New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam is a unique cultural initiative that reflects the living unity of India’s diverse traditions while respecting their individual identities.

In a signed article, the prime minister said the programme has emerged as a powerful platform for strengthening cultural understanding, promoting academic collaboration and encouraging people-to-people exchanges between regions bound by a shared civilisational heritage. He noted that the initiative has played an important role in reinforcing the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.

Modi said the NDA government has, over the past few years, made sustained efforts to highlight the richness of Tamil culture across the country, and the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam stands as a shining example of this commitment. In Indian tradition, he said, a sangam or confluence carries deep meaning, and hosting such a gathering in Kashi makes it even more significant.

Describing Kashi as a timeless civilisational centre, Modi said the city has, for thousands of years, drawn seekers of knowledge, spirituality and liberation. He highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between Kashi and Tamil Nadu, noting that while Baba Vishwanath resides in Kashi, Rameswaram holds similar spiritual importance in the south. He also recalled that Tenkasi is often referred to as Dakshin Kashi.

The prime minister cited spiritual leader Kumaraguruparar Swamigal as a key figure who strengthened the bond between Kashi and Tamil Nadu through scholarship and institution-building. He also referred to Mahakavi Subramania Bharati, whose time in Kashi shaped his nationalist thought and creative expression.

The first edition of the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam was held in 2022 in Varanasi, with some events organised in Rameswaram. Modi recalled attending the inaugural programme, where scholars, artisans, students, farmers, writers and professionals from Tamil Nadu visited Kashi, Prayagraj and Ayodhya. Subsequent editions expanded both the scale and scope of the initiative, introducing new themes and formats to ensure deeper engagement.

Modi said the Sangamam continues to evolve while staying true to its core idea of national unity. He noted that during the Somnath Swabhiman Parv in Gujarat earlier this month, he met participants who had attended both the Saurashtra–Tamil Sangamam and the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam, and their positive feedback inspired him to reflect further on the initiative.

He also recalled mentioning in his Mann Ki Baat programme that not learning Tamil remains one of his personal regrets. In recent editions, technology was used to overcome language barriers, while Indian knowledge systems, academic discussions and cultural performances saw increased participation.

The fourth edition, which began on December 2, 2025, focused on the theme Tamil Karkalam—learning Tamil. Teachers from Tamil Nadu helped introduce the language to learners in Kashi, making it a memorable experience. Modi highlighted the translation of the ancient Tamil text Tholkappiyam into several Indian and foreign languages as another milestone.

Expressing happiness over the enthusiastic participation of young people, Modi said the initiative has become a vibrant platform for India’s youth to connect with their roots. He also praised the hospitality of the people and administration of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh, noting that many residents opened their homes to visiting delegates.

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Concluding his article, the prime minister extended greetings for festivals such as Sankranti, Pongal, Magh Bihu and Uttarayan, saying these celebrations strengthen harmony and reinforce national unity through shared cultural traditions.