Kashi Tamil Sangamam: Mastering Cultural Integration for UPSC
Q. Regarding the Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0, consider the following statements:
1. The theme for the 4.0 edition is “Tamil Karkalam – Let Us Learn Tamil,” focusing on linguistic learning.
2. The 'Sage Agastya Vehicle Expedition' (SAVE) retraces a civilisational route from Varanasi to Rameshwaram.
3. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and Banaras Hindu University serve as the principal knowledge partners for the initiative.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Context
Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 began on December 2, 2025, carrying forward the ancient cultural and civilisational link between Tamil Nadu and Kashi. Launched originally in 2022, this initiative aims to re-establish the movement of ideas, philosophies, and living traditions between these two vibrant cultural geographies.
What is Kashi Tamil Sangamam?
It is a celebration of the historical relationship between Tamil Nadu and Kashi. The initiative is anchored by the Ministry of Education, with IIT Madras and Banaras Hindu University (BHU) as principal knowledge partners. It embodies the essence of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, encouraging people to appreciate cultural richness beyond their own.
Key Themes of KTS 4.0
The heart of the 4.0 edition lies in the theme “Let Us Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam.” This edition shifts the focus toward linguistic unity and academic exchange.
1. Tamil Karkalam (Let Us Learn Tamil)
- Deployment: 50 Hindi-knowing Tamil teachers will be deployed in 50 schools across Varanasi.
- Reach: 1,500 students in Uttar Pradesh will learn introductory Tamil, covering conversation, pronunciation, and alphabets.
- Training: Teachers are trained at the Central Institute of Classical Tamil (CICT).
2. Tamil Karpom (Study Tour)
- Immersion: 300 college students from Uttar Pradesh will visit Tamil Nadu in 10 batches.
- Institutions: Hosting institutes include IIT Madras, Central University (Pondicherry), Shastra University, and others.
3. Sage Agastya Vehicle Expedition (SAVE)
- Route: Begins in Tenkasi (Dakshin Kashi) on Dec 2, reaching Kashi on Dec 10, 2025.
- Significance: Retraces the civilisational path and honors the legacy of Pandiyan ruler Adi Veera Parakrama Pandiyan, who built a Shiva temple in Tenkasi.
- Scope: Highlights linkages from Chera, Chola, Pandya, Pallava, Chalukya, and Vijayanagara periods.
Evolution of the Sangamam
- KTS 1.0 (2022): Inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi; brought public focus to Tamil-Kashi linkages.
- KTS 2.0 (2023): Introduced real-time Tamil translation of the Prime Minister's address.
- KTS 3.0 (Feb 2025): Thematic focus on Sage Agastya and visits to the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 and Ram Mandir.
- KTS 4.0 (Dec 2025): Focus on linguistic engagement and structured Tamil teaching in North India.
Significance for UPSC
The Kashi Tamil Sangamam is a critical case study for Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and NEP 2020’s emphasis on Indian knowledge traditions. It highlights:
- Linguistic Unity: Treating all Indian languages as part of a shared Bharatiya Bhasha family.
- Cultural Diplomacy: Strengthening national unity through direct people-to-people exchange.
- Civilisational Continuity: Rediscovering ancient linkages that shaped India's spiritual and artistic landscape.
🎯 Analysis & Insights
Prelims mastery
Correct Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only.
Reasoning: The SAVE expedition starts in Tenkasi (Tamil Nadu) and reaches Kashi (Varanasi), not from Varanasi to Rameshwaram (Statement 2 is false).
Mains perspective
"Linguistic appreciation is the most potent bridge for national integration in a culturally diverse India." Discuss in the context of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 initiative. (150 words)