New Delhi, March 2: The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, on Sunday released 16 significant publications celebrating Tamil heritage, culture, philosophy, and architecture at Uparashtrapati Bhavan, underscoring India’s civilizational unity despite linguistic diversity.
Addressing scholars, writers and dignitaries present at the ceremony, the Vice-President described the publications as reflections of the depth and diversity of Tamil civilization. He said they highlight temple traditions, literature, philosophy, music, science, and social reform rooted in centuries of intellectual continuity.
Temple Traditions and Civilizational Continuity
The publications include works on Rameswaram, revered as a sacred centre symbolising spiritual unity between North and South India. Books on Sri Ramanuja’s philosophy, the historic Nadukal tradition, and the ancient trade hub of Arikamedu also form part of the collection.
Literary treasures such as Manimekalai and studies on Mahavidwan Meenakshi Sundaram Pillai have been included, alongside volumes documenting Bhakti literature of the Nayanmars and Alwars. Architectural marvels like the Meenakshi Amman Temple and the Brihadeesvara Temple are also explored in detail.
The Vice-President stressed that Indian temples are not merely places of worship but centres of art, astronomy, mathematics, music, and social organisation. He noted that India’s ancestors excelled in philosophy and science while nurturing strong community structures.
Unity in Diversity: “One Dharma”
Reaffirming India’s cultural unity, Shri Radhakrishnan said Bharat may be home to many languages, religions, and political ideologies, but its civilizational soul remains one. He described India as culturally united by a shared Dharma.
Quoting ideals such as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and the Tamil maxim “Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelir,” he said these philosophies reflect the same universal spirit. He observed that epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata organically spread across villages not through imposition but through shared spiritual ethos.
PM Modi’s Role in Promoting Tamil Globally
The Vice-President appreciated Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for consistently celebrating Tamil heritage on global platforms. He noted the Prime Minister’s frequent references to Thirukkural and Subramania Bharati during international engagements.
He recalled the announcement of establishing a Thiruvalluvar Chair at a Malaysian university and lauded initiatives such as the Kashi Tamil Sangamam as symbols of national integration.
According to him, no other leader has so consistently highlighted the greatness of the Tamil language worldwide.
Tribute to Freedom Fighters
The Vice-President expressed pride that the sacrifices of Tamil freedom fighters such as Pulithevar, Velu Nachiyar, Veerapandiya Kattabomman, Ondiveeran, Thiruppur Kumaran, Theeran Chinnamalai, Kuyili, Sundaralinganar, and the Marudhu Brothers are now receiving wider national recognition.
He said honouring such figures strengthens India’s collective memory and deepens respect for regional contributions to the freedom movement.
Reading as a Daily Discipline
In a direct appeal to young Indians, Shri Radhakrishnan urged them to dedicate at least one hour every day to reading books. In a rapidly evolving technological era, he said, youth need both strong cultural roots and aspirational wings.
Describing the newly released volumes as guiding lights for the younger generation, he emphasized that economic growth under the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 must go hand in hand with cultural preservation.
The Vice-President also released a book on Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Tamil, English, and Hindi. Referring to the immortal words “Vande Mataram,” he said the song inspired countless freedom fighters and carried the fragrance and strength of the nation.
Senior Leaders Present
Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Railways and Electronics & IT Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of State Dr. L. Murugan, Secretary to the Vice-President Shri Amit Khare, and Principal Director General of Publications Division Shri Bhupendra Kainthola attended the event.
As India marches toward its centenary of Independence, the Vice-President concluded, cultural strength must remain the foundation of national progress.
