Daily Current Affairs : 2-August-2023
The Supreme Court’s recent decision not to entertain a challenge to the off-shore Pen monument project in Tamil Nadu has brought attention to the tribute being built in memory of the late Chief Minister and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader, M. Karunanidhi. This essay will delve into the significance of the Pen Memorial and its design, paying homage to Karunanidhi’s vast contributions to Tamil literature and culture.
Karunanidhi: A Leader of Influence
M. Karunanidhi was a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, serving as the president of the DMK for nearly five decades and holding the position of Chief Minister for five terms. However, his influence extended beyond politics. He was an accomplished orator, poet, writer of non-fiction and fiction, playwright, and filmmaker, making significant contributions to Tamil literature and arts.
The Three Pillars of Thamizh Culture
The Pen Memorial symbolizes Karunanidhi’s contributions to the three fundamental pillars of Tamil culture, known as Iyal, Isai, and Naadagam. These pillars represent poetry and literature, music, and theater, respectively. The design of the monument is inspired by the Veena, a traditional Carnatic music instrument handmade in Tamil Nadu, signifying Karunanidhi’s deep connection to the cultural heritage of the region.
Intricate Design and Symbolism
The monument’s design is intricate and carries rich symbolism, reflecting Karunanidhi’s multifaceted personality and contributions. The Thumba, a part of the Veena, is used to represent the pen pedestal, while the neck portion of the Veena signifies the long bridges. The music hole is fashioned into a pen statue, and the peg serves as the tensile canopy seating on the bridge.
The Frets and Strings
The design incorporates the use of frets to represent the distance between the bridge’s columns, and the strings are a depiction of the Meru or Kudira. This thoughtful symbolism intertwines the essence of music with the significance of Karunanidhi’s written words and political ideals.
A Garden of Artistry
Apart from the main memorial structure, the project includes a landscaped garden on the memorial pedestal. This garden is inspired by the traditional art form known as Sikku Kolam, where Tamil women create geometric shapes using dots and circles. The incorporation of this art form pays homage to Tamil culture and adds an artistic touch to the memorial’s surroundings.
Connecting the Past and Present
The idea of constructing the memorial on water is derived from a metaphorical catamaran, to which Karunanidhi compared himself. This choice reflects his desire to remain connected to Tamil Nadu’s coastal heritage and culture. The accessibility of the monument via a lattice bridge from the existing Karunanidhi memorial on Marina beach further reinforces the connection between the past and the present.
Important Points:
- The Pen Memorial is a tribute to the late Chief Minister and DMK leader, M. Karunanidhi, in Tamil Nadu.
- Karunanidhi was a significant political figure and made notable contributions to Tamil literature, arts, and culture.
- The memorial represents the three pillars of Tamil culture: Iyal (poetry and literature), Isai (music), and Naadagam (theatre).
- The design of the monument is based on the Veena, a traditional Carnatic music instrument, reflecting Karunanidhi’s cultural connection.
- The intricate design of the memorial includes symbolism such as the Thumba, frets, strings, and peg, representing various aspects of the Veena.
- The landscaped garden on the memorial pedestal is inspired by the Sikku Kolam, a traditional art form created by Tamil women using dots and circles.
- The monument is built on water, representing a metaphorical catamaran, symbolizing Karunanidhi’s desire to remain connected to Tamil Nadu’s coastal heritage.
- The memorial will be accessible via a lattice bridge from the existing Karunanidhi memorial on Marina beach, connecting the past and present.
Why In News
The recent decision by the Supreme Court not to entertain the challenge to the off-shore Pen monument project in Tamil Nadu reaffirms the legitimacy of honoring the late Chief Minister and DMK leader, M. Karunanidhi. The project holds significant historical and cultural value, symbolizing the enduring legacy of a prominent political figure and his contributions to the state.
MCQs about Pen monument project in Tamil Nadu
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What does the Pen Memorial in Tamil Nadu symbolize?
A. Karunanidhi’s political achievements
B. Tamil literature, music, and theater
C. Tamil Nadu’s coastal heritage
D. The Veena, a traditional musical instrument
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What inspired the design of the Pen Memorial?
A. A traditional Tamil dance form
B. The Veena, a Carnatic music instrument
C. The ancient architecture of Tamil Nadu
D. A famous historical monument in Tamil Nadu
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What art form inspired the landscaped garden on the memorial pedestal?
A. Rangoli
B. Origami
C. Sikku Kolam
D. Calligraphy
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Why is the Pen Memorial constructed on water?
A. To create a picturesque view
B. To preserve Tamil Nadu’s coastal heritage
C. To honor Karunanidhi’s love for boating
D. To symbolize a metaphorical catamaran
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