Poompuhar: A Glimpse into the Maritime Glory of the Sangam Age

Poompuhar, once known as Kaviripoompattinam, stands as a testament to the rich maritime history and administrative prowess of the Chola kingdom during the Sangam Age in present-day Tamil Nadu, India. This ancient port city, meticulously described in Sangam literature and the epics Silappadhikaram and Manimekalai, offers a window into the vibrant life and international connections that flourished over two millennia ago. Though now a small village, Poompuhar continues to whisper tales of its glorious past, providing tangible evidence of a sophisticated urban center and a thriving civilization.

A Hub of International Trade and Cultural Exchange:

Poompuhar was more than just a port; it was a bustling hub of international trade and cultural exchange. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Kaveri River allowed for easy access to and from the sea, transforming it into a vital link in the Indian Ocean trade network. Literary accounts paint a picture of a cosmopolitan city where merchants from distant lands converged, their ships laden with exotic goods. The presence of distinct quarters designated for foreigners underscores the city's welcoming embrace of diverse cultures.

The bustling bazaars of Poompuhar, known as Nalangadi (day market) and Allangadi (night bazaar), were renowned for their diversity. These markets operated around the clock, offering a staggering array of goods. Spices from distant lands mingled with local produce, while shimmering gold and intricate jewelry competed with finely woven garments for the attention of discerning buyers. Liquor, pearls, precious stones, and an array of edible delicacies further enriched the sensory experience of the markets. The sheer volume and variety of goods traded in Poompuhar highlight its importance as a significant economic center in ancient India.

Literary and Archaeological Evidence:

The historical significance of Poompuhar is corroborated by a wealth of literary and archaeological evidence. The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, Geography by Ptolemy, and accounts by Pliny, all speak to the antiquity and importance of the port. Pali literature, including Milindapanha, Buddha Jataka tales, Abhidhamma Avatara, and Buddha Vamsakatha, also mention this ancient town, highlighting the presence of Buddhism in the region.

The discovery of a pillar donated by a Buddhist Somaya Bikkuni of Poompuhar, dating back to the second century B.C., further solidifies the evidence of Buddhism’s prominence. Brahmi inscriptions from the same period also mention the city, providing tangible proof of its existence and importance in the early centuries B.C. The inscription at Sayavanam temple in Poompuhar adds another layer to our understanding of the city's history, connecting it to the Chola kings of the Sangam Age and their patronage.

The City Plan: A Reflection of Advanced Administration:

The meticulously planned layout of Poompuhar reflects the advanced administrative capabilities of the Chola rulers. Literary accounts divide the city into two distinct sections: Pattinappakkam and Maruvurpakkam. This segregation suggests a well-defined social hierarchy and a systematic approach to urban planning.

Maruvurpakkam was the hub of commercial activity and the residential area for a diverse range of professionals. This district housed artisans, merchants, sweet-vendors, butchers, potters, and diamond-cutters, reflecting the vibrant economic activity that permeated the city. Warehouses were strategically located near the seashore, facilitating the efficient handling of goods arriving and departing from the port.

Pattinappakkam, on the other hand, was the residential area for the elite members of society. Kings, nobles, affluent traders and farmers, physicians, astrologers, and court dancers resided in this area, signifying its status as the center of power and cultural refinement. The presence of the king's barracks further emphasizes the administrative and military importance of Pattinappakkam.

Religious and Cultural Landscape:

The rich religious and cultural landscape of Poompuhar is evident in the descriptions of numerous temples, gardens, and public spaces. Temples dedicated to a wide range of deities, including Shiva, Indra, Balarama, Surya, Chandra, Arugan (Jain), and Thirumal (Vishnu), demonstrate the religious diversity that thrived in the city. Buddha stupas and seven Buddha viharas point to the significant presence of Buddhism during its flourishing period.

Well-laid-out gardens, such as Elavanthigai Cholai, Uyya Vanam, Champapathi Vanam, and Kaveri Vanam, provided spaces for recreation and relaxation. Public spaces like Vellidai Murugan, Elanchi Mandram, Nedunkal Mandram, Bootha Chatukkam, and Pavai Mandram served as venues for social gatherings and cultural performances.

The city also featured avenues and sacred passages specifically designed for temple idols to be taken for ritual baths in the river. Ring wells located on the city's fringes provided access to fresh water, and a dedicated quarter for foreigners further highlights the city's cosmopolitan nature. Cool and shady trees lined the riverbanks, creating a pleasant environment for residents and visitors alike.

Decline and Legacy:

Despite its former glory, Poompuhar eventually succumbed to the forces of nature. Literary accounts suggest that a catastrophic tsunami, likely triggered by an earthquake, submerged a significant portion of the city. The continuous erosion caused by the sea and the Kaveri River also contributed to its decline.

However, the legacy of Poompuhar lives on, enshrined in ancient texts, archaeological findings, and the collective memory of the Tamil people. This ancient city serves as a powerful reminder of the maritime prowess, administrative efficiency, and cultural vibrancy that characterized the Chola kingdom during the Sangam Age. Poompuhar stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a sophisticated civilization that flourished in India millennia ago, leaving behind a rich tapestry of history and culture for future generations to explore and appreciate.