'Ezhuthu', a platform for encouraging young Tamil writers, was today launched here by former Union Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram.
'Ezhuthu' (meaning letter or writing) would financially support the print and release of the first book of young Tamil writers.
"We want to encourage more Tamil writers. Ezhuthu is planning to support at least 12 Tamil writers in a year," Chidambaram said during its inaugural function here.
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Though 'Ezhuthu' would look after the printing, publishing, release and sale of the book, the copyright of the book would remain with the author, he clarified.
"The rightful royalty to the author will be given on the same evening he releases the book. Ezhuthu will be responsible for its sale," he said.
Observing that it was very hard for publishers to sell even 1,000 copies of first edition of a book, he said more quality books should be published to develop Tamil literature.
"There are over 13,000 educational institutions across Tamil Nadu. Aren't these institutions in need of even a single book? Even government libraries are not buying Tamil books these days. This has to change," Chidambaram said.
Noted Tamil academics and authors Avvai Natarajan, Mu Metha, 'Marabin Maindhan' Muthiah and 'Kavipperarasu' Vairamuthu are the other trustees of 'Ezhuthu'.
