A controversy has arisen in Tamil Nadu regarding a portrait of the revered Tamil poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar, which depicted him in saffron attire with religious symbols. The portrait was displayed during Thiruvalluvar Day celebrations at the Tamil Nadu Lok Bhavan in Guindy, Chennai. This portrayal sparked criticism from various political leaders, scholars, and cultural activists who argued against associating the poet with a specific religious identity.
Tamil Nadu Minister Arunraj strongly criticized the depiction, emphasizing that Thiruvalluvar’s teachings transcend religious, caste, and ethnic boundaries. He stated that the author of the Tirukkural symbolizes universal human values and should not be confined to any particular religious ideology. Arunraj expressed his disapproval of showcasing Thiruvalluvar in saffron robes at government or public institutions, highlighting the poet’s universal message of moral values that are relevant to all humanity.
The Minister highlighted that Thiruvalluvar’s references to the divine in his works were inclusive and not specific to any deity or faith. He argued that assigning a color associated with a particular religion to Thiruvalluvar contradicted the poet’s universal philosophy. Arunraj criticized attempts to limit Thiruvalluvar’s image to a single color, likening it to trying to contain the vast ocean in a small vessel.
The controversy unfolded during the Thiruvalluvar Day celebrations at Bharathiar Mandapam in Lok Bhavan, where Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Arlekar honored Thiruvalluvar’s legacy. The Governor praised the Tirukkural as a timeless guide promoting virtue, ethical governance, social harmony, and moral responsibility. He urged people to embrace the values of integrity, compassion, and wisdom advocated in Thiruvalluvar’s teachings.
