Chief Minister Stalin Praises Kamban’s Legacy, Honours Tamil Scholars

Chennai, Aug 2025 – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin today attended the valedictory ceremony of the Chennai Kamban Kazhagam’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations, held at the Anna Centenary Library. The event was presided over by Dravida Azhvar T. Sekarathchakkan, Member of Parliament and long-time supporter of the Kazhagam.

In his address, Stalin recalled Tamil Nadu’s deep connection with poet Kamban, whose Tamil rendition of the Ramayana infused the northern epic with the fragrance of Tamil soil. He drew parallels between Kamban’s vision and the ideals of social harmony upheld by the Dravidian movement, which historically challenged the Valmiki Ramayana’s portrayal and celebrated Kamban’s Tamil richness.

The Chief Minister congratulated this year’s awardees, including poet laureate Vairamuthu (Kavichakravarthi Kamban Award), Prof. Gnyanasundaram, Elangovan Elaniyappan, Dr. Saradha Nambi Arooran, orator Suki Sivam, and Ilangai Seiyuraj, praising their contribution to Tamil literature and culture.

He also recalled the participation of former Chief Minister Kalaignar Karunanidhi in past Kamban festivals, noting his famous remark: “Do not be surprised that I have come here—be surprised at those who brought me here.” Stalin said he attended today’s function both for Kamban’s Tamil and for Sekarathchakkan’s friendship.

Quoting Kamban’s lines on unity—“Rivers may flow separately but meet in the sea; gods may be many but worship is one”—Stalin emphasized Tamil Nadu’s position as a socially advanced and harmonious state. He called this vision the very dream Kamban had for a prosperous land.

Concluding his speech, the Chief Minister expressed hope that such festivals would not only promote literature but also inspire younger generations to embrace Tamil heritage and uphold social unity.

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