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Kollywood P** Film Factory: Dravidian Model Curse Is Sinking Tamil Cinema Into A Propaganda Pit Of Flops While Mollywood, Tollywood And Sandalwood Shines

By
Vallavaraayan
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The past few years have exposed a dramatic shift in South Indian cinema—Telugu and Kannada films are conquering pan-India audiences with record-breaking hits, while even A-list Tamil stars are facing shocking rejections in their own backyard. Blockbusters like Hanu Man, Pushpa 2, and KGF dominated screens across India, whereas Tamil cinema’s biggest bets—Indian 2, Lal Salaam, Vettaiyan, and Kanguva—have crashed spectacularly.

What explains this growing divide? Is it purely about content, or is there a deeper political backlash at play? This analysis dives into:

  • Tamil cinema’s shocking flop streak—why star power alone isn’t working anymore
  • Telugu & Kannada’s winning formula—how universal emotions and rooted storytelling beats propaganda films
  • The DMK factor—are audiences rejecting films from politically aligned stars or is it a jinx?
  • The future of Tamil cinema—can it recover lost ground, or will Malayalam, Telugu & Kannada keep leading?

The numbers don’t lie—this isn’t just a slump, but a seismic shift in South Indian cinema’s power dynamics. Let’s break it down.

Tamil Cinema’s Dismal Performance Over The Past Few Years

The Tamil film industry has experienced one of its most challenging years in 2024, with staggering financial losses and an alarming number of box office failures. Producers incurred ₹1,000 crore in losses from ₹3,000 crore spent on film production. There’s abysmal success rate as only 18 out of 241 released films succeeded, marking a 7% success rate with 223 flops.

Big-Budget Disasters Due To Dravidian Model Curse

High-profile films with major stars failed spectacularly:

1. Indian 2 – Hyped for reunion of Kamal-Shankar combo, the film tried to peddle DMK rhetoric and ended up as a disaster

2. Kanguva – DMK simp Suriya’s alleged 3D film turned out to be trash

3. Vettaiyan – Made by two-bit Dravidian propagandist TJ Gnanavel against NEET became another consecutive flop Rajinikanth

4. Lal Salaam – Another Dravidian Model propaganda on secularism turned out to be the worst film ever in Rajini’s career, courtesy his daughter

5. Thangalaan – A wannabe KGF turned into typical Dravidianist diarrhoea — with a pathetic storyline and worse visuals, it peddled anti-Brahmin stereotypes, de-Hinduised village deities, distorted Varna and Vishnu references, misused Buddha and Ramanuja, and glorified Christianity and Islamist tyrant Tipu Sultan

6. Viduthalai 2 – The communist-themed movie directed by the Dravidianist filmmaker Vetrimaaran, ended up as epic bore that glorifies Maoist violence and forces ideological propaganda through lectures

7. Retro – Overrated director and another Dravidianist propagandist Karthik Subbaraj gave another flop for DMK simp Suriya

8. Thug Life – DMK stooge Kamal Haasan’s outing with Mani Ratnam turned out be torture that is not even worth an OTT watch

These are just a few P** films of famous stars that ended up as disasters. There are so many nondescript heavily ideological indoctrinating films that have come and gone.

Kollywood seems cursed by the Dravidian Model — actors and directors who simp for the DMK dynasty are watching their careers nosedive. If you trace the common thread running through these cinematic disasters, the pattern is as clear as daylight — either the actor, the director, or the film itself was neck-deep in Dravidianist, DMK propaganda. And Tamil audiences have had enough.

Take Suriya, for instance — who shamelessly morphed into a DMK lapdog ahead of the 2021 Assembly elections. In Soorarai Pottru, he distorted the real-life story of Captain Gopinath — a proud Kannada Brahmin — by portraying him as a follower of E.V. Ramasamy Naicker. Facts were twisted to fit a toxic ideological narrative.

Then came Jai Bhim, directed by the ever-consistent Dravidianist propagandist T.J. Gnanavel. Again based on a real incident, the film not only vilified Brahmins but went a step further by maligning the Vanniyar community. The villain, SI Anthony Sami, is shown alongside the sacred Agni motif — a clear nod to the Vanniyars. But in reality, the actual sub-inspector who brutalised Rajakannu was named Anthony Sami and was not Vanniyar, but a converted Christian. Truth, once again, took a backseat to ideological storytelling.

Gnanavel doubled down with Vettaiyan, where he glorified British colonialists — a classic Dravidianist move — and launched a full-scale propaganda war against NEET, with Rajinikanth parroting the script. No surprise that Rajini’s films, ever since Kabali and Kaala, have struggled to recreate the magic. When you replace substance with sermon, the audience tunes out.

Pa. Ranjith’s Natchathiram Nagargiradhu and Thangalaan? Box office duds. Vetri Maaran, another loud leftist-Dravidianist voice, faced a serious setback with Viduthalai Part 2. And Kamal Haasan — now reduced to a DMK mascot — has delivered back-to-back disappointments with Indian 2 and Thug Life.

The message from Tamil people is unmissable: stop selling us political trash dressed up as cinema. We go to the theatre to be inspired, entertained, and told stories — not to be preached at, stereotyped, or subjected to ideological indoctrination.

