The International Mother Language Day celebrated with great enthusiasm at the CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre (CSIR-SERC) and CSIR Madras Complex (CMC) from 21 to 23 February 2024. The whole programme comprises of four sessions - an inaugural programme, presentation of research activities, technical / literary talks in mother language, cultural programme and valedictory sessions. The inaugural programme was held on 21 February 2024 at 11 AM at the Vigyan Auditorium of the CSIR Campus.

 

Thiru Valliappan Nagappan, Economic Observer & Commentator, Columnist, Author, Independent Director was the chief guest of the function. The function started with Tamil Thai Vaazhthu and the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries. Dr. N. Anandavalli, Director, CSIR-SERC and Coordinating Director, CMC, gave the welcome address, in which she spoke in brief on the significance of the mother language for achieving excellence. Quoting the Thirukkkural ‘Karka Kasadara Karpavai Katrapin Nirka Atharku Thaga,’ she emphasized the importance and benefits of education in the mother language. Speaking on this year’s International Mother Language Day theme, ‘Multilingual education – a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning’ she stressed on the need and significance of multilingual education in the present scenario. She also stressed the need to learn and protect the mother language and pointed out that many languages are at risk of extinction. She also pointed out that both culture and language are interlinked and are key for the identity and sustenance of any society.

Dr. G.S. Palani, Chief Scientist, CSIR-SERC, briefed on the International Mother Language Day 2024 celebrations and the four sessions being organized as a part of it. Dr. C Bharathi Priya, Principal Scientist, CSIR-SERC, introduced the chief guest to the audience.

 

Shri Valliappan Nagappan delivered the International Mother Language Day special address. In his address, he appreciated CSIR for taking the initiative of celebrating this day in a big way. He said the mother language is often deeply intertwined with one’s cultural identity and heritage, and preserving it helps to maintain a strong sense of self and connection to their roots. Speaking on the need for learning multiple languages, he said in the present society, where multiple generations are coexisting, understanding and effectively collaborating across all groups is essential for fostering a harmonious environment. Lauding the contributions and efforts of certain Tamil media outlets for their work in promoting the Tamil language, he said any communication should be made in simple language so that it reaches the people effectively. He also emphasized on the importance of the script of languages and said the loss of script will lead to their eventual extinction, and said it is important that the younger generation learn writing in their mother language. He also shared his experiences as a writer with the audience. Dr. T. Rajesh, Senior Scientist, CSIR-NEERI proposed vote of thanks.

 

On the second session of International Mother Language Day 2024 - presentation of research activities and technical/literary talks in mother language - was organized on 22.2.2024. A total of 21 presentations were made - eleven in the Tamil language, five in Telugu, three in Malayalam, and one each in Kannada and Odia, by the scientists and technical staff of CSIR-SERC and CMC.

 

The third session comprised of cultural programmes was held on 22.02.2024. Pattukku Pattu, Pechu Engal Moochu, Sollodu Vilayadu, and Technical Quiz were organized. The staff members of CSIR-SERC and CMC participated enthusiastically in all the programmes.

 

The valedictory session of the International Mother Language Day 2024 was held on 23.02.2024. Thiru Sivakumar, a well-known artist, orator, and actor of Tamil cinema, was the chief guest of the valedictory function. Dr. Anandavalli delivered the welcome address. In her address, she said that the mother language is a very important communication tool for anyone and is the foundation for the overall growth of an individual. Speaking on the vast knowledge and wide range of topics covered in Thirukkural, she pointed out that Thirukkural is one of the most translated literary works in the world, with translations in 41 languages.

 

Dr. Palani briefed on the various sessions organized as a part of the International Mother Language Day 2024 at the CSIR campus during 21-23 February 2024. Dr. S. Parivallal, Chief Scientist & Advisor (M), CSIR-SERC, introduced the chief guest to the audience.

 

Thiru Sivakumar delivered the International Mother Language Day special address. In his address, he spoke on the Purananuru paadal ‘Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelir’ and said that, written 2000 years ago, it is consistent with today's times, and shows that the Tamil people have lived with great wisdom since ancient times. He also spoke on philosophies of life as explained by the ancient Tamil literature. He mentioned the Purananuru paadal ‘Selvathu Payane Eethal’ and said that if there is wealth in excess of one’s needs it cannot be used. Therefore, the purpose of acquiring wealth is to share it with others. A video on the speech of Thiru Sivakumar on his book Thirukkural 100 at the Erode Book Festival 2022 was played before the audience. The book is on taking a hundred Thirukkurals and combining them with relevant life experiences, -'Kural with the history of those who lived the way of Valluvar'.

 

The chief guest also presented mementos to participants who made technical presentations in their mother language and those who had participated in the cultural events. Shri P Suresh, Principal Technical Officer, CSIR-CMC, proposed vote of thanks.

    

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