Growing up, I held a reluctant view of my Tamil heritage. Speaking Tamil was often looked down upon in my circles, to the point where schools would fine us for using the language. This cultural backdrop instilled in me a perception of Tamil as second-rate, an attitude I carried for years.

This perception was starkly contrasted during my visit to Italy, where I delved into the works of Machiavelli and explored Stoicism and Chanakya's teachings. Immersed in what I considered the realm of the 'learned elite,' my disconnect from Tamil literature only deepened.

However, as I journeyed through life, my perspective began to shift. Much later, realization dawned upon me: the rich cultural heritage and wisdom of Tamil literature, especially embodied in "Thirukural" by Thiruvalluvar, is unparalleled.

"Thirukural" by Thiruvalluvar, a revered classic of Tamil literature, stands as a testament to the art of living through its exploration of everyday virtues. Authored between the first century BCE and 5th century CE, this timeless treatise is composed of 133 chapters, each containing 10 couplets, amounting to 1330 couplets in total. The work is divided into three distinct sections: 'Aram' (virtue), 'Porul' (government and society), and 'Inbam' (love). The first book, 'Aram,' focuses on the way or dharma, with chapters dedicated to householders' dharma and the path of renunciation. 'Porul' delves into matters of state and societal concerns, while 'Inbam' addresses both pre-marital and marital love​​​​.

The Tirukkural is renowned for its universality and non-denominational nature. It has been variously referred to as Tamil Veda, words that never fail, truthful utterances, the universal Veda, and divine text, signifying its wide acceptance and reverence across cultures and time. The work's universality is further underscored by its focus on compassion, avoidance of falsehood, and the importance of a virtuous life​​.

Thiruvalluvar's approach in the Kural is unique and universal, addressing humanity at large rather than specific sections of society. His teachings transcend caste, creed, and dogma, offering wisdom and guidance that are as relevant today as they were centuries ago. Unlike other philosophers of his time, Thiruvalluvar's focus was not limited to specific societal roles or religious doctrines but encompassed a broad spectrum of human experience. His maxims have deeply touched the souls of many, providing a treasure trove of wisdom unmatched by other works​​​​​​.

Each couplet, composed of four words in one line and three in the other, conveys profound wisdom on life, ethics, and morality. I marveled at how Thiruvalluvar said everything he had to say within these couplets, maintaining impeccable logic and profound insight.

Rediscovering "Thirukural" was like unearthing a treasure trove. It made me realize the richness of the Tamil language and culture that I had previously overlooked. This classic text, revered in Tamil literature, transcends time and place with its universal themes of virtue, government and society, and love.

During a lecture at the Naval War Academy about Quantum Computing in India, I met a captain who had completed his PhD in Thirukural. His passion for this work, despite not being a Tamil, was inspiring. It was a moment of reflection for me, recognizing the value of something I had taken for granted.

I have now begun to embrace my Tamil culture, integrating Thirukural's wisdom into my work with "The Internet of Value." Each chapter of the book is adorned with a contextual couplet from Thirukural, a tribute to this magnificent work.

Thank you, Thiruvalluvar, for this gem of Tamil literature. "Thirukural" has not just been a rediscovery of my roots but a guiding light in my professional and personal growth.