A workshop titled “Multifaceted Dimensions of Tamilology” was jointly organized by the Department of Tamil Studies in Foreign Countries, Tamil University, India, and the Department of Tamil, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, in the last semester of 2024 at Tamil University, Thanjavur.
The workshop brought together assistant lecturers and third-year students from the University of Peradeniya, led by Professor S. Pirashanthan. The participants were given an enriching experience that combined academic learning with cultural immersion.
A day before the workshop, the team toured several historic sites from Chennai to Thanjavur. Their journey included visits to Mamallapuram’s Kattazhi Temple, Pancharatha Malaiththazhir Temple, and the open-air temple of Arjuna’s Penance. In Pondicherry, they explored cultural landmarks such as the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Bharatiyar’s House, and the Puducherry Museum, before concluding their tour at the Chidambaram Natarajar Temple. Professors Pirashanthan and M.M. Jayaseelan guided them throughout the tour with insightful explanations.
The workshop commenced at Tamil University with Professors T. Kurinjiventhan and Pirashanthan emphasizing its significance. Renowned scholars, including Dr. Ko. Kovaimani, Dr. M. Muthuravelu, Dr. M. Archunan, Dr. S. Thirugnanasambandham, Dr. V. Selvakumar, Dr. K. Mohankanthi, Dr. Manimaran, Dr. Natarasapillai, and Professor Dr. M. Thiagarajan, delivered lectures during the event.
Students were also given the opportunity to explore the historical and cultural heritage of Thanjavur, visiting landmarks such as the Tanjore Periyakovil, Saraswati Mahal Library, Saraboji King’s Palace, and the Sculpture Gallery and Library at Tamil University.
The workshop concluded with a closing ceremony at the University Library Hall, presided over by Vice-Chancellor Professor V. Thiruvalluvan. Mrs. Punitha Ganesan, Managing Director of Thanjavur Bharat Education Group, welcomed the participants, followed by reflections from Professor Pirashanthan. Vice-Chancellor Thiruvalluvan awarded certificates to the participants, and the event concluded with a Tamil music workshop led by artist Kalaivalarmani N. Manikandan.
On Teachers’ Day, students attended a special Tamil teaching seminar at Poondi Pudupam College, where Professor Pirashanthan delivered the keynote speech. Students from Peradeniya and Pudupam College performed folk songs.
The final day of the program saw students visiting the Trichy Srirangam Perumal Temple and exploring Kamparamayana sites. They returned to Peradeniya, enriched with new knowledge and unforgettable experiences.
