Literary program and award ceremony on Tamil Heritage
Location: Tamil Sangam, Puducherry
Institute: AuroBharati
Dr Kishor Kumar Tripathy, Member Secretary, AuroBharati, Sri Aurobindo Society was invited to attend the literary program and award ceremony hosted by the Tamizh Sangam in the Union Territory of Puducherry. The occasion was graced by the presence of esteemed authors and notable personalities from the region, including Shri V Muthu, the President of the Tamizh Sangam; Shri Sundar Murugan, a distinguished scholar and Founder of ABAY NGO, Shri V. Kaliaperumal, the Director of the Department of Art and Culture; Shri P. Boopathy, the Former Deputy Director of the Government of Puducherry, along with many other scholars and writers. During this gathering, several works authored and translated by Shri Sundar Murugan and Puduvai YugaBharati were officially launched.
On this significant occasion, Dr Kishor Kumar Tripathy spoke on the exploration of the unique characteristics of Tamil Heritage, focusing on the region historically referred to as Vedapuri. This area holds considerable historical importance as the center of Vedic scholarship, the birthplace of Rishi Agastya, the founder of Siddha medicine, and the retreat of Maharshi Aurobindo, who disseminated the concepts of Integral Yoga and Divine Life. The perspectives of Maharshi Aurobindo on Tamil language and literature were also underscored, including his translation of the Kural, the unique features of ancient classical poetry, and the philosophical depth present in Tamil poetry.
Furthermore, it is acknowledged as the site of Auroville, envisioned as a model for future urban development. The discussion emphasized that Tamil heritage is intricately woven into the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of its people, contributing a distinctive knowledge system to the global community, as illustrated by the Shaiva Manuscripts. The dialogue also highlighted the exceptional integration found within the Trinity School, as demonstrated in the works of Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and SyamaSastri, alongside the Siddha Philosophy represented by figures such as Swamy Siddhananda, Bade Sahab, and Kambali Swami. Additionally, the role of Mahakavi Subramania Bharati in the freedom movement was recognized.
Emphasized on the great legacy of Tamil Heritage, which possesses a profound cultural legacy that has endured through numerous dynasties, including the Cholas, Pandyas, and Cheras, and continues to flourish in diverse manifestations both within India and among Tamil diaspora populations globally.
Tamil is an ancient language with significant historical depth and cultural importance, recognized as one of the longest-lasting classical languages in existence. The literary tradition of Tamil, particularly the Sangam literature, is esteemed as one of the oldest and most refined in the world. This body of work, composed by Tamil poets, encapsulates intricate themes of love, conflict, morality, and governance, thereby highlighting the intellectual and artistic capabilities of the Tamil people.
The language is distinguished by its unique phonetic characteristics and lyrical elegance. Tamil literature encompasses a broad spectrum of genres, ranging from classical poetry to contemporary writings, featuring notable figures such as Tiruvalluvar, whose renowned work, the Tirukkural, addresses ethical principles and virtuous living, alongside the contributions of modern Tamil authors and intellectuals. In addition to the linguistic aspect, Tamil heritage is intricately linked to various forms of art, music, dance, and religious practices.