When filmmakers trade creativity for caste-baiting, Hindu-bashing, and dynasty worship, the people respond the only way they know how — by staying home. And the box office shows no mercy to those who mistake propaganda for art.

The Telugu-Kannada Domination: How They’re Rewriting Pan-Indian Cinema

While Tamil films flounder, Telugu and Kannada cinema are setting new benchmarks, proving that content—not just star power—drives success. Their winning streak isn’t accidental; it’s a masterclass in modern filmmaking.

  • Lucky Bhaskar (Dulquer Salmaan) didn’t just earn ₹111.9 crore—it swept state awards, proving mass appeal and critical acclaim can coexist.
  • Pushpa and RRR aren’t just films—they’re cultural phenomena, with global fandom and Oscar-level recognition for RRR.
  • Even mid-budget films like Hanu Man explode beyond expectations, thanks to visionary storytelling.
  • KGF didn’t just break records—it redefined what regional cinema could achieve, with a pan-India frenzy rarely seen before.
  • Kantara became more than a film—it sparked a nationwide revival of South Indian folklore, grossing ₹400+ crore while turning the ancient Bhoota Kola ritual into a cultural talking point. Its raw authenticity and mystical storytelling resonated globally, earning a National Award and setting the stage for a highly anticipated prequel

The Tamil Film Crisis: A Perfect Storm Of Failures

The recent string of high-profile Tamil flops reveals deeper issues plaguing the industry. Kamal Haasan’s much-anticipated Thug Life, reuniting with legendary director Mani Ratnam, was panned as a “bloated, incoherent gangster drama” filled with political undertones and cringe-worthy monologues. Similarly, Indian 2—despite Shankar’s direction and Kamal’s star power—was criticized for its “hollow script, absurd action sequences, and virtue-signaling narrative.”

Suriya’s Kanguva became a national laughingstock, with audiences mocking its “repetitive 3D visuals and disastrous screenplay.” Even Rajinikanth couldn’t save Vettaiyan, which saw a sharp drop after its opening weekend due to accusations of ideological propaganda and weak storytelling.

Industry analysts point to several key reasons for this downturn:

Overdependence On Star Power – Tamil cinema has long relied on its megastars to carry films, but audiences are now rejecting hollow scripts masked by big names.

Political Fatigue – Films perceived as promoting Dravidianist (DMK)-aligned narratives, such as Lal Salaam and Vettaiyan, are facing backlash from viewers who prefer entertainment over propaganda.

Weak Scripts & Recycled Tropes – Many recent Tamil films suffer from outdated storytelling, poor character development, and forced messaging, while Telugu and Kannada cinema invest in fresh, universal narratives.

Telugu-Kannada’s Winning Streak: What Are They Doing Right?

In stark contrast, Telugu and Kannada industries are thriving by focusing on strong content, innovative marketing, and pan-Indian appeal.

Kantara’s Success Story – Rishab Shetty’s Kantara became a cultural phenomenon by blending Karnataka’s tradition with a gripping, universally relatable conflict. Unlike Tamil films burdened with political baggage, Kantara stayed true to its roots while appealing to a national audience.

Pushpa & KGF’s Mass Appeal – Both franchises transcended regional boundaries with raw, high-energy storytelling, proving that strong scripts and bold execution matter more than star power alone.

Hanu Man’s Surprise Win – The Telugu superhero film Hanu Man outperformed expectations by delivering a visually stunning experience without leaning on political or ideological crutches.

The Road Ahead For Tamil Cinema

For Tamil films to regain lost ground, industry insiders suggest a return to basics:

Depoliticize – Stop alienating audiences with politically (Dravidianist)-aligned messaging. Cut your service to the DMK first family. Enough is enough. Don’t push an industry into abyss for your political virtue-signalling.

Innovate – Move beyond star vehicles and formulaic scripts. Big stars who are past their heydays should either gracefully retire or do character roles or atleast act their age. Rajiinkanth and Kamal can learn a thing or two from Mohanlal and Amitabh Bachchan.

Think Bigger – Craft universal but rooted stories, not just focus on propaganda.

With major Tamil releases like Coolie (Rajinikanth), Idly Kadai (Dhanush), Dhruva Natchathiram (Vikram), etc lined up for 2025, the industry has a chance to course-correct. But unless it learns from Telugu and Kannada cinema’s success, the decline may only deepen.

Vallavaraayan is a political writer. 

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Dravidian Model Hospital Management: Tiruvallur Govt Hospital Mistakenly Dispatches TN Man’s Corpse To Bihar

By
The Commune
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tiruvallur govt hospital dravidian model corpse bihar

In a deeply troubling case of alleged medical negligence under the Dravidian model of medical health care management, the body of a deceased Tamil Nadu man was mistakenly sent to Bihar from the Tiruvallur Government Hospital, sparking outrage among family members and demands for urgent action against those responsible.

The incident began when Rajendran, a 60-year-old agricultural labourer from Pooji Reddy Palli village near Tiruttani in Tiruvallur district, consumed pesticide in a suspected suicide attempt, reportedly due to severe stomach pain. He was initially admitted to Tiruttani Government Hospital and later referred to Tiruvallur Government Hospital for further treatment. Tragically, he died before receiving any medical care.

