CHENNAI: Chief Minister M Karunanidhi will be heading the World Classical Tamil Tholkappiyar Peravai to be established in Madurai. The Peravai has as its members Tamil scholars from foreign countries — Asko Parpola, George Hart and Ulrich Nicholas.
Apart from these scholars, Prof Pon Kothandaraman, Rama Periyakaruppan (Thamizhannal), Dasarathan, M Ramasamy, K Natchimuthu and Chloria Sundaramathi would also be part of the Peravai.
On the concluding day of World Classical Tamil Conference held at Coimbatore in June, the Chief Minister announced Rs 100 crore assistance for Tamil development and research works. Besides, he announced that Tholkappiyar World Classical Tamil Sangam would be established in Madurai. But the honorary secretary of the Sangam has renamed the organisation as World Classical Tamil Tholkappiyar Peravai.
A Government Order issued on October 21 said the office of the Peravai would function temporarily at the District Collectorate.
The Director of Tamil Development has been asked to take immediate steps to transfer the 14.15 acres of land in Madurai Thallakulam area for the Peravai.