A.Ki. Paranthamanar’s Historical Perspective

அ.கி. பரந்தாமனாரின் வரலாற்றுப் பார்வை

Abstract

This article aims to evaluate the contribution of the late Tamil scholar A.K. Paranthamanar to the field of history. A.K. has been interested in history since his youth. A.K. studied politics and history as special subjects during his undergraduate studies at Pachaiyappan College, Chennai. D.R. Seshayangar, the author of the famous book ‘Dravidian India’, and Professor C. Srinivasacharyar were his teachers at that time. It can be said that A.K.’s ‘historical passion’ was instilled in him by those professors. A.K.P. knew the importance of historical knowledge. Evidence for this is available in the books written by A.K.P. In his book ‘Learn Tamil Literature’, he has stated that studying literature with knowledge of history is suitable for the scientific method. He also stated that “History and literature are twin sisters. If you know the political system of the Sangam period, you can know about the Enperayam, Aim perunguzhu, etc. Only if you know about the later Cholas, you can understand Kalingathupbarani, Muvar Ula. Although the friendship mentioned in the Thirukkural is generally seen, those who know the history of the Sangam can understand it well.” A.K.P.