Revisiting the Roots of Tamizh and Kannada towards a Confluence
Author : Dr. Anupama Sabhapathy
Abstract :
This paper commits to the study of the fascinating roots of the Tamizh-Kannada languages that have their lineage in the Dravidian language system. It traces the historical influences of Prakrit and Sanskrit on both these languages. It attempts to clarify why Tamizh sustains itself so strongly while Kannada has transformed over the centuries. It traces the history of the two major works in both the languages, viz., Tholkkappiyam and Kaviriajamarga. It also goes back to the time of the Sangam literature in the South. Several linguists whose researches have shed enormous light on some of the missing links about the continuity of these languages also forms a significant part of the paper. It emphasizes the contribution of the two great writers who gave the above historic works thus making our appreciation of the roots of Tamizh and Kannada stronger.
Keywords :
Dravidian languages, Tholkkappiyam, Kavirajamarga, Sangam literature, Prakrit, Sanskrit, Tholkkappiyanar, Margakkara.
