A Tribute by ITC Junction | Integral Training Centre | Aambal Tamil Sangam
Compiled & Introduced by Dr. Ravi Govindaraj
🌟 Dr. N. Dhanalakshmi (Chennai District)
A True “Sadhana Professor” – The Scholar Who Lives Tamil
The words of Swami Vivekananda —
“Through the grace of the Guru, the disciple becomes a scholar even without books.”
beautifully describe Dr. N. Dhanalakshmi, an outstanding Tamil professor, researcher, writer, and poet from Thiruvallur district, whose passion for teaching and research has made her a shining star in Tamil academia.
🎓 Academic Excellence
Born in Natham, Thiruvallur district, to K. Nathamuni and N. Komalavalli, Dr. Dhanalakshmi’s academic journey reflects the pinnacle of devotion to Tamil studies.
She completed:
- Schooling: Government Higher Secondary School, Cholavaram
- Undergraduate & Postgraduate Studies: University of Madras (B.A. & M.A. in Tamil Literature)
- M.Phil and Ph.D.: Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai
- Received Central Institute of Classical Tamil (CICT) Research Fellowship (2012–2014) to complete her Doctoral Thesis
Her research and education were marked by extraordinary perseverance, scholarly discipline, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
🧑🏫 Professional Journey
Currently serving as Assistant Professor of Tamil at Smt. Devkunvar Nanalal Bhatt Vaishnav College for Women, Chromepet, Chennai – 600044.
In her teaching career, Dr. Dhanalakshmi has been admired not only for her clarity and command over classical Tamil texts but also for her modern pedagogical approach.
She seamlessly bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary relevance, making Tamil literature vibrant for today’s generation.
She also serves as:
- Director, All India Tamil Sangam, Chennai
- Active member, All India Tamil Writers’ Association
- Contributor, Maharashtra Tamil Literary Forum, Mumbai
- Member, Tamilkathir Sangamam, Coimbatore
- Member, Villupuram Tamil Sangam, Villupuram
Her lectures are known for their depth, emotional warmth, and analytical brilliance — inspiring thousands of students to explore Tamil literature with new curiosity.
📚 Publications (Books Authored)
Dr. Dhanalakshmi has authored six major books, all of which have received critical acclaim:
- Sivavakkiyar Paambatti Siddhar Paadalgal Solladaivu
- Singayazhagiya Amman Kummi & Seeranaiyur Mariamman Kummi
- Sangha Ilakkiyathil Varaivukadaathal
- Thirunallaru Thalavaralaaru
- Manimegalaiyil Manithaneyam
- Thalasayanapperumal Koilgal
These works showcase her command over classical Tamil, devotional literature, and folklore, blending deep research with poetic insight.
🎓 Research & Academic Presentations
- Presented 70+ research papers in national and international seminars (including UGC-CARE-listed conferences).
- Travelled widely across Delhi, Mumbai, Andaman, and Puducherry to deliver lectures on Tamil, philosophy, and archaeology.
- Her work explores Siddhar literature, Shaiva Siddhantam, Classical Tamil studies, and contemporary interpretations.
Her contributions have been instrumental in connecting ancient Tamil knowledge systems to the modern academic world.
🏆 Awards & Recognitions
Dr. N. Dhanalakshmi’s exceptional scholarship and service have earned her over 130 awards, including:
- 🏅 Sadhanai Aasiriyar Virudhu (Achiever Professor Award)
- 🏆 All India Book of Records Award for Academic Excellence
- 🪶 Ilakkiya Neri Nayagi Award
- 🌺 Marabu Tamil Scholar Award
- 🌸 Aruntamiz Selvi Award
- 🏅 Siddhar Ilakkiya Sudar Award
Her humility and scholarship have made her a respected name across Tamil literary and academic circles.
💖 Philosophy & Inspiration
Dr. Dhanalakshmi believes that true education lies in awakening wisdom, not merely transferring information.
She often says:
“A teacher is not a mirror to reflect knowledge, but a lamp to kindle thought.”
Her students remember her not just as a teacher but as a mentor, guide, and motivator who constantly reminds them that learning is a lifelong spiritual journey.
🕊️ Legacy
Dr. Dhanalakshmi stands as a living symbol of discipline, scholarship, and humility — an embodiment of Tamil academic excellence.
Through her books, lectures, and mentorship, she continues to inspire a new generation of Tamil scholars who see her not just as a teacher, but as a “Sadhanai Perasiriyar” — the Achiever Professor.
“In the classroom of life, she teaches not subjects, but purpose.”
— Dr. Ravi Govindaraj
