Tamil scholars should take effective steps to propagate great Tamil works such as Silappathikaram among the younger generation, said Thavathiru Ponnambala Adigalar, head of the Kundrakkudi Mutt.
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The present day youth are unfortunately not aware of these great literary works. The presence of computers, mobile phones and social media has totally changed their lifestyle. The day-to-day functioning of the youth will witness a welcome change, if they deeply go through Silappathikaram, Thavathiru Adigalar said while speaking at the Silappathikara Peruvizha here on Sunday.
The day-long festival was brought up by Silamboli Sellappan Silappathikaram Trust.
Elango Adigal through Silappathikaram has only proved to the world that truth alone will triumph. He lauded Kannagi for leading a lifestyle as per the wishes of her husband.
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Justice V. Ramasubramanian, Judge, Madras High Court, who spoke on the topic ‘Silambin Vazhakkum Theerpum’ said that no one should be punished without giving an opportunity to prove his point of view.
Veteran political leader and former MP T. M. Kaliannan was selected for the ‘Elango award’. Justice Ramasubramanian handed over the award to his son Rajeswaran.
Mr. Kaliannan, in his acceptance speech, which was telecast through video conferencing pleaded for setting up Kannagi Kottam in Tiruchengode, where Kannagi festival is being held for the past six decades.
Vaiko, MDMK leader, said that the importance of coastal town of Kaveripoompattinam has been well explained in Silappathikaram. Unfortunately, no proper research was done to bring out the hidden details about this ancient town.
The Silappathikaram and other Tamil literary works are treasure houses of knowledge and no other society in the world can lay a claim for such great authentic works ever.
Mr. Vaiko honoured two college students, Vinitha and K. Gopinath with ‘Ilaiya Silamboli’ awards.
Erode Tamizhanban, Tamil scholar, favoured creation of more movements for propagating the importance of Silappathikaram among world community.
Prof. T. Gnanasundaram favoured holding of such functions for propagating the uniqueness of Silappathikaram and for attracting the youths towards Tamil language and literature. Such programmes will go a long way in creating awareness about the Tamil works among the entire society, he said.
The book titled ‘Sithira Silambin Sidariya Paralgal’ authored by Prof. Manimekalai Pushparaj was released by Tamil scholar Erode Tamilanban.
Palani G. Periasamy, Chairman, PGP Group of Educational Institutions, presided over the function and Silamboli Sellappan, Tamil scholar, also spoke.
A vazhakkadu manram also formed part of the festival and T. Rajagopalan was the moderator.