The Sangam Age, which flourished from around 300 BCE to 300 CE, was dominated by three major dynasties—Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas. 

• These kingdoms ruled over different parts of present-day southern India, contributing to Tamil literature, culture, and trade. Let’s explore each of these rulers and their notable contributions.

Chera Dynasty During Sangam Age

• The Chera dynasty ruled over the areas of modern-day Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with Vanji as their capital. Their history is marked by frequent conflicts with other major dynasties, namely the Cholas and the Pandyas.
• Historical References: The Cheras are mentioned in various inscriptions like the Pugalur inscription (first century CE) and the Padirruppattu, an ancient Tamil poetic work.
• Notable Kings:
  • Perum Sorru Udhiyan Cheralathan
  • Imayavaramban Nedum Cheralathan
  • Cheran Senguttuvan, the most famous Chera king, who ruled during the 2nd century CE. His exploits are part of Tamil literature, and he is also renowned for his Himalayan expedition.
• Expedition to the Himalayas: Senguttuvan’s journey to the north is notable in Tamil lore, where he is said to have crossed the Ganges and defeated northern monarchs. While these tales are likely exaggerated, they contributed to his legendary status.
• Patronage of Culture: Senguttuvan introduced the Pattini cult, a religious worship of Kannagi, the ideal wife, a character from the Silappatikaram, an epic written by his brother, Ilango Adigal. The king brought back the stone to carve Kannagi’s idol from the Himalayas, and the consecration ceremony was attended by numerous rulers, including Gajabhagu II of Sri Lanka.
• Decline: The Chera dynasty began to lose power after the 2nd century BCE. Despite this decline, the Cheras promoted trade with the Romans and were patrons of Tamil poets. They also controlled important ports like Muziris, a key Indo-Roman trade hub.

Chola Dynasty During Sangam Age

• The Chola dynasty of the Sangam period controlled regions extending from modern-day Tamil Nadu to southern Andhra Pradesh. Initially based in Uraiyur and later shifting to Puhar, they made significant contributions to literature, trade, and administration.
• Key Historical Events:
  • It is believed that during the middle of the second century BCE, Elara, a Chola king, conquered Sri Lanka and ruled it.
  • However, the clear historical records of the Cholas begin in the second century CE with Karikala, one of their most famous kings.
• Karikala Chola: Known for his military prowess, Karikala earned the title “The man with the charred leg” due to an injury sustained in battle. His reign is recorded in Pattinappalai, which describes his early life and military conquests.
  • Battle of Venni: Karikala defeated a confederacy consisting of the Cheras, Pandyas, and several minor chieftains in this epic battle.
  • Puhar and Economic Prosperity: Karikala established Puhar as a major center for trade and commerce. He also spearheaded agricultural reforms by reclaiming forest lands for cultivation, boosting the economy.
• Engineering Contributions: Karikala is credited with the construction of the Kallanai Dam across the Kaveri River and the development of many irrigation tanks to support agriculture.
• Decline of Chola Power: After Karikala, the Chola power declined rapidly. His successors were less effective, and after Nedunjelian, the last great Chola ruler, the dynasty fell, giving rise to the dominance of the Cheras and Pandyas.

Pandya Dynasty During Sangam Age

• The Pandyas ruled over southern Tamil Nadu, with their capital at Madurai. They were notable for their patronage of Tamil poets and scholars, particularly during the Sangam period.
• Early Kings: Some of the early kings of the Pandya dynasty include Nediyon, Palyagasalai Mudukudumi Peruvaludhi, and Mudathirumaran.
• Famous Kings:
  • Neduncheliyan: The first famous Pandya king, known as Aryappadai Kadantha Neduncheliyan, was celebrated for his victories over Aryan forces. He was responsible for executing Kovalan, whose death led to the burning of Madurai by Kannagi.
  • Talaiyalanganattu Cheruvenra Neduncheliyan: Another significant king, famous for his victory in the Battle of Talaiyalanganam in Tanjore, which helped him control all of Tamil Nadu.
• Cultural Contributions: The Pandyas were instrumental in the establishment of Tamil Sangams, where poets flourished under royal patronage. Their ports, like Saliyur and Korkai, became renowned centers for international trade, especially with the Roman Empire. They even sent embassies to Emperor Augustus.
• Decline: The Pandya dynasty faced decline due to invasions by the Kalabhras, and the last famous Pandya king was Uggira Peruvaludhi.

Minor Chieftains During Sangam Age

• In addition to the major dynasties, several minor chieftains played vital roles during the Sangam period. These chieftains, known as the Kadai Yelu Vallalgal, were powerful in their respective regions and patrons of Tamil poets.
• Notable Minor Chieftains:
  • Pari, Kari, Ori, Nalli, Pegan, Ay, and Adiyaman were some of the key figures who significantly contributed to the literary and cultural wealth of the time. Despite their subordinate positions to the major rulers, their influence on the local culture and economy was considerable.