Facebook Instagram X Youtube
Thursday, May 28, 2026
Facebook Instagram X Youtube
Home Blog Page 1000

Singer KS Chithra Faces Vile Attacks From Leftists After Posting Video On Ram Mandir Pran Prathishta

By
The Commune
-

K S Chithra also referred to as Chinna Kuyil (Little Nightingale), was subject to vile attacks online after she posted a video on her social media handle about the Ram Mandir Pran Prathishta. 

As reported in The Week, in the video message shared by the acclaimed singer on 14 January 2024, she said, “My salutations to all. When the consecration ceremony is held in Ayodhya on January 22, everybody should chant the Ram mantra ‘Sri Rama, Jayarama, Jaya Jaya Rama’ at 12.20 pm. Likewise in the evening, five-wick lamps should be lit in all parts of the house. Praying that God’s blessings may be showered upon everyone. loka samastha sukhino bhavanthu.”

Chithra received the specially consecrated ‘akshatham’ and the invitation to visit the Ayodhya temple a few days ago.

Image Source: Facebook

Her video was well-received but also seemed to rub seculars on the wrong side, especially in a communist-ruled Kerala. It is said that the attacks came primarily from Left-Islamists after her message urging devotees to chant hymns and light lamps at home during the Prana Pratishtha ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Temple went viral. 

Some of the reactions include:

Writer Indu Menon reacted harshly to K S Chithra’s request. Taking to her Facebook page, Menon wrote in Malayalam, which roughly translates to:

“Building temples and demolishing mosques are apparently signs of mutual enmity. It can be argued that first there was a temple, then it is right to have a temple there. Oh poor thing, don’t they have freedom of speech? They said their opinion, why are we politicizing it? Chitra has freedom of speech and the freedom to take a side. Glorifying a cause that has resulted in murder and genocide innocently but what was experienced was brutality. Look at how innocent she is, a woman who is innocent enough to say that even when she plunges a knife into the heart, stab without hurting you. Singer Chitra and those who stand by the classical arts may sing and learn the songs of Rama, Vishnu, Sita, and Murugan, but that does not mean that they stand by the killing of their fellow human beings. Men will surely be killed by this dagger which you innocently thrust. No matter how much you see in the blood of men, in their exodus and their pains and chant Rama naama, no Rama and no Vishnu will come, even if you light five or lakh lamps, no light will fill your mind. The world believed that it was Kuil (Nightingale) only by sound but it has been proven that you are actually a fake Nightingale. Restrict the ritual, lamp, and cultural protection to your own home.”

Singer Sooraj Santhosh also attacked KS Chithra on her video and shared an Instagram story.

Image Source: India Today Malayalam

The story roughly translates to “Highlight is the naivety of the whole world, conveniently forgetting the history and putting aside the fact that the temple was built after demolishing it. How many more are going to be broken one by one. How many K S Chithra are sitting to show their self-image. Alas! Too bad!”

Singer G Venugopal came out in support of KS Chithra and shared the below message (as reported in Janam Online):

“I have known KS Chitra for more than fifty years now. Recently, I happened to see a video of Chitra that appeared on social media. The video is about asking devotees to light lamps in their homes and pray during the Prana Pratishtha ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. Following this, several posts appeared insulting the mega singer, the person whom everyone loves. Many posts even stated the need to isolate Chitra. All this has caused great sadness for Chitra who has not been involved in any controversies to date. For the past forty-four years, Chitra has only sung songs.

Chitra has not shown any passion for reading or writing and does not have any political orientation. In this matter also, Chitra has only thought about a great temple in Bharat and her devotion towards it. Nothing beyond Music, Devotion, Reverence, Dedication, Worship, Love, and Sympathy is in her realm of thought. If Chitra’s work is analysed, the depth of her songs proves she has contributed ninety percent or more to every song she has sung. Even when she was suffering physically, not once has her voice faltered or her songs gone out of tune during any performance on stage. It is a well-known fact that Chitra is a great talent who came to this earth only to perform the task of singing.

Even if we have a difference of opinion with Chitra who has sung so many songs for us, shouldn’t we forgive her for once? There will not be even a home of a revolutionary without mothers and older sisters who would advise them to chant four hymns in the evening or go to church every Sunday or perform namaz five times a day. No one abandons them or separates them if there is a difference of opinion. We Malayalis are obsessed with this new toy called social media. Often we bravely walk along a line of truth. But sometimes we issue strict baseless guidelines also, as in the case of Chitra.

We Malayalis only have a Chitra and a Yesudas to warm the music world under the label of world-class singers. They have done much more than a human can do in a lifetime. One human lifetime is not enough for us to fully appreciate and accurately assess it. You can be uncooperative with these people, can ignore their words. None of them have reached their positions through blood-stained paths. They have achieved immortality in our music world in terms of melody and rhythm. All I request is that we be careful not to hurt them.”

It seems that KS Chithra has deleted the video after the vile attacks to her video.

 

Can Consecration Be Done Before A Temple Is Complete? Here’s What The Vedas And Agamas Say

By
Tinku Venkatesh
-

While the entire nation is euphoric about Lord Ram returning to his abode in Ayodhya, a few disgruntled elements whose contribution to the cause has been next to zero, aided by the usual suspects, have gone on to cause cast aspersions about the Grand Ram Temple in an attempt to create confusion among the devoted.

But Sri Brahmasri Ganeshwar Dravid Sastri, the Vidwan of Vallabhram Shaligram Sangved Vidyalaya in Varanasi, and an expert on Vedas and Agamas, who is also associated with the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, has answered many questions about Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Prathista based on Pancharatra agamas and other Vedic texts.