Following his death, hospital staff instructed Rajendran’s family to store his body in the hospital mortuary and obtain a police clearance for an autopsy. However, when the family returned with the necessary documents, Rajendran’s body had gone missing.

According to Rajendran’s younger brother Vignesh, the family was left confused and devastated when they found another unidentified body in place of Rajendran’s. “We searched everywhere. When we saw that the body wasn’t his, we were in shock. His features didn’t match. Still, hospital staff kept insisting it was him and tried to convince us otherwise,” Vignesh said, recounting the incident.

The twist emerged when it was discovered that Rajendran’s body had been mistakenly handed over to the relatives of another deceased individual — a migrant worker from Bihar named Manoj Mansi, who had also died at the same hospital around the same time. Both bodies, classified as unidentified due to a lack of proper documentation, were kept in the same mortuary. In a critical error, Rajendran’s body was taken in an ambulance to Bihar under the assumption that it was Mansi’s.

The family’s lawyer and local advocates worked overnight to trace the ambulance and contacted the police, who managed to stop the vehicle en route. The hospital and ambulance service, meanwhile, reportedly remained evasive and uncooperative. “From 11 AM to 3 AM, they gave vague responses,” Vignesh said. “It was only after media intervention and our own efforts that we found out Rajendran’s body had been sent to Bihar.”

The police were eventually able to locate the vehicle transporting the body and instructed it to return to Tamil Nadu. The family now awaits the repatriation of Rajendran’s remains.

Relatives, including their legal representative Muthu, have demanded swift intervention from the Tamil Nadu Health Minister and strict action against the hospital staff responsible for the blunder.

“This isn’t a small mistake. A human body was mishandled, and a grieving family was put through unimaginable trauma,” said Muthu. “The Health Minister must intervene directly, identify those at fault, and ensure they are held accountable — publicly. Only then will the public regain trust in the state’s medical system.”

The incident has raised serious concerns about the hospital’s morgue management and record-keeping practices. No official response has yet been issued by the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Medical Education or the Health Department.

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“Delimit Your Corruption First”: AIADMK General Secretary EPS Tears Into CM Stalin’s Delimitation Outrage

By
The Commune
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AIADMK Gen Sec Edappadi Palaniswani Demands DMK Govt End 'Cruel' Use Of Students For Agricultural Survey. stalin anna university sexual assault case eps delimitation

In a fiery rebuttal to Chief Minister MK Stalin’s recent statement on the Centre’s proposed delimitation and census delay, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) launched a scathing attack, accusing the DMK regime of hypocrisy, corruption, and dynastic arrogance.

Responding to Stalin’s claims that the BJP-led Union government was attempting to reduce Tamil Nadu’s representation through unfair delimitation, EPS countered that the real injustice lies within the DMK’s own rule. He lashed out at the DMK government, demanding a “delimitation” of what he called rampant TASMAC corruption, drug mafia operations, illicit liquor networks, and the growing influence of political rowdyism.

EPS invoked the legacy of AIADMK icons — Perarignar Anna, M.G. Ramachandran, and J. Jayalalithaa — emphasizing their lifelong struggle for Tamil Nadu’s dignity, water rights, and caste-based reservations. Dismissing Stalin’s criticism of the Centre as political theatre, EPS accused the DMK of manufacturing a “fear narrative” around delimitation to divert attention from the administration’s alleged failures. He reminded the public that he had already conveyed Tamil Nadu’s concerns to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and reiterated that AIADMK would never support any move that compromises the state’s representation.

EPS accused the DMK of abandoning real issues faced by the public — such as rising unemployment, law and order failures, and women’s safety — while indulging in theatrics over future hypotheticals like delimitation.

On his X handle quoting Stalin’s statement, EPS wrote, “The puppet CM speaks of “Fair delimitation” while presiding over the most unfair, corrupt, and dynastic regime Tamil Nadu has ever seen. First, Delimit the TASMAC loot. Delimit the drug mafia. Delimit illicit liquor. Delimit rowdyism. Delimit the corruption of your ministers. And most importantly, delimit your family’s arrogance and stranglehold over Tamil Nadu. The AIADMK stands firm on the immortal principles of Perarignar Anna, Puratchi Thalaivar MGR, and Puratchi Thalaivi Amma — towering leaders who fearlessly fought for Tamil Nadu’s dignity, Cauvery rights, and caste-based reservation. I vow before every Tamilian: We will never allow our representation to be reduced or our voice to be silenced. In 2027, or whenever delimitation may come, #AIADMK — back in power — will fiercely defend Tamil Nadu’s rightful voice and future. And to the puppet CM, a humble message: Stop using this distraction to cover up your failures and scams. The people of Tamil Nadu are tired of your drama and crocodile tears.”

In tamil, he continued, “It’s 6 in the morning, mother,” is like a comedy movie. I told the Honorable Union Home Minister when I met him that whenever the constituency reorganisation takes place, the rights of Tamil Nadu should not be affected. There is no change in my position. If there is a situation where Tamil Nadu’s representation decreases, I will be the first voice to oppose it! The DMK alliance includes parties that write the slave charter at the time of the alliance announcement, but no one here is like that!

