PM Modi's Quotation of Kaniyan Pungundranar at the UN: A Cultural and Political Statement

On the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a speech that caught the attention of the world with its invocation of an ancient Tamil poet, Kaniyan Pungundranar. The prime minister quoted from one of his famous poems, 'yadum oore yavarum kelir' ('Every man is my countryman and every country is my country'). This article explores why PM Modi chose to quote Kaniyan Pungundranar's words and the deeper significance of this cultural reference.

Background of Kaniyan Pungundranar

Kaniyan Pungundranar was an influential Tamil philosopher-poet who lived around 3000 years ago, during the Sangam period. Born and raised in the village of Mahibalanpatti in Tamil Nadu's Sivaganga district, Pungundranar was renowned for his poetic works and philosophies that espoused universal brotherhood and shared human values. His belief in the oneness of humanity was reflected in his works, making him a relevant figure for PM Modi's UNGA speech.

PM Modi's Speech and the Quotation

During his address, PM Modi highlighted India's long-standing tradition of public welfare and engagement. He stated that:

"India has worked towards strengthening its centuries-old tradition of public welfare through public participation."

To emphasize this point, PM Modi referred to the ancient Tamil poet, Kaniyan Pungundranar, as a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to universal values. The quote he used, 'yadum oore yavarum kelir', translates to 'Every man is my countryman and every country is my country.' This phrase underscores the poet's belief in the interconnectedness of humanity and the need for a shared moral and legal framework.

Reasons Behind the Quotation

There are several reasons why PM Modi chose to quote Kaniyan Pungundranar:

Cultural Pride and Identity

Firstly, the quotation reflects India's long-standing cultural and philosophical traditions. By invoking an ancient Tamil poet, PM Modi sought to underscore the cultural richness of his country. This act of referencing a poet from Tamil Nadu also showcases India's linguistic and cultural diversity, which is often overlooked.

National Unity and Inclusion

Secondly, the quote supports India's vision of national unity and inclusion. Kaniyan Pungundranar's words reflect the idea that all human beings are interconnected and that one's sense of belonging extends beyond national borders. This aligns with India's mission to strengthen global unity and cooperation for the betterment of humanity.

Political Strategy and Popularity

Lastly, the quotation serves as a political tool. By attributing such an important message to a poet from a specific cultural background, PM Modi not only strengthens India's cultural diplomacy but also gains popularity within Tamil Nadu. This move can help solidify support for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the region, which has often faced criticism for its particularistic approach to Indian culture and national identity.

Conclusion

The quotation of Kaniyan Pungundranar's poem by PM Modi at the UNGA highlights the intersection of cultural pride, national unity, and political strategy. It serves as a powerful reminder of India's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to universal values. As India continues to grow as an global player, such references will likely play a significant role in shaping its international discourse and resonating with a global audience.

Keywords: PM Modi, Kaniyan Pungundranar, UN Speech, Cultural Identity, Political Strategy