THIRUVALLUVAR’S LEGACY AND THE TIRUKKURAL

Why in the news?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the installation of a Thiruvalluvar statue in Cergy, France, symbolising cultural ties during his visit, along with a new Indian consulate in Marseille.

source:newsdrum

About establishment of Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre in Singapore:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the establishment of India’s first-ever Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre in Singapore to enhance cultural ties.
  • An Invest India office will also be set up in Singapore to promote trade and investment.
  • Modi held a productive meeting with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, elevating bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

PM Modi’s Tribute in France:

  • During his visit to France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the installation of a Thiruvalluvar statue in Cergy, France.
  • This statue symbolises the deep cultural ties between India and France.
  • PM Modi also announced the opening of a new Indian consulate in Marseille, strengthening diplomatic relations.

Global and National Recognition:

  • Thiruvalluvar’s wisdom transcends regional boundaries, earning him respect across the world.
  • A notable 133-foot statue in Kanyakumari, India, stands as a tribute to his legacy, symbolising the 133 chapters of the Tirukkural.
  • Statues of Thiruvalluvar can be found in various parts of India, signifying his lasting influence on Tamil culture and literature.
Thiruvalluvar: Renowned Tamil Poet and Philosopher, a Universal Guide to Life

  • Thiruvalluvar, a revered Tamil poet-philosopher, , lived during the Sangam period, known for its ancient Tamil literary academy. is believed to have lived between the 4th century BCE and the 1st century CE.
  • Thiruvalluvar is best known for authoring the Tirukkural, a revered ancient Tamil text.
  • Valluvar’s Thirukkural is revered in Tamil culture, known by nine names, including Uttaravedam, Teyvanul, and Potumarai.
  • He authored the Tirukkural, a collection of 1,330 couplets divided into three sections: Aram (virtue), Porul (wealth), and Inbam (love).
  • These couplets offer moral and ethical guidance on topics such as personal behaviour, leadership, and family life.
  • The Tirukkural is considered a universal guide, promoting values like integrity, compassion, and self-discipline.

Enduring Legacy and Cultural Influence:

  • Thiruvalluvar’s wisdom is respected across India and globally for promoting values like integrity, compassion, and self-discipline.
  • His work remains influential in Tamil culture and is considered a cornerstone of Tamil literature.
  • Thiruvalluvar Day is observed in January during Pongal.
  • Statues of Thiruvalluvar are located in various parts of India, with a notable 133-foot statue in Kanyakumari, symbolising the 133 chapters of the Tirukkural, honouring his lasting legacy.