The correct option is Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala.
Explanation
The term "Tamilakam" refers to the ancient Tamil territory as defined in Sangam literature. It represents the cultural and geographical region where the Tamil language and Sangam culture prevailed during the early historic period.Geographical Extent of Tamilakam
According to ancient texts like the Tolkappiyam, the boundaries of Tamilakam were defined as extending from Vengadam (the Tirupati hills) in the north to Kanyakumari in the south, and bounded by the oceans on the east and west.
- Kerala: The modern state of Kerala was an integral part of ancient Tamilakam. It was primarily the domain of the Chera dynasty. During the Sangam Age, the region shared the same linguistic and cultural identity as the rest of the Tamil country.
- Andhra Pradesh: The northern boundary, Vengadam (Tirupati), is located in the Chittoor district of present-day Andhra Pradesh. Consequently, the northern periphery of Tamilakam included parts of southern Andhra Pradesh.
- Tamil Nadu: This region formed the core area ruled by the Cholas and Pandyas.
Therefore, Tamilakam encompassed present-day Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of southern Andhra Pradesh.
Key Takeaway:
Ancient Tamilakam was geographically bounded by Vengadam (North) and Kanyakumari (South), covering modern-day Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and southern parts of Andhra Pradesh.