How to learn Tamil

What you should know about Tamil

Tamil is a classical language and one of the oldest living languages in the world, with a rich literary tradition that dates back to over 2,000 years. It is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly by Tamil people of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

Tamil is an official language in both India and Sri Lanka, and it is recognized as one of the scheduled languages in India. It is also widely spoken by expatriate communities around the world, particularly in Malaysia, Singapore, and South Africa.

The Tamil alphabet, known as the Grantha script, consists of 247 characters and is considered one of the most scientific writing systems in the world. Tamil is known for its rich vocabulary and poetic structure, with a rich history of literature, including poems, epics, and prose. Some of the most famous Tamil literary works include the Thirukkural, a collection of couplets on ethics and morality, and the Silappadhikaram, a epic poem about love and sacrifice.

Tamil has a strong cultural significance for Tamil people and is seen as an integral part of their identity. The language has undergone significant evolution over the centuries and has been heavily influenced by Sanskrit and Pali, as well as by other European languages.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in tamil language and culture, with a growing number of people learning the language and studying its literature and history. Efforts have also been made to promote Tamil as a language of instruction in schools and to preserve its rich cultural heritage for future generations.

In conclusion, Tamil is a rich and vibrant language with a long history and a deep cultural significance for Tamil people. It continues to evolve and thrive, with a growing number of speakers and learners both in India and around the world.