Stalin continues to do the work of “The tiger is coming; the tiger is coming” to show something that has not yet come. The people of Tamil Nadu will no longer believe Stalin’s usual Goal Post changing politics, which tries to hide the miseries of his regime with this.

In fact, the people of Tamil Nadu are clearly in their minds about #Delimitation and Hindi imposition. But under the rule of this Thieves Progress Association in Tamil Nadu, people are losing their livelihoods every day, carrying shame, without employment opportunities, and without security for their women at home! Mr. Stalin – stop the politics of change and first talk about how to address the rowdiness and thefts happening under your rule, not with bullets, but on the ground! @CMOTamilnadu”

Stalin Slams Centre Over Census Delay, Targets EPS

On 4 June 2025, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led central government, accusing it of using the delay in the national census to manipulate the upcoming delimitation of parliamentary constituencies, potentially diminishing Tamil Nadu’s representation in the Lok Sabha.

In a strongly worded statement, Stalin demanded transparency from the Centre, questioning how delimitation would be conducted in the absence of updated census data.

Stalin also targeted AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) for reviving ties with the BJP, accusing him of betraying Tamil Nadu’s interests. “EPS has surrendered to Delhi’s domination,” he remarked.

On his X handle, he wrote, “The Indian Constitution mandates that #delimitation must follow the first Census after 2026. The BJP has now delayed the Census to 2027, making their plan clear to reduce Tamil Nadu’s Parliamentary representation. I had warned about this. It is now unfolding. By siding with the BJP, Palaniswami is not just silent but complicit in this betrayal. It’s now clear that he has surrendered to Delhi’s domination. The people of Tamil Nadu are united as one in their demand for a Fair Delimitation. We need clear answers from the Union Government.”

The core concern revolves around population-based delimitation, which critics say would disproportionately benefit northern states with higher population growth, while penalising southern states like Tamil Nadu that have successfully controlled their population over the past decades. Currently, Tamil Nadu holds 7.2% of Lok Sabha seats.

Southern leaders fear that the delimitation exercise, based on outdated or skewed data, could erode the political voice of their states in Parliament. A few months ago, Stalin convened a major conclave in Chennai, bringing together regional leaders and chief ministers to demand a more equitable approach.

The BJP has dismissed such fears as “unfounded and baseless.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah had previously sought to allay concerns, assuring that Tamil Nadu would “not lose even a single seat” during the next delimitation.

(With inputs from NDTV)

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800-Year-Old Shiva Temple Unearthed In Madurai: A Stunning Discovery From The Pandya Era

By
The Commune
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madurai shiva temple pandya era

In a remarkable archaeological find, an 800-year-old Shiva temple has been unearthed in Udanpatti village near Melur, in Madurai district. The temple, which had been buried underground for centuries, came to light during routine excavation work in April this year.

Following the discovery, experts from the sculpture department, including archaeologist Arivu Selvam from the Devi Archaeological Research Centre, began a detailed investigation of the site. Their research has revealed stunning insights into the temple’s origins and historical significance.

Careful examination of statues and inscriptions at the site confirmed that the temple dates back to the reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandyan I, with inscriptions dated between 1217 and 1218 AD. The temple’s original name was identified as Thennavan Eeswaram, and the village of Udanpatti was historically known as Attur, according to the inscriptions found.

The architecture reflects the distinct style of the Pandya dynasty, with stone carvings and idol placements typical of that era. Notable idols found at the site include those of Lord Vinayagar, Dakshinamoorthy, and Amman.

The discovery has drawn large numbers of locals and devotees, who are visiting the site in awe. Archaeologists consider this find a significant addition to Tamil Nadu’s rich temple heritage and continue to study the site for further insights.

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Pakistani Travel Agent “Madam N” Ran ISI Sleeper Cell Network Using Indian Pilgrims And Influencers, Say Intel Agencies

By
The Commune
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madam n pakistani travel agent pakistan influencer isi

Indian intelligence agencies have identified a Pakistani woman, Noshaba Shehzad Masood — codenamed Madam N — as a central figure in a growing espionage network that allegedly involved recruiting Indian social media influencers and YouTubers as spies for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

According to official sources, Noshaba Shehzad runs a Lahore-based travel company named Jaiyana Travel and Tourism, which played a key role in facilitating the travel of Indian nationals, particularly Hindu and Sikh influencers and vloggers, into Pakistan. One such individual, Jyoti Malhotra, was among those arrested and interrogated by Indian agencies, during which Madam N’s name surfaced.

Investigators believe that Shehzad was working under direct instructions from the ISI and the Pakistani Army to build a widespread sleeper cell network across India. Intelligence inputs suggest that her goal was to embed at least 500 operatives—posing as common citizens—across the country to collect and transmit sensitive information to Pakistani handlers.

