Lit

    Aganaanooru 127 – All the wealth cannot compare

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 6:06


    In this episode, we perceive a persuasive promise, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 127, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse sketches a noble portrait of the man.

    Aganaanooru 126 – The fate of an adamant king

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 6:37


    In this episode, we perceive a man's angst, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 126, penned by Nakeerar. The verse is situated amidst the gushing rivers of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape' and relates a personal situation to a historic event.

    Aganaanooru 125 – Quelling a formidable foe

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 6:53


    In this episode, we listen to an angry retort to an inanimate element, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 125, penned by Paranar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse weaves in a relevant historical reference as an apt simile to echo an emotion within.

    Aganaanooru 124 – Back with the beloved

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 4:29


    In this episode, we listen to a man's yearning to be back home, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 124, penned by Madurai Aruvai Vaanikan Ilavettanaar. The verse is situated amidst the blooming jasmines and buzzing bees of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape' and describes a homeward journey.

    Aganaanooru 123 – Backwards and Forwards

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 4:35


    In this episode, we perceive the troubled mind of a man, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 123, penned by Kaveripoompattinaththu Kaarikkannanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse talks about the oscillations in the midst of an endeavour.

    Aganaanooru 122 – Troubles in a Tryst

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 6:41


    In this episode, we listen to a list of impediments to trysting, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 122, penned by Paranar. Set amidst the hooting owls and crowing roosters of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse presents the problems in the present and subtly nudges a change of course.

    Aganaanooru 121 – Discomfort for the Delicate

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 6:04


    In this episode, we perceive an animated reaction to a proposal, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 121, penned by Madurai Maruthan Ilanaakanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse relates the discomfort in a journey through this domain.

    Aganaanooru 120 – Song of the red-naped ibis

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 5:17


    In this episode, we listen to a pointed request, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 120, penned by Nakeeranaar. The verse is situated in the blue-lotus blooming backwaters of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape' and presents a subtle way to change a person's course of action.

    Aganaanooru 119 – Sigh of a wounded elephant

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 6:12


    In this episode, we perceive the yearning in a lady to part away with her man, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 119, penned by Kudavayil Keeraththanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse presents various aspects of this domain.

    Aganaanooru 118 – By day by night

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 4:16


    In this episode, we perceive words of persuasion, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 118, penned by Kabilar. The verse is situated amidst the roars of drums and tigers in the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape' and points the way forward in a subtle manner.

    mountain kurinji
    Aganaanooru 117 – In the hands of another

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2025 6:25


    In this episode, we listen to a mother's words of love, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 117, penned by an anonymous poet. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse brings out the tender thoughts in a mother's heart at the juncture of her daughter's elopement.

    Aganaanooru 116 – Louder than a victor’s shout

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 6:26


    In this episode, we hear the reason for a refusal, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 116, penned by Paranar. The verse is situated amidst the paddy stalks and lotus blooms of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape' and illustrates the events of a historic battle.

    Aganaanooru 115 – A wish for a beloved

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 4:53


    In this episode, we perceive the pain in a lady's heart, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 115, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse sketches the consequences of the man's parting away.

    Aganaanooru 114 – Hasten to her abode

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 4:10


    In this episode, we perceive a man's eagerness to return to his beloved, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 114, penned by an anonymous poet. The verse is situated amidst the scattered flowers of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape' and visualises a person living far away.

    Aganaanooru 113 – Far away in the drylands

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 7:08


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's anguished voice, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 113, penned by Kallaadanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse pens detailed portraits of some historical characters in the Sangam era.

    Aganaanooru 112 – Why don’t you?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 4:57


    In this episode, we listen to a persuasive request, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 112, penned by Neythal Saaithuitha Aavoor Kizhaar. The verse is situated amidst the roving bears and roaring tigers in the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape' and attempts at changing a person's path.

    mountain kurinji
    Aganaanooru 111 – Her dear in the drylands

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 4:57


    In this episode, we perceive words of consolation, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 111, penned by Paalai Paadiya Perunkadunko. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse vividly sketches the life in this domain.

