Tamil Nadu Assembly to pass resolution on mandatory singing of 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu' at state functions
Chennai, August 10
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is set to move a resolution in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly regarding the mandatory singing of the State Song "Tamil Thai Vazhthu" before the commencement of programmes held by educational institutions, government offices and other public institutions in the state.
The resolution states that Tamil is one of the world's oldest classical languages and that Tamil civilisation represents one of the oldest cultural traditions in the world.
It highlights that "Tamil Thai Vazhthu", the invocation to Mother Tamil from the play "Manonmaniam" written by Manonmaniam Sundaranar in 1891, was brought into practice through a government order issued on November 23, 1970, directing that it should be sung first at government functions.
The resolution further states that from December 12, 2021, "Tamil Thai Vazhthu" was officially accorded the status of State Song, and its mandatory singing before programmes in educational institutions, universities, government offices, public sector undertakings and other public institutions in Tamil Nadu was ordered.
The resolution comes in the context of observations made by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in its letter dated July 9, regarding the singing of the State Song.
The Tamil Nadu Assembly resolution states that "Tamil Thai Vazhthu" is an expression of respect for the Tamil language and culture and emphasises that, in accordance with linguistic and cultural rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India, the song shall continue to be mandatorily sung first before programmes held by institutions across the state.
"Therefore, this House ( Tamil Nadu Assembly ) emphasises that "Tamil Thai Vazhthu" is an expression of respect for the Tamil language and Tamil culture. In accordance with the linguistic and cultural rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India, and with a view to preserving the Cultural identity of Tamil Nadu, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly unanimously resolves that "Tamil Thai Vazhthu" shall be mandatorily sung first, before the commencement of programmes held by all Educational Institutions, Universities, Government Offices, Public Sector Undertakings and other Public Institutions in Tamil Nadu," the resolution read.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I've visited Tamil Nadu many times and the cultural pride there is incredible. Every state should be free to celebrate its language. The Constitution allows for this, so why create issues? It's a beautiful song with a rich history.
This is great for preserving our culture, but I hope it's done respectfully. We must ensure that singing it doesn't become a burden or forced on those who may not know it. It should be about love for Tamil, not compulsion.
Interesting how state songs can become such a big deal. In the US, we have state songs but they're rarely enforced. Seems like India has a different approach to cultural symbols. Hope it doesn't become another divisive issue.
It's about time! The state song is our heritage. If the central government tries to interfere with something as simple as singing a state anthem, it's a problem. Respect our language and let us celebrate it. 🙏🏻
I'm not from Tamil Nadu but I support this. Languages are the soul of India's diversity. If a state wants to honor its language, that's their right. The Union Home Ministry should respect federal principles.
V Vikram M While I We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.