Kashi Tamil Sangamam

Recently, the Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2025 has commenced, celebrating the civilizational ties between Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu.

• About Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2025:

o Celebrates North-South Cultural Bond: Showcases the historical and civilizational ties between Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu.

o Promotes Literary Exchange: Multi-language and Braille translations of Thirukkural, Manimekalai, and other classic Tamil texts launched.

o Kanyakumari-Varanasi Tamil Sangamam Train: Flagged off by the PM.

o Knowledge Partners: Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and IIT Madras collaborating to enrich academic discussions.

• About Thirukkural: Written by Thiruvalluvar, meaning "Sacred Couplets", covers ethics, governance, love, and spirituality. Divided into three sections: Aram (Virtue), Porul (Wealth) & Inbam (Love).
• Manimekalai: A Buddhist Epic - Sequel to Silappadikaram, often termed an "anti-love plot".

• Story of Manimekalai, a dancer-turned-Buddhist nun.
• Written by Cittalai Sattanar, a Buddhist grain merchant and Tamil writer.
• Offers insights into Tamil society, culture, and Buddhism during the Sangam period.
• Historical & Cultural Connections between North and South
• Brahmanda Purana Reference: King Dasharath of Ayodhya visited Kanchipuram to seek blessings from Goddess Amba Kamakshi.
• 15th-century Link: King Parakrama Pandya of Madurai built the Shiva temple in Sivakasi, inspired by Kashi’s sacredness.
• Pandyas’ Contribution: Constructed Kasi Viswanathar Temple in Tenkasi, reflecting their spiritual ties with Kashi.
• Silk Trade Connection: Varanasi and Kanchipuram, both renowned for silk weaving, facilitated cultural exchanges.