New Delhi, March 2 Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Monday released 13 publications on renowned Tamil scholars, heritage, architecture, and culture.
The list also included a book on Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, brought out by the Publications Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The publications covered a wide civilisational canvas, from Rameswaram and Ramanuja to the ancient port city of Arikamedu, from Bhakti literature and Sangam-era music instruments to architectural marvels like the Meenakshi Amman Temple and the Brihadeeswara Temple.
Emphasizing India's cultural unity, the Vice President observed that though it is a land of many languages, "its soul is one".
Philosophies such as "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (The world is one family) and "Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelir" (Every place is my town, every person my kin) reflect the shared civilisational ethos that binds India, Radhakrishnan said.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan were also present on the occasion.
Vaishnaw praised Tamil as a classical language with a rich and ancient culture recognized worldwide. He said the new books released by the Publications Division celebrate this proud heritage.
Murugan spoke about the importance of Tamil Sangam Literature and highlighted the spirit of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Better India).
The highlight of the event was the release of the book on Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, penned by scholar and biographer S K Bose in English, Hindi, and Tamil.
The book, released on the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram', explores the life and times of the eminent literary figure and his contribution to the Indian literary movement.
The English reprint features a newly conceptualised cover, along with additional archival photographs and illustrations. The cover has been specially designed by a start-up supported by IIT Delhi, blending contemporary aesthetics with classical spirit.