Written By: Arts and Culture Council of CTYA
The heritage of an ethnic group incorporates the values, language, literature and history that have been passed down from preceding generations. These traditions have been passed and kept alive and thriving throughout generation not to be diminished but to keep culture endless. Heritage is a unique aspect to an ethnic group, in which it unifies and keeps individuals of these ethnicities intact.
Tamil Heritage has been rich and thriving throughout thousands of years. From religious architecture, sculpture, painting, music, dance, theater, language, philosophy, medical systems, rituals, cuisine, and textiles- it sure is one of a kind.
The Tamil language is one important aspect which identifies us as a unique ethnic group. As archaeological evidence suggests, The Tamil language, the mother of all Dravidian languages, has been in existence as long ago as 5000 years and serves up until today as a prime medium in which through our heritage exists.
As a Diaspora community, to ensure that our rich culture is continually preserved and protected, it is essential for Tamils to be educated about their Tamil heritage, and of the richness of our history.
Tamil Heritage Month was initiated in January 2010 as a means of achieving this goal. January, being the month in which Thai Pongal and Tamil New Year, two festivities close to the hearts of all Tamils, are celebrated, was chosen to be Tamil Heritage Month. Tamil Heritage Month serves as a month for Tamils to celebrate their culture, traditions, history, literature and festivities, providing both Tamil youth and the mainstream community an opportunity to learn about and preserve the rich heritage of Tamils.
Canadian Tamil Youth Alliance’s Arts and Culture Council is proud to be one of the many organizations that have endorsed Tamil Heritage Month. Tamil heritage can only be preserved by passing it on to our younger generations. Our heritage has spanned so many centuries because many Tamils took it upon their responsibility to protect and share our heritage, culture, and language. In that manner, this responsibility lies within the hands of the Tamil youth to renew their commitment to celebrating and practising their Tamil heritage, and safeguarding it for future generations.
Canadian Tamil Youth Alliance encourages the Tamil youth to engage themselves with the numerous activities that will be held in part of Tamil Heritage Month, and further educate themselves of the beauty of our heritage.
For further information and a list of events held in part of Tamil Heritage Month, please visit www.tamilheritagemonth.com
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