Tolkappiyam refers to four castes namely arasar, anthanar, vanigar and vellalar.
Consider the following about the roles of thesecastes.
1. The ruling class was called arasar.
2. Anthanars were the untouchables.
3. Vanigars were responsible for protecting the empire.
4. The vellalas were priests.
Explanation:
This division of caste refers to the Sangam age.
Statement 2: Anthanars played a significant role in the Sangam polity and religion. Statement 3 and 4: Vanigars carried on trade and commerce. The vellalas were agriculturists.
Other tribal groups like Parathavar, Panar, Eyinar, Kadambar, Maravar and Pulaiyar were also found in the Sangam society. Ancient primitive tribes like Thodas, Irulas, Nagas and Vedars lived in this period.