Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the fourth edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS) at Namo Ghat in Varanasi on Tuesday, framing the event as a pivotal step in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for 'One India, Best India'. The month-long confluence aims to forge stronger cultural, economic, and social ties between North and South India.
A Grand Cultural and Spiritual Confluence
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, CM Adityanath expressed his hopes for a pleasant and enriching experience for the delegates traveling from Tamil Nadu to the historic cities of Kashi (Varanasi), Prayagraj, and Ayodhya. He emphasized that this year's theme, 'Learn Tamil-Tamil Karkalam', would significantly bolster the national resolve for unity under PM Modi's guidance.
The significance of the event was further amplified by a car rally that commenced from Tenkasi in Tamil Nadu. This rally is set to cover an impressive 2,000 kilometres by road before reaching its destination in Kashi, symbolizing the enduring connection between the two regions.
Leaders Highlight Language and Cultural Renaissance
Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi also addressed the gathering, applauding Prime Minister Modi's dedicated efforts to bring the Tamil language to the global forefront. He noted that the Kashi Tamil Sangamam journey began in this very spirit. Governor Ravi described the event as "a clarion call for the renaissance of our culture," proudly highlighting Tamil as India's pride.
He pointed to academic institutions like Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Guwahati University, where education is imparted in Tamil, as examples of the language's deep-rooted and widespread influence. Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, L Murugan, was also present and spoke at the ceremony.
An Experiential Journey for Tamil Nadu Delegates
This edition of the Sangamam will see the participation of more than 1,400 representatives from Tamil Nadu, who will arrive in Kashi in different batches throughout the month. The first batch has already commenced its experiential tour across Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya.
The meticulously planned itinerary is designed to provide a deep and enriching engagement with the heritage and knowledge traditions of the region. It includes visits to:
- Universities and knowledge institutions
- Ancient temples and heritage sites
- Traditional craft clusters
The delegates will also have meaningful interactions with local scholars, students, artisans, and community members. Each stop on the tour promises a layered experience, functioning both as a learning expedition and a profound cultural homecoming.
Collaborative Effort for National Integration
The Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 is being organized by the Union Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh government. The initiative boasts participation from ten central ministries, including Railways, Culture, Tourism, Textiles, and Youth Affairs & Sports.
Adding substantial academic heft to the program are the knowledge partners, IIT Madras and Banaras Hindu University (BHU). The event welcomes a diverse array of participants, including students, teachers, writers, media professionals, agricultural practitioners, women leaders, professionals, artisans, and spiritual scholars, making it a truly multifaceted national integration project.
