DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, Feb 16
The Central University of Jammu (CUJ) proudly flagged off a group of Tamil-origin students from various departments to participate in the prestigious Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS-3.0), a flagship cultural initiative of the Ministry of Education, Government of India. This program, conducted under the Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat initiative, aims to foster cultural exchange, strengthen national integration, and celebrate the deep-rooted connections between different regions of India.
The flag-off ceremony was held with great enthusiasm at the university campus, led by Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, in the presence of Prof. Ritu Bakshi, Dean Students’ Welfare and University Coordinator for the event, and Dr. R. Sudhakar, Associate Professor, Department of National Security Studies. Faculty members, students, and well-wishers gathered to witness this momentous occasion, reflecting the university’s commitment to promoting academic and cultural engagement across different communities.
Kashi Tamil Sangamam is a remarkable initiative that celebrates the centuries-old historical, cultural, and spiritual ties between Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu. This unique cultural confluence brings together participants from Tamil Nadu and Tamil-origin students from across the country to experience the profound linkages between the two regions in literature, music, philosophy, pilgrimage, and temple traditions.
During the event, participants will embark on a transformative journey across sacred and historic sites, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of India.
A key highlight of the program is the sacred bath at Prayagraj, where the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati converge. Students will also visit Ayodhya, the revered birthplace of Lord Ram, alongside other significant cultural and religious landmarks in Varanasi.
Through these visits, they will gain first-hand exposure to the shared traditions that connect Tamil culture with Kashi’s spiritual legacy.
The program includes rituals, discourses, and interactive sessions with scholars and artists, offering students a deeper understanding of the historical, religious, and linguistic linkages between Tamil Nadu and Kashi. It provides an unparalleled opportunity for intercultural learning, allowing participants to engage with historians, philosophers, and fellow students from different backgrounds, thereby strengthening the bonds of unity in diversity.
In preparation for this immersive experience, the Office of the Dean, Students’ Welfare (DSW) at CUJ organized a seminar on “Sage Agastya: The Mantra Drashta (Revisiting the Contribution of Sage Agastya).” This academic session aligned with the central theme of Kashi Tamil Sangamam and delved into the spiritual and cultural legacy of Sage Agastya. A revered figure in both northern and southern Indian traditions, Sage Agastya is credited with significant contributions to Vedic literature, linguistic development, and the transmission of knowledge across regions. The seminar provided valuable insights into his influence on Indian philosophy and cultural unity.
The participation of Tamil-origin students from CUJ in this esteemed program marks a significant step toward fostering national integration and cross-regional awareness. By experiencing the cultural and spiritual richness of Kashi and interacting with scholars, artists, and peers, students will return with a renewed sense of appreciation for India’s diverse yet interconnected heritage.
The Central University of Jammu continues to play a pivotal role in promoting academic and cultural initiatives that bridge regional identities and strengthen the national fabric.
The students, as cultural ambassadors, are set to bring back profound experiences that will enrich their academic and personal journeys, further reinforcing the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
