Vaiko criticizes the Governor for depicting Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire

Head of MDMK Vaiko. | Photo credit: RAJESH N

MDMK general secretary Vaiko on Sunday termed the depiction of poet Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire during the Thiruvalluvar Day event held at the Raj Bhavan in Chennai as an “unforgivable lapse”.

Speaking to reporters in Mayiladuthurai after paying tributes to Left leader and former Communist Party of India state committee member R. Idumbayan, 79, in Pattamangalam village, Mr Vaiko criticized Governor Rajendra Arlekar for paying floral tributes to a portrait of Thiruvalluvar depicted in saffron colours.

Mr. Vaiko questioned the move and alleged that the Governor had offended the sentiments of the people of Tamil Nadu by portraying Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire. He called the act “highly reprehensible” and “unforgivable”.

Published – 01 Jun 2026 0:19 IST