I'm ready to teach Tamil to school students and adults. I recently completed my M.Phil. in Tamil and am pursuing a Ph.D. and eager to teach Tamil from the ground up.

Find out more about Thamizhazhagi

• Tell us more about your subject. How did you develop an interest in this field?

  I teach Tamil, one of the most ancient and culturally rich languages in the world. My interest in
  Tamil began early through my love for Tamil literature, poetry, and storytelling. Over the years, this
  passion deepened, and today I am also pursuing my Ph.D. in Tamil, focusing on preserving and
  exploring the depth of our language and literary heritage. Teaching Tamil gives me a platform to
  share this knowledge with students from India and around the world.

• What or who is the motivation behind you choosing to teach & why?

  My motivation comes from the belief that language connects people to their roots. I’ve met many
  students, especially from other countries or Tamil-speaking families abroad, who wish to
  understand their culture and speak confidently in Tamil. Being able to guide them on that journey is
  a privilege. I also feel inspired by my teachers and mentors who made learning meaningful for me
  — I want to pass that forward.

• How does your work help society?

  As a Tamil teacher and research scholar, I help bridge generations and cultures. For students
  abroad, Tamil becomes a way to connect with family and cultural identity. For Indian students, it
  strengthens their appreciation for their heritage. On a broader level, this work helps preserve a
  classical language and keeps its literary and cultural value alive for the future.

• If you had to think of a role model for your work, who do you think of & why?

  I deeply admire Bharathiyar — his bold vision, poetic genius, and dedication to education and social
  reform are truly inspiring. His use of Tamil to ignite change and self-belief still resonates with
  learners today. I strive to teach with the same spirit — to empower through language.

• Tell us about your hobbies outside teaching.

  Beyond teaching and research, I enjoy making handmade gifts, exploring Tamil literature,
  journaling, and working on simple craft projects. These activities keep me grounded and creative. I
  also love interacting with people from diverse cultures, which enriches my teaching approach —
  especially for students from abroad.

• Do you have an anecdote to tell us about your student or professional life?

  Yes, I have several heartwarming incidents. One of my students, who had grown up abroad, initially
  struggled to even read the Tamil alphabet. But with consistent effort and encouragement, she was
  eventually able to read and understand full Tamil stories on her own. She proudly read a passage
  to her parents, who were emotional hearing her speak their mother tongue so fluently. Another
  student from India once shared that he used to avoid Tamil classes in school. But after a few weeks
  of our sessions, he began enjoying it so much that he could confidently read, write, and understand
  both written and colloquial Tamil. His parents were surprised and happy to see such quick progress.
  These real moments are what make teaching meaningful for me. Watching my students go from
  hesitation to confidence is the most rewarding part of my work.