Shehzad’s alleged influence extended into the Pakistani diplomatic mission in New Delhi, where she maintained contact with key embassy officials including First Secretary (Visa) Suhail Qamar and Counsellor (Trade) Umar Sheryar. She was also in touch with a former visa officer, Danish alias Ehsan-ur-Rehman, who was expelled from India following the exposure of Jyoti Malhotra’s espionage activities.

Notably, Jaiyana Travel and Tourism is the only agency permitted to organise Hindu and Sikh pilgrimages to Pakistan, working in collaboration with the Evacuee Trust Property Board. Despite the absence of formal procedures for tourism between India and Pakistan, the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi is reported to have frequently issued visas based on Madam N’s sponsorship.

In the past six months alone, approximately 3,000 Indian citizens and 1,500 non-resident Indians (NRIs) reportedly traveled to Pakistan under her facilitation. Authorities allege that Shehzad used the pilgrimage as a cover, charging exorbitant amounts from travellers and channeling the funds to support propaganda and covert activities.

Madam N is also accused of deploying several travel agents across major Indian cities—including New Delhi—to promote her services and identify new recruits. These agents, officials believe, were instrumental in expanding her influence and helping trap unsuspecting Indian citizens into the espionage network.

Further investigation is ongoing, and security agencies are working to dismantle what they describe as a “deep and deceptive” infiltration strategy orchestrated by Pakistan’s ISI using religious tourism as a front.

Jyoti Malhotra Espionage Case

In a major national security scare, Hisar-based travel vlogger Jyoti Malhotra was arrested on 17 May 2025, for allegedly spying for Pakistan. Accused of sharing sensitive information via encrypted apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, Malhotra had visited Pakistan multiple times and reportedly maintained contact with Pakistani intelligence officials. She allegedly met ISI operatives during her trips, including a man named Danish (Ahsan-ur-Rahim) and Ali Ahsan, who introduced her to security personnel.

Malhotra, who runs the YouTube channel Desi-Indo-Joe, had been allegedly using her online influence to promote pro-Pakistan narratives. Her connections to the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi and plans to travel to Bangladesh have deepened suspicions, particularly after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26. A viral video showing her in Lahore under tight security and her association with a man spotted at the Pakistan High Commission post-attack have raised serious alarms.

Investigators seized her gadgets and are probing links to recent military operations like Operation Sindoor. She is being interrogated by the NIA and IB. Despite denying wrongdoing, Malhotra faces charges under the Official Secrets Act. Her case highlights rising concerns over digital influence, cross-border propaganda, and espionage.

(With inputs from OpIndia)

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“We Cannot Remove Bharat Mata, These Are Idols For Which We Are Living””: Kerala Governor Arlekar Rejects Demand To Take Down Bharat Mata Portrait From Official Stage

By
The Commune
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kerala governor rajendra arlekar bharat mata communist pinarayi vijayan

Kerala’s World Environment Day celebrations were overshadowed by a political flashpoint on 5 June 2025 after Kerala Agriculture Minister P. Prasad and another cabinet colleague boycotted an event at the Raj Bhavan, protesting the display of a Bharat Mata portrait on stage.

The controversy erupted after officials from the Governor’s office allegedly insisted on including a prominent image of Bharat Mata on the dais. The image is widely associated with RSS shakhas, prompting objections from the Left-led state government.

Minister Prasad, who had initially requested that the event be held at Raj Bhavan, pulled out after the Governor refused to remove the portrait. In a statement, the Raj Bhavan said, “The Governor had gladly granted permission. However, when the minister insisted that the portrait of Bharat Mata on the stage be removed, the Governor had to turn down the request. Following this, the minister boycotted the event.”

The statement also noted that the minister was expected to attend both the morning and evening sessions at the Raj Bhavan but “unfortunately, he abstained from both.”

Speaking at the event, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar stood firm: “I was told that the minister wanted the Bharat Mata photo and image to be removed from the dais. I told them that we will do everything possible, but we cannot remove Bharat Mata, we cannot remove our ‘mathrubhumi’. These are idols for which we are living. We cannot do away with this.”

He emphasized the cultural significance of the image, saying India has a long tradition of worshipping and protecting nature. “Some present day ‘isms’ are demanding the abandonment of this tradition,” the Governor said. “Real environment protection is possible only by upholding our traditions and living a life true to it.”

Minister Prasad responded by asserting that the government respects Bharat Mata, but the specific image used was politically loaded and inappropriate for an official function. “The programme agenda was prepared by Raj Bhavan, and we accepted it. But yesterday evening, they suddenly added a new item—paying floral tributes to the portrait of Bharat Mata. This goes against constitutional norms, and that picture is widely used by the RSS,” he told PTI Videos. “The Raj Bhavan, which hosts a constitutional office, should not have used an image that is used exclusively by a particular organisation.”

Following the disagreement, the Agriculture Department swiftly relocated the official celebration to the Durbar Hall at the Secretariat, where the function was held at 11 AM on Thursday.

It is noteworthy that the concept of Bharat Mata likely emerged from Vande Mataram in Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s Anandamath in 1882 — a good forty years before the RSS was even founded. Also. Bankim Chandra envisioned Bharat Mata as an embodiment of Durga, Kamala, and Vani — all unmistakably Hindu symbols.

