UPSC CSE Prelims
Society and Economy Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
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With reference to ancient South India, Korkai, Poompuhar and Muchiri were well known as
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — ports
Korkai, Poompuhar, and Muchiri were prominent ancient port cities in South India during the Sangam period (c. 3rd century BCE to 3rd century CE). They served as vital centers for maritime trade between India and the Roman Empire, as well as Southeast Asia. Korkai (Pandya dynasty) was famous for pearl fishery, Poompuhar/Kaveripattinam (Chola dynasty) was a bustling international trade hub at the Kaveri mouth, and Muchiri/Muziris (Chera dynasty) on the Malabar Coast was the primary center for pepper trade with Rome.
📝 Short Notes: Major Sangam Period Ports
| Port | Location | Dynasty | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Korkai | Thamirabarani River mouth, Tamil Nadu | Pandya | Pearl fishery; international trade |
| Poompuhar (Kaveripattinam) | Kaveri River mouth, Tamil Nadu | Early Chola | Chief port; described in Silappadikaram; bustling trade hub |
| Muchiri (Muziris) | Malabar Coast, Kerala | Chera | Major pepper trade center with Roman Empire |
| Tondi | East coast | Pandya | Important secondary port |
| Arikamedu | Near Pondicherry | — | Indo-Roman trading settlement; archaeological evidence |
- Sangam Literature Reference: The term 'Puhar' in Sangam texts specifically denotes a river mouth or harbor town where goods were discharged.
- Trade Commodities: Pepper, pearls, precious stones, spices, ivory, silk, and muslin were exported; wine, gold coins, glassware, and pottery were imported.
- International Connections: These ports connected South India with Rome, Egypt, Arabia, Southeast Asia, and China.
- Historical Significance: The prosperity of Sangam kingdoms was closely tied to maritime trade through these ports.
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Related Topics in Ancient History
Buddhism
Mauryan Art and Architecture
Major Harappan Sites
Jainism
Sangam Literature
Early Vedic Period
Mauryan Administration
Gupta Administration
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