Development of Literature and Culture in Modern Tamil Nadu | Tamil Nadu State PSC (TNPSC): Preparation - TNPSC (Tamil Nadu) PDF Download

 Page 1


U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
Page 2


U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
Page 3


U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
Kannadasan
Short Stories: Pudumai Pithan’s
Sabavimochanam, Rajaji’s Deivanai,
K.P.Rajagopalan’s Vidiyuma, Kalki’s
Thirudan, Annadurai’ s Rajapart Rangadurai
etc are some of the important short stories
deserve special mention.
Dramas: Pammal Sambanda Mudaliyar
was called the ‘Father of Tamil Drama’.
Some of the famous dramas were
Manonmaniyam of Prof.Sundaram Pillai, Roopavathi of Suriya
Narayana Sastri, Oru Eravu of C.N.Annadurai and Bombay mail of
Krishnasamy Pavalar. The famous sanskrit drama of Kalidaas was
translated into Tamil by Shankaradas Swamigal. T.K.S.Brothers,
Rajamanikam and R.S.Manohar patronised T amil drama.
Dance: Dance is one of the most famous cultural Contribution of
the T amils.  T amilnadu occupies an unique place in the development
of fine arts.    Dance originated and became part of the temple because
its  aim was to attain spritual identification with the eternal.  The centre
of all acts in T amilnadu is Bhakthi or devotion. Classified as one of the
oldest among all the contemporary Classical dance forms
Bharatha Natyam
Bharathanatiyam holds a prominant place
in our culture today. Bharathanatiyam
was its origin in the manuscript called the
Natiya shastra which was written by sage
Bharatha aroud 4000 B.C. The word
Bharatha interpreted as a dance form
created by the sage Bharatha as within
its essance and Uniqueness associated
with Bharatha natiyam. Bha for bhavs or
abhinaya and expression Ra for raga or
melody and T a for tala or rhythm. During
this century the Bharatha natiyam
revolutionized and gained attention and regard in the socity as a classical
art form.
Bharatha Natyam the popular form of dance left its imprints in India
and abroad.  In 1963, the Government of T amilnadu established “Iyal,
Isai, Nataka Mandram’ to promote various fine arts.  Besides,
Kalakshetra, a private organisation was founded by Ruckmani devi
Arundel at Chennai to promote the Bharatha natyam.  The Nataraja
temple at Chidambaram signifies the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.
The popular artists like Padmini, Padma Subramaniyam,
V aijayanthimala, Chithra Visveswaran, Sudharani etc gave more
inspiration to the people to promote the culture of our land.
The T amilnadu Iyal, Issai, Nattaka Mandram is honouring the
artists by ‘Kalaimamani’ awards every year .
Apart from this, the folk dances are performed during the village
festivals Karagattam, Mayilatam and Kummi are some of the examples
for folk dances.   Many sabhas are patronising the dancers even to go
abroad and to bring fame and light to our culture.
Music: Music plays an important role in the cultural life of the people.
Both vocal and instrumental music are familiar and famous during the
modern period. There are three popular forms of V ocal music in
Tamilnadu.  They are Carnatic, Folk, and Light Music.  In the 17
th
and 18
th
 centuries the great musicians St.Thiyagaraja’s, Muthuswami
Dikshidar, Shyama Sastri patronised the Carnatic music.  Many
institutions like Madras Music College, Thiruvaiyaru Music School
and  Music Acadamy work for the promotion of Carnatic music.  The
famous carnatic singer of Tamilnadu M.S.Subbulakshmi, who sang
kirthanas in United Nations Organisation. Chemmbai V aidhya Natha
Iyer, Balamuralikrishna, Semmangudi Sreenivasa Iyer, M.L.V asantha
Kumari, Maharajapuram Santhanam are Notable carnatic singers.