Here are a few questions:

Can Prana Pratishtha be done without the entire temple complex being constructed?

One of the crucial queries revolves around whether the Prana Pratishtha can proceed without completing the entire temple complex. Brahmasri Ganeshwar Dravid Sastri unequivocally asserts that it can can be conducted when the Garbagriha is fully built.

Even in the case of Somnath Temple in Gujarat, the consecration was done after the Garbagriha was completed. The current expansive temple complex was established later.

Can Pran Pratishta be done without the Kalasham on top?

Kalasha Prathista is done only when the temple complex is fully complete and this ritual can only be conducted by a sanyasi. Performing this act as a grihastha, a householder, goes against the Shastra’s guidance and is believed to result in the individual having no descendants.

Brahmasri Ganeshwar Dravid Sastri refers the Kalasha Aaroopana Vidhi, a ritual that outlines the rules for installing the Kalasha in the temple. This commentary, authored by Sri Anna Sastri, delves into the nuances of the installation process.

When can the Pran Pratishta of a temple be done?

Before the Prana Pratishtha can take place, certain rules and rituals must be observed. According to Brahmasri Ganeshwar Dravid Sastri, the following are the requirments:

  1. Complete one level of construction: The temple must have at least one level of construction completed. These are based on Pancharatra Agama and Ishwar Samhita. Temples like Srirangam and the Varadaraja temple in Kanchipuram are governed by the Pancharatra agama.
  2. Installation of doors (golden door): Temple construction rules allow for Prana Pratishtha to take place if Kalasha Prathista has not yet occurred, provided that at least one level of the temple, along with its door, is completed. The temple doors, particularly the main entrance, should be installed.
  3. Vastu Puja: A ceremony to the deities associated with Vastu (architecture and construction) is performed. After the Vastu rituals, the temple doors can be opened and priests can proceed with the Prana Prathistha.
  4. Brahmana Bhojanam: A meal for Brahmanas (priests) is arranged.
  5. Vastu Shanti Homa: A Homa (sacred fire ritual) for the propitiation of Vastu deities is conducted.
  6. Masha Bali & Payasa Bali: Offerings of Masha (black gram) and Payasa (sweet rice pudding) are made.

All the above pujas and rules are supported by references in the Bruhan Naradiya Puranam (Narada Puranam in the 46th Adhyaya, specifically in slokas 697 and 698. It completely subscribes to the Dharma Sastra.

In conclusion, the Prana Pratishtha of Bhagwan Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya is a momentous occasion deeply steeped in tradition and spiritual significance.

Tinku Venkatesh is a Vaishnavite Hindu with an interest in temples, culture and politics.

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

“For The First Time, A Finance Minister…”: DMK MP TR Baalu Hails Nirmala Sitharaman’s TN Visit After Cyclone Michaung, Rubbishes Claims Of Centre’s Discriminatory Attitude In Providing Relief Package

By
The Commune
-

Following the recent disaster caused by Cyclone Michaung in Chennai on 3 & 4 December 2023 and the heavy rains in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu on 17 & 18 December 2023, a delegation comprising Members of Parliament from Tamil Nadu Led by DMK Treasurer and MP T.R. Baalu held discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on 13 January 2024. During the meeting, the delegation emphasised the urgent need for the release of funds requested by the State Government to address the flood relief efforts.

They presented a memorandum reiterating the State’s plea for a total of ₹37,907.21 crore, for permanent and temporary restoration works meant to address the extensive damage caused by Cyclone Michaung in Chennai and the destruction resulting from heavy rainfall in the southern districts. It has also been stated that the state government rescue and relief measures were done using its own funds with SDRF but the magnitude of the natural disaster was colossal and without support from NDRf full restoration cannot be done

In the aftermath of the Cyclone Michaung disaster that struck Chennai on the 3rd and 4th December 2023, and the southern districts of Tamil Nadu on the 17th and 18th December 2023, a delegation led by DMK Treasurer and MP T.R. Baalu, consisting of Members of Parliament from Tamil Nadu, engaged in discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on 13 January 2024. The delegation underscored the critical need for the expeditious release of funds sought by the State Government to facilitate flood relief efforts.

They presented memorandum reiterated the State’s request for a total of ₹37,907.21 crore, earmarked for both permanent and temporary restoration works. It highlighted the substantial damage caused by Cyclone Michaung in Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu of northern districts and the havoc wreaked by heavy rainfall in Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi and Kanyakumari of the southern districts. The memorandum also emphasized that while the state government had undertaken rescue and relief measures using its own funds and the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), the scale of the natural disaster was immense. The delegation stressed that without support from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprehensive restoration efforts could not be achieved, urging the prompt release of funds to address the unprecedented challenges.

After meeting with the home minister, TR Baalu met with the reporters and briefed the discussion that he was confident that the central government would allocate the funds. He said, “One of the teams that was sent to assess is returning tomorrow or the day after it they will submit a report after 21 (21 January 2024) based on the report. He promised that we (The home ministry, Agriculture ministry, and other two or three other ministries) will discuss how much funds should be allocated to this disaster and make a positive decision that is Finance ministry, Agriculture ministry, and Home ministry all will combine for discussion and after taking decision within 27 January ill provide you whatever I can”.

A reporter raised a question to TR Baalu. He asked, “I am sure they will provide you the funds we have asked for, there is no other view in it, Central team has gone and explored the areas but, we have asked 37000 crores. Will they provide 37000 crores is a bigger question? What did he say regarding that.. Whenever we ask a thing they allocate only 10% of it?”

