The Prime Minister recently paid homage to Thiruvalluvar on the commemoration of Thiruvalluvar Day (15th January 2021), an event held annually to mark the birth anniversary of the distinguished Tamil poet and philosopher. This occasion maintains significance as it celebrates the life and contributions of a figure who has left a significant impact on Tamil literature and philosophy.
Understanding Thiruvalluvar Day
Thiruvalluvar Day was first celebrated on May 17-18, 1935. In modern times, this day is usually marked either on the 15th or 16th of January in Tamil Nadu and is integrated into the grandeur of Pongal celebrations. The day serves as an opportunity for individuals to pay tribute to Thiruvalluvar and reflect on his insightful teachings.
Delving into the Life and Work of Thiruvalluvar
Regarded as Valluvar, Thiruvalluvar was a renowned Tamil poet-saint who is esteemed as a cultural and moral emblem for Tamils across various castes and religious divisions. The exact era when he lived remains a topic of discussion, as does his religious identity. Some scholars place him in the third or fourth century, while others suggest the eighth or ninth. The speculations regarding his religious affiliation are also varied, with some identifying him as a Hindu, others linking him to Jainism, and Dravidian groups recognizing him as a saint due to his dismissal of the caste system.
Thiruvalluvar’s seminal work is the Thirukkural, a vital contribution to Tamil literature. It comprises 1330 couplets or kurals, encompassing teachings on virtue, wealth, and love. The text is divided into three parts, each focusing on dharma, artha, and kama.
Recognizing the Social Significance of Thiruvalluvar
The ubiquitous influence of Thiruvalluvar is evident in the several statues and institutions that have been established in his honor. In 2009, a statue of the legendary Tamil poet was unveiled in Ulsoor, near Bengaluru. The School of Oriental and African Studies in Russell Square, London, also hosts a statue of Valluvar. One of the most notable tributes to Thiruvalluvar is a 133-foot high statue erected at Kanyakumari.
In October 2002, the Government of Tamil Nadu established the Thiruvalluvar University in Vellore district, strengthening his legacy further. The year 1976 saw the construction of a temple-memorial called Valluvar Kotam in Chennai, which is one of Asia’s largest auditoriums. Notably, in the early 16th century, a temple dedicated to Thiruvalluvar was built within the Ekambareswarar temple complex in Mylapore, Chennai, mirroring the deep-rooted respect for the poet-saint.
These landmarks and institutions play considerable roles in reflecting the societal value of Thiruvalluvar, helping people remember and appreciate his many contributions to Tamil literature and philosophy.