Thu Nov 28 17:47:00 UTC 2024: ## Celebrated Tamil Writer Ambai Honored at Madurai Event

**Madurai, November 28, 2024** – Acclaimed Tamil feminist writer C.S. Lakshmi, known as Ambai, was honored at a day-long event in Madurai on Thursday, celebrating her 80th year and her significant contributions to Tamil literature. The “Ambai 80” event, organized by Kalachuvadu Trust and The American College’s Tamil Higher Research Centre, featured discussions on various aspects of Ambai’s work, moderated by leading writers. A new collection of her short stories was also released.

Fellow Sahitya Akademi awardee Perumal Murugan spoke at the event, recounting his friendship with Ambai and highlighting her meticulous research and dedication to her craft. He described her writing style as focused on working women and featuring public or working spaces as the premise, creating strong, layered narratives. He cited her translation of his book “Saathiyum Naanum” (“Caste and I”) as an example of her thorough approach, noting her detailed questioning and fact-checking process.

In her acceptance speech, Ambai reflected on her writing journey, beginning at the age of 16, and her experiences as a teacher, highlighting her activism for improved school infrastructure. She emphasized that writing is not merely a pastime but a way to share one’s thoughts and perspectives. Other speakers included publisher Kannan Sundaram, Devendra Bhupathi of Kadavu, historian Stalin Rajangam, and Tamil poet Cheran. The event provided a platform to celebrate Ambai’s enduring impact on Tamil literature and her commitment to social justice.

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