Varanasi: The countdown to Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0, starting December 2, has energized a new generation of participants as GenZ students prepare to celebrate the ancient cultural and linguistic ties between Kashi and Tamil Nadu with fresh enthusiasm.
The first delegation departed from Kanyakumari on November 29 via a special train, transforming the journey into a vibrant cultural experience. Along the route, students engaged in games, group activities, creative collaborations, and lively discussions, turning the long journey into a memorable “cultural joy ride.”
Archana, a student from Tamil Nadu, expressed her excitement about visiting Kashi for the first time. She said the trip offered a rare opportunity to experience temples and the city’s spiritual heritage, which she considers a divine blessing. Malathi from Tiruppur, preparing for UPSC, noted that the initiative strengthens the centuries-old spiritual bond between Tamil Nadu and Kashi, celebrated by saints like Manikkavasagar, while presenting it in a modern and dynamic way.
Back in Kashi, pre-event activities have energized the ghats and university campuses. Events like Run for KTS 4.0 promoted fitness while raising awareness about the festival. Street plays near Vishwanath Temple and across the ghats highlighted the historical and cultural connection between Kashi and Tamil Nadu through innovative performances. Reel-making competitions further amplified engagement, with students sharing glimpses of the celebrations on social media, sparking curiosity nationwide.
The theme of this year’s Kashi Tamil Sangamam, “Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam,” emphasizes cultural and linguistic learning. The active involvement of GenZ is giving the theme new relevance, making the festival a lively platform for youth-led cultural expression and exchange.
