the term 'Sangam' refers to whcih of the following?

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (b) A literary assembly of Tamil scholars

Explanation:

• The term ‘Sangam’ refers to a literary assembly of Tamil poets and scholars held in ancient South India.
• These assemblies were patronized by the Pandya kings of Madurai.
• The works produced during this period are collectively called Sangam Literature, one of the oldest extant bodies of secular literature in India (circa 300 BCE – 300 CE).

Information Booster:

• Sangam literature is written in Old Tamil and provides insights into society, polity, economy, and culture of ancient Tamilakam.
• The Three Sangams (First, Second, Third) were traditionally believed to have lasted thousands of years, though historically the Third Sangam is most accepted.
• Important works: Ettuthokai (Eight Anthologies) and Pattuppāṭṭu (Ten Idylls).
• Sangam texts mention early Tamil kingdoms: Chera, Chola, Pandya.
• They also highlight trade with Romans, social customs, and warfare.

Additional Knowledge:

• A Tamil dynasty (A): Refers to ruling families like Chera, Chola, Pandya—not Sangam.
• A type of Tamil poetry (C): Sangam literature contains poetry, but Sangam itself means “assembly,” not a poetry type.
• South Indian religious texts (D): Sangam texts are largely secular, not strictly religious scriptures.