Guarding the Legacy: The Tamil Spirit Against Language Imposition

Justice N Anand Venkatesh asserts that Tamilians willingly learn other languages, but resist any imposed language, fueled by the pride in their native tongue. Addressing an event, he reflected on the anti-Hindi agitation of the 1960s, emphasizing the importance of this history for future generations.

Justice N Anand Venkatesh of the Madras High Court has underscored the resilient spirit of Tamilians in the face of linguistic imposition. Speaking at a recent event, he stated that while Tamilians are open to learning new languages, any enforced linguistic policy is unacceptable.

Justice Venkatesh recounted watching the Tamil film 'Parasakthi' with his son, which depicts the historical anti-Hindi protests of the 1960s. This viewing prompted a poignant moment of reflection when his son admitted ignorance of these past struggles, stirring a sense of duty in the judge to highlight this crucial chapter of Tamil history.

He emphasized that the Tamil community should embrace their linguistic heritage with pride and respond vocally to any challenges against it. Justice Venkatesh's remarks resonate deeply within the larger discourse of cultural preservation and autonomy.

(With inputs from agencies.)