Next generation should protect Tamil culture, learn traditional music, dance, says Muruganandam

The next generation must preserve Tamil culture and learn traditional music and dance and there is a need to create a conducive environment to support them, N. Muruganandam, Principal Secretary to the state government, said on Sunday.

Referring to the song “Thunbam Nergayil Yaazh Eduthu Nee” sung by Carnatic musician Nithyashree Mahadevan during the Isai – Natiya Sangamam performance organized by Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram in Chennai, he said that this song was one of his favourites, penned by late poet ‘Pavendar’ Bharathidasan.

“He wrote it as if a father were singing to his child. ‘Thamizhil paadi nee allal neekka maataayaa?’ he said. This shows his longing, we are in the same situation today. We are in a position to ask the next generation: Will you not sing in Tamil and perform Tamil cultural dances?” Mr. Muruganandam said.

K. Manivasan, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Culture and Religious Endowments, listed the efforts of the state government to promote arts and culture in the state and abroad. He said six artists will be heading out to perform during the Thai Poosam celebrations in Mauritius later this week.

Referring to the announcement that Mridangam maestro Thiruvaarur Bakthavathsalam was among the recipients of the prestigious Padma Shri award, Mr. Manivasan said that the maestro’s performance was planned at Isai – Natiya Sangamam and will be his first performance since the announcement. He said it was a matter of pride for the people of Tamil Nadu.

Actor and president of Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram Vagai Chandrasekar thanked the senior officials for attending the event and witnessing the performances. Manram’s Member-Secretary, Vijaya Thayanban, recalled performing at the venue when she was seven or eight years old and underlined the importance of Kalaivanar Arangam. Director of Arts and Culture S. Valarmathi was also present.

Earlier in the day, Kalaimamani Nithyashree Mahadevan’s sweet voice mesmerized the audience in Kalaivanar Arangam. From “Vettri Ettu Thikku Mettak Kottu Murase!” with “Thunbam Nergayil Yaazh Eduthu“And”Om Sakthi Om Sakthi” with “Kurai Ondrum Illai!” Her vocal performance of her song gave great pleasure to the audience.

Another Kalaimamani award winner, dancer Urmila Sathyanarayana, presented a visual feast. The combination of music and dance offered audiences a rich cultural experience and a fitting way to round out the weekend.