THIRUVALLUVAR

Published on 21 Nov 2025

Thiruvalluvar, a revered Tamil poet and philosopher, lived in ancient India. His masterpiece, “Thirukkural,” comprises concise couplets that offer timeless insights into ethics, morality, and everyday life. With enduring wisdom, Thiruvalluvar remains a symbol of Tamil literary excellence and a source of guidance for generations.

Core Values

• Virtue: Thiruvalluvar emphasizes the importance of righteousness in every aspect of life. He suggests that ethical conduct is the foundation of a just and harmonious society.

• Example: Gaurav Tiwari IPS who took action against illegal mining despite having political pressure.

• Integrity: Thiruvalluvar emphasizes the importance of honesty, sincerity, and integrity in all aspects of life. He suggests that individuals should align their words with their actions and maintain a sense of authenticity.

• Example: Shreshtha Thakur IPS stood against the leaders of ruling party and arrested some members of the ruling party. She was transferred from her district post this incident.

• Gratitude: Thiruvalluvar emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the blessings in one’s life.

• Example: ISRO chairman thanking the public for their support during both failures and successes.

• Friendship: Thirukkural values genuine and trustworthy friendships. He emphasizes the importance of mutual support, loyalty, and understanding in friendships. 

• Example: India-Bhutan relationship resembles a true friendship as echoed by Thiruvalluvar.

• Self-control: Thirukkural stresses the value of self-discipline and self-control. He advises individuals to govern their desires, emotions, and impulses, promoting balanced and mindful living.

• Example: Rajni Sekri Sibal, an IAS officer from Haryana cadre said a firm no when offered a bribe by the political powers who wanted her to change the results of 3200 Junior Basic Training (JBT) teachers in 1999-2000. 

Quotes

•  “Be wise among the wise, but pretend to be dull among fools”.

• “There is no greater wealth than Virtue,And no greater loss than to forget it.”

• “The only gift is giving to the poor; All else is exchange.”

• “Real kindness seeks no return.”

• “The lotus’ stem is as long as the depth of water,So men’s height is just as great as their inner strength.”

• “Friendship with the wise gets better with time, as a good book gets better with age.”

Thiruvalluvar’s enduring relevance shines through his masterpiece “Thirukkural.” His concise verses on ethics and virtues transcend time, guiding humanity with wisdom applicable in personal lives, governance, and society. His legacy remains a vital source of ethical insight, inspiring ethical conduct and harmonious existence.

Tags:
Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

Keywords:
THIRUVALLUVAR MORAL THINKERS PHILOSOPHERS Be wise among the wise but pretend to be dull among fools There is no greater wealth than Virtue And no greater loss than to forget it The only gift is giving to the poor; All else is exchange Real kindness seeks no return The lotus’ stem is as long as the depth of water So men’s height is just as great as their inner strength Friendship with the wise gets better with time as a good book gets better with age Thirukkural integrity gratitude

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 4

Topics:
Philosophical Thinkers