    Aganaanooru 110 – A momentous moment

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 6:15


    In this episode, we listen to a confession, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 110, penned by Ponthai Pasalaiyaar. The verse is situated amidst the waves and sands of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and narrates a significant event on the shore.

    Aganaanooru 109 – Beyond the dreary spaces

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 4:14


    In this episode, we perceive the dangers in a journey, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 109, penned by Kadunthodai Kaavinaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse relays an indirect message of motivation.

    Aganaanooru 108 – Fulfilling love’s purpose

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 5:26


    In this episode, we perceive a hidden attempt at persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 108, penned by Thankaal Porkollanaar. The verse is situated in the bee-buzzing hills of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape' and depicts the dangers in trysting.

    fulfilling kurinji
    Aganaanooru 107 – As your companion

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 6:53


    In this episode, we listen to a message of acceptance, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 107, penned by Kaaviripoompattinathu Kaarikkannanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse visualises the journey ahead for a couple.

    Aganaanooru 106 – A pecking kingfisher

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 4:35


    In this episode, we observe the fury of a scorned woman, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 106, penned by Alangudi Vanganaar. The verse is situated amidst the fertile fields of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands Landscape' and reflects the sparks of rivalry in a rich town.

    Aganaanooru 105 – Delicate to Daring

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 5:37


    In this episode, we perceive a mother's shock, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 105, penned by Thaayankannanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse depicts the unlikely journey of a young girl through a challenging terrain.

    Aganaanooru 104 – Relief in a return

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 4:56


    In this episode, we listen to words of a joyous welcome, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 104, penned by Madurai Maruthan Ilanaakanaar. The verse is situated amidst the flowering bushes of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest Landscape' and portrays a friend's delight.

    Aganaanooru 103 – The sighing maiden

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 3:52


    In this episode, we listen to the lament of a lady, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 103, penned by Kaaviripoompattinathu Chenkannanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse describes the pain caused by the man's parting away.

    Aganaanooru 102 – Song of the mountain maiden

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 5:33


    In this episode, we listen to an attempt at persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 102, penned by Madurai Ilampaalaasiriyan Chenthan Koothanaar. The verse is situated amidst the lush millet fields of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape' and portrays the consequences of the man's delay in seeking the lady's hand.

    Aganaanooru 101 – Away in the drylands

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 5:55


    In this episode, we perceive the distress in separation, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 101, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse vividly depicts the people and events of this arid land.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 100 – Slander that resounds

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 5:03


    In this episode, we perceive subtle words of persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 100, penned by Ulochanaar. The verse is situated amidst the roaring waves of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape', and reveals the concern with the man's current course of action.

    Aganaanooru 99 – The present of the present

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 4:19


    In this episode, we observe the beauty of a place, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 99, penned by Paalai Paadiya Perunkadungo. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands Landscape', the verse sketches a word of support expressed to a beloved.

    paalai
    Aganaanooru 98 – Consequences of Current Stance

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2025 8:10


    In this episode, we perceive the consequences of impending events, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 98, penned by Veri Paadiya Kaamakkanniyaar. Set in the domain of the spirits, the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse portrays a subtle but striking technique of persuasion.

    Aganaanooru 97 – How can I stop the tears?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 6:04


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's lament, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 97, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse is a medley of many fascinating elements.

    Aganaanooru 96 – Louder than a war cry

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 5:48


    In this episode, we perceive the refusal of a request, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 96, penned by Marutham Paadiya Ilankadunko. Set amidst the lush fields and paddy mounds of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse refers to a historic incident to sketch a domestic tussle.

    Aganaanooru 95 – How to remain here?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 4:07


    In this episode, we listen to an anguished voice, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 95, penned by Orodakathu Kantharathanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands' landscape, the verse relays the reasons for taking a difficult decision.

    Aganaanooru 94 – The music of her abode

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 4:32


    In this episode, we perceive the eagerness of a person to return home, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 94, penned by Nanbaloor Sirumethaaviyaar. The verse is situated amidst the flowering bushes of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape' and renders the musical notes of a night.

