Welcome to the
Tamil Cultural Academy

History & Vision

In the year 1981, (L) Shri. Jaganathan along with his close friend Shri Venkateshwarlu, founded a humble organization named Tamil Arts & Cultural Academy near the sacred Varadharaja Perumal Temple in North Chennai. Their shared vision was to nurture, support, and encourage emerging talent in Tamil & Carnatic music.With great dedication, they invited numerous musicians to perform at the temple premises and organized Tamil & Carnatic vocal concerts, providing a valuable platform for artists to showcase their talents in Tamil, Telugu and other regional languages.Beyond music, the organization extended its service to society by supporting children from economically weaker sections, offering them education and spiritual guidance, particularly for those living below the poverty line.Following the demise of Shri. Jaganathan, his son, Shri. Arokiaraj Jaganathan was inspired by his father’s legacy and driven by his deep passion for Tamil and Carnatic music, resolved to continue and expand this noble mission. With his vision for structured growth and formalization, the initiative evolved into what we proudly know today as the Tamil Cultural Academy, which has been serving the community for the past 30 years.

Growth & Global Vision :


As part of its evolution, since 2017, the Tamil Cultural Academy, under the banner of “Mega Isai Vizha” and “Kodai Isai Vizha,” has expanded its vision globally by promoting traditional Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam worldwide, strengthening the global presence of Tamil artistic heritage.

Over the years, many reputed and legendary Carnatic musicians and Bharatanatyam dancers have performed at the Academy’s events. These distinguished artists include recipients of prestigious honors such as the Padma Shri, Padma Vibhushan, and Kalaimamani awards from the Government of India and the Government of Tamil Nadu.

The Mega Music and Dance Festival stands as a testimony to the Academy’s unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Cultural & Social Impact :


Tamil Cultural Academy is a social and cultural trust that aims to create a vibrant community for Tamil speakers and enthusiasts. The Academy provides opportunities to learn Tamil history, cultural values, artistic traditions, and cultural exchange programs.

Through its diversified programs, the Academy ensures that the rich cultural legacy of Tamil Nadu and Tamil music continues to thrive across generations.

Key annual programs include :


  • Mega Isai Vizha
  • Kodai Isai Vizha

Mega Isai Vizha Festival :


Every year, the Mega Isai Vizha is conducted during the month of December. This prestigious Carnatic Music and Dance Festival features performances by renowned and emerging artists.

The concerts typically begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 10:00 PM, spanning 4 to 7 days of continuous musical and dance performances.

Over the years, the Academy has successfully organized numerous cultural programs featuring renowned Carnatic vocalists, musicians, and Bharatanatyam dancers, while also recognizing hundreds of artists for their valuable contributions to Tamil arts and culture.

As part of its continuing evolution, the Tamil Cultural Academy has been actively promoting traditional Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam globally since 2017, expanding the reach of Tamil culture across international platforms.

Our Global Expansion :


While our journey began in Chennai, the spirit of the Tamil Cultural Academy has always aimed to transcend boundaries. From the vibrant streets of Chennai to cultural stages across the world, our Founder, Shri Jaganathan Arokiaraj, envisioned a mission of spreading compassion, culture, and community beyond borders.

On 9th November 2024, the Tamil Cultural Academy proudly set foot on the land of the Burj Khalifa in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a historic milestone in our global journey.

This expansion reflects a significant step in our mission to bring Tamil arts, Carnatic music, and Bharatanatyam to the international stage. The successful launch in the UAE is a testament to the growing recognition of the Academy’s work and the strong support from the Tamil diaspora worldwide.

Our cultural events in the UAE have received overwhelming appreciation and enthusiastic participation, fostering meaningful connections with communities, artists, and patrons who share our vision of preserving and promoting Tamil cultural heritage.

As we continue to grow, the Tamil Cultural Academy remains committed to strengthening cultural bridges between nations while celebrating the timeless beauty of Tamil art, music, and tradition.

Awards :


The Tamil Cultural Academy, in collaboration with the Dada Saheb Phalke (MSK) Trust, has proudly joined hands to honor legendary artists in the Indian film industry. Over the years, many distinguished artists have been recognized for their immense contributions to music, cinema, and cultural service.

The awards presented are as follows:

1. ISAI CHEMMAL
For outstanding dedication to Indian music.

2. LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
For exceptional services and contributions to Indian cinema.

3. Award for Social & Cultural Activities
For remarkable efforts in promoting social and cultural initiatives.

LIST OF TRUST MEMBERS

NAME DESIGNATION
Mr. Arokiaraj Jaganathan Founder
Mr. Mohamed Riyasudeen President - (India & Gulf Region)
Mr. K. Kumaresan Secretary - (India & Gulf Region)
Mr. Richard Raj Treasurer
Mr. Chokalingam Treasurer
Mrs. Y. Nikkhath Sheriff Vice President
Mr. S.N. Sathish Narayanan President, TCA Award Committee
Mr. Tenkasi S. Jawahar, IAS (R) Hon’rary Advisor
Dr. (Mr) B. Ramakrishnan Hon’rary Advisor
Mr. CA. Venkatesan Hon’rary Advisor

With respectable 2250 Trust members globally