84
85
Page 4


U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
Kannadasan
Short Stories: Pudumai Pithan’s
Sabavimochanam, Rajaji’s Deivanai,
K.P.Rajagopalan’s Vidiyuma, Kalki’s
Thirudan, Annadurai’ s Rajapart Rangadurai
etc are some of the important short stories
deserve special mention.
Dramas: Pammal Sambanda Mudaliyar
was called the ‘Father of Tamil Drama’.
Some of the famous dramas were
Manonmaniyam of Prof.Sundaram Pillai, Roopavathi of Suriya
Narayana Sastri, Oru Eravu of C.N.Annadurai and Bombay mail of
Krishnasamy Pavalar. The famous sanskrit drama of Kalidaas was
translated into Tamil by Shankaradas Swamigal. T.K.S.Brothers,
Rajamanikam and R.S.Manohar patronised T amil drama.
Dance: Dance is one of the most famous cultural Contribution of
the T amils.  T amilnadu occupies an unique place in the development
of fine arts.    Dance originated and became part of the temple because
its  aim was to attain spritual identification with the eternal.  The centre
of all acts in T amilnadu is Bhakthi or devotion. Classified as one of the
oldest among all the contemporary Classical dance forms
Bharatha Natyam
Bharathanatiyam holds a prominant place
in our culture today. Bharathanatiyam
was its origin in the manuscript called the
Natiya shastra which was written by sage
Bharatha aroud 4000 B.C. The word
Bharatha interpreted as a dance form
created by the sage Bharatha as within
its essance and Uniqueness associated
with Bharatha natiyam. Bha for bhavs or
abhinaya and expression Ra for raga or
melody and T a for tala or rhythm. During
this century the Bharatha natiyam
revolutionized and gained attention and regard in the socity as a classical
art form.
Bharatha Natyam the popular form of dance left its imprints in India
and abroad.  In 1963, the Government of T amilnadu established “Iyal,
Isai, Nataka Mandram’ to promote various fine arts.  Besides,
Kalakshetra, a private organisation was founded by Ruckmani devi
Arundel at Chennai to promote the Bharatha natyam.  The Nataraja
temple at Chidambaram signifies the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.
The popular artists like Padmini, Padma Subramaniyam,
V aijayanthimala, Chithra Visveswaran, Sudharani etc gave more
inspiration to the people to promote the culture of our land.
The T amilnadu Iyal, Issai, Nattaka Mandram is honouring the
artists by ‘Kalaimamani’ awards every year .
Apart from this, the folk dances are performed during the village
festivals Karagattam, Mayilatam and Kummi are some of the examples
for folk dances.   Many sabhas are patronising the dancers even to go
abroad and to bring fame and light to our culture.
Music: Music plays an important role in the cultural life of the people.
Both vocal and instrumental music are familiar and famous during the
modern period. There are three popular forms of V ocal music in
Tamilnadu.  They are Carnatic, Folk, and Light Music.  In the 17
th
and 18
th
 centuries the great musicians St.Thiyagaraja’s, Muthuswami
Dikshidar, Shyama Sastri patronised the Carnatic music.  Many
institutions like Madras Music College, Thiruvaiyaru Music School
and  Music Acadamy work for the promotion of Carnatic music.  The
famous carnatic singer of Tamilnadu M.S.Subbulakshmi, who sang
kirthanas in United Nations Organisation. Chemmbai V aidhya Natha
Iyer, Balamuralikrishna, Semmangudi Sreenivasa Iyer, M.L.V asantha
Kumari, Maharajapuram Santhanam are Notable carnatic singers.
84
85
Kannadasan
Short Stories: Pudumai Pithan’s
Sabavimochanam, Rajaji’s Deivanai,
K.P.Rajagopalan’s Vidiyuma, Kalki’s
Thirudan, Annadurai’ s Rajapart Rangadurai
etc are some of the important short stories
deserve special mention.
Dramas: Pammal Sambanda Mudaliyar
was called the ‘Father of Tamil Drama’.
