According to Thiruvalluvar, meaningful legacy is created through a balanced life, where personal enjoyment does not compromise honor and significant contributions to the world. Overcoming adversity, committing to excellence, and engaging in acts of benevolence are essential elements in building a legacy that endures and inspires. Such legacies not only honor the individual but also foster thriving societies.
- There is no greater reward for human life than the respect and admiration earned through philanthropy. Kural #231
- All that the world will be singing is the praise of the philanthropist. Kural #232
- The most enduring human achievement is the unparalleled and exalted glory earned through philanthropy. Kural #233
- Even the celestial world will sing praises of a philanthropist with a timeless reputation. Kural #234
- Only a few use adversities to construct their legacy and manage to sustain it beyond their own lifetime. Kural #235
- Engage in every endeavor with the aim of achieving distinction, or abandon it if you cannot commit to excellence. Kural #236
- Those who are not striving to leave a lasting impact will be held in contempt and they are responsible for the negative perception. Kural #237
- A life that does not leave a lasting impact beyond its lifetime might be considered tainted. Kural #238
- A nation’s prosperity can be measured by the number of illustrious individuals it has produced. Kural #239
- Legends are those who balanced worldly pleasures with honor, contributed significantly to the world, and left behind a lasting legacy. Kural #240
Legacy(புகழ், இசை, எச்சம்): The enduring influence and contributions (tangible & intangible assets) an individual leaves behind, shaping the future through their values, achievements, benevolence, and social impact. It is a testament to a life well-lived, continuing to benefit and inspire long after the individual is gone.
Reputation: The perception and respect an individual earns through their actions and behavior.