On February 5th, 2024, the Tamil Mandram of our Student Forum hosted an event that paid homage to one of the most profound works of Tamil literature—Thirukkural. The event, a Thirukkural Essay Competition, was an exceptional gathering where students explored the timeless wisdom of the revered Tamil text. This essay competition revolved around two insightful verses of Thirukkural, which guided participants to reflect on the values of hard work, education, and the purpose of life. The verses served as the foundation for thought-provoking, two-page essays that brought out the essence of Thirukkural in the modern world.
The Thirukkural, written by the legendary poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, stands as one of the greatest works in Tamil literature, and its relevance continues to inspire generations. This competition, which brought together more than 20 students from various disciplines, offered an opportunity for participants to engage with this profound text, and to express their thoughts on its eternal wisdom.
The Timeless Verses: Foundations of the Essay Competition
The two verses chosen for the Thirukkural Essay Competition were as follows:
1. உழுதுண்டு வாழ்வாரே வாழ்வார் மற்றெல்லாம் தொழுதுண்டு பின்செல் பவர்
(Those who live by hard work will live meaningfully, while others who depend on others' labor will never achieve true success.)
2. கேடில் விழுச்செல்வம் கல்வி யொருவற்கு மாடல்ல மற்றை யவை
(The true wealth of a person is knowledge, which is a treasure that no one can take away, unlike material wealth that can be lost.)
These couplets resonate deeply with the core values of hard work and education, two essential pillars in any journey of success. The participants were asked to craft their essays around the profound meaning and application of these verses in today’s fast-paced world.
Understanding the Verses: The Wisdom of Thirukkural
Thirukkural is not just a piece of literature; it is a comprehensive guide to leading a meaningful and purposeful life. The first verse emphasizes the importance of self-reliance through hard work. It highlights that individuals who strive and work hard will achieve success in the true sense, whereas those who depend on others for sustenance or success will never find true fulfillment. This verse inspires readers to adopt a life of perseverance, discipline, and dedication—values that are crucial for long-term success.
The second verse touches upon the unparalleled value of knowledge. It asserts that education is the most valuable form of wealth, one that cannot be lost or taken away by external forces. In a world where material wealth can fluctuate, knowledge remains the most secure and lasting treasure. This verse underscores the transformative power of education and how it can shape lives, empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
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| "Tamil Mandram at PSG Polytechnic College honors the profound teachings of Thirukkural through an inspiring event, highlighting the virtues of perseverance and the importance of education." |
The Impact of the Essay Competition
With the focus on these two verses, the Thirukkural Essay Competition provided participants with a platform to engage deeply with the meaning of these couplets. The competition attracted over 20 participants, each from different academic backgrounds, which added a diverse range of perspectives to the event.
The essays submitted by the students were both inspiring and thought-provoking. Each essay revealed the unique way in which students interpreted the Thirukkural, and the relevance they found in it within the context of today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world.
Some students reflected on the importance of hard work in overcoming personal and professional obstacles. They discussed how self-reliance and perseverance are critical for achieving success, especially in a world where instant gratification is often prioritized. Others focused on the timeless importance of education as a tool for self-improvement and empowerment. For them, the idea that knowledge is the only wealth that remains forever was particularly resonant, given the ever-changing nature of material wealth and possessions.
This event not only celebrated Tamil literature but also encouraged students to pause and reflect on how ancient wisdom can still guide their lives in the present day.
The Power of Tamil Literature and Its Relevance Today
Thirukkural is not just a work of literature; it is an expression of the Tamil culture and heritage. By celebrating Thirukkural through events like the essay competition, the Tamil Mandram continues to preserve and promote Tamil culture, enabling the younger generation to connect with their roots.
In today’s modern age, where the younger generation is often caught up in the pursuit of material success, the Thirukkural provides a refreshing reminder of the values of hard work, integrity, and education. It encourages individuals to pursue meaningful goals rather than temporary rewards.
The competition also inspired students to think about how they can contribute to society, not just through knowledge but also through action and ethical living. The themes of self-reliance, work ethic, and the pursuit of knowledge are as applicable today as they were when Thiruvalluvar wrote these couplets centuries ago.
Acknowledging the Efforts Behind the Event
The success of the Thirukkural Essay Competition would not have been possible without the unwavering support of several key individuals. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Giriraj Balasubramaniam, Principal of PSG Polytechnic College, whose constant support and encouragement have been a driving force behind the success of many such events.
A special thanks to Mr. T. Kumaresan, Faculty Advisor of the Tamil Mandram, for his guidance in preserving and promoting Tamil heritage. Her dedication to upholding the cultural values of Tamil Nadu has had a profound impact on the student community.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Mrs. A. Haritha Deepthi, Department Tutor, for her mentorship and encouragement throughout the preparation and execution of this event. Her unwavering support has been invaluable to the students, and we are fortunate to have her guidance.
Finally, we would like to acknowledge Nithin A, the former Secretary of the Tamil Mandram, for his efforts in inspiring and leading the organization of this event. His leadership has truly carried forward the legacy of the Tamil Mandram with pride.
Looking Ahead: Cherishing Our Literary Heritage
The Thirukkural Essay Competition was a beautiful reminder of the depth and wisdom of Tamil literature. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue cherishing and preserving this rich literary heritage. The values espoused by Thiruvalluvar—hard work, education, and integrity—will always remain relevant, offering us guidance in navigating the challenges of modern life.
Let us all keep the spirit of Thirukkural alive, not just through events like these but by applying its timeless wisdom in our daily lives. As we celebrate Tamil culture and literature, we encourage more students to reflect on the profound messages of Thirukkural and share them with the world.
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