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


    • Jun 26, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 6m AVG DURATION
    • 1,422 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Sangam Lit

    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.

    Kalithogai 147 – Raving and Recovering

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 13:05


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's pleas to the world around, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 147, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and narrates the torment of a lady and the resolution of her travails.

    Kalithogai 146 – Suffering and Soaring

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2025 9:11


    In this episode, we perceive the soaring suffering in a lady, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 146, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and echoes the state of a pining woman.

    Kalithogai 145 – Seeking and Saving

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2025 12:10


    In this episode, we perceive the fire in a lady's heart, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 145, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and depicts the conversations of a pining woman in love.

    Kalithogai 144 – Declaring and Dispelling

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 14:15


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's outpouring to the elements of the world around, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 144, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and paints a portrait of a parted woman's pain.

    Kalithogai 143 – Reflecting and Rising

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2025 11:55


    In this episode, we listen to a lady's heartfelt wish, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 143, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and paints the sorrow and smile of a woman.

    Kalithogai 142 – Lamenting and Listening

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 13:17


    In this episode, we hear the long lament of a lady, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 142, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and intricately etches the state of mind of a pining woman.

    Kalithogai 141 – A changed man

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 6:25


    In this episode, we perceive the transformation in a man, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 141, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and sketches the success story of a man's mission.

    Kalithogai 140 – A Case for Compassion

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2025 7:15


    In this episode, we listen to the man's angst-ridden words, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 140, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and portrays an instance of passionate persuasion.

    Kalithogai 139 – Plea to the Wise

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2025 7:56


    In this episode, we perceive a man's plea to the wise, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 139, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and depicts the suffering of a man, smitten by love.

    Kalithogai 138 – Palmyra horse to Paradise

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 9:13


    In this episode, we listen to a man's story of winning over his love, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 138, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and portrays a public ritual, undertaken as the last resort by young men in love.

    Kalithogai 137 – Fire of parting

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 6:16


    In this episode, we perceive the burning angst of a lady, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 137, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and paints a picture of pain born out of pleasure.

    Kalithogai 136 – Gamble not with her love

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2025 5:46


    In this episode, we observe the changing stance of the lady's joy, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 136, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and showcases the sport of gambling in the Sangam era.

    Kalithogai 135 – Dashing against the doors

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2025 4:51


    In this episode, we listen to an appeal to a person's sense of honour, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 135, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and portrays a lady's state in the midst of parting.

    Kalithogai 134 – The raft of a return

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2025 6:50


    In this episode, we perceive the pain of a parted lady, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 134, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and depicts the empathy shown by the elements of the land.

    Kalithogai 133 – Fruit of Virtue

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2025 5:15


    In this episode, we hear words of advice rendered, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 133, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and lists the meaning of virtuous qualities.

    Kalithogai 132 – Promises of the past

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 7:32


    In this episode, we listen to an argument put forth to persuade a person, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 132, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and presents insightful images from an ancient seashore.

    Kalithogai 131 – Care of the shore

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 10:44


    In this episode, we perceive stunning images from an ancient seashore, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 131, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and sketches the dynamics in the relationship between the man and the lady.

    Kalithogai 130 – The vanishing pallor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2025 5:52


    In this episode, we observe the transformation in a person, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 130, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and sketches the effect of an evening on a maiden.

    Kalithogai 129 – Withholding a cure

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2025 7:39


    In this episode, we perceive the arrival of evening with striking similes, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 129, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and sketches heartrending conversations with elements in the environment.

    Kalithogai 128 – Hope in a dream

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2025 5:51


    In this episode, we listen to the events that unfolded in a dream, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 128, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and reveals the subtle reasons for a transformation.

    Kalithogai 127 – Is that why?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2025 6:34


    In this episode, we hear piercing words rendered to persuade a person, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 127, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and attempts to change the man's heart.

    Kalithogai 126 – Assumptions and Revelations

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 5:12


    In this episode, we perceive picturesque images from the sea, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 126, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and presents the assumptions and revelations in the mind of a parted maiden.

    Kalithogai 125 – Banish the pallor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 5:43


    In this episode, we listen to a philosophical thought about the heart, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 125, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and puts forth a heartfelt plea.

    Kalithogai 124 – An affliction that brims over

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2025 6:35


    In this episode, we listen to the confidante's thoughtful request, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 124, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and relates the consequences of a man's parting.

    Kalithogai 123 – A mind of its own

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2025 5:33


    In this episode, we perceive the actions of a troubled heart, as portrayed in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 123, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and presents a portrait of a maiden, parted from her beloved.

    Kalithogai 122 – A heart caught between

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2025 5:33


    In this episode, we perceive the confused heart of a lady, as depicted in Sangam Literary work, Kalithogai 122, penned by Nallanthuvanaar. The verse is situated in the 'Neythal' or 'Coastal Landscape' and reveals an impossible situation in a person's life.

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