 TR Baalu replied “Basically temporary restoration requirement is 15645 crores, permanent restoration requirement is 22261 crores totaling ₹37,907 crores, Thalaivar thalapathi meeting in person with Modi has given memorandum… after the team has visited affected areas they can decide how much can be allotted, based on report submitted on 21 January, 3 ministries such as Finance, Angriculture and home ministry will take unified decision only then they know how much they are going to allocate. Before that, we do not know. So by 27 January, I’ll inform you of the allocation promised by the Union Home Minister”  

Another reporter asked, “Already in many northern states when such disasters arise, the centre tends to immediately allocate funds but states like our Tamilnadu are continuously being neglected.” 

Interrupting him TR Baalu replied, “Basically It’s unnecessary to say that the Indian government is neglecting us, if that were the case; they wouldn’t have dispatched so many teams. This is the first instance India’s finance minister has visited disaster-stricken areas, no finance minister has undertaken such visits. We are considering that the central.. union government is showing a sense of compassion. So only after the result we can say or decide whether they are discriminating or making the right decisions”.

Yet another reporter asked, “The Chief minister has already requested the immediate release of funds of ₹3000 crore and asked to release the remaining funds later, even today central government has not released the funds. Has the home minister said anything regarding this?

TR Baalu replied “No, No seriously if that was the needed concern… He has realized the damage that happened in Tamil Nadu. He said ‘I agree it is also my duty to rescue Tamil people from this damage please wait for the report which will arrive on 21 January, only a few more days for 27 January… beforehand, I’ll say and contact you’”.

When a reporter asked if Baalu believed that TN would receive funds before the 27th of this month, Baalu replied, “We believe that before the 27 we will receive the funds.. We all believe that”

When asked if the meeting with the minister was constructive and satisfactory, Baalu replied in the affirmative.

Another reporter asked TR Baalu, “We accuse the Central government stand for practicing continuous discrimination against southern states. Tamilnadu CM has written a letter, sports minister Udayanidhi Stalin has written a letter and in his meeting, he has stressed the same, today you as 8 8-member team have met Amit Shah and requested an immediate release of 36000 crores. Has Amit Shah assured anything?”

TR Baalu replied “To declare immediate result this is not… we can speak this via politics but this is government, for a government to take a decision there are certain procedures. we have been as ministers and we know how reports arrive, how many days it will take to read them and we know by which committee the decision should be made. So for that question, I will not answer through politics. Individuals standing here too won’t say. because we all know the matter and have been members for a long time and they won’t make decisions in a hurry we cannot speak as it is. I’m sure that the central.. union government is also worried about the situation. He says within 27 the matter will be dealt this is a big deal!” 

What Constitutes A Natural Disaster; Is There Any Established Provision For Its Declaration?

Natural disasters encompass various events such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, cyclones, tsunamis, urban floods, and heatwaves, while man-made disasters may involve nuclear, biological, and chemical incidents

The current Scheme of State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) / National Response Fund, managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, lacks provisions to declare any disaster, including floods, as a National Calamity. Despite the presence of guidelines for SDRF/NDRF, there is no executive or legal framework to designate a natural calamity as a national calamity.

The absence of a defined criterion has led to uncertainty in classifying disasters or calamities. In 2001, a National Committee chaired by the then Prime Minister was tasked with determining parameters for defining a national calamity, but it did not propose any fixed criteria. The 10th Finance Commission (1995-2000) explored the idea of terming a disaster a “national calamity of rarest severity” if it affected one-third of a state’s population, but the committee did not provide a clear definition of “calamity of rare severity.” When a calamity is declared of rare severity, national-level support is extended to the affected state, including assistance from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). Additionally, a Calamity Relief Fund (CRF) is established, with a 3:1 sharing ratio between the Centre and the state. In cases of insufficient CRF resources, further aid is considered from the National Calamity Contingency Fund (NCCF), fully funded by the Centre. Relief measures, such as loan repayment assistance and concessional loans for the affected individuals, are also contemplated once a calamity is declared “severe.”

How Does The Government Determine It?

The aftermath of disasters results in damage, necessitating the government’s obligation to provide financial assistance and aid to affected individuals. The Administration’s current provision of Gratuitous Relief and Housing Subsidy aligns with norms established by the Government of India.

Expenditure from the Calamity Relief Fund (CRF) and the National Calamity Contingency Fund (NCCF) follows norms specified by the Government of India, permitting the state Government  to issue guidelines for ex-gratia relief. Damage assessment falls under the purview of district/local administration, covering private and public properties, crops, and more.

The State Government, upon assessing damages beyond its capacity, may seek Central Government assistance, leading to on-the-spot assessments by a Central Team. Food, clothing, and medical aid are immediate relief measures, while long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation depend on thorough damage assessments. The assessment process, outlined in simplified proforma by the Government of India, aids in compensation proceedings and ensures accurate evaluation of damages to various sectors, including livestock, agriculture, infrastructure, and more. The use of relevant proforma during assessments is mandated to facilitate a quick and systematic evaluation of damages.

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

Ayodhya Ram Mandir Consecration: Here Are Full Details Of The Ram Lalla Pran Prathishtha Ceremony

By
The Commune
-

The highly anticipated Prana Pratishtha ceremony of the Deity of Bhagwan Shri Ram Lalla is set to take place on the auspicious occasion of Paush Shukla Kurma Dwadashi, Vikram Samvat 2080, which falls on Monday, January 22, 2024. This momentous event will unfold in Ayodhya, the sacred city associated with Lord Ram.

