Celebration of International Mother Language Day 2025

Dear All, 

We are delighted to inform you that on February 27, 2025, the Department of Library and Information Science (DLIS), Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN), celebrated the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day, an event observed annually on February 21st to promote the preservation of mother languages. The celebration commenced with the traditional Tamil Thai Vazhthu, performed by Shabarisha, Yogamangalam, and Jeevitha, students from the second and first year, respectively. Ashwin S. Nair, a first-year DLIS student, delivered the welcome address, extending greetings to the chief guest, Professor G. Ravindran from the Department of Media & Communication, CUTN, as well as faculty members, scholars, students, and all attendees. Dr. K. G. Sudhier, Assistant Professor, DLIS, provided an introductory speech, emphasizing the significance of the program. Professor S. Thanuskodi, Head of the DLIS Department, delivered the presidential address, outlining the broader context of the International Mother Language Day celebration. 

The special address was delivered by Professor G. Ravindran, who highlighted the importance of International Mother Language Day. He elaborated on the concept of "Mother Language," language dialects, lost languages, the necessity of monolingualism within families, and historical figures such as Boa Sr., the last speaker of the Aka-Bo language, and Thomas Munro, who advocated for the use of local languages in administration. Ahsana Ashraf, a first-year DLIS student, also contributed to the event with a speech. 

A poetry presentation session, coordinated by Samarpita Dash, featured students from various departments reciting their original poems, accompanied by translations and explanations to enhance understanding. Following the presentations, Professor Akhandanand Shukla announced the winners of the poetry writing competition and distributed certificates to both winners and participants. Athira Sugunan, Department Representative of DLIS, concluded the event with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the chief guest, faculty members, and all participants. The event was anchored by Ms. Ananya Boruah, a second-year M.Lib.I.Sc. student. 

The celebration was a resounding success, reaffirming the DLIS Department’s commitment to supporting the teaching and learning of mother languages. The department extends its sincere appreciation to the chief guest, faculty members, scholars, students, participants, and all staff who contributed to the event’s success.