Interview

Q1: How did you pursue your Doctorate in this field?

I never initially expected that I would complete my Doctorate in this field. I completed my undergraduate degree in Economics. Later, I pursued my postgraduate studies, M.Phil., and Ph.D. in Folklore. My strong interest and passion for the arts motivated me to study and specialize in folklore.

Q2: How did you build the Sakya Academy?

Sakya Academy is a part of the Sakya Trust and is affiliated with Tamil University, Thanjavur. We have affiliated several courses from Tamil University. The academy offers certificate and diploma courses in Bharatanatyam, Veena, Violin, Mridangam, Thavil, Paraiyattam, Karagattam, Mayilattam, martial arts, Silambattam, and other traditional art forms. By learning these arts, children and young people are guided away from harmful habits. This gives us great happiness and satisfaction.

Q3: What were the objectives behind starting the academy, and what do you wish to contribute to society through it?

We often hear many great leaders emphasize that the education we receive should be useful to society, especially the insightful thoughts shared by leaders such as Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. Through art, we aspire to convey these intellectual and social values. Our aim is to provide children with education and artistic training from a foundational level, nurturing both knowledge and cultural awareness.

Q4: Did the idea of starting an academy to provide education and arts emerge during your early childhood?

I never expected that all of this would happen in such a way. My parents were deeply interested in the arts, and I inherited the same passion. During my school days, I often joined my friends in creating rhythm by tapping on plates and engaging in playful activities. Such experiences and interests gradually drew me closer to the world of art. Music plays a significant role in human life—from lullabies sung to a newborn child to the final moments of a person’s life. To preserve, protect, and pass on my passion for art, we established this academy.

Q5: Could you share a few words about your magazine Makkal Valimai and explain its objectives?

Just as education is a powerful weapon, the pen in our hands is equally powerful. Through the pen, our thoughts are shaped into meaningful words that reach society in the right form. Journalism is one of the strongest pillars of a nation. While many people run publications for personal gain or self-promotion, our objective is different. We started this magazine to convey positive ideas to society and to create awareness among people about law, education, and art. That is why we named our magazine Makkal Valimai.

Q6: Could you tell us about how you maintain your health?

There are teams to take care of my financial responsibilities, but when it comes to matters related to my body and health, I must take care of them myself. At present, I am able to give only about 50 percent priority to my health. Everyone should give greater attention to their physical well-being.

Q7: What message do you wish to convey to students through your academy?

The primary objective of Sakya Academy is to be the first step toward holistic learning. Students are the strongest pillars of our nation. Through Sakya Academy, we aim to share positive, art-based values with students, especially those from rural areas. We seek to preserve and celebrate our cultural heritage. Righteousness, education, and art are three essential elements in a human being’s life.

Q8: Could you explain the “Naatupura Kalaignargalin Natchathira Kalai Vizha” organized by Star Guru Foundation and Sakya Academy?

The “Naatupura Kalaignargalin Natchathira Kalai Vizha” is a unique cultural festival in Tamil Nadu that brings together rural folk artists from across the state on a single platform. Organized in connection with the Pongal festival, the event provides free new clothes to the artists and honors them with awards in recognition of their artistic talents. This festival elevates artists who usually perform on the ground by giving them a grand stage to showcase their beauty and skill. All participating artists are provided with free food, no fees are collected, and the festival is conducted with the sole aim of bringing happiness, dignity, and respect to these artists.

Q9: What are your thoughts on young students engaging with society in the coming years?

It is very important for young people to receive proper education so that they do not lag behind in social awareness. Students should pursue higher education and develop their individuality. They must be guided through education in a way that allows them to contribute positively to society.