Spiritual Significance And Preparations

The Prana Pratishtha ceremony, steeped in scriptural protocols, will adhere to all Shastriya traditions. It is scheduled to occur during the Abhijeet Muhurta in the afternoon. The formalities leading up to the Prana Pratistha will commence on January 16, 2024, and will continue until January 21, 2024. These pre-Prana Pratistha rituals, known as Dwadash Adhivas, are meticulously planned, with each day dedicated to specific observances and ceremonies.

  1. January 16: Prayaschita and Karmakuti Poojan
  2. January 17: Parisar Pravesh of the Murti
  3. January 18 (Evening): Teerth Poojan, Jal Yatra, and Gandhadhivas
  4. January 19 (Morning): Aushadhadhivas, Kesaradhivas, Ghritadhivas
  5. January 19 (Evening): Dhanyadhivas
  6. January 20 (Morning): Sharkaradhivas, Phaladhivas
  7. January 20 (Evening): Pushpadhivas
  8. January 21 (Morning): Madhyadhivas
  9. January 21 (Evening): Shaiyadhivas

Conductors And Dignitaries

The Prana Pratishtha ceremony will be overseen by 121 Acharyas who will follow the prescribed rituals. Shri Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid Ji will lead, coordinate, and direct all the proceedings of the Anushthan, with the principal Acharya being Shri Luckshmikant Dixit of Kashi.

Distinguished guests, including Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bharat Shri Narendra Modi Ji, Pujaniya Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Shri Mohan Bhagwat Ji, Governor of Uttar Pradesh Smt Anandiben Patel Ji, Hon’ble Chief Minister of U.P. Shri Yogi Adityanath Ji Maharaj, and other dignitaries, will grace the event with their presence.

Diverse Representation And Historic Significance

The Prana Pratistha ceremony will witness participation from Acharyas representing various schools of Bharatiya spiritualism, religions, sects, worship systems, and traditions. Additionally, more than 150 Sant traditions, Mahamandaleshwars, Mandaleshwars, Shrimahants, Mahants, Nagas, and leaders from over 50 Adivasi, Girivasi, Tatavasi, Dwipavasi tribal traditions will be in attendance. This represents a historic gathering, as it is the first time in recent history that diverse tribal traditions from hills, forests, coastal regions, and islands will be collectively present.

Inclusivity Of Traditions

The inclusive nature of the event is evident from the representation of various traditions, including Shaiva, Vaishnav, Shaakta, Ganapatya, Patya, Sikh, Bauddha, Jain, Dashnam, Shankar, Ramanand, Ramanuj, Nimbarka, Madhva, Vishnu Nami, Ramsanehi, Ghisapanth, Garibdasi, Gaudiya, Kabirpanthi, Valmiki, Shankardev (Assam), Madhav Dev, ISKCON, Ramakrishna Mission, Chinmaya Mission, Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Gayatri Parivar, Anukul Chandra, Thakur Parampara, Mahima Samaj of Odisha, Akali, Nirankari, Namdhari from Punjab, Radhasoami, and Swaminarayan, Varkari, Veer Shaiva, and many more.

Gifts From Across Bharat 

Following the conclusion of the Prana Pratishtha ceremony in the Garbha-Griha, all attendees will have the opportunity for darshan. The enthusiasm for this significant event is palpable, with people from various states contributing water, soil, gold, silver, gems, clothes, jewelry, bells, drums, and aromatic items. Notable contributions include Bhaars, symbolizing gifts from Maa Janaki’s maternal homes at Janakpur (Nepal) and Sitamarhi (Bihar), as well as various jewelry offerings from Nanihal at Raipur in the Dandakaranya region.

The Prana Pratishtha of Bhagwan Shri Ram Lalla is not just a religious event; it is a celebration of Bharat’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The entire nation is eagerly awaiting this historic occasion, which will be celebrated with great fervor, not only in Ayodhya but across the entire country.

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor Quotes Rabid India-Hater And Casteist Genocide Mongerer At Thuglak Anniversary Event To Peddle North Vs South Rhetoric

By
The Commune
-

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor took part in and addressed the 54th-anniversary celebration of the Tamil weekly Thuglak. Tharoor made note of 6 points that he wanted to cover in his speech among which he was asked to speak about the relevance of the UN today as well as the Maldives issue. 

Shashi Tharoor discussed the relevance of the United Nations (UN) in the face of current conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and the Gaza conflict. He explained the historical context of the UN’s creation after the failure of the League of Nations following World War I and highlighted the veto power of major nations in the UN Security Council. Tharoor acknowledged the UN’s limitations but emphasised its role in preventing further deterioration. He recognised the UN as a reflection of global agreements, inequalities, and imperfections, quoting Dag Hammarskjold’s view that the UN exists to save humanity from hell, not take it to heaven.

Shashi Tharoor discussed the unique situation in the Maldives, acknowledging its historical ties with India and past interventions during crises. He recounted India’s role in thwarting a coup in 1988 and its subsequent assistance during a water shortage. Tharoor noted the fluctuating nature of Maldives’ government and emphasised the absence of gratitude in international affairs. He urged a mature approach in dealing with the current administration, despite its oscillation between pro- and anti-Indian sentiments. Tharoor underscored the need to monitor the Maldives-China ties, alert to China’s expanding influence in the region, and highlighted the importance of conducting foreign policy beyond social media spats. He said, “We have to watch very carefully the increasing proximity of the Maldives government to the Chinese.” He also added, “There is no doubt about the fact that China has been attempting to expand its influence throughout our periphery. They have been increasingly influential in every one of our neighbouring countries, everyone, without exception.”