Some of the famous dramas were
Manonmaniyam of Prof.Sundaram Pillai, Roopavathi of Suriya
Narayana Sastri, Oru Eravu of C.N.Annadurai and Bombay mail of
Krishnasamy Pavalar. The famous sanskrit drama of Kalidaas was
translated into Tamil by Shankaradas Swamigal. T.K.S.Brothers,
Rajamanikam and R.S.Manohar patronised T amil drama.
Dance: Dance is one of the most famous cultural Contribution of
the T amils.  T amilnadu occupies an unique place in the development
of fine arts.    Dance originated and became part of the temple because
its  aim was to attain spritual identification with the eternal.  The centre
of all acts in T amilnadu is Bhakthi or devotion. Classified as one of the
oldest among all the contemporary Classical dance forms
Bharatha Natyam
Bharathanatiyam holds a prominant place
in our culture today. Bharathanatiyam
was its origin in the manuscript called the
Natiya shastra which was written by sage
Bharatha aroud 4000 B.C. The word
Bharatha interpreted as a dance form
created by the sage Bharatha as within
its essance and Uniqueness associated
with Bharatha natiyam. Bha for bhavs or
abhinaya and expression Ra for raga or
melody and T a for tala or rhythm. During
this century the Bharatha natiyam
revolutionized and gained attention and regard in the socity as a classical
art form.
Bharatha Natyam the popular form of dance left its imprints in India
and abroad.  In 1963, the Government of T amilnadu established “Iyal,
Isai, Nataka Mandram’ to promote various fine arts.  Besides,
Kalakshetra, a private organisation was founded by Ruckmani devi
Arundel at Chennai to promote the Bharatha natyam.  The Nataraja
temple at Chidambaram signifies the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.
The popular artists like Padmini, Padma Subramaniyam,
V aijayanthimala, Chithra Visveswaran, Sudharani etc gave more
inspiration to the people to promote the culture of our land.
The T amilnadu Iyal, Issai, Nattaka Mandram is honouring the
artists by ‘Kalaimamani’ awards every year .
Apart from this, the folk dances are performed during the village
festivals Karagattam, Mayilatam and Kummi are some of the examples
for folk dances.   Many sabhas are patronising the dancers even to go
abroad and to bring fame and light to our culture.
Music: Music plays an important role in the cultural life of the people.
Both vocal and instrumental music are familiar and famous during the
modern period. There are three popular forms of V ocal music in
Tamilnadu.  They are Carnatic, Folk, and Light Music.  In the 17
th
and 18
th
 centuries the great musicians St.Thiyagaraja’s, Muthuswami
Dikshidar, Shyama Sastri patronised the Carnatic music.  Many
institutions like Madras Music College, Thiruvaiyaru Music School
and  Music Acadamy work for the promotion of Carnatic music.  The
famous carnatic singer of Tamilnadu M.S.Subbulakshmi, who sang
kirthanas in United Nations Organisation. Chemmbai V aidhya Natha
Iyer, Balamuralikrishna, Semmangudi Sreenivasa Iyer, M.L.V asantha
Kumari, Maharajapuram Santhanam are Notable carnatic singers.
84
85
Page 5


U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
U.V .Swaminatha Iyer is called as “Grand Father of T amil”
82 83
Progress of T amil novel:  Novel writing emerged in the later part
of the 19
th
 century.  Vedanayakam Pillai’s “Pradhapa Mudaliar
Charitiram” was the first T amil novel.   Followed by this, many novels
emerged in T amilnadu.  Historical novels were written by Kalki (alias)
Krishnamurthy became very popular with the public, especially the
novel titled “Ponnyin selvan”.  Akilan, another famous writter who
won the Gnanapeeda Award prize for his novel “Chthira Pavai”.
Chandilyan’s ‘Kadalpura’ need special mention. Jayakanthan,
T .Janagiraman, N.Parthasarathi, Sujatha, V .Kothainayaki Ammal,  Siva
Sankari, Indumathi, Lakshmi, Rajam Krishnan are some of the
important novelists who concentrated on social themes.  Besides
detective novels were also written during the modern period.
