Tiruvalluvar
Context:
The Madras High Court has declined to designate the Anusham star day in the Tamil month of Vaikasi as the official birthday of Tiruvalluvar, the revered author of the Thirukkural, a widely celebrated collection of 1,330 couplets offering life lessons.
More on News:
Justice M. Dhandapani also rejected a request to direct the Tamil Nadu government to shift the annual ‘Tiruvalluvar Day’ celebration from the second day of the Tamil month of Thai, as currently observed, to the Vaikasi Anusham Natchathiram day.
About Thiruvalluvar:
- Also known as Valluvar, he is a revered figure in Tamil literature and philosophy, best known for his work Thirukkural.
- His contributions have had a lasting impact on ethics, morality, and social values in Tamil culture and beyond.
Biography:
Historical Context:
- Thiruvalluvar is believed to have lived between the 2nd century BCE and the 5th century CE, although exact dates remain uncertain.
- He is often associated with the Sangam period of Tamil literature, which was marked by a flourishing of poetry and philosophical thought.
Sangam Literature
The earliest known body of Tamil literature, it flourished during the Sangam period, which is generally dated from approximately 300 BCE to 300 CE. This era is characterised by the establishment of literary assemblies or “Sangams” in ancient Tamil Nadu, particularly in Madurai, where poets and scholars gathered to compose and critique poetry.
The Sangam period is traditionally divided into three Sangams:
- First Sangam: Believed to have been held in Madurai; no works from this assembly survive.
- Second Sangam: Also Hheld in KapadapuramMadurai; only fragments remain, with Tolakappiyar’s Tolkappiyam (a treatise on Tamil grammar) being the notable surviving work.
- Third Sangam: Held in Madurai, tThis was the most productive period, yielding a wealth of literature that has survived to this day.
Political and Social Landscape: The period was marked by the rule of three major dynasties: the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas. These kingdoms played a significant role in patronising arts and literature, contributing to a vibrant cultural environment.
Themes and Genres: Sangam literature is categorised primarily into two thematic groups:
- Akam (Inner Life): This genre focuses on personal emotions and relationships, particularly love. Akam poetry employs natural imagery to express complex feelings and is divided into five landscapes (tinai), each representing different phases of love: Kurunji: Mountains (union), Mullai: Forests (waiting), Marutham: Agricultural lands (quarrels), Neithal: Seashore (separation) and Paalai: Desert (hardship).
- Puram (Outer Life): Puram poetry deals with themes related to heroism, valour, and societal issues. It often praises kings and their deeds, reflecting the external aspects of life.
Sangam literature includes several key anthologies and works:
- Ettuttokai (Eight Anthologies): A collection of eight works including Ainkurunuru, Kuruntokai, Narrinai, Akananuru, Kalittokai, Patirruppattu, Purananuru, and Paripatal.
- Pattuppattu (Ten Idylls): Comprising ten poems that provide insights into early Tamil life.
- Epics: Notable epics include Silappatikaram by Ilango Adigal and Manimekalai by Sittalai Sattanar, which explore various themes from love to philosophy.
Life and Background:
- Very little is definitively known about his life.
- Traditional accounts suggest he may have been born in Mylapore (modern-day Chennai) or Madurai.
- His family background is debated, with some sources indicating he may have belonged to a low-caste community, while others suggest he could be linked to Jainism or Hinduism.
- His identity has been claimed by various religious traditions over the centuries.
Philosophical Outlook:
- Thiruvalluvar’s teachings emphasise ethics, self-discipline, and equality.
- His work advocates for moral vegetarianism and nonviolence, reflecting a deep concern for social justice and personal integrity.
Major Work: Thirukkural:
Structure and Content:
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- The Thirukkural consists of 1,330 couplets (kurals) divided into three main sections: Aram (virtue), Porul (wealth), and Inbam (love).
- Each section addresses various aspects of life, including governance, ethics, love, and spirituality.
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Universal Appeal:
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- The Thirukkural is celebrated for its universal themes that transcend cultural boundaries.
- It has been translated into numerous languages worldwide and is regarded as one of the greatest works of Tamil literature.
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Cultural Significance:
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- Thiruvalluvar’s insights into human nature and ethical living have made his teachings timeless.
- He is often referred to as a sage whose thoughts resonate with readers across generations.
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Legacy:
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- Cultural Reverence: Thiruvalluvar is venerated in Tamil Nadu and beyond as a symbol of wisdom and moral integrity.
- His birthday is celebrated as Thiruvalluvar Day during the Pongal festival, recognising his contributions to Tamil culture.
- Monuments and Recognition: In honour of his legacy, significant monuments have been erected, including a towering statue at Kanyakumari.
- Influence on Society: Thiruvalluvar’s rejection of caste distinctions and advocacy for ethical living have inspired movements against social injustice in India.
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