I recently visited the sacred land of Somnath for the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. This event marked a thousand years since the first attack on Somnath in 1026. People from all across India gathered there. They came together in a moment of remembrance. Their shared reverence for history, culture, and India's enduring spirit united them.
Connecting Through Shared Experiences
During the programme, I met several individuals. They had previously visited Somnath during the Saurashtra-Tamil Sangamam. They had also been to Kashi for the Kashi Tamil Sangamam. Their words of appreciation for these platforms deeply touched me. It inspired me to share some thoughts on this important subject.
A Personal Regret and a National Mission
In one of my Mann Ki Baat episodes, I mentioned a major regret. Not learning Tamil is something I have always felt. Fortunately, our government has seized several opportunities in recent years. We have worked to popularise Tamil culture across India. This effort aims to deepen the spirit of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.'
The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam stands as a prime example of this initiative. In our ethos, the concept of Sangam or confluence holds special significance. This programme celebrates the living unity of India's diverse traditions. It also honours their unique identities with great respect.
Why Kashi Was the Perfect Host
Kashi served as an ideal location for such a Sangamam. This ancient city has remained a civilisational anchor since time immemorial. For thousands of years, people from all over have journeyed to Kashi. They come in search of knowledge, meaning, and Moksha.
The connection between Kashi and Tamil culture runs very deep. Baba Vishwanath resides in Kashi, while Tamil Nadu boasts Rameswaram. Tenkasi in Tamil Nadu is famously known as Dakshin Kashi or the Kashi of the south.
Saint Kumaraguruparar Swamigal forged a lasting link between these regions. His spirituality, scholarship, and institution-building efforts strengthened this bond. Mahakavi Subramania Bharati, one of Tamil Nadu's greatest sons, found intellectual growth in Kashi. His spiritual awakening occurred there too.
It was in Kashi that his nationalism deepened. His poetry sharpened significantly. His vision of a free, united India took clearer shape during his time there. Several such instances highlight this close and enduring bond.
The Evolution of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam
The first edition of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam took place in 2022. I recall attending the inauguration programme personally. Scholars, artisans, students, farmers, writers, and professionals from Tamil Nadu travelled to Kashi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya.
Subsequent editions expanded the scale and depth of this effort. The aim was to introduce fresh themes and innovative formats. Deeper engagement ensured the Sangamam continued to evolve. It remained firmly rooted in its core spirit throughout.
In the second edition in 2023, technology played a larger role. It helped ensure language did not become a barrier for participants. The third edition focused on Indian knowledge systems. Academic discussions, cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactions saw greater participation. Thousands of people took part in these enriching events.
The Fourth Edition: Tamil Karkalam
The fourth edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam commenced on December 2, 2025. It featured a very interesting theme: Tamil Karkalam — Learn Tamil. This presented a unique opportunity for people in Kashi and other regions. They could learn the beautiful Tamil language directly.
Teachers came from Tamil Nadu to instruct eager students. The students of Kashi had a truly memorable experience. Many other special events marked this edition as well.
Tholkappiyam, the ancient Tamil literary classic, received translations. It was translated into four Indian languages and six foreign languages. A unique event called the Sage Agasthya Vehicle Expedition (SAVE) was undertaken. It travelled from Tenkasi to Kashi.
Along the way, various initiatives took place. Eye camps, health awareness camps, and digital literacy camps were held. The expedition paid homage to King Adi Veera Parakrama Pandiyan. This great Pandya ruler spread the message of cultural oneness during his reign.
Exhibitions were held at Namo Ghat. Academic sessions took place at Banaras Hindu University. Cultural programmes added colour and vibrancy to the events.
Youth Participation and Lasting Bonds
One aspect makes me particularly happy about the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam. The participation of thousands of youngsters illustrates their passion. Our Yuva Shakti shows deep interest in connecting with our roots. This platform allows them to showcase their talent and creativity. They do so through various cultural programmes with great enthusiasm.
Efforts extended beyond the Sangamam itself. The journey to Kashi was made memorable for all participants. Indian Railways operated special trains for this purpose. They transported people from Tamil Nadu to Uttar Pradesh seamlessly.
At many railway stations, particularly in Tamil Nadu, cheers greeted the travellers. The train journey featured melodious songs and engaging conversations throughout.
Heartwarming Hospitality
I must appreciate my sisters and brothers of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh. Their warmth and hospitality towards the delegates deserve special mention. Several people opened the doors of their homes for guests from Tamil Nadu.
The local administration worked round the clock. They ensured guests had a seamless and comfortable experience. As the MP from Varanasi, I feel immense pride in their efforts.
This time, the valedictory function was held in Rameswaram. The Vice-President of India, Thiru CP Radhakrishnan Ji, graced the occasion. He is himself a proud son of Tamil Nadu. He delivered a very inspiring address. It emphasised India's spiritual greatness and how such platforms deepen national integration.
Meaningful Outcomes and Future Vision
The Kashi Tamil Sangamam has delivered meaningful outcomes. It has strengthened cultural understanding significantly. It fosters academic and people-to-people exchanges effectively. Lasting bonds have been created between regions that share a civilisational ethos.
In the coming times, we want to make this platform even more vibrant. Most importantly, it has furthered the spirit of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.' This spirit has flourished for centuries through our festivals, literature, music, and art.
Our cuisine, architecture, and systems of knowledge also contribute to this unity. This time of year remains very auspicious for people across India. People enthusiastically mark various festivals like Sankranti, Uttarayan, Pongal, and Magh Bihu.
These festivals associate with the Sun, nature, and farming. They bring people together beautifully. They deepen the spirit of harmony in our society. I convey my best wishes for these festivals. I hope they continue to inspire us. May they deepen national unity through our shared heritage and collective participation.
