Political Influence Shifts Festival Greeting Norms in Tamil Nadu

BJP leader L Murugan claims his party prompted DMK's Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin to extend Deepavali greetings, marking a potential deviation from the Dravidian party's traditional non-religious stand. Murugan attributes this change to BJP's persistent advocacy, highlighting the ongoing political tension over religious festivities in the state.

In an unexpected political shift, BJP leader and Union Minister L Murugan attributes a recent change in festival greeting practices to his party's influence. Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister, DMK member Udhayanidhi Stalin, extended Deepavali greetings, a move seen as breaking away from the Dravidian party's staunchly rationalist traditions.

Historically, DMK leaders, including the late M Karunanidhi, refrained from greeting people on Hindu festivals such as Deepavali, adhering to the party's secular principles. However, Murugan asserts that consistent pressure from the BJP, including key figures like state president K Annamalai and former chiefs, prompted this change.

Murugan emphasized the BJP's success in highlighting the government's reluctance to embrace Hindu festivities, calling for leaders like MK Stalin to reflect a broader acceptance of cultural celebrations. This development underscores the intricate interplay of religion and politics in Tamil Nadu.

(With inputs from agencies.)