Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently reflected on the significance of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, highlighting its role in fostering cultural exchange, national integration, and the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. In a detailed statement, the Prime Minister traced the history, evolution, and impact of this unique initiative that celebrates the deep-rooted connection between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.

The Prime Minister began by recalling his participation in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv, commemorating a millennium since the first attack on Somnath in 1026. During the programme, he met several people who had previously participated in the Saurashtra-Tamil Sangamam and the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam. Their appreciation for such cultural initiatives inspired him to share his thoughts on the broader importance of promoting unity through shared heritage.

Mr. Modi noted that while he had expressed regret in the past over not learning Tamil, the government in recent years has actively promoted Tamil culture across India. The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam stands out as a flagship initiative in this endeavour, exemplifying the philosophy of Sangam, or confluence, which holds a special place in Indian ethos. The Sangamam not only celebrates India’s cultural diversity but also honours the uniqueness of each tradition while reinforcing a collective national identity.

Kashi was chosen as the venue for this confluence for its historical and spiritual significance. Known as a civilisational anchor for thousands of years, Kashi has been a hub for knowledge, spiritual pursuit, and enlightenment. The Prime Minister emphasized Kashi’s long-standing connections with Tamil culture. For instance, Tenkasi in Tamil Nadu is often referred to as the Kashi of the South (Dakshin Kashi), and spiritual luminaries like Saint Kumaraguruparar Swamigal strengthened the ties between Kashi and Tamil Nadu. Even the great poet and nationalist Subramania Bharatifound in Kashi the intellectual and spiritual nourishment that shaped his vision for a free India.

The first Kashi-Tamil Sangamam took place in 2022, bringing together scholars, artisans, students, farmers, writers, and professionals from Tamil Nadu to Kashi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya. Subsequent editions have expanded the scope, incorporating technology, deeper engagement with Indian knowledge systems, academic discussions, cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactions with participants from diverse backgrounds. Thousands of people have benefited from these programmes, creating lasting connections and knowledge exchanges between the regions.

The fourth edition of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, which commenced on 2nd December 2025, focused on the theme ‘Tamil Karkalam – Learn Tamil’, providing an opportunity for residents of Kashi to learn Tamil from teachers brought in from Tamil Nadu. This edition also featured special initiatives such as the translation of Tholkappiyam, the ancient Tamil literary classic, into four Indian languages and six foreign languages, as well as the Sage Agasthya Vehicle Expedition (SAVE) from Tenkasi to Kashi. Along the route, participants conducted eye camps, health awareness camps, digital literacy camps, and paid homage to King Adi Veera Parakrama Pandiyan, the Pandya ruler who spread the message of cultural oneness.

Academic sessions at Banaras Hindu University, cultural programmes, and exhibitions at Namo Ghat enriched the Sangamam experience. The Prime Minister particularly highlighted the enthusiastic participation of youth, which demonstrated the energy of India’s Yuva Shakti in reconnecting with cultural roots and showcasing creativity and talent through various programmes.

To ensure a smooth and memorable journey, Indian Railways operated special trains from Tamil Nadu to Uttar Pradesh, where passengers were welcomed with songs and conversations. The hospitality extended by the people of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh, who opened their homes to delegates, was commended by Mr. Modi, who noted the administration’s efforts in providing a seamless experience for all participants.

The valedictory function of the Sangamam was held in Rameswaram and attended by Vice President Thiru CP Radhakrishnan, a native of Tamil Nadu, who spoke about India’s spiritual greatness and the role of cultural exchanges in strengthening national integration.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam has achieved meaningful outcomes, including fostering cultural understanding, promoting academic and people-to-people exchanges, and creating enduring bonds between different parts of India that share a common civilisational ethos. He expressed hope that future editions would continue to expand and enrich this platform, furthering the ideals of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, which have been nurtured over centuries through festivals, literature, music, art, cuisine, architecture, and systems of knowledge.

Mr. Modi also linked the Sangamam to broader national celebrations, noting that this time of the year coincides with festivals like Sankranti, Uttarayan, Pongal, and Magh Bihu, which honour the Sun, nature, and farming. These festivals, he said, unite people across the country and reinforce the spirit of harmony, shared heritage, and collective participation in building a cohesive society.

Concluding his reflections, the Prime Minister conveyed his best wishes for these festivals and emphasized that initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam strengthen India’s unity in diversity, celebrate its rich traditions, and inspire citizens to participate in nation-building through shared culture and knowledge.

The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, according to PM Modi, is not just a cultural exchange but a living testament to India’s enduring ethos of unity, learning, and mutual respect, and a platform that continues to inspire generations to cherish and propagate the values of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.