News– The Ministry of Culture has launched a comprehensive initiative to preserve and promote Kamba Ramayana recitals in Tamil Nadu. Kamba Ramayana.
About Kamba Ramayana
Overview
The Kamba Ramayana, also known as Ramavataram, is a Tamil rendition of the Sanskrit Valmiki Ramayana. It stands out for its poetic brilliance and spiritual insights deeply rooted in Tamil culture.
Authorship and Patronage
This epic was composed by the renowned Tamil poet Kambar in the 12th century CE. His work was patronized by Thiruvennai Nallur Sadayappa Vallal, whose name appears every 1,000 verses as a mark of gratitude.
Historical and Cultural Significance
- Period: Written in the 12th century CE.
- Regional Connection: Strongly linked to Tamil Nadu, particularly Kambar’s birthplace, Kambar Medu in Therazhundur.
- Language: Classical Tamil, reflecting the region’s devotion and literary traditions.
- Composition Structure:
- Organized into 6 Kandams (books) and 113 Padalams (sections)
- Contains approximately 10,569 verses
- Integrates Tamil folk traditions with deep philosophical themes
Traditional and Contemporary Influence
- The Kamba Ramayana is traditionally recited by the Kamba Ramayana Mandali in temples.
- Efforts are ongoing to revive its oral tradition through government and cultural initiatives.
About Kambar: The Poet Behind the Epic
Who Was Kambar?
Kambar, often hailed as Kavichakravarthy Kamban (Emperor of Poets), was a distinguished Tamil poet known for composing the Ramavataram. His literary genius enriched Tamil literature with spiritual and ethical narratives.
Life and Era
- Birthplace: Therazhundur, in present-day Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu.
- Period: Estimated to have lived between 1180 CE – 1250 CE.
- Kingdom: Flourished under the Chola Empire, during the reign of Kulothunga III.
- Influences: Lived after Vaishnavite philosopher Ramanuja, whom he referenced in his writings.
Major Works and Contributions
- Kamba Ramayanam: A Tamil adaptation of the Ramayana, blending classical poetry with rich cultural and spiritual depth.
- Other Literary Contributions:
- Tirukkai Valakkam – Ethical and moral verses
- Erelupatu & Silai Elupatu – Spiritual compositions
- Kangai Puranam – Temple-centric mythological text
- Sadagopar Antati & Saraswati Antati – Devotional poetry
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