The Ministry of Education, together with IIT Madras, Banaras Hindu University, the Central Institute of Classical Tamil, and the Uttar Pradesh government, is organizing the fifth edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam. This cultural and educational event will take place from November 28 to December 12, 2026, across multiple locations. Union Minister for Education, Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated the registration portal on October 22, inviting eligible participants to apply by November 13.
- Event dates: November 28 to December 12, 2026
- Registration deadline: November 13, 2026
- Participants: 1,400 from Tamil Nadu in seven groups
- Focus: Teachings of the classical Tamil text Thirukkural
- Locations: Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya
- Engagement: Cultural, academic, and spiritual activities
- Nationwide student program across 1,000 institutions
What is the purpose of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 5.0?
Kashi Tamil Sangamam 5.0 aims to strengthen cultural and educational connections between Tamil Nadu and Kashi, two historic centers of learning. The event promotes the classical Tamil text Thirukkural, focusing on its teachings to young learners across India. It encourages exchange through cultural, academic, and spiritual engagements.
Who can participate in the event?
The event invites applications under seven categories: students, teachers, writers and media professionals, agriculture and allied sector workers, professionals and artisans, women, and spiritual leaders. Approximately 1,400 participants from Tamil Nadu will be divided into seven groups of around 200 members each.
What is the itinerary for participants?
Each group will follow an eight-day itinerary, including four days of travel and four days of visits and structured programs. The visits will take place in Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya, featuring cultural, academic, and spiritual activities designed to deepen participants' understanding of the Thirukkural and regional traditions.
How will students across India engage with the event?
The Ministry of Education will launch a nationwide student engagement program involving 1,000 higher education institutions. This program will include structured study, research, and campus initiatives to help learners understand the values and teachings of the Thirukkural. Experts from Tamil Nadu will conduct interactive sessions, quizzes, and educational activities in schools and colleges in Varanasi.
What additional activities support the event?
The National Book Trust, in collaboration with Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya, will organize sessions on reading habits, storytelling, and creative learning. These activities complement the main event by fostering a love for literature and cultural exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can interested participants register for Kashi Tamil Sangamam 5.0?
A: Participants can register online through the official portal at kashitamil.iitm.ac.in before the deadline of November 13, 2026.
Q: What is the theme of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 5.0?
A: The theme is "Thirukkural Payilvom – Thirukkural Abhyas Karen," focusing on introducing the teachings of the classical Tamil text Thirukkural to young people and learners across India.
Q: Which organizations are collaborating to organize this event?
A: The event is organized by the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education, IIT Madras, Banaras Hindu University, the Central Institute of Classical Tamil, and the Uttar Pradesh government.