J.R.Rangarajan’s ‘Chandrakantha’ is a very famous detective novel.
Hence varieties of novels emerged during this period.
Poetry:  Poetry , another form of literature attracted the attention of
masses even before independence. The National poet Bharathi kindled
the people of T amilnadu through  patriotic songs. NamakkalKavignar,
Bharathidasan
Ramalingam Pillai, Kavimani Desiga
V inayagam Pillai, Bharathidasan wrote poems
on the promotion of patriotism and women’s
liberation.  In the recent years, Kannadasan,
V anidasan, Pulamaipithan, Pudumaipithan,
Sujatha, Pattukottai  Kalyanasundaram etc
have immensely contributed for the growth of
poetry in T amil and most of them highlighted
the social problems which prevailed in
Tamilnadu.  These poets no doubt created
awareness in the minds of the people.
In the 20
th
 century the T amil literature particularly the prose, poetry
and drama had received inspiration from the people.  Many works
were produced in these fields.  Short stories, novels, dance, music,
cinema also developed to a great extent .  So the progress in the field
of literature and culture played a significant role in the history of modern
T amilnadu .  The literature is a source of history that transformed the
life of the people of T amilnadu.  The development of literature witnessed
the political, socio economic and cultural effects.
 DEVELOPMENT OF  PROSE
The famous T amil scholar Dr .U.V .Swaminatha Iyer had contributed
immensely for the development of Tamil literature.  He gathered the
old manuscripts of the Sangam age literatures and preserved them for
future generation.
Maraimalai Adigal, a tamil scholar served a lot for the development
of T amil language. Poondi Ranganatha Mudaliar’ s  Kachi Kalambagam,
Thiru V.Kalyanasundranar’s  (Thiru.V. K.) Murugu and Pennin
Perumai, Dr.M.V ardarasanar’ s “Agalvilakku” are worth mentioning.
Rajaji  wrote Vyasar Virundhu and Chakravarthi Thirumagan
Pandithamani Kathiresan chettiyar , Kangasabai Pillai, Ragava Iyyangar ,
V enkadasamy Nattar, C.N.Annadurai and A vvai Duraisami Pillai all
contributed for the development of  Tamil prose, Devaneya pavanar
has brought out a T amil dictionary called Agara Mudali.
Kannadasan
Short Stories: Pudumai Pithan’s
Sabavimochanam, Rajaji’s Deivanai,
K.P.Rajagopalan’s Vidiyuma, Kalki’s
Thirudan, Annadurai’ s Rajapart Rangadurai
etc are some of the important short stories
deserve special mention.
Dramas: Pammal Sambanda Mudaliyar
was called the ‘Father of Tamil Drama’.
Some of the famous dramas were
Manonmaniyam of Prof.Sundaram Pillai, Roopavathi of Suriya
Narayana Sastri, Oru Eravu of C.N.Annadurai and Bombay mail of
Krishnasamy Pavalar. The famous sanskrit drama of Kalidaas was
translated into Tamil by Shankaradas Swamigal. T.K.S.Brothers,
Rajamanikam and R.S.Manohar patronised T amil drama.
Dance: Dance is one of the most famous cultural Contribution of
the T amils.  T amilnadu occupies an unique place in the development
of fine arts.    Dance originated and became part of the temple because
its  aim was to attain spritual identification with the eternal.  The centre
of all acts in T amilnadu is Bhakthi or devotion. Classified as one of the
oldest among all the contemporary Classical dance forms
Bharatha Natyam
Bharathanatiyam holds a prominant place
in our culture today. Bharathanatiyam
was its origin in the manuscript called the
Natiya shastra which was written by sage
Bharatha aroud 4000 B.C. The word
Bharatha interpreted as a dance form
created by the sage Bharatha as within
its essance and Uniqueness associated
with Bharatha natiyam. Bha for bhavs or
abhinaya and expression Ra for raga or
melody and T a for tala or rhythm. During
this century the Bharatha natiyam
revolutionized and gained attention and regard in the socity as a classical
art form.
