Kapilar’s Puram Poems on The History of The People at the Lowest – Rung

Abstract

Kapilar is a much-revered Sangam poet. He is also known as Kurinji Kapilar as he has highlighted the Thinai, Kurinji. The great Sangam literature contains many poems of Kapilar. Kapilar was mostly with the common people and rendered songs on their contributions to art, craft, cultural values and their living styles in tune with the nature.Instead of singing the praise of Chera, Chola and Pandya, the trinity of Tamizhagam, Kapilar rendered wonderful songs on the greatness of Paari, the ruler of Parambu land. Kapilar praised the humility and generosity of Paari. Paari’s kindness towards poets, artists and guests turned at his doorsteps was uncomparable. He was also full of compassion even towards creatures living around him. The greatest quality of sharing all his wealth with poets touched the heart of Kapilar who became the greatest admirer and bossom friend of him. Paari’s humanitarian gestures towards the downtrodden made Kapilar narrate the contribution of the lay- men to up- keep the Tamil Culture, language and values alive. The author of this research article articulates how significant it is to learn the socio-economic, cultural life of the commoners of Sangam period through the Puram songs of Kapilar.