New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Russian President Vladimir Putin a Russian translation of the Thirukkural during their bilateral talks here on September 11, Friday, as the Russian leader arrived in the national capital ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.
The Thirukkural, is a classical Tamil work attributed to the revered poet-saint Thiruvalluvar. Comprising 1,330 two-line couplets, the text offers guidance on ethical and righteous living without being tied to any particular god, caste or creed.
The 2026 edition in the Russian language was translated by Naira Mkrtchyan.
Thirukkural, which is been translated into several languages worldwide, is an ancient work of Tamil moral literature that explores various aspects of life, including virtue, wealth, ethical statecraft, governance, non-violence, compasion, death and human values. The classic holds a prominent place in Tamil culture and literary tradition and is dated between 300 BCE and 500 CE.
It is also said that one of the most celebrated writers of Russia Leo Tostoy encountered one of the early translations of Thirukkural and popularised it in Russia in 19th century.
The book also has a unique connection with Russia, where Indian philosophy has influenced several poets and authors since the 17th century. The gift also came at a time when New Delhi and Moscow are seeking to expand their longstanding strategic partnership beyond traditional areas of cooperation.
Its teachings centre on three universal themes:
- Aram (virtue)
- Porul (wealth and statecraft)
- Inbam (love)
Held in high regard by Tamils and often referred to as the “Tamil Veda”, the Thirukkural is also widely recognised by scholars as a significant work of aphoristic literature. Presenting the Tamil literature, PM Modi said that the book containning ancient Indian philosophy and the Indian literary spirit will inspire readers in Russia. He also said that Thirukkural helps to strengthen people-to-people ties between India and Russia, which cherish long-standing, time-tested and specially privilaged strategic partnership.
Presented President Putin with a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, which carries the eternal wisdom of the great Thiruvalluvar across languages and borders. pic.twitter.com/rvk3rRDnvg
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 11, 2026
President Putin arrived in New Delhi early Friday ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, which is being hosted by India on September 12 and 13. Upon his arrival, the Russian President was welcomed by Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the “multifaceted and longstanding” bilateral ties between India and Russia.
