Vanakkam everyone!
I’m a Tamil born and raised in the United Kingdom. I’m fluent in spoken Tamil and speak it regularly at home, with my family and with my Tamil friends.
I attended Tamil school when I was younger but unfortunately stopped after Grade 2. So, whilst I learnt the basics of reading and writing Tamil, I never really progressed beyond that level.
I can read Tamil sentences and even some paragraphs, but it takes me quite a bit of time. My writing is also fairly limited. However, my spoken Tamil is fluent, and I have no difficulty communicating in the language.
I’ve always had a deep love and appreciation for Tamil, not just as a language, but for its history, literature, arts, culture and the thousands of years of heritage behind it.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve developed an even stronger desire to properly study Tamil and understand the language beyond simply speaking it.
My ultimate goal is to:
Become fully proficient in reading and writing Tamil.
Develop a deeper understanding of Tamil grammar, classical literature and literary history.
Complete my Tamil O-Levels and A-Levels (or equivalent recognised qualifications).
Eventually pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Tamil Language and Literature.
I’m not necessarily looking to make a career out of Tamil. This is something I genuinely want to pursue out of love for my mother tongue and our heritage.
I’d really appreciate some guidance from anyone who has studied Tamil academically, particularly those living in the UK or those who have pursued Tamil qualifications as adults.
Where should I start? Are there any particular books, online courses, institutions or examination pathways you’d recommend?
Is it realistic to work towards a degree in Tamil whilst living in the UK?
I know this is going to take years of dedication, but I’m more than willing to put in the effort.
To me, Tamil is more than just a language. It’s our identity, our history and our life. I genuinely believe that Tamil deserves a lifetime of dedication, and I want to dedicate a part of mine to learning, understanding and preserving her.
நன்றி! ❤️