Tamil Nadu trio connects the dots between science and Tamil language

Chennai

Three youngsters, Rubini Mahalingam LN, Rajchandar Padmanaban and Dharani Ravichandran, have come together and launched an e-learning platform called Ekalaivan Tamil where children learn science through Tamil texts like Thirukkural, Tholkappiyam, Silappatikaram, Aimperum Kaappiyangal and folktales. “There are plenty of animated videos in the digital platform where you can let your child watch it while you can carry on with your work. But what parents are forgetting is that children are disconnected from Tamil culture and literature. We can share stories from Tamil folktales, and mythologies. But it might not register in the minds of young children easily. If you connect such stories to textbook science, they can instantly recall. Rubini, a close friend of mine, discussed this concept with me That’s how we developed an e-learning platform with simplified concepts from prominent Tamil texts. This is only for children between 9 and 15 years.

 We speak to children only in Tamil,” says Rajchandar. A scientist by profession, he feels that it is important to connect children to their cultural roots. “Sometimes, children wonder how to connect textbook science to the real world. So, when we share from Tamil literature or folktales, we make sure that it is weaved along with science.” shares Rubini. Rubini and Rajchandar ideate the concepts and work together in developing how to explain science concepts and stories to students. Dharani works in the collection and narration of stories. She has an extensive list of Tamil literature, Puranas, and folklore stories.