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


    • Oct 3, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 6m AVG DURATION
    • 1,495 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Sangam Lit

    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.

    Aganaanooru 76 – An oath to seize

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 5:24


    In this episode, we listen to a maiden's oath, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 76, penned by Paranar. Set amidst the resounding drums of the 'Marutham' or 'Farmlands landscape', the verse brings out the rivalry between women in the rich domain of ancient towns.

    Aganaanooru 75 – Heart not to part

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 5:33


    In this episode, we perceive the resolution of a person's anxiety, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 75, penned by Madurai Poththanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and argues against parting away in the pursuit of wealth.

    drylands paalai
    Aganaanooru 74 – Melancholy of the evening

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 4:59


    In this episode, we perceive the inability to accept assurance from another, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 74, penned by Madurai Kavuniyan Boothathanaar. The verse is situated amidst the fragrant flowers of 'Mullai' or 'Forest Landscape' and illustrates an overpowering element in the life of the lady, one evening.

    Aganaanooru 73 – The reminding rain

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 5:51


    In this episode, we perceive the portrayal of shared pain, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 73, penned by Erumai Veliyanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and renders a message of hope to the lady.

    Aganaanooru 72 – The one in the wrong

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 7:13


    In this episode, we perceive a subtle technique of persuasion, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 72, penned by Erumai Veliyanaar Makanaar Kadalanaar. Set amidst the resounding hills of the 'Kurinji' or 'Mountain landscape', the verse sketches the life in this land on one rainy night.

    mountain kurinji
    Aganaanooru 71 – An evening of suffering

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 5:40


    In this episode, we listen to an outpouring of suffering, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 71, penned by Anthi Ilankeeranaar. Set in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape', the verse presents nuanced similes to etch the sorrow in a heart.

    Aganaanooru 70 – Slander and Silence

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 6:12


    In this episode, we hear the confidante's jubilant voice, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 70, penned by Madurai Tamil Koothanaar Kaduvan Mallanaar. Set amidst the flower orchards and fish markets of the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal landscape', the verse features a joyous news and its consequences.

    Aganaanooru 69 – Far but never forgotten

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 7:14


    In this episode, we listen to words of encouragement, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Aganaanooru 69, penned by Umattoor Kizhaar Makanaar Parankotranaar. The verse is situated in the 'Paalai' or 'Drylands landscape' and renders hope to a despairing heart.

    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.

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