Rationalist Tamil poet Inkulab passes away

His body was kept at his residence in suburban Urapakkam to enable the public to pay their homage. Called as ‘ Makkal Pavalar ’ Inkulab, he was a follower of rationalist leader E V R Periyar.   Born as Shahul Hameed at Keezhakarai in Ramanathapuram district, he retired as a professor of Tamil at the New College here. His drama ‘ Avvai’ is considered to be the first modern Tamil drama. It also challenges the patriarchal view which has marginalised the female voice. His song /poem ‘ Naan ga Manushangada ’ (we are human beings) is a collection of famous dalit-freedom songs that were still played at many dalit gatherings. His poems espousing rationality have been critically acclaimed. ‘ Kanmani Rajam ’, his most famous poem, criticises the moral bankruptcy of politicians.  His other famous literary works included modern versions of ‘ Manimekala i’ and ‘ Kurinji Paatu .’  Leaders of various political parties, including DMK Treasurer M K Stalin and PMK Founder Dr S Ramadoss expressed grief over the death of Inkulab and offered their condolences.