New Delhi: Thiruvalluvar Day is a key cultural observance in Tamil Nadu, celebrated during the Tamil month of Thai as part of the Pongal festival. The
day honours Thiruvalluvar, the revered Tamil poet and philosopher whose work continues to shape ethical thought and social values. Best known for the Tirukkural, Thiruvalluvar is remembered for presenting complex ideas on virtue, governance and human relationships through simple, timeless couplets that remain relevant across generations.
Observed on January 15 or 16 each year, Thiruvalluvar Day recognises the enduring influence of the poet’s teachings on moral conduct and social harmony. Indian political leaders, including PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, extended greetings on the occasion. “Today, on Thiruvalluvar Day, paying homage to the versatile Thiruvalluvar, whose works and ideals inspire innumerable people,” PM Modi said in a post on X. The PM added, “He believed in a society that is harmonious and compassionate. He personifies the best of Tamil culture. I urge you all to read the Tirukkural, which gives a glimpse of the outstanding intellect of the great Thiruvalluvar.” Let’s understand more about the day and his work.
Understanding Thiruvalluvar Day and its importance
Who was poet Thiruvalluvar
Thiruvalluvar was an ancient Tamil poet-saint and philosopher, celebrated as the author of the Tirukkural. His life remains largely undocumented, with scholars placing his period between the 4th century BCE and the 7th century CE. Revered across religious and cultural boundaries, his writings focus on universal values such as virtue, justice, compassion and love, earning him a unique place in Tamil intellectual and cultural history.
What is Tirukkural
The Tirukkural is a classical Tamil text consisting of 1,330 concise couplets organised into 133 chapters. It is divided into three main sections dealing with virtue, wealth and love. Written in simple language, the text offers practical guidance on ethical living, governance and personal conduct, making it accessible to readers from different backgrounds and eras.
Why Thiruvalluvar Day is celebrated
The day serves as a reminder of Thiruvalluvar’s moral teachings, which emphasise righteousness, equality and compassion. It also highlights the importance of ethical behaviour in everyday life. Schools, colleges and cultural organisations mark the occasion with discussions, readings and seminars to help younger generations understand the relevance of his ideas.
History and origin of Thiruvalluvar Day
Thiruvalluvar Day was first observed in 1935 after a resolution was passed to honour the poet. The initial celebrations took place in May that year. Over time, the observance was shifted to January and aligned with the Pongal festival, strengthening its cultural significance. Today, it is marked annually in Tamil Nadu on January 16.
Cultural legacy and modern relevance
Though little is known about Thiruvalluvar’s personal life, references to him appear in ancient Tamil works such as the Thiruvalluva Malai. Legends associate him with Mylapore in Chennai, where a shrine dedicated to him exists. His teachings continue to be cited by leaders, scholars and institutions as guiding principles for ethical living.
Thiruvalluvar Day serves as a poignant reminder of how literature can guide society. By revisiting the Tirukkural, the occasion encourages reflection on values that promote harmony, integrity and human dignity in contemporary life.
