Ilai is a modern interpretation of 60s psychedelia. It takes Tamil into new territory, drawing on the psychedelic type styles of the 1960s and 70s and reinterpreting them in a different form. Designer Anagha Narayanan took inspiration from counter-culture visuals, including movie posters and record covers - particularly their use of compressed and experimental lettering.

The design can speak in many different voices, from an elegant monoline to a deliciously top- or bottom-heavy weight. It can be clean and simple, or uncompromisingly quirky in its expression. The heavier versions offer a futuristic interpretation of psychedelic shapes, with the letterforms resembling slow-moving fluid or puddles of ink.

Ilai is an award-winning Tamil typeface, and is part of Universal Thirst’s mission to create new and experimental expressions for Indic typefaces. It’s designed for subheadings, posters, and other display uses, including branding.

The typeface does solely support the Tamil script and has no Latin support. If you are looking for a great Latin companion to it, we strongly recommend the beautiful Cheee by OH no Type Co.

Writing System: Tamil
Supported Languages: Tamil