Tirukkural is identity of entire Tamil community: OPS

Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam in the Tiruvalluvar Day function praised the collection of couplets saying that Tamils have a rich tradition and Tirukkural has laid guidelines for the tradition. “There is a famous saying that there is nothing left uncovered in Tirukkural. The couplet is the identity of Tamil people,” said Panneerselvam.

Recently, the BJP posted the picture of Tiruvalluvar in a saffron robe and triggered a serious debate among various quarters and Tirukkural was a Hindu literature. Similar posts in social media continued during Pongal too as the picture was once again circulated extending Tiruvalluvar Day wishes.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu too tweeted a similar picture, but pulled it down after severe criticism and the picture of Tiruvalluvar with white robes was posted. The VP clarified that the picture with saffron robe was posted by mistake.

However, the AIADMK does not confirm to the idea that Tiruvalluvar was a Hindu saint and Tirukkural was a Hindu literature. “The practice of observing Tiruvalluvar year in government records was first implemented by state government headed by former chief minister MG Ramachandran in 1981. MGR was also the first chief minister to honour Tamil scholars on Tiruvalluvar day,” said Panneerselvam.

The state government on the occasion distributed 52 awards to Tamil scholars and Tamil associations for taking steps to promote Tamil language. Chicago Tamil Sangam was given Tamil Thai award which carried a cheque of Rs 5 lakh along with a shield and a golden shawl.