Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in Thirukkural: A Relook of Indian Ethos from The Past

India, the Vishwa Guru, took the presidency of the G20, and it became a landmark in Indian history. The Honorable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has high praise for Thirukkural. He has quoted it several times in his speech. Thirukkural is an ancient literature from the classical language Tamil, penned by Thiruvalluvar. This paper tries to see the perspectives of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the theme of India’s G20 Presidency) from Thirukkural. Love embraces all creatures. Without showing love towards others (animals or plants), we cannot make the entire world one family. Valluvar says people lacking love keep everything for themselves, whereas those who have love regard their bones to be the property of others. The body is the home of a soul when love resides within, whereas the bodies of loveless people are merely bony frameworks covered with skin. One who expresses equanimity of mind and equity towards his/her fellow beings will certainly be accommodating of all, transcending the boundaries of caste, creed, religion, and ethnicity. All other characteristics are not ornaments; humility and sweetness of speech are the true ornaments. Avoiding taking sides and remaining impartial, as the evenly fixed scale is the ornament of the wise, asserts Valluvar. Moreover, a supreme virtue is justice, which entails treating enemies, strangers, and friends equally. Hospitality is the dharma of Indians since time immemorial. The person who has entertained previous guests and who looks for potential future guests will be a welcome visitor to those in heaven. Thiruvalluvar, in the chapters against envy, charity, mercy, kindness towards relatives, abstinence from flesh, not inflicting suffering, against killing life, benevolence, and courteousness, explains Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. By attempting to link India’s G20 theme with Thirukkural, the author showcases the richness of Indian heritage and culture.