Tamil is a classical language that holds a rich cultural and historical heritage. It is primarily spoken in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, as well as in regions of Sri Lanka, Singapore, and among the Tamil diaspora worldwide. With roots dating back over 2,000 years, Tamil boasts one of the oldest written traditions in the world.

Renowned for its unique phonological system and intricate grammar, Tamil is a Dravidian language, distinct from the Indo-European language family. It has a vibrant literary tradition, with its earliest known literature dating to the Sangam period (300 BCE to 300 CE). The language flourished during various dynasties and empires, including the Cholas, Pallavas, and Pandiyas, contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.

Tamil literature encompasses a vast range of literary forms, including poetry, epics, and prose, with notable works like “Silappadikaram” and “Tirukkural” earning global acclaim for their depth and wisdom.

Article outline

• Part 1: 30 Tamil language quiz questions & answers
• Part 2: Download Tamil language questions & answers for free
• Part 3: Free online quiz creator – OnlineExamMaker

Part 1: 30 Tamil language quiz questions & answers

1. Which language family does Tamil belong to?
a) Indo-European
b) Dravidian
c) Austronesian
d) Sino-Tibetan
Answer: b) Dravidian

2. What is the approximate age of the Tamil language?
a) 1,000 years
b) 2,000 years
c) 5,000 years
d) 10,000 years
Answer: b) 2,000 years

3. In which Indian state is Tamil the primary language spoken?
a) Kerala
b) Karnataka
c) Tamil Nadu
d) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: c) Tamil Nadu

4. Which ancient period in Tamil history is known for its literature and poetry?
a) Vedic period
b) Gupta period
c) Sangam period
d) Mughal period
Answer: c) Sangam period

5. What is the script used to write the Tamil language?
a) Devanagari
b) Tamil script
c) Brahmi script
d) Arabic script
Answer: b) Tamil script

6. Which famous Tamil epic portrays the story of Kannagi, a virtuous woman seeking justice?
a) Ramayana
b) Mahabharata
c) Silappadikaram
d) Tirukkural
Answer: c) Silappadikaram

7. What is the meaning of the word “Tamil”?
a) Beautiful language
b) Divine language
c) Ancient language
d) Sweet language
Answer: b) Divine language

8. How many letters are there in the Tamil alphabet?
a) 24
b) 36
c) 52
d) 64
Answer: b) 36

9. Who composed the famous Tamil literary work “Tirukkural”?
a) Kalidasa
b) Valmiki
c) Thiruvalluvar
d) Adi Shankaracharya
Answer: c) Thiruvalluvar

10. What is the significance of “Sangam” in Tamil literature?
a) It means “temple” in Tamil.
b) It refers to ancient Tamil academies of poets and scholars.
c) It signifies the monsoon season in Tamil Nadu.
d) It denotes the script used in Tamil inscriptions.
Answer: b) It refers to ancient Tamil academies of poets and scholars.

Part 2: Download Tamil language questions & answers for free

11. Which classical language was the first to be recognized by the Government of India?
a) Sanskrit
b) Tamil
c) Telugu
d) Kannada
Answer: b) Tamil

12. What is the traditional Tamil New Year festival called?
a) Pongal
b) Diwali
c) Navratri
d) Tamil Puthandu
Answer: d) Tamil Puthandu

13. Which Tamil dynasty was known for its maritime trade and cultural achievements?
a) Cholas
b) Pallavas
c) Pandiyas
d) Mauryas
Answer: a) Cholas

14. Which Tamil scholar is often referred to as the “Father of Tamil language”?
a) Thiruvalluvar
b) Kambar
c) Agastya
d) Avvaiyar
Answer: c) Agastya

15. What type of writing system is the Tamil script classified as?
a) Logographic
b) Alphabetic
c) Syllabic
d) Abjad
Answer: c) Syllabic

16. Which of the following is NOT a Dravidian language?
a) Tamil
b) Telugu
c) Malayalam
d) Hindi
Answer: d) Hindi

17. What is the traditional form of Tamil theater called?
a) Koothu
b) Bharatanatyam
c) Kathakali
d) Odissi
Answer: a) Koothu

18. In which century did the Tamil script evolve?
a) 2nd century BCE
b) 5th century BCE
c) 1st century CE
d) 3rd century CE
Answer: a) 2nd century BCE

19. Which UNESCO world heritage site in Tamil Nadu contains ancient Tamil inscriptions?
a) Meenakshi Amman Temple
b) Brihadeeswarar Temple
c) Gangaikonda Cholapuram
d) Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram)
Answer: d) Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram)

20. Which Tamil month is known for celebrating the harvest festival of Pongal?
a) Chaitra
b) Margazhi
c) Thai
d) Aadi
Answer: c) Thai

Part 3: Free online quiz maker – OnlineExamMaker

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