HISTORY

Books & Authors
Kalitogai, a classical Tamil anthology
▪ Rebel Theatre: A poem from Kalitogai portrays unconventional characters, a hunch-back woman and a dwarf, falling in love, showcasing their indomitable spirit and wit.
▪ Controversial Interpretation: The author previously suggested that the ‘Kutru’ in Tholkappiyam could have evolved into ‘koothu’ (theatre), stirring debate among scholars.
▪ Sangam Classics: These classics depict rigid conventions in ‘aham’ (love) poems, focusing on specific geographical regions and life stages, often idealizing the hero and heroine.
▪ Geographical Themes: Tamil country is divided into five regions: hills (premarital love), plains (quarrels in married life), pastoral (waiting for husband), coastal (romantic agony), and arid lands.
▪ Classical Rules: Tholkappiyam’s rules emphasize good looks, nobleness, and virtue in lovers, typicallyfrom the same social and economic class.
▪ Unique Drama: The Kalitogai poem defies these conventions, featuring physically imperfect characters with strong spirits, humor, and self-acceptance.
▪ Play Description: The poem’s play involves a witty and ironic interaction between the characters, highlighting their unique romantic dynamics and challenging traditional norms.
Appointments
Comptroller and Auditor General
▪ K. Sanjay Murthy, former Secretary of the Central Higher Education Department, took charge as the country’s new Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
▪ Girish Chandra Murmu, who was serving as the Comptroller and Auditor General, retired last Wednesday.
▪ A 1989 batch IAS officer from Himachal Pradesh cadre, he has extensive experience in public administration.