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

The next generation should protect Tamil culture and learn traditional music and dance, and there is a need to create a favourable environment to support them, State government’s Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam said on Sunday.

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

“He has penned this as if a father is singing to his child. He has said, ‘Thamizhil paadi nee allal neekka maataayaa?’ It shows his longing, and we too are in a similar situation today. We are in a situation to ask this of the next generation — won’t you sing in Tamil and perform Tamil cultural dances?” Mr. Muruganandam said.

Secretary of Tourism, Culture and Religious Endowments Department K. Manivasan listed the efforts undertaken by the State government to promote arts and culture in the State as well as abroad. He said six artistes were set to leave for Mauritius later this week to perform during the Thai Poosam celebrations there.

Referring to the announcement that Mridangam maestro Thiruvaarur Bakthavathsalam was among those named for the prestigious Padma Shri award, Mr. Manivasan said the maestro’s performance was scheduled at Isai – Natiya Sangamam and would be his first performance since the announcement. It was a matter of pride for the people of Tamil Nadu, he said.

Actor and chairperson of the 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 having performed at the venue when she was seven or eight years old and underlined the significance of the Kalaivanar Arangam. Director of Art and Culture S. Valarmathi was also present.

Earlier in the day, the mellifluous voice of Kalaimamani Nithyashree Mahadevan held the audience spellbound at the Kalaivanar Arangam. From “Vettri Ettu Thikku Mettak Kottu Murase!” to “Thunbam Nergayil Yaazh Eduthu”, and from “Om Sakthi Om Sakthi” to “Kurai Ondrum Illai!”, her vocal performance was a delight to the audience.

Another Kalaimamani awardee, dancer Urmila Sathyanarayana, offered a visual treat. Together, the music and dance provided the audience with a richly rewarding cultural experience and a fitting way to bring the weekend to a close.