[ India Today ] Row over saffron-clad photo of poet Thiruvalluvar on Tamil Nadu Governor’s invite

The **invitation** issued by Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi for the celebration of **Thiruvalluvar Thirunaal Vizha** on May 24 has sparked a controversy. The invitation features a portrait of the famous saint-poet Thiruvalluvar clad in **saffron robes**. Reacting to this, Tamil Nadu Congress chief Selvaperunthagai called it “illegal” to change Thiruvalluvar’s photo. According to him, the Governor should not alter the government-approved image of Thiruvalluvar and publish another one that gives him a communal color.

This is not the first time such a row has erupted. In January of the same year, a **saffron-clad Thiruvalluvar mural** on the compound wall of a government-run school in Erode caused a political controversy. The image depicted Thiruvalluvar wearing a saffron robe, a rudraksha necklace, and holy ash on his forehead. Dravidian parties accused the BJP of attempting to “saffronize” Thiruvalluvar, who is traditionally depicted wearing white attire without any religious affiliation.

It’s essential to recognize the cultural and religious sensitivities associated with historical figures like Thiruvalluvar, especially when their representations become subjects of debate and contention.

Source: Conversation with Copilot
Tamil Nadu: Row over saffron-clad photo of poet Thiruvalluvar on ….
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/tamil-nadu/story/tamil-nadu-row-over-saffron-clad-photo-of-poet-thiruvalluvar-on-governors-invite-2543057-2024-05-23