The Three Types of Assemblies Functioning in the Southern Kingdoms

The Southern kingdoms of India during the medieval period had a well-established system of governance that included various types of assemblies. These assemblies played a crucial role in decision-making, law enforcement, and social administration. Let's delve into the details of the three types of assemblies functioning in the Southern kingdoms:

1. Manne
The Manne assembly was the most prominent and powerful assembly in the Southern kingdoms. It consisted of representatives from the four major groups of society: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. The primary function of the Manne was to discuss and deliberate on matters related to governance, lawmaking, and policy decisions. It acted as a legislative body responsible for enacting laws and regulations that governed the society. The members of the Manne were selected based on their experience, knowledge, and reputation. They were considered the custodians of justice and were responsible for maintaining law and order.

2. Urar
The Urar assembly was a village-level assembly that functioned as a local self-government system. It comprised the heads of families and influential members of the community. The Urar assembly focused on the administration of the village, resolving local disputes, and managing the welfare of the community. It played a vital role in maintaining social harmony and ensuring the well-being of the villagers. The decisions taken by the Urar assembly were based on discussions and consensus among its members. It acted as a forum for the villagers to voice their concerns and opinions.

3. Nagara Sabha
The Nagara Sabha assembly was a city-level assembly that governed the urban centers of the Southern kingdoms. It consisted of representatives from various professions, traders, guild leaders, and influential citizens. The Nagara Sabha played a crucial role in urban planning, trade regulations, and economic development. It had the authority to impose taxes, maintain public infrastructure, and enforce commercial laws. The assembly members were elected or nominated based on their expertise and contribution to the city's welfare. The Nagara Sabha also acted as a platform for addressing the grievances of the city dwellers and resolving conflicts.

Overall, the three types of assemblies functioning in the Southern kingdoms had distinct roles and responsibilities. While the Manne assembly focused on legislative matters, the Urar assembly catered to the needs of the village community, and the Nagara Sabha governed the urban centers. These assemblies formed the backbone of the governance system and played a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political landscape of the Southern kingdoms during the medieval period.

Three assemblies in the southern kingdoms are:The Sabha , which is the assemblies of brahmin land owners. Tt functioned by sub committees. Looked after irrigation, agriculture operations, making roads, local temple etc.The Ur , which is the assemblies found in areas where the land owners were not brahmins .It was controlled by rich and powerful land owners.The Nagaram , it was an organisation of merchants.It was controlled by rich and powerful merchants.