The Messenger Motif in Sangam Literature and the Development of Thuthu Literature

Abstract

The literary tradition known as Vāyil among the ancient Tamils gradually evolved into the distinct genre of Thūthu (messenger literature) in later Tamil literary history. This article examines the origin, development, and literary characteristics of the messenger tradition as reflected in the akam poems of Sangam literature. In Tamil poetics, a thūthu refers to the act of conveying one's thoughts, emotions, or messages to another person through animate or inanimate intermediaries, including both higher and lower forms of life. The foundation of this tradition can be traced to the Tolkappiyam, particularly the grammatical principle expressed in the aphorism "Kamam mikka kazhipadar kilavi," which recognizes the expression of intense emotions through indirect communication. Sangam poems frequently portray the heroine confiding her sorrow and longing to birds such as the white crane and the parrot, employing them as symbolic messengers to communicate with the absent hero. These poetic conventions later developed into independent literary genres, giving rise to works such as Tattai Vidu Thuthu and Virali Vidu Thuthu. While the messenger tradition in Sangam literature primarily centered on themes of love, separation, and emotional expression within akam poetry, later messenger literature expanded its scope to celebrate kings, patrons, and distinguished individuals through elaborate praise poetry. This article explores the transformation of the messenger tradition from its origins in Sangam literature to its development as a distinct genre in Tamil literary history, highlighting its changing themes, literary functions, and enduring cultural significance.