Greetings, Valluvar! by Erode Tamilanban (Translated by Gregory James and V. Jayadevan)

A POETIC DIALOGUE BETWEEN AGES: BRIDGING ANCIENT WISDOM AND MODERN THOUGHT.

How does a timeless philosophy speak to the challenges of the modern world? In Greetings, Valluvar! (originally published as Vanakkam, Valluva!), the celebrated poet Erode Tamilanban embarks on an innovative, profound journey of dialogue with Tiruvalluvar, the revered poet-philosopher of the Tirukkural.

Winner of the prestigious 2004 Sahitya Akademi Award, this collection of twenty-two free-verse poems is a masterful blend of Tamil mythology, epic history, and rich symbolism. Tamilanban questions, reflects, and marvels at Valluvar’s ability to soar beyond the constraints of caste, creed, and color, presenting the sage’s ideas of universality and secularism as vital forces for our contemporary era.

Why this collection is a landmark in Tamil literature:

• An Innovative Literary Dialogue: Experience a unique structure where a modern poetic voice engages directly with the ancient wisdom of the Tirukkural.

• Cultural Depth: Woven with intricate Tamil myths and symbolism, the poems offer a deeply moving reflection on spirituality and the societal norms that govern us.

• Award-Winning Craftsmanship: Authored by Erode Tamilanban—a literary icon with over ninety anthologies to his name—this work stands as a testament to his immense contribution to classical and modern Tamil literature.

• Accessible Wisdom: Through the evocative translations of Gregory James and V. Jayadevan, the profound insights of Valluvar are now beautifully accessible to a wider English-speaking audience.

Whether you are a scholar of Tamil literature or a reader seeking spiritual resonance, Greetings, Valluvar! serves as a bridge, reminding us that true wisdom knows no time or boundaries.