A journey to Tamil Nadu: Celebrating culture, community & connections

By Dr Ram Mohan, Editor

I recently journeyed from Brisbane to Tamil Nadu to fully engage in the vibrant harvest festival celebrations and connect with the Tamil diaspora community at some incredible events.

Experiencing Pongal in Tamil Nadu was a truly enriching adventure. The air was filled with the delightful aroma of sweet pongal, and homes were beautifully decorated with kolams (rangoli patterns), showcasing the spirit of gratitude and unity. The atmosphere was alive with traditional music, dance, and temple rituals, creating an electrifying experience.

A standout moment during my visit was the Tamil Diaspora Day Conference and Exhibition 2025, which took place at the Chennai Trade Centre on January 11th and 12th. This significant event, organized by the Government of Tamil Nadu, united the global Tamil community, highlighting their contributions in various fields, including industry, arts, and social initiatives. As I walked through the exhibition, I encountered inspiring stories from entrepreneurs, academics, and leaders worldwide who are dedicated to preserving Tamil culture while making a global impact. The overwhelming sense of pride and belonging was truly remarkable.

On January 11th, I was honoured to attend the Global CXO Conclave at Hotel Taj Coromandel in Chennai. This event served as a meeting point for business leaders, innovators, and corporate visionaries, where the focus was on new opportunities, economic growth, and global partnerships. Engaging with professionals from a variety of backgrounds, I was truly impressed by the vibrancy of the Tamil business community, which continues to influence industries across the globe.

A notable event was the RISE 14th Global Summit, hosted at the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai. The summit offered enlightening sessions on technology, sustainability, and leadership, serving as a venue for exchanging ideas that could impact the future. By hearing from experts and thought leaders, I gained a richer perspective on the significance of Tamil entrepreneurs and professionals in the global economy.

Throughout my journey, I experienced a deep connection— not only to my Tamil heritage but also to the sense of unity that links Tamils around the globe. This trip highlighted the way culture, tradition, and progress intertwine, showcasing how the Tamil diaspora flourishes while remaining firmly anchored in their roots.

When I returned to Brisbane, I brought back not just memories but also a revitalized sense of belonging and pride in being part of this worldwide Tamil community.