Indian Railways is operating seven special trains from Tamil Nadu to Banaras to support large-scale participation in Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0, an event aimed at deepening cultural ties between Tamil Nadu and the ancient city of Kashi. The services connect key originating points — Kanniyakumari, Chennai and Coimbatore — with Banaras, ensuring smooth long-distance travel and timely arrival for participants attending the cultural immersion programme.

The first service began on 29 November 2025 from Kanyakumari. A second train departed from Chennai today. Additional departures are scheduled from Coimbatore on 3 December, from Chennai on 6 December, from Kanyakumari on 7 December, from Coimbatore on 9 December and from Chennai again on 12 December. With this staggered schedule, seven special trains will operate across major Tamil Nadu cities.

To manage the return journey efficiently, Indian Railways has also arranged special services from Banaras. These include return trips to Kanyakumari on 5 December, to Chennai on 7 December and to Coimbatore on 9 December. Further return departures are planned for Chennai on 11 December, Kanyakumari on 13 December, Coimbatore on 15 December and Chennai on 17 December 2025.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0, which begins today, continues the long-standing connection between the Tamil-speaking region and Kashi. This edition carries the theme “Let Us Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam,” focusing on linguistic and cultural exchanges through Tamil learning programmes in Varanasi schools, study tours, and the symbolic Sage Agastya Vehicle Expedition from Tenkasi to Kashi.

The initiative, anchored by the Ministry of Education with IIT Madras and Banaras Hindu University as key knowledge partners, involves ten ministries including Railways. It brings together students, scholars, artisans, spiritual leaders and cultural practitioners from both regions to share traditions, knowledge and experiences. By scheduling these dedicated trains, Indian Railways is enabling seamless mobility and reinforcing the shared heritage between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.

News source: PIB