Varalaru Mukkiyam: Why History Matters in Tamil Culture
Varalaru Mukkiyam is a Tamil phrase that means “history is important”. History is the study of the past and how it shapes the present and the future. History helps us understand who we are, where we came from, and what we can learn from our ancestors. History also preserves the cultural heritage and identity of a people, especially in the face of globalization and modernization.
Tamil culture is one of the oldest and richest in the world, with a history that spans over two millennia. Tamil literature, art, music, dance, architecture, religion, philosophy, and politics have influenced and been influenced by many other civilizations and cultures. Tamil history is also full of achievements, struggles, conflicts, and resilience. Some of the notable events and figures in Tamil history include:
- The Sangam period (3rd century BCE to 3rd century CE), which produced the earliest extant Tamil literature and poetry, as well as a flourishing trade and cultural exchange with other regions.
- The Chola dynasty (9th to 13th century CE), which ruled over most of South India and parts of Southeast Asia, and built magnificent temples, sculptures, and paintings.
- The Pallava dynasty (4th to 9th century CE), which patronized learning, arts, and architecture, and introduced the Grantha script and the Pallava style of temple building.
- The Vijayanagara empire (14th to 17th century CE), which unified most of South India under a Hindu rule and resisted the invasions of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal empire.
- The Tamil Eelam movement (1970s to 2009), which fought for an independent state for the Tamil people in Sri Lanka, who faced discrimination and violence from the Sinhalese majority.
These are just some of the examples of how Tamil history has shaped Tamil culture and identity. By learning about Varalaru Mukkiyam, we can appreciate the diversity, complexity, and richness of Tamil culture. We can also draw inspiration and lessons from the past to face the challenges and opportunities of the present and the future.
How can we learn about Varalaru Mukkiyam? There are many sources and methods to study Tamil history. Some of them are:
- Reading books, articles, and journals written by historians, scholars, and experts on Tamil history and culture.
- Visiting museums, monuments, and heritage sites that showcase Tamil history and culture.
- Watching documentaries, movies, and shows that depict Tamil history and culture.
- Listening to podcasts, lectures, and interviews that discuss Tamil history and culture.
- Participating in cultural events, festivals, and celebrations that honor Tamil history and culture.
However, learning about Varalaru Mukkiyam is not only a passive or academic activity. It is also an active and creative one. We can also learn about Tamil history by:
- Writing stories, poems, and essays that reflect on Tamil history and culture.
- Making art, music, and dance that express Tamil history and culture.
- Engaging in dialogues, debates, and discussions with others about Tamil history and culture.
- Supporting causes, movements, and organizations that promote Tamil history and culture.
- Exploring our own personal and family histories and how they connect to Tamil history and culture.
Learning about Varalaru Mukkiyam is not only a way to gain knowledge and appreciation of Tamil culture. It is also a way to cultivate our own identity and values as Tamils. By knowing our past, we can better understand ourselves and our place in the world. By honoring our past, we can also shape our future.