The First World Classical Tamil Conference got off to a grand start with President Prathiba Patil exhorting the next generation of Tamils to equip themselves with the knowledge of Tamil culture, literature and values.<br/><br/>Inaugurating the five day conclave in Coimbatore on Wednesday morning she said she was confident that as a living language, Tamil will evolve to meet the needs of a changing world drawing strength from its ancient roots. <br/><br/>Tracing the legacy of Tamil people and the language, she said they have greatly enriched the composite heritage of India and enhanced the cultural richness of the world. Patil said Tamil ethos based on pluralism, tolerance and a humanistic approach has contributed from early times to the progress of the country and in shaping India’s identity as a nation rich in art, music, architecture and literature.<br/><br/>Stating that the history of Tamils is the nation’s pride, the President said many concepts intrinsic to India’s society and basic to its polity are found in Tamil discourse over the millennia. The President said classical language status given to Tamil by the centre in 2004 is recognition of not only the antiquity and richness of the language but also of its role as a carrier of great culture.<br/><br/>The President gave away the Kalaignar Karunanidhi Classical Tamil award to Professor Asko Parpola from Finland. The award comprised of a gold medallion, 10 lakhs in cash and a citation. Presiding over the function, Chief Minister Karunanidhi said Tamil without losing its beauty and youth has been a living language for over five thousand years. He said there need to work out a strategy to further develop the language in different spheres including literature, comparative studies, history, philosophy and humanities.<br/><br/>Governor Surjit Singh Barnala released a souvenir brought out on the occasion. Over 7000 scholars and researchers from India and abroad are participating in this conference. A Tamil internet conference is also being organised as part of this conclave.