I’m Kalaignar’s grandson, won’t apologise: Udhayanadhi Stalin on Sanatana row

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin asserted that he will not apologise for his controversial remarks advocating the “eradication” of Sanatana Dharma, claiming that the remarks were aimed at addressing allegedly repressive practices towards women. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader added that his words were misinterpreted, leading to the controversy that erupted in September 2023.
Speaking at an event on Monday, Udhayanidhi stated that he echoed the views of Dravidian leaders like Periyar, former Chief Minister CN Annadurai, and M Karunanidhi.
“Women were not allowed to study. They were unable to leave their homes, and if their husbands died, they would have to die as well. Thanthai Periyar spoke against all of this. I echoed what Periyar, Anna, and Kalaignar said,” Udhayanidhi stated.

In September 2023, Udhayanidhi, son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, sparked a massive row after he compared Sanatana Dharma with “dengue” and “malaria” and said that it should not just be opposed, but “eradicated”. At a ‘Sanatana Abolition Conference’, he argued that Sanatana Dharma is against social justice and equality. These remarks drew severe criticism and protests, particularly from the BJP and Hindu organisations, resulting in multiple legal cases being filed against him.
“But my words were twisted. Not just in Tamil Nadu, cases were filed against me in several courts across India. They asked me to apologise, but I stand by what I said. I’m the grandson of Kalaignar, and I will not apologise,” Udhayanidhi said, adding that he will face all the cases.
He also alleged that there is an attempt to impose Hindi in the state, asserting that recent changes to the Tamil Nadu anthem serve as evidence of these efforts. He pointed out that certain words were deliberately removed from the state anthem during a recent Doordarshan Tamil program, igniting controversy.
“I request the newlyweds to come up with a beautiful Tamil name for their child. Because many are attempting to impose Hindi in Tamil Nadu. They couldn’t do it directly. That’s why they are omitting a few words from the Tamil Thaai Vaazthu (State song). They are trying to impose Hindi via the new education policy. But they are all failing,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.
Udayanidhi, a 46-year-old DMK leader who was the state sports minister, was made the Deputy Chief Minister on September 30. His elevation was reportedly delayed due to the Sanatana controversy.