Meaning of the term Vari used during Sangam age
The term “Vari” was a significant concept during the Sangam age in ancient Tamil Nadu, which referred to the allocation and distribution of resources in a just and equitable manner. The term “Vari” can be translated to mean “portion” or “share”, and it was used to refer to the distribution of agricultural produce among the members of a community.
During the Sangam period, agriculture was the primary occupation of the people, and the society was organized around the cultivation of crops. The concept of Vari was closely linked to the idea of collective responsibility and sharing of resources among the members of a community. The distribution of the agricultural produce was carried out by the village council or assembly, known as the “Ur”.
The Ur would allocate the land for cultivation, distribute the seeds and tools, and oversee the cultivation process. After the harvest, the Ur would collect the produce and distribute it among the members of the community based on their needs and contributions. The distribution of Vari was done in a manner that ensured that everyone received a fair share of the harvest, regardless of their social status or economic standing.
The concept of Vari also had a spiritual and religious significance, as it was believed to be a way of showing gratitude to the gods and seeking their blessings for a bountiful harvest. The practice of Vari was considered to be an important aspect of social harmony and community welfare, and it played a crucial role in maintaining the social and economic fabric of the Sangam society.