Subramania Bharathi (11 December 1882 – 11 September 1921), was a Tamil writer, poet, journalist, Indian independence activist, social reformer and polyglot. Popularly known as "Mahakavi Bharathi" ("Great Poet Bharathi"), he was a pioneer of modern Tamil poetry and is considered one of the greatest Tamil literary figures of all time.
His numerous works included fiery songs kindling patriotism during the Indian Independence movement.He fought for the emancipation of women, against child marriage, stood for reforming Brahminism and religion. Chief Minister MK Stalin, on Friday, announced that the death anniversary of firebrand poet and freedom fighter Subramania Bharathiyar would be commemorated on September 11 as ‘Mahakavi’ Day.
As the first ‘Mahakavi Day’ falls on Saturday, Stalin also listed 14 announcements to observe the 100th death anniversary of the poet whose works ignited patriotism and left an indelible mark on Tamil literature.
Competitions for school children would be held, World Tamil Associations would be roped into activities and a research chair in the name of Bharathiyar would be established in Bharathidasan University in Tiruchy, among others. Besides, a park would be set up by the Rural Development Department for the welfare of women SHGs and be renamed after Bharathiyar.
“Former CM CN Annadurai who was the first to call Bharathiyar ‘Makkal Kavi’ (poet of the people) wrote that the legend tried to create a new world at the time when Jamindarism and Sanathana Dharma were ruling the land,” said Stalin.