Valluvar Kottam is a monument dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar, who lived over 2,000 years ago. Located in Chennai, India, this iconic monument has become a symbol of Tamil culture and heritage. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history, architecture, and significance of Valluvar Kottam.
The idea of building Valluvar Kottam was first proposed in the early 20th century by a group of Tamil scholars and leaders. The purpose of the monument was to honor the legacy of Thiruvalluvar and showcase the rich literary and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. However, it was not until the 1970s that the construction of Valluvar Kottam began in earnest.
The monument was designed by the renowned architect, V. Ganapati Sthapati, who also designed several other famous structures in India. The construction of Valluvar Kottam took over three years to complete and was inaugurated by the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M. Karunanidhi, in 1976.
Valluvar Kottam is a unique monument that combines traditional Tamil architecture with modern design elements. The monument consists of a chariot-shaped structure that houses a statue of Thiruvalluvar, which is over 33 feet tall and made of black granite.
The monument is surrounded by a circular colonnade that is supported by 48 pillars, each of which is decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Thiruvalluvar's life and teachings. The colonnade is topped by a conical roof that is adorned with ornamental carvings and a statue of a peacock, which is a symbol of Tamil Nadu.
Valluvar Kottam is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of Tamil culture, identity, and pride. The monument serves as a cultural hub and a gathering place for Tamils from all over the world. It is also a popular tourist destination and a site for cultural events, such as music concerts and dance performances.
Thiruvalluvar, the poet and philosopher whom the monument honors, is a revered figure in Tamil culture. His literary work, Thirukkural, is a masterpiece of Tamil literature and is considered one of the greatest works of ethical and moral philosophy in the world.
Valluvar Kottam is open to visitors every day of the week from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visitors can enter the monument free of charge and explore the colonnade, which offers stunning views of the statue of Thiruvalluvar and the surrounding area.
Visitors can also attend cultural events that take place at Valluvar Kottam, such as the annual Tamil New Year festival, which is celebrated with music, dance, and traditional food.
Valluvar Kottam is a monument that celebrates the rich cultural and literary heritage of Tamil Nadu. It is a symbol of Tamil identity and pride and serves as a cultural hub for Tamils from all over the world. The monument's unique architecture and stunning location make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Tamil culture and history.
Thiruvalluvar was a Tamil poet and philosopher who lived over 2,000 years ago. His literary work, Thirukkural, is considered one of the greatest works of ethical and moral philosophy in the world.
Thirukkural is a collection of 1,330 couplets that were written by Thiruvalluvar. The work is divided into three sections: Aram (virtue), Porul (wealth), and Inbam (love). Thirukkural is considered a masterpiece of Tamil literature and is revered by Tamils all over the world.
The colonnade at Valluvar Kottam is decorated with intricate carvings that depict scenes from Thiruvalluvar's life and teachings. The colonnade serves as a gallery that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Valluvar Kottam hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music concerts, dance performances, and traditional festivals. The annual Tamil New Year festival is one of the most popular events that takes place at Valluvar Kottam.
Yes, Valluvar Kottam is open to visitors every day of the week from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visitors can enter the monument free of charge and explore the colonnade and the statue of Thiruvalluvar.
