Guest Lecture: 7 Inspiring Lessons on Justice in Silappathikaram
Introduction
The Department of Commerce, Kamaraj College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi, organised a Guest Lecture for the first year B.Com. students on 29 July 2026 at 9.30 a.m.
The programme commenced with the rendition of Tamil Thai Vazhthu. The lecture was organised to introduce students to the literary, ethical and moral values presented in the Tamil epic Silappathikaram and to enhance their appreciation of Tamil literature and its relevance to contemporary society.
Welcome and Inaugural Session
Mr. A. Akash, a first year B.Com. student, welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest.
Mr. R. Billion Paul Edison, also a first year B.Com. student, delivered the felicitation address and welcomed the participants to the academic session.
Insightful Guest Lecture
The chief guest, Dr. A. Thilagavathi, Associate Professor, Department of Tamil and Department of Computer Science, Kamaraj College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi, delivered an inspiring lecture on the topic “Justice as Portrayed in Silappathikaram.”
She explained the historical background of Silappathikaram, highlighted its ethical values and discussed the principles of justice reflected in the epic. The lecture enabled students to understand the timeless relevance of Tamil classical literature in promoting morality, truth and social justice.
Interactive Learning Experience
The session concluded with an interactive discussion between the resource person and the students.
Students actively participated by asking questions and sharing their views on the literary and moral messages found in Silappathikaram. The interaction encouraged critical thinking and deepened their appreciation of Tamil heritage and culture.
Programme Coordination
The programme was coordinated by Dr. S. Vasanthi, Professor of Tamil.
Ms. S. Veena Rohini, a first year B.Com. student, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the chief guest, faculty members and participants for making the programme successful.
The programme was compered by Ms. S. Gopika, a second year B.Com. student. The event concluded with the National Anthem.
Benefits of the Guest Lecture
The Guest Lecture offered valuable academic and cultural benefits to the students.
- Enhanced understanding of the Tamil epic Silappathikaram
- Introduced students to the ethical values and principles of justice in classical literature
- Encouraged appreciation of Tamil literary heritage
- Improved critical thinking through interactive discussion
- Inspired students to relate literary values to modern society
- Promoted active student participation and communication skills
- Strengthened awareness of moral and cultural values
Outcome of the Programme
The Guest Lecture successfully enriched students’ knowledge of Tamil literature and its enduring ethical values.
The major outcomes of the programme were:
- Students gained a deeper understanding of the historical and literary significance of Silappathikaram
- Awareness of justice, ethics and moral values was strengthened
- Students actively interacted with the resource person during the discussion
- The programme promoted appreciation for Tamil culture and classical literature
- The Department of Commerce successfully organised an enriching academic event for first year students
The programme motivated students to explore classical literature and apply its timeless values in their personal and professional lives.
Conclusion
The Guest Lecture on “Justice as Portrayed in Silappathikaram”, organised by the Department of Commerce, provided first year B.Com. students with valuable insights into one of the greatest works of Tamil literature.
The informative lecture delivered by Dr. A. Thilagavathi, together with the enthusiastic participation of students and the effective coordination by Dr. S. Vasanthi, made the programme highly successful. The event strengthened students’ understanding of justice, ethics and Tamil literary heritage while encouraging them to appreciate the timeless values preserved in Silappathikaram.
Internal Link
Department of Commerce | Kamaraj College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi
