Culinary Style in the Five Landscapes of Sangam Agam Literature

Food, clothing, and shelter are the basic needs of human life. The ancient Tamil people’s food practices reflected the basic nature of their land. Our ancestors, the ancient Tamils, were the pioneers in cultivating and producing natural food. They cultivated various crops, prepared healthy food naturally, and lived by self-sustaining methods. They not only cooked food but also preserved natural resources, living in harmony with nature. The Tamil region had diverse cooking methods from ancient times. Regardless of the type of land, various methods such as agriculture, hunting, and gathering existed in ancient times. The food culture was not only about health but also about strengthening human relationships. During the Sangam era, when people came together for various festivals, commerce, and place-naming ceremonies, they offered a variety of foods, fostering unity among people. This food culture promoted both health and enhanced human relationships. This article discusses the importance of food in human life, the unique food practices of ancient Tamils, and the traditional agriculture in Sangam times.