சங்க கால அலைகுடி மரபினரும் பண்பாடும் / Alaikudi Tribes and their Culture in the Sangam Period

At the emergence of the land owned society, the Panar community entertained the people using vocal–musical arts. Later, at the time of monarchy, the Panar community established itself as a fine arts society and performed arts for the kings and the aristocratic people who gained social development based on their rich status among its descendants. The study aims to study the social heredity and culture of the Panar community. They lived as nomads, so the study has been planned to be done from an anthropological and sociological perspective. It examines the habits, food, customs, and cultural forms of the nomads, comparing them with those of the kings and the common people. Besides, it portrays the complex relationship between the Panar and their connection to the various landscapes (Thinai). It also illustrates their nomadic nature, which facilitated the mixture of cultural values in ancient Tamil territories. By scrutinising the transition of these bards from tribal entertainers to esteemed royal advisors and chroniclers, the article explores the subtle shifts in their social hierarchy. Emphasis is placed on the gendered roles within the community, particularly the contributions of the Padini (female bards). Ultimately, this study synthesises classical literary evidence with ethnographic principles to provide a holistic understanding of the Panar’s enduring legacy within the Tamil socio-cultural fabric.