Bharatha Natyam the popular form of dance left its imprints in India
and abroad.  In 1963, the Government of T amilnadu established “Iyal,
Isai, Nataka Mandram’ to promote various fine arts.  Besides,
Kalakshetra, a private organisation was founded by Ruckmani devi
Arundel at Chennai to promote the Bharatha natyam.  The Nataraja
temple at Chidambaram signifies the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.
The popular artists like Padmini, Padma Subramaniyam,
V aijayanthimala, Chithra Visveswaran, Sudharani etc gave more
inspiration to the people to promote the culture of our land.
The T amilnadu Iyal, Issai, Nattaka Mandram is honouring the
artists by ‘Kalaimamani’ awards every year .
Apart from this, the folk dances are performed during the village
festivals Karagattam, Mayilatam and Kummi are some of the examples
for folk dances.   Many sabhas are patronising the dancers even to go
abroad and to bring fame and light to our culture.
Music: Music plays an important role in the cultural life of the people.
Both vocal and instrumental music are familiar and famous during the
modern period. There are three popular forms of V ocal music in
Tamilnadu.  They are Carnatic, Folk, and Light Music.  In the 17
th
and 18
th
 centuries the great musicians St.Thiyagaraja’s, Muthuswami
Dikshidar, Shyama Sastri patronised the Carnatic music.  Many
institutions like Madras Music College, Thiruvaiyaru Music School
and  Music Acadamy work for the promotion of Carnatic music.  The
famous carnatic singer of Tamilnadu M.S.Subbulakshmi, who sang
kirthanas in United Nations Organisation. Chemmbai V aidhya Natha
Iyer, Balamuralikrishna, Semmangudi Sreenivasa Iyer, M.L.V asantha
Kumari, Maharajapuram Santhanam are Notable carnatic singers.
84
85
Kannadasan
Short Stories: Pudumai Pithan’s
Sabavimochanam, Rajaji’s Deivanai,
K.P.Rajagopalan’s Vidiyuma, Kalki’s
Thirudan, Annadurai’ s Rajapart Rangadurai
etc are some of the important short stories
deserve special mention.
Dramas: Pammal Sambanda Mudaliyar
was called the ‘Father of Tamil Drama’.
Some of the famous dramas were
Manonmaniyam of Prof.Sundaram Pillai, Roopavathi of Suriya
Narayana Sastri, Oru Eravu of C.N.Annadurai and Bombay mail of
Krishnasamy Pavalar. The famous sanskrit drama of Kalidaas was
translated into Tamil by Shankaradas Swamigal. T.K.S.Brothers,
Rajamanikam and R.S.Manohar patronised T amil drama.
Dance: Dance is one of the most famous cultural Contribution of
the T amils.  T amilnadu occupies an unique place in the development
of fine arts.    Dance originated and became part of the temple because
its  aim was to attain spritual identification with the eternal.  The centre
of all acts in T amilnadu is Bhakthi or devotion. Classified as one of the
oldest among all the contemporary Classical dance forms
Bharatha Natyam
Bharathanatiyam holds a prominant place
in our culture today. Bharathanatiyam
was its origin in the manuscript called the
Natiya shastra which was written by sage
Bharatha aroud 4000 B.C. The word
Bharatha interpreted as a dance form
created by the sage Bharatha as within
its essance and Uniqueness associated
with Bharatha natiyam. Bha for bhavs or
abhinaya and expression Ra for raga or
melody and T a for tala or rhythm. During
this century the Bharatha natiyam
revolutionized and gained attention and regard in the socity as a classical
art form.
Bharatha Natyam the popular form of dance left its imprints in India
and abroad.  In 1963, the Government of T amilnadu established “Iyal,
Isai, Nataka Mandram’ to promote various fine arts.  Besides,
Kalakshetra, a private organisation was founded by Ruckmani devi
Arundel at Chennai to promote the Bharatha natyam.  The Nataraja
temple at Chidambaram signifies the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.