“We (India) should certainly be alert and I am sure that our government must be aware of the dangers that this represents and there will be some redlines which would be privately communicated among governments,” he said further. 

What looked promising up until now started taking a familiar turn as Tharoor delved into a topic wherein a reader of Thuglak magazine had asked Gurumurthy (the present Editor) a question on whether the I.N.D.I. Alliance was formed to bring Muslims to power. Tharoor went into a rhetorical mode, characteristic of the Congress. 

Shashi Tharoor “emphasised” that it was about empowering all Indians, including Muslims. He highlighted the inclusivity of Hinduism, citing Swami Vivekananda’s teachings on the unity of all paths to the divine. Tharoor expressed pride in Hinduism’s acceptance, not just tolerance, of diverse beliefs. Drawing on historical examples, he underscored India’s unity in diversity, citing individuals from various religions who served the nation. 

Following the typical Congress mindset, Tharoor preached secularism, urging Hindus to embrace diverse beliefs, referencing their acceptance of an “elephant-headed pot-bellied God” and if that was possible, surely Hindus could accept the “bleeding man on a cross.” He said, “In fact what does Hinduism do? Hinduism actually recognises that since no one actually has a reasonable logical basis to visualise Brahman or the Creator in any shape or form, we are free to imagine the Divine in whatever way we like. That’s why, we have 330 crore forms and divinities and names for that what we worship. So very frankly, if God can be imagined by somebody as a potbellied figure with an elephant head and I’m a Ganesh bhakt myself, why can’t God also be imagined as a bleeding man suffering on a cross, the rishis would have had no problem with that and I say this to you simply because this great sense is what makes me proud to be a Hindu because what Vivekananda said in Chicago was I’m proud to speak of a religion that has taught the world not just tolerance but acceptance.”

Talking about the “north-south” divide, Tharoor said it had grown over the past 10 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure, affecting federalism. He criticised the 2017 decision to change the terms of reference of the 15th Finance Commission, using the 2011 census for financial allocations, which he believes has widened the North-South divide. What is even funnier is that he quoted from RS Nilakantan, the perverted misogynist, casteist, India-hater, genocide monger’s book on the topic. He argued that the Finance Commission’s revised allocations disproportionately favour the North, sending more tax money from the South. He “highlighted” the historical subsidy of the North by the South and questioned the “lack” of rewards for the South’s development.

Tharoor also spoke about the demographic advantage of North India and criticised the potential consequences of delimitation after the lapse of the 91st Amendment in 2026. He said, “Why should the government’s reward for extraordinary economic success sustain the growth and population control below tax revenues from the Centre? The government’s answer would be that these are the rules in a democracy — one person one vote means the more people you have, the more political clout. In India, whose diversity is held together by a sense of common belonging, civic nationalism must accommodate a range of States with divergent levels of development. It is essential that all people feel that common nationhood is a winning proposition. I am a very proud Indian, but in a country where regional, religious, linguistic tensions are never far from the surface, the answer that we have more people and so we will have more money and more power risks rupturing the fragile bonds that hold us all together”

Tharoor raised “concerns” about the Hindi-speaking states dominating Parliament and the possibility of “imposing” Hindi as the official national language. Tharoor questioned the “fairness” of the democratic principle of one person, one vote, arguing that it risks rupturing the delicate bonds that hold India together. 

He also added, “I do worry about Hindi, Hindu, Hindustan politics of this government, and this culture of Aryavrat domination that infects the attitudes of some has already raised the issue among many, many southern politicians, and maybe Mr. Gurumurthy (Thuglak Editor) and others may not feel it’s such a big issue. I think it is a very serious issue because the consequences of all of this threaten the very unity of India, and the South faces political disenfranchisement to go along with a sense of financial victimisation, and that combination is absolutely bound to generate resentments that can spill over beyond the confines of our routine politics.”

Tharoor accused the central government of using the Enforcement Directorate to target opposition parties.

In response to what the four Sankaracharyas said expressing reservations about the ‘prana prathishta’ for the Ram temple due to its incomplete construction and asserting that a political figure should not conduct the ceremony, Tharoor remarked, “As a Hindu, I found that a very persuasive argument. Fortunately, I was not invited to the inaugural.”  He acknowledges the diversity of temple practices across regions in India, highlighting the distinctive styles within Hinduism. He criticised the chosen date, 22 January 2024, as politically motivated by the Prime Minister ahead of the elections. 

Tharoor spoke of the significance of fostering a fair and just society, emphasising the BJP’s purported effort to transform the consecration of the Ram temple into a political campaign aimed at electoral advantages.

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

Devotee Safety: Hindu Munnani Urges Separate Roads For Pilgrims Performing Padayatra Amidst Rising Accidents

By
The Commune
-

In a press statement issued today, Kadeshwara Subramaniam, the state president of Hindu Munnani, emphasised the immediate need for constructing separate roads dedicated to devotees embarking on the sacred padayatra. The call comes in response to a rising number of accidents involving pilgrims, particularly during the annual Thaipoosam festival, as they journey to Tiruchendur, Palani, Sabarimala, and Samayapuram.

Subramaniam highlighted the tragic incidents that occurred in recent weeks, including the death of a devotee in a road accident in Tiruchendur and another fatality resulting from a two-wheeler collision during a Palani padayatra. He underlined the historical significance of padayatra as an integral part of Hindu worship, stressing that devotees have been practicing this traditional pilgrimage for thousands of years.

