Tamil language should reach worldwide 'just like idli, dosa': PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his dismay over the neglect of Tamil Nadu's rich cultural heritage over the years, emphasising the need to celebrate and promote it not just in India, but across the world.

During his interview with Thanthi TV, the Prime Minister said that Tamil is the world's oldest spoken language and wondered why people do not take pride in it.

"I get upset because over these years we have done injustice to the great heritage of Tamil Nadu. Our country has the world's oldest language, which is Tamil, yet we don't take any pride in it. The praise of this rich heritage should be talked about all over the world," PM Modi said.

Further in his interview, PM Modi also spoke about the politicisation of Tamil language. PM Modi said the Tamil language should be spread outside Tamil Nadu just like south Indian food items like idli and dosa have made their mark globally.

"Language suffers from politicisation. Had there been politics over South Indian food such as idli, dosa



would also have remained within Tamil Nadu. I believe that, much like idli and dosa, the Tamil language should reach worldwide," he said.

PM Modi also asserted that Tamil Nadu can become a driving force of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) model, citing the southern state's abundant resources such as youth, advanced technology, and industries.

"Tamil Nadu can become the biggest driving force of Viksit Bharat. There are talented youth, technology, industries in the state," he said.

When asked about the BJP not getting a foothold in Tamil Nadu even though the party is at its peak of electoral success, PM Modi said he did not work only to win elections.

"If merely winning elections was my goal, I would not have worked for the development of the northeast. I have visited northeastern states more than all the former prime ministers combined. I don't think my visits to Tamil Nadu are only for politics. I have no complaints about Tamil Nadu people not supporting the BJP," he said.