Thirukkural, an ancient Tamil Classic of Sangam Literature (B.C 100) is a book on ethical philosophy. It essentially portrays the way of life with a code of conduct, where morality of the highest order is the basis of the conduct. Thiruvalluvar, the author of the book, is essentially a humanistic, interested in the welfare of the people and the happiness of mankind. He does not advocate any system, doctrine, practice or ritual. The conduct he prescribes is based on reason and logic. His philosophy is universal. He addresses all man-kind not only of his period but of all times and of all nations.
Thirukkural contains 133 chapters with 1330 couplets. It is divided into three parts, on Virtue, Wealth and Love.
Though there are many renderings in English a translation is generally identified with its period and a new generation needs a rendering in accordance with the currency of language. That is why this modern rendering in English is attempted, not in prose form but in two line verse form as the original.
This rendering is undoubtedly succinct, succulent, satisfying and seeks solution to the sorrows of the squabbling syndromes. Let every reader take this enlightening and ennobling message to various nooks and corners of the world.