Expressing concern over the safety of devotees, Kadeswara Subramaniam recalled the government’s earlier decision to construct separate roads from Dindigul to Palani and from Sempatti to Oddanchatram, specifically for the use of pilgrims. However, he lamented the current deplorable condition of these roads, rendering them unusable for devotees and forcing them onto tar roads shared with buses and heavy vehicles.

Kadeswara Subramaniam further criticised the lack of separate roads for devotees coming via Dharapuram and Udumalpet, leading to accidents caused by vehicles speeding during the night. He also highlighted the absence of safety measures such as glowing sticks which are previously provided.

Painting a grim picture of the infrastructure woes in Tiruchendur and Palani, Kadeswara Subramaniam pointed out the deteriorating condition of the tar road from Tirunelveli to Tiruchendur and the absence of basic facilities like toilets, drinking water, and medical amenities for padayatra pilgrims. He criticised the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR & CE) Department for prioritising darshan fees over providing essential services for devotees.

As the Thaipoosam festival approaches, Kadeswara Subramaniam urged the Government of Tamil Nadu and the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department to take immediate action. The Hindu Munnani called for the swift construction of separate roads, distribution of glowing sticks, provision of toilet facilities, medical aid, drinking water, and adequate arrangements for darshan, without compromise, to ensure the safety and well-being of the devotees.

(With inputs from HINDU MUNNANI)

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

“We Want To Face McGrath, Not Net Bowlers”: BJP TN Head Annamalai’s Fiery Speech At Thuglak’s 54th Anniversary

By
The Commune
-

The 54th Annual Gathering of the Tamil weekly news magazine took place at Chennai’s Music Academy on January 14, 2024. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and K Annamalai, the president of the Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party, graced the event as the chief guests. Following a long-standing tradition upheld by Thuglak, questions were posed to the Editor, and S Gurumurthy patiently addressed inquiries from readers and magazine supporters. Subsequently, Shashi Tharoor and Gurumurthy delivered speeches.

The highlight of the event was the speech of Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai who lambasted at the DMK government and its politics in a fiery speech.

Calling out the DMK for its behaviour of hanging on to anyone and anything just to stay in power, Annamalai recounted how Indira Gandhi was praised by Karunanidhi in 1980. He had said, “Welcome Nehru’s daughter, give us stable rule”. When the VP Singh government came to power and DMK’s name came up in the Jain Commission report as having been part of the conspiracy to assassinate Rajiv Gandhi, the DMK took back the support. In 2004 when DMK needed the Congress, they said something similar for Sonia Gandhi who was the then-Congress President. He said, “Welcome Indira’s daughter-in-law, may the lady of India win.” Currently, neither party has defined policies; their primary goal is simply to retain power by any means, he added.

Annamalai emphasised how the schemes initiated by Mr. Modi have empowered individuals to break free from the ‘poverty trap’. “Seven schemes have been implemented that have given gas cylinders, power, and so on to each family and bringing composite laws to break the poverty trap. He (Modi) is trying to break the poverty trap with a hammer. There are no half-measures. The failure of the Congress is…they have been talking about ‘Roti, Kapada and Makaan’. They have been saying this since the 1980s. They have been in power without any idea of how to bring people out of poverty,” he said. Annamalai added that the BJP was the only party that gave a target and numbers on their manifesto and has been achieving all their promises so far.

In response to Shashi Tharoor’s accusation that the BJP was disrupting fiscal balance, Annamalai pointed out that the allocation based on population for fiscal devolution during Indira Gandhi’s era was nearly 50%. He said, “In 1990, it was still 35% when Congress wasn’t in power. In the 14th Finance Commission, the population as per the 1971 census was given 17.5% and according to the 2011 population census, population was given a weightage of 10% (total 27.5%). In the 15th Finance Commission, the weightage for population is just 15% and 40% is the distance between haves and have nots. 15% is decided by good performance and 10% is for ecological conservation, and 15% is geographical area. It has come down to 15% for population from 50%. It is comical that this is still being repeated by DMK and others. The 16th Finance Commission will give new parameters.”

Referring to the recent Global Investors Meet organised by the DMK government, Annamalai said it has attracted ₹6.64 lakh crore and this was comparatively less than what other states have received as investment commitments from multinational companies.

“Tamil Nadu has conducted the investors’ summit and we have received ₹6.64 lakh crore. Gujarat which hosted the investors’ summit just after TN garnered ₹26 lakh crore and Uttar Pradesh received ₹33 lakh crore. In 2022, Karnataka conducted a similar investor summit and it received Rs 10 lakh crore. But Purvanchal and Bundelkhand alone in Uttar Pradesh have received ₹9.74 lakh crore more than what Tamil Nadu attracted,” he said. “Stalin and DMK Ministers should understand that money will always see the future, money will not see the past. What the next 20 years are going to be, how is the economy going to be stable, these are areas they need to focus on,” he said.

Praising Uttar Pradesh’s model of governance and the fast growth it has seen under Yogi Adityanath’s rule, Annamalai said, “They call people from UP as “pan parag vayan” Even the most backward district of UP attracted over 9 lakh crore investment. Every single district in the state attracted money. Napoleon Bonaparte once said, Never wake up China, the world will tremble if China wakes up. Now I am saying this, “Never wake up UP, once UP wakes up – If I say jingoistically, then Tamil Nadu is in trouble. But if I say it as an Indian, Once UP wakes up, it will power India.”

