Tracing the journey of historian and author A.R. Venkatachalapathy, speakers discussed his contributions to the social and cultural history of Tamil Nadu at a seminar on Saturday.

Organised jointly by Kalachuvadu, Kadavu, and The Hindu Lit for Life, the second day of ‘Viruvum Aazhamum’ seminar had sessions on Mr. Venkatachalapathy’s many avatars as historical researcher, translator, author, teacher and scholar.

Tamil writer Perumal Murugan said Mr. Venkatachalapathy had compiled and brought out 17 books, including ones on freedom fighter V.O. Chidambaram Pillai, poet Bharathiyar and Tamil writers Maraimalai Adigal and Pudhumaipithan, to fill gaps in historical accounts. He also threw light on lesser-known personalities like A.K. Chettiyar, a Tamil travelogue writer, and contributed to new perspectives in history, he added.

Style of writing

Speakers also discussed his style of writing and his contributions to the literary field through prefaces and Dalit writings. His prefaces were distinct and could be compiled and published as books, some of the speakers said. Describing his captivating style of writing as more typical of fiction, speakers suggested that he write a book tracing the history of Tamil proverbs.

Mr. Venkatachalapathy has published 41 books in English and Tamil and has authored about 200 articles in various newspapers and magazines.

He is currently a professor at the Madras Institute of Development Studies.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Chennai / by Special Correspondent / Chennai – February 09th, 2019