Constantine Joseph Beschi was born in Castiglione del Lago, Italy, in 1680. He joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1694 and was sent to India as a missionary in 1710. He arrived in Madras (now Chennai) in 1711 and began to study Tamil.
Beschi was a quick learner and soon became fluent in Tamil. He also studied other Indian languages, such as Sanskrit, Telugu, and Kannada. He used his knowledge of Tamil to write and translate religious and secular works. His most famous work is the Tamil grammar book, “Thenmozhi Viyaparitam,” which was published in 1732.
Beschi was also a close confidant of Chanda Sahib, the Nawab of the Carnatic. Chanda Sahib appointed Beschi as his Dewan in 1739. As Dewan, Beschi was responsible for managing the Nawab’s finances and administration. He also played an important role in negotiating treaties with European powers.
Beschi died in Madras in 1742 at the age of 62. He is remembered as a great scholar and a dedicated missionary. His work has had a lasting impact on Tamil literature and culture.
Here are some of Constantine Joseph Beschi’s most notable achievements:
- He wrote and translated over 50 books in Tamil, including the first Tamil grammar book.
- He founded the first Tamil printing press in Madras.
- He established schools and orphanages for Tamil children.
- He played an important role in promoting Tamil literature and culture.
Beschi was a remarkable figure who made significant contributions to Tamil literature and culture. He was a true Renaissance man who was fluent in several languages and was a master of many different subjects. He was also a dedicated missionary who worked tirelessly to spread the Christian faith in India.