The Tamil language has a significant global presence, primarily due to the Tamil diaspora and the historical spread of Tamil culture and language. Tamil is widely spoken and has found adoption in various countries, especially in regions with Tamil communities. Some key points regarding Tamil language adoption globally include:
India and Sri Lanka: Tamil is one of the official languages in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry. In Sri Lanka, Tamil is one of the official languages, and it is primarily spoken in the Northern and Eastern provinces.
Southeast Asia: Tamil communities exist in countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, where they have maintained their language and culture.
Gulf Countries: Many Tamil-speaking expatriates work in Gulf countries, leading to the spread of the Tamil language in that region.
Western Countries: The Tamil diaspora has settled in Western countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. These communities have established Tamil cultural centers, schools, and religious institutions to preserve their language and heritage.
Online and Media: The internet and digital media have played a significant role in promoting the Tamil language globally. Tamil content, including movies, music, and literature, is available online and accessible to a global audience.
Percentage of Tamil Population Globally: It's challenging to provide an exact percentage of the global Tamil population due to various factors, including population growth, migration, and regional variations. However, as of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the global Tamil population was estimated to be around 80 million people.
Please note that this number may have changed since then, and for the most up-to-date population figures, it is advisable to consult more recent sources or demographic studies. The Tamil population is distributed across India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and the Tamil diaspora in various parts of the world.