He also added that when the population of UP hits a GER (gross enrolment ratio) of 40% in the next few years, labour will become an issue in Tamil Nadu in 2028-29. This is because if the manufacturing industry goes to UP, we will be in serious trouble. But we speak about the north and south. Till 2016, UP had only 12 medical colleges, today there are 32 new medical colleges there. In TN, 7 districts are below 2 in economic output, we must discuss that; talk about development.”

He also added, “Gurumurthy sir talked about global power shift, today we are seeing the power shift within the country. Today, what I see in Tamil Nadu is needless jingoism.”

Talking about Shashi Tharoor’s stint at the UN and his contesting in the UN secretary-general elections, Annamalai pointed out Tharoor’s article in The Open Magazine. He said reading that article will give us an idea about how India has changed. He also reiterated that today’s India under Modi would not have done what happened with Shashi Tharoor, and how foreign policy has changed under Modi.

Annamalai also said that the forthcoming parliamentary election holds immense significance as it has the potential to reshape the political landscape of Tamil Nadu. He also added that the BJP was determined to tirelessly work towards cleansing Tamil Nadu politics and will not cease its efforts. A transformation in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape is essential for change and for this, the language and grammar of TN politics had to change. He also mentioned the release of the trailer for DMK Files Part Three which suggests a forthcoming revelation. Once the full details emerge, it could potentially impact not only Tamil Nadu’s political scenario but also lead to a change in the state government. He closed his speech by saying “We want to face McGrath, not net bowlers, we want to face the bouncers.”

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

From Rajinikanth To Annamalai: Highlights Of Editor S Gurumurthy’s Speech At Thuglak’s 54th Anniversary

By
The Commune
-

The 54th Annual meeting of Tamil weekly news magazine was held at the Music Academy in Chennai on 14 January 2024. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party president K Annamalai were the chief guests for the occasion. As per tradition that Thuglak has been following over the years, questions to the Editor were placed and S Gurumurthy patiently answered all the questions put forth by readers and supporters of the magazine. This was followed by a speech by Shashi Tharoor and Gurumurthy himself. 

Highlights Of S Gurumurthy’s Speech

Thuglak editor S. Gurumurthy, in his address, spoke about how former editor Cho Ramaswamy asked him to read Murasoli, DMK’s mouthpiece to understand Tamil Nadu politics. He compared how the DMK moved from a party that was philosophy-led to dynastic politics by brainwashing the cadre to be loyal to the family. He also outlined how Udhayanidhi Stalin went from saying no to politics to becoming a minister in the state government’s cabinet. He also highlighted that there is no media in Tamil Nadu that questions any of the petty statements that were being made by the party in power. He also stated that Annamalai’s chance to dent the DMK is because of the way the party has turned out to be. 

Later Gurumurthy also listed out the land grabbing cases that were a highlight of the Dravidian model rule – a whopping 18000 cases. He also touched upon the war of words between Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and DMK’s Udhayanidhi Stalin while listing out how EVR, Anna spoke about the oppressed and the minorities. 

Quoting Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin’s warning to the central government over the alleged use of government machinery to target DMK’s politicians, Gurumurthy said that he felt bad looking at the party that was built by Karunanidhi and that the party was becoming an anarchy party and that meant that it was not only the DMK that is in danger but entire Tamil Nadu too. 

He highlighted that the media and newspapers were not presenting factual information but rather spreading propaganda. Gurumurthy also outlined the accomplishments of the UP government, emphasizing their efforts in maintaining law and order.

Gurumurthy also recounted how Nehru reacted at the time of Somnath temple reconstruction and inauguration and how secularism was preventing Congress from participating in the Pran Prathishtha of the Bhavya Ram Mandir. 

Gurumurthy said that Edappadi Palaniswami should take full responsibility for not forming an alliance with the BJP against the DMK in Tamil Nadu. He also said that each citizen should speak to a hundred people in this election and that they should vote for the BJP. BJP’s growth in Tamilnadu is the only way to counter DMK, AIADMK has given up its opposition to DMK. He also said, “Edappadi thinks that it is enough to run it as a small party.”

He also discussed the BJP’s chances in Tamil Nadu and the potential for Annamalai to assume the role of Chief Minister in 2026. However, he emphasized that this likelihood would significantly hinge on the BJP’s performance in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. When introducing Annamalai as the speaker, he mentioned that actor Rajinikanth had considered Annamalai as a possible Chief Ministerial candidate when contemplating his entry into politics. Gurumurthy mentioned that when Rajinikanth initially informed him about Annamalai, Gurumurthy was unfamiliar with Annamalai’s identity and only had knowledge of him being an IPS officer in Karnataka through a newspaper. Gurumurthy, commending Annamalai for making a significant impact in Tamil Nadu before entering politics, hailed him as a beacon of hope for the BJP in the state.

The full event is available for watch in Thuglak Digital and Chanakya’s YouTube channel

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

DMK Files Part 3: BJP TN Exposes How Then State Intel Chief Jaffar Sait And DMK Leader TR Baalu Connived To Decide CBI Raid Timings And Manipulated News

By
The Commune
-

On the occasion of Bhogi, a day before Pongal, the much-awaited third part of DMK Files was released by Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai. Annamalai disclosed these audio recordings through his official channel and elaborated on them during the 54th-anniversary celebrations of Thuglak magazine. He referred to this release as a ‘Pongal release.’

The audio clip released exposes conversations involving senior DMK leader TR Baalu and MS Jaffar Sait, the former Intelligence Chief of Tamil Nadu during the 2G Scam case hearings in 2010-11. The DMK MP from Sriperumbudur was back then a Union Minister in the Congress-led UPA government.

