Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the second phase of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2023 at the Namo Ghat in Varanasi on Sunday. The event served as a platform aimed at strengthening the emotional and creative ties between the ancient city of Kashi and the culturally rich southern state of Tamil Nadu.
During the inauguration, PM Modi spoke about the relationship shared by Kashi and Tamil Nadu, characterizing it as both emotional and creative. He highlighted the evolution of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam into a dynamic forum that facilitates diverse opportunities for people from both regions to interact and forge connections.
In a broader national context, PM Modi underscored the role played by Kashi Tamil Sangamam in promoting the idea of “Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat” (One India, Great India). He acknowledged the contribution of similar initiatives, such as Kashi Tamil Sangamam and Saurashtra Tamil Sangamam, in fostering unity across the diverse tapestry of the nation. The celebration of different states’ foundation days in various regions and the establishment of the Sacred Sangol in Parliament exemplify the spirit of a united and diverse India.
In a significant leap towards inclusivity and accessibility, PM Modi shared that artificial intelligence was utilized for the first time during his speech. Live translations of his address into Tamil were seamlessly provided to participants through headphones. The Prime Minister expressed his commitment to leveraging this technology more frequently in the future.
As part of the occasion, Prime Minister Modi flagged off the Kanyakumari-Varanasi Tamil Sangamam train, symbolizing enhanced connectivity and cultural exchange between the southern and northern regions of India. The festivities included a visit to an exhibition at Namo Ghat, highlighting the cultural confluence of Kashi and Tamil Nadu. The Prime Minister took the opportunity to engage with participants from Tamil Nadu who had gathered for the Sangamam.
The first contingent of the Tamil delegation, named after the sacred river ‘Ganga,’ arrived in Varanasi for the 15-day-long second phase of Kashi Tamil Sangamam. This cultural exchange initiative stands as a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting unity in diversity.
Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency encompasses the launch of 37 development projects totaling approximately 20,000 crore rupees on Monday. Additionally, he will inaugurate another Vande Bharat Express train, further bolstering connectivity and development in the region.