Learn Tamil Language with Free Lessons & Tips

While Tamil can be considered a challenging language for English speakers to learn, it's not necessarily "difficult" in the sense of being impossible, especially if you have a good grasp of phonetics and are willing to dedicate time to learning its unique alphabet and grammar structure; however, compared to some European languages, it might present more obstacles due to its Dravidian origins and different sound patterns. 

In Ancient Tamil, the primary word for "food" was "Unavu", while other words like "Valsi", "Undi", "Odhanam", "Asanam", "Pagadham", "Irai", "AaSaaram", "Urai", "Oottam", "Puga", and "Misai" were also used to describe different types of food depending on the context, as documented in ancient Tamil literature like the "Pingala Nigandu" which lists various foods and their corresponding Tamil terms. 

What is the most beautiful word in the Tamil language?

Would like to list some of my favourites. I have taken the liberty to list some phrases along with words.

1. Sembula Cheru (செம்புலச் சேறும்) : Describes that brilliant brownish red hue that one can see after rains in grounds. The way water mixes up with red sand to form this color has been used as an allegory by poets to describe everlasting love. It was also adapted by Vikram Chandra for the title of his book. This was adapted from Kurunthogai.

2. Mudivili (முடிவிலி ): Translates to Infinity. Could also be translated as "Endless". My opinion is that this word offers an insight into the vast expanse that is infinity and creates a sense of wonder when trying to describe the "cannot-be-described".

3. Thoduvanam (தொடுவானம் ): Translates to Horizon. A literal translation would mean "Touch Sky". Brilliantly describes the feel you get when you look at the horizon from the beach.