Question

The first Sangam was at _______.
A.Kapadapuram
B.Madurai
C.Kancheepuram
D.Thanjavur

Answer 1

Hint:The Sangam means an 'association'. It is the one which is situated on the Vaigai river, in Tamil Nadu. It is also called Thoonga Nagaram.

Complete answer:
-The Sangam Age is so called because this duration refers to the conferences of poets and bards.
- The first Sangam is believed to be attended by Gods and legendary sages.
-Sangam refers to a conference of learned men. The literature compiled in such conferences is known as 'Sangam Literature'.

Kapadapuram is in Andhra Pradesh. It is where the second sangam was held. Hence, this option is incorrect.
The first Sangam mudharchangam was held at Madurai, under the patronage of Makeerthy, the Pandyan king. Around 16,149 authors had attended this convocation. The major works were Perumparipadal, Mudukuruku, Mudunarai and Kalariyavirai. Agastya was the chairman of the first sangam. This option is correct.
Kancheepuram is known as the temple city of Tamil Nadu. This option is incorrect.
Thanjavur is considered to be a significant center of South Indian religion, art, and culture. Many Great Living Chola Temples of this city are under the UNESCO World Heritage. This option is incorrect.

Hence, option B is the right answer.

Note:Women had respect and had no restrictions in practising their intellectual pursuits. There were women poets like Avvaiyar, Nachchellaiyar, and Kakkaipadiniyar who have contributed immensely to Tamil literature. The three dynasties who ruled during the Sangam Age, are the Cheras, Cholas and Pandyas. Total 3 Sangams were held in south India under the royal patronage of the Pandya kings.