Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin Releases the Book “Kalaignar’s Pen” Written by Prof. Dr. R. Bakthavatsalam

The Chief Secretariat in Chennai, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru M.K. Stalin, officially released the book “Kalaignar’s Pen”, authored by Professor Dr. R. Bakthavatsalam.

The author, Prof. Dr. R. Bakthavatsalam, hails from Thiruvorur district. He served as a deputy editor at Murasoli, the DMK’s official publication, and was also associated with the Dravidar Kazhagam’s student wing. Over the past sixteen years, he has been actively organizing literary seminars at the Dravidian movement’s research centers, an effort that earned appreciation from the scholar-statesman Kalaignar.

In this book, the author elaborates on Kalaignar’s prowess both as an administrator and a literary figure. He highlights Kalaignar’s leadership, literary influence, and his lasting contributions to Tamil language and culture.

The author notes that while many leaders left their mark through speeches and governance, Kalaignar’s impact was most profoundly felt through his pen. He says, “If Kalaignar’s writings were like my breath, I would want to preserve his words as recorded audio treasures.”

The book also explores how Kalaignar continued writing even during his last days, never letting physical decline hinder his literary output. He deeply admired writers like Bernard Shaw, Nehru, and Robert Frost, and was particularly influenced when Cuban President Fidel Castro translated Kalaignar’s essays into Spanish on January 20, 2006.

The author draws comparisons between the writings of scientists and that of Kalaignar, stating that while others’ writings flow like streams, Kalaignar’s words rise like mountain peaks. He describes Kalaignar’s tongue and pen as twin swords forged in the same fire. Kalaignar had named his writing desk at the Chief Minister’s residence in Pudupet as “Anbu Pen” (Beloved Pen), and the book’s title “Kalaignar’s Pen” is inspired by that legacy.

This book celebrates not just Kalaignar’s role in Tamil Nadu politics but his influence on national politics as well. Through his pen, he reached the highest echelons of political thought and discourse in India.

Dignitaries who attended the book release event include Hon’ble Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Thiru P.K. Sekar Babu, Member of Parliament Thiru S. Jagathrakshakan, MLA Thiru Anniyur R. Siva, Hindu Endowments Advisory Board member Thiru Sukhi Sivam, and Thiru Nallathambi, Director of the Karagam Library.

Release issued by:
Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Chennai-9