'Anti-Hindu': BJP slams CM Stalin over Tamil poet's remark on Lord Ram

A speech on Lord Ram by noted poet Vairamuthu has snowballed into a massive controversy in Tamil Nadu. The state BJP has slammed the MK Stalin government for backing an ‘anti-Hindu’ stance.

Vairamuthu, who was felicitated with an award named after 12th-century poet Kambar, who wrote Kamba Ramayanam, spoke about how Lord Ram ‘lost his mind’ after getting separated from Goddess Sita.

“In the line, ‘Like one bewildered after being separated from the goddess,’ Kamban shows compassion toward Rama, saying that he lost his sense of reason after being separated from his wife. According to Section 84 of the Indian Penal Code, an act committed by someone due to unsoundness of mind or mental derangement is not considered an offense. In that sense, Kamban redeems Rama by portraying the killing of Vali from hiding as the result of Rama’s disturbed state of mind, and therefore not a crime. Through Kamban’s forgiveness, Rama becomes human; Kamban becomes divine,” Vairamuthu said at the event. He also posted a similar message on X with the photo from the award ceremony where Chief Minister MK Stalin was also present.

Questioning the state government, Tamil Nadu BJP said that the remarks have hurt the sentiments of the Hindus.

“Not only does Mr. Jagathrakshakan claim to have established the ‘Azhwars Research Centre’ to promote Vaishnava devotion, he also says he is engaged in studying the Kamba Ramayanam. Likewise, Chief Minister Mr. @mkstalin proudly claims to have contributed funds for the construction of the Ram Temple. Do they both approve of Mr. Vairamuthu’s anti-Hindu stance? The DMK, which loudly proclaims ‘religious harmony’ on every stage, has so far not expressed any condemnation. Do they not realize that such comments will hurt even their own party members, many of whom — from ministers to councilors — are followers of the Hindu faith,” asked Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagendran in his post.