If you are curious and want to learn more about Tamil culture, it's vital you expose yourself to a variety of perspectives.
Why a variety of perspectives?
We need to take into account that Tamils have globally faced various forms of oppression for centuries. This has affected the knowledge passed down throughout generations.
There is a lot that has been erased, lost, and misunderstood. Therefore in order to form our own opinions about the Tamil way of life and history it's important to explore different views.
Now, you may be eager to do so but lack the ability to read in Tamil.
Do not worry, we have complied a list of English books from our community that we will update annually.
This list does not encompass all the complexities and aspects of Tamil culture but is a good place to start.
Pair these readings with your own research. Attend workshops, speak to elders and listen to lectures, to begin your journey in better understanding Tamil.
Explore Tamil Values, Way of Life and History Through Literature
English translations and explanations of one of the most translated Tamil works in history. The Thirukural is said to be the code to ethical and moral living.
Note: Interpretations of Tamil texts will also contain biases based on the author's lived experiences. When readings translations of Tamil works we highly recommend referring to more than one translation.
A translation of the Thirukural by Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma who studied under Tamil scholar Dr. K. V. Ramakoti.
English translations of poems from the great female Tamil poet, Avvaiyar. Avvaiyar is said to have written books on the Tamil value Aram. There is no direct translation for the term aram as it means more than honour or virtue. Perhaps diving into her poems will give us a better understanding of this unique term.
This is a translation of the great epic originally written by Prince Ilango Adigal. The Silapthikaram is the story of our ancestor Kannagi, and a key piece of work for its portrayal of the lifestyle and landscapes of ancient Tamils.
Curious about topics of romance and lust during ancient times? Indulge in this light read, a great introductory translation of some ancient Tamil love poems.
Other texts to look into: Texts part of the Sangam Literature
Explore Tamil History
The great Rajaraja Cholan is still praised till this day for his cultural and political impacts on the world. They say under his leadership the economy, art, literature, architecture among much, more thrived greatly. How so? Take a read to learn more about his life.
The famous Chola bronze sculptures lives in museums all over the world. Curious to see the stunning bronze sculptures the Chola dynasty curated? Check our The Thief Who Stole My Heart, and prepare to be amazed of the work of the Cholas.
Other Dynasties to look into: Pandya, Chera, Pallavas
The effects of colonial are still very much alive today. Learn how the first global corporate power managed to oppress and alter not only the economy, and way of life, but morale of those who lived in South Asia.
Dr. Murugar Gunasingam wrote a full history of Tamils tackling areas from politics, art, literature, culture etc., out of need as there was a lack such a text that still existed. This book aids our understanding of the history of Tamils.
Civil lawyer and founding member of the Federal Party of Illankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi, writes about the details behind the conflict and crisis Tamils faced in Sri Lanka through his lived experiences.
Dalit activist Thenmozhi Soundarajan explores and brings awareness to caste. This book acts as a step to aid in healing not just from caste based traumas, but all forms of oppression.
Tamil Way of Life
Siddha Medicine is still used today and perhaps one of the most known contributions of Siddhas amongst Tamils. For a breakdown and understanding of traditional remedies, take a look.
Although this is not a Tamil specific book, this cook explains the health benefits behind many of the spices we use in our cooking, along with how to go about purchasing the spice and how to approach pairing them with other spices.
Finding English books about Tamil culture can be a challenge.
Stay tuned for more English books on the Tamil Language, Fashion, Sports, Martial Arts, Cuisine, History and Education system.
You can find an abundance of Tamil and English books, and resources about Tamil history and heritage here at Noolaham.org
To learn more about the Tamil way of life check out our Youtube Channel.
Have an English book recommendation? Share it with us!
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