A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after Governor Rajendra Arlekar paid tribute to a portrait of Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar depicted in saffron attire during a Thiruvalluvar Thirunaal Vizha event at Lok Bhavan.The event was organised by the Thiruvalluvar Thirunaal Kazhagam and was attended by various stakeholders.

The issue arose because Thiruvalluvar is traditionally portrayed in a white robe, and critics argue that using saffron attire alters his established cultural and philosophical identity.Ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and its ally MDMK strongly criticised the Governor’s action.

DMK youth wing secretary Udhayanidhi Stalin alleged that such actions test the self-respect of Tamils and accused the Governor of repeating a pattern of controversy seen in earlier years.He also questioned the recognition of Vaikasi Anusham as Thiruvalluvar Day and called for stronger political responses from the state leadership.

TVK leaders stated that Thiruvalluvar represents universal values through his work Thirukkural and should not be associated with any religious or narrow identity.MDMK chief Vaiko also condemned the act, calling it unacceptable.

In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party defended the use of saffron, stating it is not limited to any single religion but represents purity, sacrifice, and national culture.The party argued that Thiruvalluvar’s legacy should not be restricted to symbolic interpretations.

The incident has revived earlier debates from 2024 when a similar controversy arose over the portrayal of Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire during an official event, highlighting ongoing tensions around cultural symbolism and political interpretation in Tamil Nadu.