The “One Nation – One Dream” youth festival, jointly organized by Voice of Tenkasi Foundation and Rotary International District 3212, was held yesterday at Vyasa Arts and Science Women’s College, Vasudevanallur.
Former President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, attended as the chief guest and delivered a keynote address. Speaking at the event, he said:
“I am truly delighted to participate in this special program organized by Voice of Tenkasi Foundation and Rotary Club under the inspiring theme ‘One Nation – One Dream’. Interacting with young people always excites me, as they are filled with creativity, energy, and the determination to leave their mark on the world. It is an honor to be here in the sacred land of Tenkasi. Earlier this morning, I visited a temple and received the blessings of Lord Shiva, which I now share with all of you gathered here.
Tamil Nadu has always been a land of wisdom since the Sangam era, and its knowledge resonated across India. During the freedom struggle, Bengal, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and others rose in unity. That is why our national anthem proudly declares ‘Punjab, Sindh, Gujarat, Dravid, Utkal, Banga’ – celebrating this spirit of togetherness.
Today is also remarkable for another reason. Renowned actor *Mohanlal* has been honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award. His contribution across Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu cinema reflects how art binds our diverse cultures together. This perfectly embodies our theme – One Nation, One Dream.
This phrase is not just a slogan. It is a reminder that despite our many languages, cultures, and traditions, we are united by a common dream – to build a prosperous and developed India by 2047.
To achieve this, we must fight poverty, modernize villages, empower women, advance technology, and protect the environment. Every child, from the remotest village to the largest city, deserves education and progress.
Our path must be ‘One Nation – One Commitment – One Goal’. Development should not be limited to a few but should be the outcome of collective effort. That is the true meaning of our dream.”
As part of the celebration, 1330 students set a remarkable record by reciting 1330 couplets of Thirukkural, standing in the formation of poet Thiruvalluvar’s image which is 133 feet in height. This symbolic performance underlined the festival’s cultural depth and vision. Students also showcased various cultural programs following the recital.
The event was graced by several distinguished personalities including Zoho Corporation’s Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu, Voice of Tenkasi Foundation founder Ananthan Ayyasamy, Rotary District 3212 Governor Dinesh Babu, Vyasa College Chairman Vellathurai Pandian, Executive Director Vellathai, Secretary S. Sundar, Vice Chairperson Prakasavalli, AKD Dharmaraja Trust’s A.K.D. Krishnama Raju, Senthilandavar College Chairman, Puthiya Baskar, Veerasamy Educational Group Chairman S.V. Murugaih, Amaravathi Educational Group Chairman Balasubramanian, J.P. College Principal Rajkumar, and Annai Meenakshi College Vice Chairperson Jayaolivu.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Karunya Gunavathy, CEO of Voice of Tenkasi Foundation.