Last month, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had also expressed his disapproval, albeit belatedly, over the Raj Bhavan’s invitation to RSS ideologue S. Gurumurthy for a lecture on Operation Sindoor. This time, the government’s response was immediate and firm.

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India’s UPI Is Now The World’s Payment Superpower

By
G Saimukundhan
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“World-beater in the making: UPI on the cusp of surpassing Visa’s daily transaction volume” – Screamed the title of an article in Moneycontrol. As I started the day with this wonderful news on UPI on the verge of becoming world’s largest digital payment interface, I could not help but marvel at this wonderful digital platform from India for the world, which has not just created another settlement mechanism, but has brought about revolutionary and transformative changes to the way in which people transact, and forcing the world to look at this new jewel from India’s digital prowess.

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI), launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has transitioned from a niche digital payment method to the backbone of India’s financial ecosystem. With its unprecedented adoption rates, it has not just streamlined transactions, it has also emerged as a transformative force, driving formalisation, enhancing credit access, revolutionising settlements, democratising digital payments, and significantly contributing to the nation’s economic growth. It is not just a payment system. It is a pinnacle of indigenous innovation, emblematic of India’s ongoing digital revolution.

The Digital Revolution And India’s Technological Prowess

Our country has been undergoing a profound digital transformation, structured around what is known as the “India Stack” i.e. our own unique Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). With its open-architecture approach, comprising foundational digital identity (Aadhaar), real-time payments (UPI), and secure data-sharing frameworks (DigiLocker, Account Aggregator), the “India Stack” has created a powerful ecosystem for innovation and public service delivery. No country has seen the sheer scale and speed of this transformation, making our Country a global leader in digital governance.

UPI is arguably the crown jewel of India Stack, showcasing the our nation’s capacity for designing and deploying cutting-edge technology at a population scale. It embodies India’s commitment to building public digital goods that are interoperable, inclusive, and cost-effective. Its success has garnered global recognition as a leading example of DPI, with several countries now looking to emulate its model to build their own real-time payment systems. This reflects India’s growing influence as a thought leader in digital governance and financial technology.

Formalisation Of The Economy Across Sectors

Traditionally, a significant portion of transactions, particularly in the informal sector and among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), relied heavily on cash. This cash-based economy often operated outside the tax net, hindering transparency and accurate economic data collection, leading to stunted growth, both at an entrepreneur level and also at the country level. One of UPI’s most profound impacts has been its role in bringing large swathes of the Indian economy into the formal fold.

UPI has fundamentally altered this landscape by enabling seamless digital payments for everything from a street vendor’s tea and snacks to a small business’s supplies. The digital footprint facilitates better record-keeping for businesses, making it easier for them to comply with tax regulations like GST. Studies have shown a significant positive correlation between increased UPI adoption and higher tax revenues, with some research indicating a rise in GST filings among SMEs that adopted UPI. This formalisation improves financial governance, broadens the tax base, and allows for more effective data-driven policymaking.

A good example of the formalisation is the ratio of the value of UPI transactions to the country’s GDP. Over the years, this has grown from less than 1% to almost 80% in FY 25, and expected to breach 100% in the years to come.

Enhancing Access To Credit

For millions of Indians, particularly small entrepreneurs, informal workers, and those in rural areas, access to formal credit has long been a significant barrier. The absence of a verifiable transaction history or a credit score often relegated them to high-interest informal lending channels, which comes with its own set of inefficiencies and baggages in the form of high interest cost, exploitative practices and rampant corruption. UPI is now changing this paradigm.

The real-time transaction data generated by UPI offers lenders valuable insights to assess creditworthiness more accurately and offer “sachet-sized” loans or small credit lines directly on UPI. The introduction of “Credit Line on UPI” by NPCI is a game-changer, allowing banks to extend real-time, low-interest credit to underserved segments who may not qualify for traditional credit cards. This innovation is crucial for financial inclusion, empowering individuals and small businesses to access formal credit, manage cash flow, and invest in their growth, ultimately fostering a healthier credit ecosystem.

Quicker And Cheaper Settlement

Prior to UPI, digital payment methods often involved multiple intermediaries, leading to higher transaction costs and delays in settlement. UPI, built on an Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) architecture, offers instant, 24/7, peer-to-peer (P2P) and person-to-merchant (P2M) fund transfers.

For businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, this means immediate access to funds. This quicker settlement significantly improves cash flow management, reducing the need for working capital and enabling faster reinvestment. For consumers, the convenience of instant payments has eliminated waiting times and reduced dependency on physical cash. Moreover, UPI transactions are typically free for consumers and involve minimal or no charges for merchants, making it a highly cost-effective payment solution compared to traditional payment gateways or cash handling costs. This efficiency and cost-effectiveness benefit both individuals and businesses, reducing friction in economic activities.

Digital Transactions Made Size Agnostic

One of UPI’s most remarkable achievements is its ability to facilitate transactions across the spectrum of value, from micro-payments to larger sums, making digital payments truly “size agnostic.” Whether it’s a ₹10 payment for vegetables or a ₹1,00,000 payment for goods, UPI handles it with equal ease and efficiency.

