Tamil Nadu Leaders Criticize Governor for Saffron Attire on Thiruvalluvar Portrait
Tamil Nadu leaders said the saffron portrait distorts Thiruvalluvar’s universal identity and called the depiction unacceptable.
- On Saturday, May 30, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar sparked controversy by paying tribute to a portrait of Thiruvalluvar depicted in saffron attire at Lok Bhavan during Vaikasi Anusham celebrations.
- Critics argue the saffron depiction politicizes the philosopher, who is traditionally shown in white cloth. Health Minister Arunraaj condemned the portrayal, asserting, "Tirukkural provides a common code of life for all of humanity."
- CPI State Secretary M Veerapandian said, "The Governor should respect Tamil cultural aspects. Time will not accept, and history will not pardon if those cultural aspects are diverted on a different path." MDMK General Secretary Vaiko called it "pure slyness."
- DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin launched a two-pronged offensive, targeting both the saffron iconography and the alleged "inaction" of the TVK government under Chief Minister Joseph Vijay. Stalin claimed the chief minister remains "silent."
- CPI State Secretary P Shanmugam demanded an apology, asserting the Governor defines the poet as Sanatani despite his teachings on equality. This incident highlights ongoing cultural and political tensions in Tamil Nadu.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Tamil Nadu Leaders Criticize Governor for Saffron Attire on Thiruvalluvar Portrait
Political parties in Tamil Nadu, including TVK and DMK, have criticized the portrayal of poet Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire at Lok Bhavan. This depiction was seen during a recent event and ignited accusations of limiting Thiruvalluvar's universal message by associating him with a specific religious identity.
"Don't Insult Valluvar With Saffron": Joseph Vijay's TVK Minister Arunraj Objects To Thiruvalluvar With Hindu Identity Marks, Peddles False Info About Thirukkural Having No Reference To Hindu Gods
Tamil Nadu Health Minister K.G. Arunraj of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has strongly opposed the depiction of poet-saint Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire. Arunraj’s remarks came after a portrait or depiction of Thiruvalluvar in saffron robes — a color strongly associated with Hindu ascetic traditions and saffron politics — was featured during an event linked to the Governor. Arunraj, who also serves as TVK’s propaganda secretary, iss…
The Print
The Siasat DailyPolitical parties, including TVK, DMK, criticise Guv for portraying Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire
Chennai, May 31 (PTI) Political parties, including ruling TVK and opposition DMK, criticised the Lok Bhavan depicting Tamil poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire, contrary to the officially recognised image in which he is shown in a white cloth. The criticisms began after the Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar paid tributes to a portrait of Thiruvalluvar depicted […]
Times of India
The Economic TimesRow erupts over saffron-clad Thiruvalluvar portrait at Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan
Political parties in Tamil Nadu have strongly criticized the depiction of poet Thiruvalluvar in saffron robes at Lok Bhavan. Leaders from ruling and opposition parties condemned the move, stating it misrepresents the philosopher's universal message. They argued that associating Thiruvalluvar with a specific religious color undermines his secular teachings and appealed for adherence to his widely recognized image.
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