Context:

• The Kashi–Tamil Sangamam, a flagship cultural initiative under the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”, highlights India’s civilisational continuity, cultural unity and people-to-people bonds.
• The Somnath Swabhiman Parv (1026–2026), marking 1,000 years since the first attack on Somnath, puts the Sangamam within India’s broader historical and cultural consciousness.

Background - Idea of Sangamam:

• Sangam in Indian ethos symbolises confluence, integration and unity amid diversity.
• The Kashi–Tamil Sangamam represents the living unity of India’s traditions while respecting regional uniqueness.
• Kashi (Varanasi), a civilisational and spiritual anchor for millennia, where people from all over have come in search of knowledge, meaning and Moksha, is a natural venue for such cultural integration.

Civilisational Linkages Between Kashi and Tamil Nadu:

• Spiritual and cultural bonds - Kashi–Rameswaram axis:
  • Baba Vishwanath (Kashi) and Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu) are key spiritual centres. Tenkasi in Tamil Nadu is known as Dakshin Kashi.
  • Saint Kumaraguruparar Swamigal strengthened spiritual and institutional ties between Kashi and Tamil Nadu.
• Intellectual and nationalist connections: Mahakavi Subramania Bharati found in Kashi a space for intellectual growth, spiritual awakening, and deepening nationalism and vision of a united India.

Evolution of the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam:

• First edition (2022): Participation of scholars, artisans, students, farmers, writers and professionals, who travelled to Kashi, Prayagraj and Ayodhya.
• Second edition (2023): Greater use of technology to overcome language barriers. The aim was to introduce innovative formats and deeper engagement, so that the Sangamam continued to evolve while remaining rooted in its core spirit.
• Third edition: The focus was on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), expanding academic discussions, exhibitions and cultural interactions.
• Fourth edition (2025):
  • Theme: Tamil Karkalam (Learn Tamil)
  • Teachers from Tamil Nadu taught Tamil to students in Kashi, emphasising linguistic integration and cultural learning.

Key Highlights of the Fourth Edition:

• Translation: Of Tholkappiyam (ancient Tamil literary classic) into 4 Indian languages, and 6 foreign languages.
• Sage Agastya Vehicle Expedition (SAVE): From Tenkasi to Kashi, it included activities like eye camps, health awareness, digital literacy camps. Tribute to King Adi Veera Parakrama Pandiyan, symbol of cultural oneness
• Other highlights: Academic sessions at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), cultural exhibitions at Namo Ghat, and high participation of Yuva Shakti (youth).

Role of Institutions and Governance:

• Indian Railways operated special trains for participants.
• Warm hospitality by people of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh.
• Strong administrative coordination ensuring a seamless experience.
• Valedictory function held at Rameswaram, attended by the Vice President of India, highlighting spiritual unity and national integration.

Challenges and Way Ahead:

• Sustaining long-term engagement: Linking cultural exchanges with education, tourism and local economies.
• Ensuring deeper grassroots participation: Institutionalising Sangamam-type platforms across regions.
• Avoiding symbolic tokenism: Greater academic, youth and digital integration.
• Bridging linguistic and regional gaps: Using technology for inclusive participation. Expanding translations and documentation of classical texts.

Conclusion:

• The Kashi–Tamil Sangamam exemplifies India’s living civilisational unity, where diversity is not erased but harmonised.
• By fostering cultural understanding, academic exchange and youth participation, it strengthens the foundations of national integration.
• Alongside India’s shared festivals like Pongal, Sankranti, Magh Bihu and Uttarayan, such initiatives reinforce harmony, collective heritage and the timeless idea of One India, Many Traditions.