Vanidasan

Arangasamy Ethirasalu (July 22, 1915 - August 8, 1974), known by his pen name Vanidasan, was a Tamil poet. He was known to be one from Pavalar generation known as 'Bharathidasan's poetic ancestry'. He was an expert in Tamil, Telugu, English and French. He published over 17 collections of poetry, including several novels in poetry form.

Early life He was born in Villianur, next to Puducherry. His father Thirukkaamu and mother Tulsiammal named him Arangasamy. He was also known by his nickname 'Rami'.

He was taught in primary school by the writer Bharathidasan. He started writing under the pen name ‘Ra-Mi’.

Honours He was complimented as the 'Wordsworth of Tamil Nadu' as his songs excelled in portraying nature. He received the Chevalier degree of the Order of the Star of Anjouan from the President of France in 1954.

Legacy Vanidasan died on 7 August 1974. His family was given a gift of in appreciation by the Government of Tamil Nadu.The government has also nationalised his works. A government high school in Seliamedu was named after him.