The popular artists like Padmini, Padma Subramaniyam,
V aijayanthimala, Chithra Visveswaran, Sudharani etc gave more
inspiration to the people to promote the culture of our land.
The T amilnadu Iyal, Issai, Nattaka Mandram is honouring the
artists by ‘Kalaimamani’ awards every year .
Apart from this, the folk dances are performed during the village
festivals Karagattam, Mayilatam and Kummi are some of the examples
for folk dances.   Many sabhas are patronising the dancers even to go
abroad and to bring fame and light to our culture.
Music: Music plays an important role in the cultural life of the people.
Both vocal and instrumental music are familiar and famous during the
modern period. There are three popular forms of V ocal music in
Tamilnadu.  They are Carnatic, Folk, and Light Music.  In the 17
th
and 18
th
 centuries the great musicians St.Thiyagaraja’s, Muthuswami
Dikshidar, Shyama Sastri patronised the Carnatic music.  Many
institutions like Madras Music College, Thiruvaiyaru Music School
and  Music Acadamy work for the promotion of Carnatic music.  The
famous carnatic singer of Tamilnadu M.S.Subbulakshmi, who sang
kirthanas in United Nations Organisation. Chemmbai V aidhya Natha
Iyer, Balamuralikrishna, Semmangudi Sreenivasa Iyer, M.L.V asantha
Kumari, Maharajapuram Santhanam are Notable carnatic singers.
84
85
 T o promote T amil music and its allied arts, the T amil Music College
was started in 1932 by Sir Annamalai chettiyar at Chidambaram. He
also founded the Tamil Issai Sangam at Madras in 1943. Dr.A.C
Muthiah the grandson of Sir Annamalai Chettiar felt the need of
upgrading the music college into a full time college, which was born in
the year 1955.
The T amil Issai Sangam conducts annual music Festival for about
12-13 days during December and senior musicians besides aspiring
youngsters are offerd chances to give concerts. On the inaugural day
a famous exponent of T amil music and culture is called upon to preside
over the period of the festival and he is conferred the much- sought-
after title “lsai peraringar”.In 1993 the Golden jubilee of both Tamil
lsai Sangam and that of Tamil Music Festival was Celebrated with
great interest and enthusiam.
The folk music also attracts the attention of the people slowly and
gradually.  The famous personalities in this fields are Kollangudi
karuppayi, Pushpavanam Kuppuswamy and Vijayalakshmi
Navaneethakrishnan.   Light Music is the most attractive form of music
among the youth of Tamilnadu. T.M.Soundararajan, Seerkazhi
Govindarajan, P .Susila, S.Janaki , S.P .Balasubramaniam, Jesudas etc
contributed towards light music. The instrumental music is also
encouraged.  The Violin artists Kunakudi V aidhyanathan, Veena
Gayathri, Nathaswaram artists like Karakurchi Arunachalam etc need
special mention in this regard.
Cinema: T amilnadu was highly influenced by the cinema in the first
half of the 20
th
 century.  It is considered to be the most powerful
media to infuse social, political and religious ideologies in the minds of
the people.  At present it is commonly used as an entertainment media.
The first T alking Movie was introduced in Madras in 1931.  The A.V .M.
and Vijaya Vahini studios at Chennai, Pakshiraja company at
Coimbatore, Modern Theatres at Salem are some of the important
centres of film industry.A.P .Nagarajan,T.Ramanna,K.Balachander,
S.P .Muthuraman, Bharathiraja, Bhakyaraj, Manirathnam, Sreedhar
are some of the popular film directors .
Hence, the development of Modern T amil literature and fine arts in
T amilnadu reflect the social and political ideologies of the people.  The
traditional views and values are challenged through revolutionary ideas
which enable the society towards a transition in the modern period.
The first T alking Movie in T amil was Kalidass.
86