Introduction:
In a monumental celebration of cultural ties, a statue of the revered Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar was unveiled in the French commune of Cergy, located just 27.8 km from central Paris. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, acknowledging the shared cultural bonds, described the statue as a "beautiful testament" during its inauguration on Sunday.
This event signifies the deep-rooted cultural connections between the two nations and underscores the efforts to strengthen these ties.
Thiruvalluvar and the Thirukkural:
Thiruvalluvar, commonly referred to as Valluvar, stood as an illustrious Indian poet and philosopher celebrated for his remarkable creation, the Tirukkuṟaḷ. This compilation of couplets delves into a wide array of topics, including ethics, politics, economics, and love, solidifying its esteemed place in Tamil literature. Kamil Zvelebil, a scholar specializing in Tamil literature, highlights the scarcity of authentic information about Valluvar's life, leaving biographers to glean details from his literary works.
Numerous unverified hagiographic and legendary accounts surround Valluvar's life, with various religious groups, including 19th-century Christian missionaries, attempting to associate him with their traditions.
Although certainty is lacking regarding his family background, religious affiliation, or birthplace, the belief persists that Valluvar resided in Mylapore, a neighborhood in present-day Chennai. Scholars date his era from the fourth century BCE to the early fifth century CE based on traditional accounts and linguistic analyses of his writings. Kamil Zvelebil proposes a timeline around 500 CE for the Tirukkuṟaḷ and Valluvar.
Valluvar's impact transcends diverse domains, encompassing ethics, social issues, politics, economics, religion, philosophy, and spirituality. Acknowledged as a profound sage, Valluvar and his literary masterpieces enjoy revered status as a classic in Tamil culture.
Thiruvalluvar Day in Tamil Nadu:
Thiruvalluvar's significance is further underscored by the observance of Thiruvalluvar Day in Tamil Nadu, an annual celebration held either on the 15th or 16th of January, coinciding with Pongal festivities. This tradition dates back to 1935 when the state first commemorated the occasion over two days in May. The integration of Thiruvalluvar's likeness into the livery of Chennai city buses symbolizes the poet's enduring impact on everyday life.
History of India-France Relations:
The unveiling of Thiruvalluvar's statue in Cergy is not only a cultural milestone but also a testament to the longstanding diplomatic ties between India and France. The historical context of their relations dates back to the colonial era, where France played a significant role in India, particularly in the establishment of French colonies.
Post-independence, India and France have maintained robust diplomatic relations marked by mutual respect and cooperation. The strategic partnership between the two countries encompasses various sectors, including defense, space exploration, trade, and cultural exchanges.
Collaborations in Various Fields:
1. Defense and Security Cooperation:
India and France share a strong defense partnership, evident through collaborative ventures, joint military exercises, and the sale of defense equipment. The Rafale deal, involving the purchase of French-made fighter jets by India, stands as a recent example of their defense collaboration.
2. Space Exploration:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the French space agency, CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales), have collaborated on multiple space missions. The joint initiatives include satellite launches, space research, and technological advancements.
3. Economic Ties:
Both nations actively engage in bilateral trade, with France being one of India's key trading partners in the European Union. Collaborative efforts in economic sectors contribute to the growth and development of both nations.
4. Cultural Exchanges:
Beyond Thiruvalluvar's statue, cultural exchanges between India and France are diverse and vibrant. Festivals, art exhibitions, and educational programs foster an understanding of each other's rich cultural heritage.
Reactions to the Statue Inauguration:
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored that the unveiling of the Thiruvalluvar statue in Cergy, France, translates into the fulfillment of a commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Paris for Bastille Day in July. In a tweet, Jaishankar expressed, "The inauguration of the Thiruvalluvar statue in Cergy, France today implements PM @narendramodi's assurance given during his visit for Bastille Day."
He further emphasized the symbolic significance of the statue, stating, "The statue will serve as a guide for many to embrace Thiruvalluvar's noble thoughts and stands as yet another symbol of our enduring cultural links, a cornerstone of the India-France friendship."
Jawed Ashraf, India's envoy to France, echoed the sentiment in a social media post, mentioning the fulfillment of Prime Minister Modi's commitment in Paris on July 13. Ashraf highlighted the inauguration of the Thiruvalluvar statue in Cergy, near Paris, which was gifted by the Tamil Cultural Association France. The event was attended by Mayor Jean-Paul Jeandon, Minister K. Laxminarayan from Puducherry, and the Governor of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka.
In response to Ashraf's post, Prime Minister Modi lauded the significance of the Thiruvalluvar statue in Cergy, France, describing it as a beautiful testament to the shared cultural bonds between India and France. He emphasized Thiruvalluvar's towering presence as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, noting that his writings continue to inspire millions worldwide.
Conclusion:
The inauguration of Thiruvalluvar's statue in France serves as a poignant reminder of the deep cultural connections between India and France. As the two nations continue to collaborate in various fields, this event stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and shared values that bind them together.
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