On Thiruvalluvar Day, PM Modi Appeals to Read Classic Tamil Text Tirukkural

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday appealed to citizens across India to read the Tirukkural in honor of Thiruvalluvar Day, which coincides with the Pongal festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu. The day commemorates the life and work of the great Tamil philosopher-poet Thiruvalluvar, whose writings have guided generations with profound insights on ethics, governance, personal virtue, and societal harmony. Modi’s appeal highlighted the enduring relevance of Thiruvalluvar’s teachings in contemporary life.

In a message shared on X, Modi paid tribute to Thiruvalluvar, describing him as a symbol of Tamil culture and intellectual excellence. “Today, on Thiruvalluvar Day, we pay homage to the versatile Thiruvalluvar, whose works and ideals inspire innumerable people,” the prime minister wrote. He emphasized that Thiruvalluvar’s vision of a just and compassionate society continues to resonate today, offering guidance not only on personal conduct but also on social and civic responsibilities.

The prime minister encouraged people to read the Tirukkural, calling it a remarkable work that encapsulates Thiruvalluvar’s wisdom. “He believed in a society that is harmonious and compassionate. He personifies the best of Tamil culture. I urge you all to read the Tirukkural, which gives a glimpse of the outstanding intellect of the great Thiruvalluvar,” Modi said. By promoting engagement with the classic text, Modi aimed to connect modern readers with centuries-old ideas on morality, ethics, and leadership.

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Thiruvalluvar Day is celebrated annually alongside Pongal, one of Tamil Nadu’s most important harvest festivals, which marks the start of the Tamil month of Thai. The alignment of these celebrations underscores the deep connection between Tamil culture, literature, and traditions. The Tirukkural, with its 1,330 couplets, addresses a wide range of subjects, including family life, governance, friendship, morality, and spirituality, making it a timeless guide for personal and social conduct.

Over the years, Thiruvalluvar’s work has gained international recognition, with translations available in multiple languages, reflecting the universal nature of his philosophical and ethical insights. Modi’s call to read the Tirukkural comes as part of a broader effort to promote Indian literary heritage and encourage citizens to draw inspiration from classical texts.

By celebrating Thiruvalluvar Day and emphasizing the significance of the Tirukkural, Modi highlighted the enduring legacy of the Tamil poet-philosopher. The prime minister’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of moral and ethical guidance in daily life, encouraging readers to explore the values of compassion, wisdom, and civic responsibility that Thiruvalluvar championed centuries ago.

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