PM Modi Hails Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, Celebrates Pongal
PM Modi celebrates Pongal and praises the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam initiative.
Photo by Belinda Fewings
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Tamil culture as a shared heritage and praised the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam initiative for strengthening cultural understanding and fostering exchanges. He recounted his regret for not learning Tamil and highlighted government programs to popularize Tamil culture.
The Prime Minister also joined Pongal celebrations, emphasizing the festival's global significance and its embodiment of gratitude towards farmers and nature. He noted Tamil culture's influence on India's progress and extended wishes for other festivals like Lohri and Makar Sankranti.
Key Facts
Kashi-Tamil Sangamam: Promotes cultural unity
PM's regret: Not learning Tamil
Pongal: Global festival of gratitude
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper I: Art and Culture, History
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Government policies and interventions
Potential question types: Statement-based, matching, analytical
Visual Insights
Kashi-Tamil Sangamam: Connecting Cultures
Map highlighting the geographical connection between Varanasi (Kashi) and Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the cultural exchange and integration fostered by the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam initiative.
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More Information
Background
The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam draws inspiration from the age-old cultural and intellectual exchange between Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu. Historically, both regions have been significant centers of learning, philosophy, and art. The initiative seeks to rediscover and celebrate these ancient connections.
The Chola dynasty, particularly during the reigns of Rajaraja I and Rajendra I, had significant maritime and cultural influence extending to Southeast Asia, showcasing the historical dynamism of Tamil culture. The Bhakti movement, which originated in South India, also played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of North India, including Kashi, fostering a sense of shared spiritual heritage. The initiative also aims to highlight the contributions of Tamil scholars and philosophers to Indian thought and civilization.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on promoting and preserving regional cultures and languages in India. The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the importance of multilingualism and the integration of local knowledge into the curriculum. The government has also launched initiatives to translate literary works from different Indian languages to promote cross-cultural understanding.
Furthermore, there's been an increase in cultural festivals and events showcasing the diversity of Indian traditions. The establishment of centers for classical languages and the promotion of research in these languages are also significant developments. The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam is part of this broader effort to strengthen cultural ties and promote national unity through the celebration of India's diverse heritage.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the historical context of cultural exchange between Kashi and Tamil Nadu: 1. The Chola dynasty's maritime influence facilitated cultural exchange between South India and Southeast Asia, indirectly impacting Kashi. 2. The Bhakti movement, originating in South India, significantly influenced the spiritual landscape of North India, including Kashi. 3. The Sangam literature provides direct evidence of trade and cultural interactions between Kashi and Tamilakam. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Chola dynasty's influence extended to Southeast Asia, indirectly impacting Kashi through trade and cultural diffusion. The Bhakti movement significantly influenced North India. Statement 3 is incorrect because Sangam literature primarily focuses on the Tamil region and doesn't provide direct evidence of interactions with Kashi.
2. Which of the following is NOT a stated objective of initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam?
- A.Strengthening cultural understanding and fostering exchanges between different regions of India.
- B.Promoting national unity through the celebration of India's diverse heritage.
- C.Establishing a uniform cultural identity across the country.
- D.Rediscovering and celebrating ancient connections between different regions.
Show Answer
Answer: C
The primary objective of such initiatives is to celebrate diversity and foster understanding, not to establish a uniform cultural identity. Promoting a uniform identity would contradict the spirit of celebrating diverse heritage.
3. In the context of promoting regional languages and cultures, consider the following statements regarding the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020: 1. NEP 2020 emphasizes the importance of multilingualism. 2. NEP 2020 advocates for the exclusive use of Hindi as the medium of instruction in all schools. 3. NEP 2020 promotes the integration of local knowledge into the curriculum. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: C
Statements 1 and 3 are correct. NEP 2020 emphasizes multilingualism and the integration of local knowledge. Statement 2 is incorrect as NEP 2020 does not advocate for the exclusive use of Hindi.