Tamil Nadu to Honor Pioneer of Pure Tamil Movement, Maraimalai Adigal, on His 149th Birth Anniversary

In commemoration of the legendary Tamil scholar and reformist Maraimalai Adigal, a floral tribute will be paid at his statue in Thamizhvur, Chengalpattu District, on Tuesday, 15th July 2025 at 10:00 AM. This event, organized by the Department of Tamil Development, will mark the 149th birth anniversary of the leader of the Pure Tamil Movement (Thanithamizh Iyakkam).

Maraimalai Adigal is regarded as a titan of Tamil scholarship and a key figure in the evolution of modern Tamil identity. He was not only a scholar and reformer but also a fierce proponent of the “Pure Tamil Movement,” advocating for the use of Tamil free of Sanskrit influence. Fluent in Tamil, English, and Sanskrit, Adigal’s work spanned language, literature, spirituality, and social reform.

Known for his clarity of thought and eloquence, Maraimalai Adigal authored several significant works in pure Tamil, delivered powerful lectures in conferences across Tamil Nadu, and inspired generations of Tamil scholars. His devotion to Tamil’s purity laid the foundation for one of the most significant literary and cultural movements in the state.

Born on 15th July 1876 in Nagapattinam, he served as a Tamil professor at Christian College in Chennai, teaching students through simple yet profound methods. His thoughtful essays were widely published in journals such as Dravida Munnetra, Sasthura Gnapanam, Neethi Vilakkam, and Gnanabhagam.

His literary contributions include:

• Research essays for classics like Tirunetru Pathigam and Moolai Pattu
• Poetic works such as Tiruchavattriyur Murugan Mummanik Kovai and Poomsundara Kanchiyak Kappiyam
• Children’s literature in simple Tamil
• Novels like Kumudhavalli alias Naganada Rani and Pagathi Enmol Kadithangal
• Translations of Sanskrit epics, including Raghuvamsa Mahakavyam and Ambikapathi Amaravati, into Tamil prose.

Through the Tamil Development Department, the Tamil Nadu Government has instituted the “Pure Tamil Movement Award” in his name, which has been conferred upon five distinguished Tamil scholars to date.

On 15th July 2025, the Government of Tamil Nadu will organize a commemorative event at his ancestral home in Thamizhvur, Chengalpattu District, where his statue has been installed. The event will be attended by:

• Hon’ble Minister for Tamil Development
• Members of Parliament and Legislative Assembly
• Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Tambaram Corporation
• Chengalpattu District Collector
• Senior Government Officials
• Eminent Tamil scholars

The Department of Tamil Development has made necessary arrangements for this respectful tribute to the great scholar.

Issued by:
Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Chennai – 9