En Sarithiram (My History) is an autobiography written by the Tamil Scholar Dr.U V Swaminatha Iyer (1855 to 1942) who published about 100 books in ancient Tamil literature, poem, puranas, & devotional songs. It all started with him publishing the Jain kapiyam (Epic) "Seevaga Sinthamani" which was written around 10th Century by Thiruthaka Thevar. He went around collecting the old palm leaf manuscripts from various people who were holding it, complied it wrote commentary and published this epic. In similar manner with a career spanning more than 70 years he published many long lost books in Tamil and made it available to the world by going around village by village meeting people collecting palm leaf manuscripts (which were almost lost). His main publications which received great adoration are "Cilappathigaram, Manimekalai, Purananuru, Seevaga Sinthamani, Pattupattu, Ettuthokai".
In his book "En Sarithiram" he gives a beautiful view of village life near Kumbakonam in mid nineteenth century. Written in simple Tamil which can be well understood by everyone he gives a gripping account of his journey through education & professional life. The sequence of events are so well narrated that even though this book is somewhat long there is not even a dull moment.
Some interesting topics in the book.
Marriage - he describes how a traditional Tamil marriage happens in the 19th century, the simplicity, the elegance the gathering of relatives. He even comments about the extravaganza carried out in weddings in mid 20th century compared to his wedding (Ps : If he is to see weddings today I wonder what will be his comments!)
Respect for teacher - This is the ultimate lesson in this book. His respect for all his teachers especially Mahavidvan Meenakshi Sundaram Pillai is simply adorable. He gives lot of accolades to all his teachers right from his childhood.
Efforts for publication - His effort for his first publication Seevaga SInthamni is well narrated in the book. His efforts, obstacles faced, financial challenges, logistical challenges etc. He also narrates how it felt when all the hard work turned into a beautiful book.
A great man whose life was an illustrious one and needs to be studied and followed.
A must read book for all.
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