In the context of the early historic Tamil society, what was the specific role assigned to the social group known as 'Panar'?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Panar were a prominent community of itinerant bards, musicians, and minstrel poets during the Sangam age who traveled from one chieftain's court to another composing and performing songs recounting acts of valor and generosity. They played an integral cultural role in transmitting oral literature and fostering patronage between kings and poets. Other mercantile groups handled overseas commerce while administrative officials managed revenue collection. The ancient Tamil social fabric recognized occupational specialization across distinct communities.