Need to protect Tamil and culture, says MK Stalin

In a recent address at the Ponvizha Annual Celebration of the Tamil Literary Assembly, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin underscored the importance of preserving both the Tamil language and culture. Speaking at the music festival and awards ceremony held in Chennai, Stalin highlighted the vital role these elements play in shaping the identity and resilience of the Tamil people.

During his speech, Stalin emphasized that both language and art possess the strength to overcome any form of domination. “We must protect them as we protect our eyes,” he said, underscoring their importance in maintaining the Tamil heritage. The event, organized by the Tamil Literary Assembly, also featured the presentation of various prestigious awards to prominent individuals in the field of art and culture.

Actor Sathyaraj was honored with the prestigious “Kalaignar Award,” while other recipients included T.K.S. Meenakshi Sundaram, who received the “Rajaratna Award,” and Andal Priyadarshini, who was awarded the “Iyalselvam Award.” Other notable honorees included Gayathri Krish, who was given the “Isai Selvam Award,” and Swamimalai Gurunathan, who was awarded the “Thavil Selvam Award.”

Stalin expressed his joy in presenting the “Kalaignar Award” to Sathyaraj, acknowledging his contributions to the arts and his deep respect for former Chief Minister Karunanidhi. He praised Sathyaraj for his powerful performances and his courage to speak openly about Dravidian ideologies. He also recalled Karunanidhi’s influence in Tamil cinema, mentioning that his speeches often carried the rhythm and emotion of music, with the sound of Tamil embedded in his words.

He further reiterated that Tamil has the strength to withstand all cultural assaults, whether based on caste, religion, or foreign languages. Despite the challenges posed by external influences, Stalin declared that Tamil, with its inherent power, would continue to thrive. He called on everyone to honor and protect Tamil, in every sphere of life, as it is a reflection of Tamil identity and pride.

Stalin concluded by emphasizing that Tamil should resonate not only in everyday life but also in the realms of music, literature, and drama, reinforcing the cultural significance of the language in all forms of artistic expression.