The Vanavarayar Foundation was established on October 1, 2009, by the Samathur Zamin Vanavarayar family with the noble vision of documenting, preserving, and promoting the rich history and culture of this land. Its major initiatives include establishing a Kongunadu museum, organizing heritage tours to archaeological, cultural, and religious sites, hosting lectures and publications on art, architecture, and history, and creating awareness among the younger generation about Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage. The foundation also undertakes the conservation of ancient monuments and supports the publication of books that record local history and traditions. Through regular heritage walks, exhibitions, and seminars, the foundation plays a vital role in reviving the cultural and historical consciousness of the Kongu region.
Among its notable contributions are the Kongu Cattle Festival (started in 2015) held annually at Samathur to promote and preserve native cattle breeds, the Siva Yatra, a yearly spiritual and heritage journey across historic temples of Tamil Nadu, and continuous monthly research lectures featuring eminent scholars. The foundation has also published several books, organized Coimbatore Heritage Festivals, Heritage Week events for students, and photo exhibitions highlighting the city’s past. It is currently developing a South Indian heritage museum at Samathur Palace and plans to release a bilingual historical research journal titled “Aayvu Suvadu.” Through all these initiatives, the Vanavarayar Foundation stands as a significant institution dedicated to safeguarding and celebrating Tamil Nadu’s living heritage.
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