Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi on Thursday unveiled a full-length statue of the medieval Tamil poet “Kavichakravarthi” Kambar at the Lok Bhavan campus in Chennai, paying tribute to one of the most towering figures in Tamil literary history. The event, held at the newly designated Kambar Vanam within Lok Bhavan, drew scholars, cultural representatives and students from across the State, highlighting the enduring significance of Kambar’s contributions to language and literature.The Governor offered floral tributes after unveiling the statue, describing Kambar’s work — especially the Kamba Ramayanam — as reflecting the civilisational depth of Tamil and its timeless human values, and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting classical Tamil scholarship. The ceremony was attended by representatives of Kambar Kazhagams, Tamil scholars and commentators, as well as members of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan and student groups, who lauded the initiative as a fitting homage to the literary giant.
The installation at Lok Bhavan — formerly known as Raj Bhavan before being renamed last year — is part of a broader effort to celebrate Tamil culture and heritage. Organisers said the statue will serve not only as a reminder of Kambar’s extraordinary legacy but also as an inspiration for future generations to engage with the richness of Tamil literature and its place in India’s cultural tapestry.