This versatility has democratized digital payments, reaching beyond urban centers and tech-savvy users to embrace street vendors, small kirana stores, and consumers in remote villages. The simple QR code scan has become ubiquitous, transcending literacy and technological barriers. This broad applicability ensures that every transaction, regardless of its value, contributes to the digital economy, fostering a unified payment infrastructure that benefits all participants.

The volume of UPI transactions and its ratio to the Country’s GDP is a testament to the Indian consumer’s preference towards UPI. From just around 1 Lakh crore transactions in FY18 to almost 261 Lakh Crore transactions FY25, we are nudging towards 1 Lakh crore transactions per day. This is unprecedented for any country!

Catalysing Economic Growth

UPI’s multi-faceted benefits directly contribute to India’s overall economic growth. By formalising transactions, it expands the taxable base and improves the accuracy of economic data, leading to better fiscal planning. Enhanced access to credit, particularly for MSMEs, fuels entrepreneurship, investment, and job creation. The efficiency and cost-effectiveness of UPI payments reduce operational overheads for businesses, allowing them to focus on core activities and improve profitability.

The exponential growth in UPI transactions underscores a fundamental shift in consumer behavior towards digital payments, reducing the reliance on cash. RBI’s Annual Report for FY25 highlights that UPI transactions increased by 41.7% in volume and 30.3% in value compared to the previous fiscal, with UPI having the highest share (84%) in total retail payments, affirming its role as a key driver of economic activity. This strong performance contributes to India commanding a significant 48.5% share in global real-time payments by volume.

Conclusion

The Unified Payments Interface has not just facilitated digital payments; it has instigated a quiet revolution in India’s financial landscape. Its impact extends beyond mere transactional convenience, touching upon the very fabric of the Indian economy by formalising economic activities, unlocking access to credit, streamlining settlements, and democratising digital finance. As UPI continues to evolve and expand its global footprint, it remains a powerful testament to India’s digital prowess and a critical enabler of its journey towards a more inclusive, efficient, and robust economy.

G Saimukundhan is a Chartered Accountant.

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“Can’t See People Gathering For Temple Festivals As Part Of Civilized Society”: DMK Minister Mano Thangaraj Says, Had Earlier Derogated Mahakumbh

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The Commune
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In yet another brazen display of Hindu hate, DMK Minister Mano Thangaraj who is a Christian implied that those who visit temple gatherings are uncivilized.

When reporters had asked about his opinion on the recent stampede that occurred during the RCB IPL victory celebrations in Bengaluru, the DMK Minister said “This is my personal opinion. We’re carrying out various forms of rationalist propaganda. We’re trying to build a society based on rationalism. People gathering in large numbers for temple festivals, going to watch sports, I can’t see them as part of a civilized society.”

He then went on to say “Don’t be a spectator. Be a participant. I don’t know how many people there would’ve touched a cricket bat. I am not talking about the Karnataka government.”

When a reporter asks whether he’s implying that Karnataka people are irrational, Mano Thangaraj deflected the question saying “My humble request to people is while gathering in a public place, they should use their brains and not indulge in pushing-pulling creating a stampede. People should avoid that.”

Earlier, the DMK leader had derogated Mahakumbh saying ” “While America is flying the flag of knowledge development with ChatGPT, Copilot, MetaAI, Grok, Gemini, and China with Deepseek, India is looking to WhatsApp University for an explanation for the comedy and Kumbh Mela under the Modi regime.

He followed it up with the hashtags #DeepSeekR1 #CowUrine to add on to his derogatory statements.

Mano Thangaraj had also insulted Prime Minister Narendra Modi venerating the sacred ‘Sengol’ saying ““Is he dead? (Is he breathing?), does he have dignity and self-esteem?”

He had also insulted North Indians saying that they are people who roam around in loincloth.

“Today, the Tamil community and the Indian community is mired in illusion. In north India, people even today roam around in loincloth. If you get an opportunity, go to Gujarat and see. No need to go anywhere else. Once you land there, they will deceive you showing Ahmedabad, Gandhi Nagar, etc. Don’t even look that side. Ask them to show the rural area. Go see the rural area. If you see the rural areas, you will see those people only wear loincloth.”, DMK Minister Mano Thangaraj said.

The BJP in Tamil Nadu has slammed the DMK Minister for insulting Hindus. BJP Tamil Nadu leader K. Annamalai wrote “In response to a question about the Congress government’s administrative failure at Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Karnataka, which resulted in the deaths of many people in a stampede, Minister Mr. Mano Thangaraj has said that the public should not go to temple festivals. The crowd that is exploiting temple properties and the money donated by devotees, has become so fat that today they’re saying that it is uncivilized to go to temple festivals. Which is more civilized? Smuggling and selling the entire mineral resources of Tamil Nadu or stealing Aavin milk without even leaving behind the fat?”

“Would Minister Mr. Mano Thangaraj, who says that the public should not go to temple festivals in large numbers to cover up the administrative failure of the INDI Alliance Party, say this to his party leader of slaves? Illegal liquor, ganja, and drugs are running rampant in Tamil Nadu. Law and order has broken down to the point where there is not a single day without a murder. In such a state, rationality is spoken. Onion.“, Annamalai slammed Mano Thangaraj.

