Consider the following statements regarding the ancient Chera administration and society as recorded in Sangam literature: 1. The primary economic mainstay of the Chera country was the export of black pepper, often called 'Yavaneeyaka' in Sanskrit due to its high demand by Roman merchants. 2. The Chera monarchs prominently used the 'bow and arrow' as their royal emblem on their coins and seals. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Sangam literature confirms that Roman merchants traded extensively for black pepper from the Chera kingdom, earning it the Sanskrit designation yavaneeyaka due to its origin in western trade networks. The bow and arrow served as the undisputed dynastic symbol of the Chera rulers, frequently appearing on ancient coins and royal signets. Archaeological excavations at sites like Pattanam have further corroborated the vibrant maritime commerce between the ancient Tamilakam polities and the Mediterranean world. This overseas trade generated immense economic prosperity and bullion inflows into the ancient Chera heartland.