Prime Minister Modi Unveils Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2023, Strengthening Cultural Bonds

In a momentous event today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2023 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The Prime Minister marked the occasion by flagging off the Kanyakumari – Varanasi Tamil Sangamam train, symbolizing the cultural bridge between the two regions. Additionally, he launched multi-language and Braille translations of revered Tamil literary works such as Thirukkural, Manimekalai, and others.

The Kashi Tamil Sangamam aims to celebrate, reaffirm, and rediscover the profound connections between Tamil Nadu and Kashi, two ancient seats of learning in India. The event underscores the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat,’ emphasizing the unity in diversity that defines the nation.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi welcomed attendees as family members, highlighting the emotional and creative relations between Kashi and Tamil Nadu. Drawing parallels between Madurai Meenakshi and Kashi Vishalakshi, he expressed confidence in Kashi’s hospitality, ensuring that participants would carry back cultural richness, culinary delights, and lasting memories.

Prime Minister Modi also spotlighted the integration of Artificial Intelligence, enabling real-time translation of his speech into Tamil—a pioneering move for future events. The multi-faceted event included the flagging off of the Kanyakumari – Varanasi Tamil Sangamam train, a demonstration of India’s commitment to fostering inter-state connections.

Quoting Subramania Bharathi, the Prime Minister noted that the vibrations of Kashi-Tamil Sangamam resonate not only throughout the country but also globally. He highlighted the substantial participation of diverse individuals, including heads of mutts, students, artists, authors, craftsmen, and professionals, contributing to the success of Kashi Tamil Sangamam.

The Prime Minister commended the joint initiative by Banaras Hindu University and IIT Chennai, providing online support to Varanasi students in Science and Mathematics under the Vidya Shakti Initiative. These initiatives serve as testimony to the emotional and creative bonds between Kashi and Tamil Nadu.

Expressing the sentiment that “Kashi Tamil Sangamam furthers the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat,'” Prime Minister Modi cited the success of similar initiatives, such as Kashi Telugu Sangamam and Saurashtra Kashi Sangamam. He acknowledged the evolving tradition of celebrating statehood days across Raj Bhavans, strengthening the spirit of unity in diversity.

Reflecting on India’s identity, the Prime Minister emphasized that the nation’s diversity is rooted in spiritual beliefs, shaped by saints like Adi Shankaracharya and Ramanuja. He underscored the role of yatras in preserving India’s cultural heritage, making it eternal and unwavering.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence that the confluence of Kashi – Tamil Sangamam will continue to empower India’s heritage and reinforce the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat.’ The event witnessed the presence of Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Ministers of State, Dr L Murugan, and other dignitaries.

The Prime Minister wished all visitors a pleasant stay in Kashi and extended gratitude to renowned singer Shriram for captivating the audience with his performance.