Explore the vibrant life of the Tamil text in South India with this groundbreaking anthropological study. Saskia Kersenboom radically compares India’s rich oral traditions with Western literacy, delving into the intricate interplay of word, sound, and image. Discover how ancient South Indian practices shaped cultural understanding, offering a unique perspective distinct from the printed word. This book is essential reading for scholars and students of Tamil literature, linguistics, anthropology, and South Asian cultural studies seeking deep insights into Indian heritage and the nuances of textual traditions.