Sat Oct 11 16:58:33 UTC 2025: **Summary of the text:**

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin emphasized the importance of art forms in preserving the Tamil language and culture at the Kalaimamani awards ceremony. He highlighted the role of the Dravidian movement in using art to propagate its ideology and pledged continued government support for artists. He stressed the need to protect and promote Tamil arts globally, drawing parallels to the contributions of past leaders and the DMK’s ongoing efforts to support artists and cultural preservation.

**News Article:**

**Stalin Champions Art as Vital to Tamil Identity at Kalaimamani Awards**

**CHENNAI, October 11, 2025** – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin declared art forms crucial to safeguarding Tamil language, culture, and identity during the Kalaimamani awards ceremony held in Chennai on Saturday. Stalin emphasized the historical significance of art in nurturing the Tamil language, noting the Dravidian movement’s innovative use of theatre and other arts for ideological and social messaging.

“If we lose our identity, we will lose our right to call ourselves Tamils,” Stalin stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to protecting and promoting Tamil arts worldwide. He presented the prestigious Kalaimamani awards for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023, recognizing outstanding contributions to the arts.

The Chief Minister also conferred the M.S. Subbulakshmi Award upon renowned vocalist K.J. Yesudas, the Bharathiyar Award to N. Murugesapandian, and the Balasaraswathi Award to Muthukannamal.

Recalling the legacy of DMK stalwarts like C.N. Annadurai and M. Karunanidhi, Stalin reiterated the government’s dedication to supporting artists, exemplified by the recent felicitation of music director Ilaiyaraaja. He highlighted the Dravidian movement’s role in enriching Tamil language and culture through public platforms and societal reforms.

Stalin emphasized that the Kalaimamani awards aimed to revitalize traditional art forms and support practitioners. “The objective is to breathe new life into dance and drama and to promote our art forms in other States and across the world,” he said, adding that the Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram provides financial assistance to artists in need.

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and Information Minister M.P. Saminathan were among the dignitaries present at the event. The ceremony reaffirmed the Tamil Nadu government’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich artistic heritage.

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