Tamil Nadu chief minister M.K. Stalin delivered a powerful and inspiring speech at a book fair, calling for the spread of knowledge and intellectual awakening across society. Describing books as the most vital instruments of an intellectual and social revolution, the chief minister said they are a priceless asset that must be preserved, promoted, and made accessible to all.
Addressing writers, publishers, students, and readers gathered at the event, stalin emphasised that books have historically played a decisive role in shaping progressive movements in tamil Nadu. “Books are not merely collections of pages; they are tools that ignite minds and drive revolutions of thought,” he said, urging people—especially the younger generation—to cultivate a lifelong reading habit.
The chief minister highlighted the deep connection between the Dravidian movement and the world of literature. He noted that social justice, rationalism, and self-respect ideologies were spread and strengthened through books, journals, and writings. “The Dravidian intellectual revolution was powered by the written word. Books laid the foundation for awareness, equality, and questioning authority,” he remarked.
Stalin also stressed that knowledge should never be treated as a luxury commodity. He called upon governments, institutions, and civil society to ensure that books remain affordable and reach even the most marginalised sections of society. Reiterating his government’s commitment, he spoke about initiatives aimed at improving public libraries, supporting authors and publishers, and encouraging reading culture in schools and colleges.
Referring to the wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital age, the chief minister said that while technology has transformed access to information, the relevance of books remains undiminished. He argued that books provide depth, critical thinking, and intellectual discipline that quick online content often lacks. “A society that reads is a society that thinks—and a thinking society is the foundation of democracy,” he said.
Concluding his address, stalin called upon citizens to allow the “fire of knowledge” to spread beyond book fairs into everyday life. He urged families, educational institutions, and communities to treat books as invaluable treasures that nurture informed, compassionate, and progressive citizens.
The speech was widely appreciated by literary circles and educationists, who saw it as a reaffirmation of tamil Nadu’s long-standing tradition of valuing knowledge, learning, and intellectual freedom.
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