NewKerala.com

Key Points

Kamal Haasan met PM Modi to push for recognition of Keeladi's historical significance. The actor-turned-politician emphasized Tamil Nadu's cultural heritage during their discussion. He presented Modi with a Keeladi-themed memento as a symbolic gesture. This marks Haasan's first major political engagement since becoming a Rajya Sabha MP.

Key Points: Kamal Haasan Urges PM Modi to Recognize Keeladi's Ancient Heritage

  • Kamal Haasan presents Keeladi-themed memento to PM Modi
  • Highlights Tamil Nadu's archaeological heritage in meeting
  • DMK and Centre clash over Keeladi findings
  • Marks Haasan's first political engagement as Rajya Sabha MP
2 min read

Kamal Haasan meets PM Modi, seeks recognition for Keeladi's antiquity

Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan meets PM Modi, seeks recognition for Tamil Nadu's Keeladi archaeological site as a symbol of Tamil civilization.

"I urged the Prime Minister to extend his support to the Tamil people in showcasing the grandeur of Tamil civilisation – Kamal Haasan"

New Delhi, August 7

Rajya Sabha MP and actor Kamal Haasan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday in the national capital and requested him to "expedite the recognition of Keeladi's antiquity."

Taking to X, Kamal Haasan shared several pictures from his first meeting with the PM after being sworn in as a Member of Rajya Sabha last month,

In his post, he expressed that it was an honour to meet the Prime Minister and took the opportunity to convey the key concerns of the people of Tamil Nadu.

"Today, I had the honour of meeting the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi ji. As a representative of the people of Tamil Nadu and as an artist, I placed before him a few requests, foremost among them was the call to expedite the recognition of Keeladi's antiquity," Kamal Haasan shared.

"I urged the Prime Minister to extend his support to the Tamil people in showcasing to the world the grandeur of Tamil civilisation and the timeless glory of the Tamil language," he added.

As a symbolic gesture, the MP also presented Prime Minister Modi with a memento themed around Keeladi village, 12km from Madurai on the banks of the Vaigai river, an ancient site dating back to the Sangam era. However, the Centre and DMK-led Tamil Nadu government have been at loggerheads over the Keezhadi, also spelt Keeladi, findings.

https://x.com/ikamalhaasan/status/1953415271450112012

On July 25, the 69-year-old veteran actor took the oath in Tamil as MP in the Upper House of Parliament, receiving a resounding applause from fellow MPs.

Kamal Haasan's election to the Upper House marks a significant milestone in his political journey, as he assumes a national legislative role for the first time. He was nominated with the support of the ruling DMK-led alliance, which had promised him a Rajya Sabha seat in return for MNM's support during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Kamal Haasan filed his nomination on June 6 at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat in the presence of Chief Minister MK Stalin, Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, and DMK allies, including VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan, MDMK's Vaiko, and Tamil Nadu Congress chief Selvaperunthagai.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As an archaeology student, I've studied Keeladi extensively. The artifacts show advanced urban planning from 6th century BCE! Why is there so much political debate over accepting scientific facts?
A
Arjun K
While I appreciate Kamal sir's efforts, I wish he had also raised more current issues like water scarcity in TN. Ancient history is important, but present problems need attention too.
P
Priya S
The Sangam era was truly golden period of Tamil culture. My grandmother used to tell me stories about it. Hope our PM recognizes this properly. Vanakkam from Chennai! ❤️
M
Michael C
Interesting to see how regional cultural identities interact with national politics in India. Keeladi seems to be becoming a symbol of Tamil pride versus central government recognition.
K
Karthik V
As a Madurai native, I've visited Keeladi site multiple times. The pottery and drainage systems there will change how world sees ancient India. Political parties should stop fighting and preserve our heritage!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50