The Association of Singapore Tamil Writers (ASTW) will commemorate its Golden Jubilee with a literary celebration on Nov 14-15 at the National Library.
Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth and Manpower, Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash will officiate the inaugural ceremony on 14 November 2026.
The event from 6 pm to 9 pm will feature addresses by distinguished guests, reflections on the association’s 50-year journey and recognition of its contributions to Tamil literature.
Distinguished literary personalities from Tamil Nadu, including veteran writers Dr Bharathi Krishnakumar and Dr Prakash @ Elakkiya Pithan and poet Thangam Murthy will join Singapore writers, scholars and literary enthusiasts.
A full day of literary activities will follow on 15 November.
The morning programme will feature a literary seminar bringing together scholars and speakers to discuss Tamil literature and its continuing relevance.
An afternoon poetry session will provide a platform for six poets to present their creative expressions, reflecting the richness and diversity of Tamil poetry.
A special programme involving younger participants will follow, highlighting the importance of encouraging the next generation to develop an interest in Tamil language and literary activities.
The celebrations will conclude with a traditional Tamil literary debate, or Pattimandram, examining the relationship between the past and the present.
Together, these programmes reflect the Association’s commitment to preserving literary traditions while encouraging fresh perspectives and contemporary expression.
History of ASTW
Founded in 1976, activities of ASTW gained renewed momentum in the 1980s under Poet Amallathasan as Chairman and Hon. Secretary Naa. Aandeappan, then a senior Tamil news editor with Singapore’s television broadcaster.
Present Chairman of ASTW Mr S Muthumanickam said, “Three major annual festivals anchor ASTW’s cultural calendar: Muthamizh Vizha, celebrating Tamil literature which is part of the annual Tamil Language Festival coordinated by the Tamil Language Council, music and drama; Kamban Vizha, honouring the poet of the Tamil Ramayana; and Kannadasan Vizha, celebrating the renowned Tamil poet and lyricist.”
He added, “Its awards include the Tamizhavel Award, presented to a senior writer, honouring Tamil Murasu founder G Sarangapany; the Mu Ku Ramachandra Book Prize, recognising literary excellence; and the Kaviyarasu Kannadasan Award, introduced in 2012 for promising writers below 40.”
“ASTW’s monthly Kathaikalam provides aspiring writers with opportunities to develop short stories, exchange ideas and receive feedback” said its Hon. Secretary Mrs Prema Mahalingam.
To celebrate the 90th birthday of founding father Mr Lee Kuan Yew, ASTW published a book of 90 poems written on him by poets from Singapore, Malaysia and India. The Tamil poems were translated into English and included in the book. The book was launched by earlier President Mr S R Nathan.
For further details, contact Mr Muthumanickam (+65 9773 2750) or Mrs Prema Mahalingam (+65 9169 6996).
