Nirmala Lakshman, Chairperson of The Hindu Group, captivated audiences at the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters 2025 with her conversation about her book “The Tamils – A Portrait of a Community.” She explored the profound history, rich cultural heritage, and values of the Tamil community, illustrating how their identity has been both a product of and a contributor to centuries of heritage, including poetry and social movements.
In her engaging dialogue with journalist Nirmala Govindarajan, Lakshman expressed profound respect for the Tamil Sangam period, emphasizing its vital influence on Tamil literature. During this era, a deep connection to the land was evident in the diverse lifestyles mirroring Tamil Nadu’s five distinct landscapes, including the mountain regions of kurinji and the coastal areas of neythal.
The poetry from the Sangam age continues to resonate in Tamil culture, symbolized by the enchanting jasmine that serves as an emblem of Tamil Nadu. Lakshman noted, “The whole landscape flowed into the blood of the Tamils and has persisted in their poetry, culture, writing, and literature, right up to the present day.” This poetic legacy remains influential, echoing in modern speeches and artistic expressions alike.
Ms. Lakshman highlighted the strong bond Tamils maintain with their roots, regardless of their location. She illustrated this connection with examples of Tamil poets thriving globally, demonstrating how Tamils carry their enduring cultural and social values with them. Despite adjusting to new environments, their heritage remains intricately woven into their identities.
Discussing the Tamil diaspora’s resilience, Lakshman noted its extensive reach across the globe, from Sri Lanka to Canada. “Tamils take their cultural legacy with them wherever they go,” she stated, showcasing how traditions endure even as communities adapt to new surroundings.
Yet, Lakshman did not shy away from acknowledging challenges faced by Tamil society. She pointed out that despite the advancements made by reformers and movements, caste divisions still plague many regions. “Dalits still face violence and discrimination in many parts of Tamil Nadu,” she lamented, calling for urgent confrontation of these societal issues.
In response to a question regarding Tamil Muslims, she elaborated on their unique identity while highlighting how, despite their faith, they remain intrinsically linked to Tamil heritage—evident in the design of early mosques that reflect Dravidian architectural styles, symbolizing the seamless intertwining of communities within Tamil culture.
At the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters 2025, Nirmala Lakshman explored the essence of Tamil culture, focusing on its rich history, connections to the land, and the legacy of the Sangam period. She highlighted the influence of Tamil poetry on contemporary society and the resilience of the Tamil diaspora worldwide. Lakshman also addressed ongoing struggles within Tamil society, particularly caste divisions, urging attention to these issues while celebrating cultural continuity.
Nirmala Lakshman’s discussion of Tamil culture at the Mathrubhumi International Festival illuminated the profound depth of Tamil heritage, illustrating its rich history and literary legacy. She celebrated the enduring connections Tamils cultivate with their roots despite global diaspora, while also candidly addressing the societal challenges that persist, urging a collective confrontation of caste-related issues. The conversation showcased the beauty and resilience of the Tamil identity, emphasizing both pride in heritage and the need for social reform.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
