Reaching Your Roots – Celebrating the 2nd Batch (August 1–15, 2025)
The Reaching Your Roots (RYR) program — a visionary cultural initiative of the Government of Tamil Nadu — successfully completed its second batch this August (1–15, 2025).
Twelve Indonesian children and youth of Tamil origin (six from Jakarta and six from Medan) were part of this enriching two-week journey that offered them a chance to reconnect with their ancestral homeland.
The tour was offered completely free of cost — including airfare, visa, stay, meals, and local travel — and provided participants with an immersive introduction to Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage.
A Journey of Heritage and Identity
During the two weeks, the young participants explored:
- Architectural and archaeological marvels of ancient Tamil Nadu
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing Tamil civilization’s grandeur
- Visual and performing arts such as dance, literature, martial arts, sculpture, and crafts
- Educational and cultural institutions that link the past to the present
They also had opportunities to interact with leaders, scholars, and experts, learning first-hand about the legacy and dynamism of Tamil Nadu.
The experience was not just about history — it was about building bridges across borders. The Indonesian participants mingled with peers of Tamil origin from different countries, discovering common roots and forming lasting friendships.
About the Reaching Your Roots (RYR) Program
The Reaching Your Roots program is a two-week cultural tourism initiative by the Government of Tamil Nadu, designed exclusively for youth of Tamil diaspora (ages 18–30).
✨ Purpose
To reconnect the Tamil diaspora youth with their ancestral culture, heritage, and traditions, while also showcasing modern Tamil Nadu.
✨ Scale
Every year, 200 students of Tamil origin worldwide are selected. They travel in five groups of 40 each, spread across different months.
✨ Eligibility
- Age: 18–30 years
- Second-generation emigrants (born outside India) OR families living abroad for more than 50 years
- Preference for first-time visitors to India
✨ Program Features
- 15-day fully sponsored cultural tour (including travel, visa, accommodation, food, and insurance)
- Guided visits to historic monuments, cultural landmarks, and educational institutions
- Exposure to traditional and modern Tamil Nadu
- Interaction with cultural experts, leaders, and scholars
- Participants become “Cultural Ambassadors” and are encouraged to share their learnings through reports and storytelling
Gratitude and Vision
We extend heartfelt thanks to the Government of Tamil Nadu and the dedicated organizing team for their generosity and vision. By providing such opportunities, Tamil Nadu ensures that its cultural heritage remains a living connection for future generations of diaspora youth.
For the 12 Indonesian participants of this second batch, the journey was not just a trip — it was a rediscovery of identity, pride, and belonging to the timeless roots of Tamil culture.
👉 Applications for future batches can be made through the Commissionerate of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils, Government of Tamil Nadu.
