Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a Russian translation of the Thirukkural to President Vladimir Putin, marking a significant moment in cultural diplomacy. This event took place during a meeting between the two leaders in New Delhi on September 11, 2026, coinciding with the 18th BRICS Summit. The gesture aims to highlight India’s rich Tamil literary tradition, while also fostering closer civilisational ties between India and Russia.

Understanding the Thirukkural

The Thirukkural is a seminal work in ancient Tamil literature, authored by the esteemed poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar more than two thousand years ago. It is widely regarded as a cornerstone of ethics and morality, offering a rich tapestry of practical wisdom relevant to human existence. What distinguishes the Thirukkural from many classical texts is its secular nature; it does not promote any specific religious ideology, which has led to its recognition as a “Universal Veda” or a “Common Creed of Humanity.”

The title Thirukkural translates into “sacred couplets,” comprising 1,330 concise couplets, known as Kurals, structured into 133 chapters with each chapter containing ten couplets. The text is divided into three primary sections that encapsulate the essential goals of human life: Aram (Virtue), Porul (Wealth or Statecraft), and Inbam (Love). Aram focuses on moral values and righteousness, while Porul delves into governance and social affairs. Inbam highlights intimate relationships and emotional facets of love.

The Thirukkural places great importance on values such as non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness, and self-control. Particularly, the section on Porul serves as a guide for rulers, outlining the qualities necessary for effective leadership, the significance of education, and the selection of capable advisors. Unlike many texts that dwell on afterlife concepts or elaborate rituals, the Thirukkural offers practical advice pertinent to daily life, familial relationships, and financial management.

Historical Connections with Russia

The Thirukkural holds a remarkable historical connection with Russia, having significantly influenced the renowned author Leo Tolstoy. Tolstoy was inspired by the text’s principles of non-violence and altruism, later recommending it to Mahatma Gandhi, who greatly valued its teachings. This connection underscores the universal appeal of the Thirukkural across different cultures.

The Russian translation of the text was executed by Naira Mkrtchyan and published by the Central Institute of Classical Tamil. The presentation of this version during the meeting with President Putin aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s ongoing efforts to promote and globalise the rich heritage of Tamil literature. By ensuring that such philosophical works reach a wider audience, he aims to make their enduring messages accessible to leaders and thinkers around the world.

Through this diplomatic exchange, both leaders extended their commitment to cultural understanding and cooperation. The gifting of the Thirukkural not only showcases India’s literary achievements but also demonstrates a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue centered around shared values. The emphasis on literature as a medium to strengthen ties exemplifies the potential for cultural diplomacy in addressing contemporary global challenges.

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