A Fantastic Tamil Harbour Beneath Under The Sea

The Lost City of Poompuhar: A fantastic Tamil harbour buried under the sea:

Poompuhar, historically also known as Kavripattinam, is one of the oldest and most attractive old port cities in Tamil Nadu, India. Located at the confluence of the Cauvery and Bengal, this time the city played a major role in the South Indian maritime trade and the cultural exchange. 

Today, it is not only remembered for its rich history, but also for its tragic fate, which was submerged under many seas in the city. In this article, we claim that it is one of the most complicated lost cities in India before its discovery, with a living lifestyle, traditions, and Poompuhar.

POOMPUHAR: A large harbour in the Chola Dynasty

During Sangam Yuga, Poompuhar acted as one of the busiest trading centres in the capital and the early Chola dynasty. The city was known for its planned urban setup, buzzing port and cosmopolitan population, and flourished between the third century BC. and the second century. Ships from Rome, Southeast Asia, and Sri Lanka dock on their banks, which exchange objects such as pearls, spices, textiles, and gemstones.

Antique Tamil literature gives a detailed description of the infrastructure and lifestyle of silpadikaaram and manimegalai . According to these texts, the city had beautifully structured roads, separate districts for different classes, rich markets and ornate mansions. It was a lighthouse for Tamil culture, trade and spirituality.

Traditional Lifestyle:

The population of Poompuhar led a very organized and traditional lifestyle. The city was divided into different classes based on businesses and social roles:

Businessman (Vanigar): 

Poompuhar's finances were run by trade. The traders were rich and well honoured, both local and foreign. The markets were full of exotic spices, silks, pearls and ceramics.

FISHERFOK (Parathwar): 

The Parathic Society lived along the coast, and experts were fishermen and sailors. He not only provided seafood for the locals, but also helped guide the merchant ships from the harbour.

Craftsman and Craftsman: 

Separated workers made excellent jewellery, ceramics and clothing. Black-end-Red finds archaeologically, including Ware Pottery, confirms high craft levels.

Farmer (Uzhavar): 

Agriculture was important for the life of Poompuhar. The farmers grow rice, sugar cane, plants, and various vegetables using the fertile delta of the Kaveri River.

Performing artists: 

Dance, music, and drama were integrated parts of daily life. Classic Tamil art forms such as Bharatanatyam and Old Tamil music were performed during festivals and temple programs.

Daily Life in Ancient Pool:

The houses in Poompuhar were made of bricks and wood, with a complex column design that decorated the threshold. The roads were maintained wide and well, which were divided into areas such as Pattinam (commercial area) and Maruvurpakkam (District of Fishanfoka).

People dressed in traditional Tamil dress: Men in Vestis (Dhotis) and women in coloured Sarees. Both genders were beautified with jewellery made of gold, silver, and pearls. The food with rice, lentils, tamarind, coconut, and fish that was characterized was still tasty.

Religious affection was central to Poompuhar's society. The temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Murugan and the local deity were the centre of social and spiritual activity. Festivals like Chithirai Thiruvizhha brought the whole city together to celebrate.

Poompuhar's Immersion: Mythology Meets Science:

Tamil Epic Manimegalai tells a ghost story about Poompuhar, which swallowed the sea overnight because of divine anger. Although this may look mythological, modern science supports the possibility of a natural disaster.

Marine archaeological studies conducted by the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) have highlighted the submerged structures including stone hats and ceramics about a kilometre offshore. These findings suggest that part of the old city was actually lost due to erosion or tsunami, possibly around CE of the second century.

Parts of Ancient Poompuhar are Now Under the Sea:

Today, evidence confirms that parts of the old poompuhar are now under the sea, which is hidden under the sand and the layers of the sea. The submerged ruins include ports, stone buildings, and even roads, indicating a sophisticated city setup lost to natural forces.

Changes in the curriculum for the river, combined with heavy tidal waves or sudden geological phenomena, caused this disaster. The discovery of these ruins has increased interest in maritime archaeology in India, and Poompuhar is often known as "Atlantis of India".

Modern Pumpuhar: A City Remembers the Past:

Today, Poompuhar is a small, quiet coastal town in the Mayiladuthurai district in Tamil Nadu. While most of its pre-glory is submerged, the city of heritage keeps alive through places such as Silpadikaaram Art Gallery, Maasilamani Nathar Temple, and traditional festivals.

Cultural initiatives and archaeological efforts aim to preserve and show the legacy of the city. Tourists can go to the beach, discover museum performance and witness the continuous traditions of local communities whose life still resonates the rhythm in ancient pool.

Conclusion:

Poompuhar's history is a cultural talent, a tragic loss, and a permanent heritage. The city was once the centre of Tamil civilization, trade, and artistry, only partially claimed by the sea. Nevertheless, the soul lives through literature, oral history, and archaeological evidence. As we continue to highlight the mysteries under the waves, the story of Poompuhar acts as a timeless reminder of the beauty, flexibility, and delicacy of human civilization.