    Aganaanooru 93 – The joy that awaits

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 6:56


    In this episode, we perceive the joy and anticipation in returning home, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 93, penned by Madurai Kanakkaayanaar Makanaar Nakkeeranaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse presents insightful facts about the three great empires in ancient Tamil land.

    Aganaanooru 92 – Come by in the day

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 4:47


    In this episode, we perceive a technique of hidden persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 92, penned by Madurai Paalaasiriyaar Natraamanaar. The verse is situated amidst the flowing cascades and blooming flame-lilies of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape' and relays an alternate plan of action.

    mountain kurinji
    Aganaanooru 91 – Not even for Kudanaadu

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 6:29


    In this episode, we listen to a message of reassurance, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 91, penned by Maamoolanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse sketches contrasting images of an arid domain and a fertile one.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 90 – Hard to attain

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 4:44


    In this episode, we perceive a subtle technique of persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 90, penned by Madurai Maruthan Ilanaakanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape' and projects how invaluable the lady is to her family.

    Aganaanooru 89 – The change in the child

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 5:54


    In this episode, we listen to a mother's lament, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 89, penned by Madurai Kaanchipulavar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse sketches the dangers of a drylands journey.

    Aganaanooru 88 – Darkness Danger Discovery

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 5:14


    In this episode, we perceive a subtle message of persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 88, penned by Eezhathu Poothanthevanaar. The verse is situated amidst the swaying millet stalks of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape' and portrays the dangers in a person's path.

    Aganaanooru 87 – Yesterday’s pain and tomorrow’s pleasure

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 4:36


    In this episode, we hear healing words rendered to a heart, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 87, penned by Madurai Peraalavaayar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse sketches a journey as it nears its end.

    Aganaanooru 86 – Recollecting the wedding

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 8:22


    In this episode, we listen to recollections of a joyous event, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 86, penned by Nallaavoor Kizhaar. Set in the prosperous towns of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse depicts intricate customs in a Sangam era wedding.

    Aganaanooru 85 – Remembering a promise

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 4:13


    In this episode, we listen to a recollection of promises, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 85, penned by Kaattoor Kizhaar Maganaar Kannanaar. The verse is situated amidst the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and offers consolation to an anxious heart.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 84 – Sundered by a siege

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 5:03


    In this episode, we listen to an anguished heart, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 84, penned by Madurai Ezhuththaalan. The verse is situated in the fragrant forests of the 'Mullai' or 'Forest landscape' and compares the abodes of two parted lovers.

    Aganaanooru 83 – So far but she’s here

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 5:05


    In this episode, we perceive an instance of love across the miles, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 83, penned by Kallaadanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse echoes the tender feelings in the heart of a man parted away from his beloved.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 82 – Why am I the only one?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 6:01


    In this episode, we delight in musical sounds many, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 82, penned by Kabilar. The verse is situated amidst the bee-buzzing cascades of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape' and reveals the hidden emotions of a lady.

    mountain kurinji
    Aganaanooru 81 – Questioning the deserting bear

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 5:54


    In this episode, we listen to a pointed question put forth, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 81, penned by Alamperi Saaththaanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and vividly illustrates the elements of nature in this domain.

    Aganaanooru 80 – The Path from Dark to Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 4:25


    In this episode, we perceive an indirect technique of persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 80, penned by Marunkoor Kizhaar Perunkannanaar. The verse is situated amidst the trees and vines of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape' and sketches a well-etched portrait of an ancient shore.

    Aganaanooru 79 – Stepping back after pushing in

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 6:00


    In this episode, we perceive a man's annoyance with his heart, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 79, penned by Kudavayil Keerathanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse presents a vivid account of the people and their activities in this domain.

    Aganaanooru 78 – The caring male elephant

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 7:21


    In this episode, we perceive a thoughtful intervention on behalf of another, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 78, penned by Madurai Nakeeranaar. Set amidst the honeycombs and flame-lilies of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain Landscape', the verse highlights events in the life of a famous Sangam King.

    Aganaanooru 77 – A spear’s thrust in her tears

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 6:25


    In this episode, we hear the reasoning for a resolute decision, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 77, penned by Maruthan Ilanaakanaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse reveals insightful historical facts through its intriguing similes.

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