A Reverential Tribute to Bharati Tamil Sangam Kolkata and South Indian Associations of West Bengal

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A Reverential Tribute to Bharati Tamil Sangam Kolkata and South Indian Associations of West Bengal

Date: 20th January 2025

With deep humility and profound gratitude, I pen this note to express my heartfelt appreciation for Bharati Tamil Sangam Kolkata and all the South Indian Associations of Kolkata and West Bengal for the extraordinary effort and devotion that culminated in the grand success of the annual Pongal celebration held on the 19th of January 2025. The event was a resounding testament to the enduring spirit of cultural heritage, community bonding, and spiritual enrichment.

Pongal, a festival dedicated to the Sun God and the bounty of harvest, is not merely an event but a sacred occasion that connects us to our Vedic roots and reminds us of the eternal wisdom enshrined in the Upanishads, Bible, and Quran. It inspires us to cultivate gratitude, selflessness, and harmony in our lives. 

As the Taittiriya Upanishad beautifully says:

"Annam na nindhyat; tad vratam"
("Do not disdain food; that is the vow.")

This universal truth, celebrated through Pongal, teaches us to revere the sustenance that nature provides, honoring the divine forces that nurture life. 

Similarly, the Bible in Psalm 104:14-15 reminds us:

"He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and vegetation for the service of man, that he may bring forth food from the earth."

And the Quran beautifully echoes this sentiment in Surah An-Nahl (16:114):

"Then eat of what Allah has provided for you, lawful and good. And be grateful for the favor of Allah, if it is Him that you worship."

I am indebted to the tireless efforts of the organizers, volunteers, and participants who infused the event with energy, dedication, and an unshakable commitment to preserving our traditions. Each element, from the soulful music to the vibrant dance performances, the traditional rituals to the delectable feast, reflected a spirit of unity and devotion, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended.

Let us also take this moment to embrace the universal principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"—the world is one family. As we step into this new year, may we carry forward the values of togetherness, love, and mutual respect, spreading light and harmony in all that we do.

Wishing everyone a very happy and prosperous New Year. May this year bring abundant blessings, inner peace, and spiritual growth to all. Let us continue to walk together on the path of dharma, inspired by the ancient wisdom of the Vedas, the eternal message of the Bible, and the profound guidance of the Quran, guided by the divine light that transcends all boundaries.

With folded hands and a heart filled with gratitude,

Venkataramanan Ramasethu
20th January 2025

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