News Brief
Inaugural ceremony of Kashi Tamil Sangamam In Varanasi (2022).
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced that the third edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, a cultural exchange programme, will be held from 15-24 February, with the main theme centred around Rishi Agastya.
The programme, organised by the Ministry of Education, celebrates the civilisational and cultural bond between Varanasi (Kashi) and Tamil Nadu.
Speaking about the initiative, Pradhan emphasised its significance: “For us, it is a matter of faith, a matter of conviction, a matter of commitment… for our motherland. We always say Tamil language is one of the oldest languages of human civilisation. With this kind of heritage value, there is an immense impact on society.”
The minister also highlighted the government’s role in fostering unity, stating, “There are forces working to create divisions within society, and the Union government has a role… to create a bridge, to create an ecosystem where we are proud of our heritage. We have never used this for a political purpose.”
The inaugural edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam was held in 2022, and the event continues to serve as a platform to strengthen cultural ties.
This year, it is expected to host 1,200 participants, including 200 Tamil students from central institutions.
The programme includes seminars, cultural performances, and visits to iconic locations such as Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya.
Participants will also attend the Maha Kumbh, enhancing the cultural and spiritual experience.
An online registration portal has been launched, and participants will be selected through a quiz.
Pradhan reaffirmed the event’s purpose, describing it as part of the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative: “This is an event that celebrates the bond between the vibrant cultures of Tamil Nadu and Kashi.”