Speaker

Thiru. Perumal Murugan

Author

Born into a family of farmers in 1966, Perumal Murugan has evolved into a remarkable Tamil literature luminary. This journey began from his early writing days, with his children’s songs featuring on All India Radio.

He pursued his passion for Tamil literature throughout his education, culminating in a Ph.D. from Madras University. As a professor, Murugan has significantly contributed to the academic study of Tamil literature specific to the Kongunadu region. He has researched and documented Kongu folklore, and his collection of over 35 books is a vivid cultural map of the Kongu region.

Despite facing challenges from protests and assaults, Murugan continued teaching Tamil literature, ultimately serving as the Principal of Govt. Arts College, Namakkal. As an author, Murugan has penned twelve novels, six collections of short stories and poems, thirteen books of nonfiction, and numerous anthologies. His works delve into themes of family, greed, and corruption. His latest novel, “Kazhimugam,” explores middle-class families’ relationships with technology. This multifaceted figure is a stalwart of contemporary Tamil literature.

Sessions

Day 1 - 6th October, Friday @ The Niligir Library

10:05 AM - 10:30 AM

Introduction to OLF '23 & Lifetime Achievement Award

Trustees speak on the journey to this year’s OLF.

Thiru. Perumal Murugan is one of Tamil Nadu’s foremost writers and has championed the promotion of education and literary arts and culture in Tamil Nadu, sometimes against heavy odds. In celebration of his achievements, Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Climate Change &
Forests, Govt. of Tamil Nadu, introduces Thiru. Perumal Murugan followed by
the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to him.