Here’s how the conversation in the audio clip goes:

TR Baalu: Yes tell me

Jaffar Sait: The Chief Minister spoke to me sir

TR Baalu: Ah

Jaffar Sait: He asked to check if the auditor has returned from Ooty

TR Baalu: He will return by 1 or 1:30

Jaffar Sait: He wants to finish it off that day and itself and let this issue get camouflaged with the fishermen issue

TR Baalu: Fishermen issue.. oh.. for that is it?

Jaffar Sait: If we do it on that day itself..

TR Baalu: yea yea yea

Jaffar Sait: He says that the issue will get camouflaged with the fishermen issue

TR Baalu: Ok ok.. Then we will till them

Jaffar Sait: Yes, we can tell them sir

TR Baalu: Ask them and let me know if they are ready for this

Jaffar Sait: Where sir?

TR Baalu: I’m attending a wedding near Poonamallee now. Are they ready?

Jaffar Sait: Our people? 

TR Baalu: Yes yes

Jaffar Sait: Our people.. I’ll speak to Sharath and call you back sir.

TR Baalu: If they say okay, we can communicate immediately

Jaffar Sait: Ah yes sir

In a tweet the BJP Tamil Nadu President said that “this is one of the many tapes that will expose the corrupt nature of the I.N.D.I. Alliance, which held a different name between 2004-14.” and added that more will follow in the coming days.

Jaffair Sait is also involved in a corruption case. The ED’s investigation found that there were improper allocations of Government Discretionary Quota (GDQ) plots orchestrated by I Periyasamy, who served as the Minister for Housing and Urban Development at the time. Specifically, a plot was allocated to Jaffar Sait under his wife’s name, even though he did not meet the eligibility criteria for such an allocation.

In part one of DMK Files, Annamalai released the asset details of DMK leaders. The second part was a 16 minute video detailing three alleged scams which includes ₹3000 Crore ETL Infrastructure Services Limited Scam, ₹2000 Transport Department Scam and ₹600 Crore Scam in Tamil Nadu Medical Service Corporation.

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

Dravidian Model Of Press Freedom: Puthiya Thalaimurai Takes Down Satirical Video On DMK Govt And Issues Apology

By
The Commune
-

Puthiya Thalaimurai News Channel recently posted a spoof/satire video depicting the Pongal gift hamper distribution going on in the ration shops. It was posted on the digital platforms of the channel.

Several happenings in Tamil Nadu politics are spoofed in the video. A lady who is rushing to get the money in the crowd says her name is Kannamma. The person in charge of the distribution says, ‘Why everyone has names such as Annamma and Kannamma?‘ to which the lady replies, ‘In this town everyone is named like that.‘ Further into the video, the lady waiting to get the money asks, ‘how long will you count the money? Give it soon‘ and the person in charge replies, ‘Wait, let me see if any notes are stuck together‘. The lady then replies, ‘Why are you giving your father’s money?‘ and the person in charge retorts saying, ‘Aren’t you are getting this for free, take the money and leave‘.

Both of these dialogues are jabs at controversial statements made by Sport Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and former Minister for Higher Education Ponmudi. Towards the end of the video, a cameraman asks the lady to pose with the money, which she does, but wonders if this lady will go viral as the previous lady. This indicates to previous photos of happy old ladies smiling with the money they received under DMK government’s schemes.

செப்டம்பர் 15 முதல் கலைஞர் மகளிர் உரிமைத்தொகை திட்டம் முதல்வர் ...

The video irked many DMK aficionados, and comments accusing Puthiya Thalaimurai of being a ‘sanghi’ news channel started to pour in.

Official spokesperson of the DMK, Saravanan Annadurai, also posted strongly saying, ‘This video presents a low opinion. This is not a spoof, this is proof of rotten brains‘.

In reply to the reactions from DMK members, Krishna Kumar aka Parisal Krishna, editor of Digital Edition of PTTV posted his apologies.

He stated that, ‘In general, the video was only made as a comedy about what happens when the government schemes are taken to the people’ and subsequently removed from the platform.

“I accept the responsibility and apologize. The scene was not shot with the intention of criticizing the government. In general, the film was only made as a comedy about what happens when the government schemes are taken to the people. It has been misunderstood. There is no intention in this. I am also sorry for the ulterior tone. I accept your criticisms to work more carefully. That tweet has since been deleted.“, he said.

A Dravidianist pointed out that the video was posted by PTTV official handle, so only they should apologise and not Parisal Krishna from his personal handle.

Following the apology from Parisal Krishna, the official handle of Puthiya Thalaimura too issued an apology. DMK, which claims itself to be a bastion of social justice, press freedom, freedom of speech, has been sensitive to critical news targeted at them repeatedly.

Ironically, Dravidianists like SKP Karuna who supported freedom of speech during the Annapoorani film controversy has now decided to muffle it since the video in question was critical of the DMK.

 

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.

1...9991,0001,001...1,877Page 1,000 of 1,877
TheCommune
The Commune is a news and views portal focusing on social and political issues of the southern part of India with a focus on Tamil Nadu.
Contact us: thecommune.news@gmail.com
Facebook Instagram X Youtube

NATIONAL NEWS

The Timothy Initiative Exposed: How The Christian Missionary Org Which Routed ₹95 Crore Into Naxal-Affected Regions Deeply Penetrated India With Its International Church Network

The Timothy Initiative Exposed: How The Christian Missionary Org Which Routed...

The Commune - 0
The Enforcement Directorate’s investigation into (TTI) has triggered wider scrutiny over the foreign church ecosystem involved in large-scale religious conversion operations across India. The...
© The Commune 2025. All Rights Reserved.