Following the outrage, Mano Thangaraj posted on his social media that his statement was not about religion but about people dying in stampedes.

In his social media post he said “In response to a question raised by journalists regarding the issue of 11 people dying in a crowd watching sportspersons in Karnataka, I had posted my opinion that ‘I cannot see excessive crowding at sports events, temple festivals, etc. as a sign of a civilized society’. This is not a religious remark; nor is it a remark that blames anyone. Is the news that more than 3000 human lives have been lost in a stampede in the NCRB data acceptable? Is it not the duty of a civilized society to avoid these things? My question is nothing more than that. I request my friends in the press to realize that they also have a duty in this. This society will not accept the idiots who think that they can use this for political gain.

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DMK Ally Panruti MLA Velmurugan Reiterates His Demeaning Sexualized Remarks About Female Students Having Fan Moments With TVK Vijay, Threatens TVK Cadres For Asking Him To Apologize

By
The Commune
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panruti mla velmurugan vijay

Tamilaga Vazhvumurai Katchi (TVK) leader and Panruti MLA T. Velmurugan has issued a warning to Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor-turned-politician Vijay, urging him not to allow inexperienced party cadres to make public statements without understanding Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. Velmurugan added that if Vijay believes he (Velmurugan) has said anything inappropriate, he should address the media directly through a press meet and Velmurugan would respond accordingly.

The MLA was reacting strongly to the criticism leveled against him by TVK functionaries who demanded that Velmurugan apologize for his recent comments about young women student, which was a moral policing and regressive. His advice to parents regarding their daughters’ behavior had sparked public backlash, prompting TVK cadres to demand an apology.

However, while speaking to reporters in Cuddalore, Velmurugan stood by his earlier statements, clarifying that his words were deliberate and meant as advice to parents not a criticism of Vijay. He stated, “Many young women, many husbands, wives, even women with their parents are often seen in cinema or television shows treating film heroes as their incarnation (ideal men), hugging and kissing them, and indulging in such uncivilized acts right in front of their own parents. When we see such behavior before various media and newspapers, is not acceptable. After saying that, I also listed out several actors’ names and said appreciate their acting, enjoy their performances, I won’t say don’t do that. But as parents, you should not allow your children especially the daughters you have raised and nurtured to fall for such over-glamorized cinema personalities. You must not permit them to behave with actors in such undue advantage. This is not Tamil culture, this is not civilization. We Tamils have a distinct culture, a sense of civilization, and a rich heritage. Based on that foundation, I expressed my views.”

Later added, “We do not need this kind of cut-out culture, eating mansoru, nakedly beating with neem leaves without wearing, going on a pilgrimage to Tirupati just so a film can run for 100 days, and rolling all the way to the Palani Murugan temple. Have you ever, even once, gone and touched the feet of the parents who gave birth and raised to you on your birthday seeking blessings? But why then do you perform paal abhishekam for film stars? Why say things like, “I came here at 3 AM just to see my hero. I’ve been here since yesterday. I’ve been waiting with devotion. If only I could hug him once and give him a kiss, my life’s goal would be complete” These are the kinds of things some women are saying openly in press meets and television debates. Such speech should not be encouraged. This is not our culture or tradition. Parents should never allow this. I strongly condemned such acts and spoke against them. But without even listening to my full one-hour-forty-minute speech, a few half-baked cadres have shouting, “You’ve spoken against our Thalapathy (leader)! You must apologize immediately!” These kinds of outbursts and press statements are completely unnecessary.”

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“Don’t Erase Our Identities”: Paramasivan Fathima Director Esakki Karvannan’s Fire Press Meet On Religious Conversions, Asks Why Should They Be Called Christian Schools If They’re Built On Govt Land And Uses Govt Funds

By
The Commune
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paramasivan fathima esakki karvannan

At a press meet for the controversial Tamil film “Paramasivan Fathima”, director Esakki Karvannan delivered an emotionally charged and impassioned defense of the film, reacting strongly to questions from journalists about the film’s alleged anti-Christian tone and its treatment of religious identity.

Speaking with rising intensity, the director rejected the claim that the film targeted any particular religion. “I’m not talking about religion here. I never mentioned religion. I’m talking about the identity rooted in my land,” the director began, visibly emotional. “You are calling it religion, but when I perform my rituals abroad — the way I live, the customs I follow — you see it as religion. I don’t. I see it as my land’s identity,” he said.

Rejects Religious Framing

Facing repeated questions from reporters, the director emphatically denied that the film had an anti-Christian bias. The filmmaker said, “This film may appear to be anti-Christian, but we never said that. We never said we are against that religion. If I were against Christianity, I should’ve supported Hinduism. Or Islam. But I haven’t. It’s just a story. A story based on my own life, what I lived and experienced.”

Referring to spiritual depictions in the film, he added: “You say ‘Karuppu Saami’ appears in the film. But what is a ‘Saami’? We just use the word to call our ancestors. Even if it’s Jesus, after death, we see him as a ‘Saami.’ So we view all of them as deities in our collective sense. That’s how we see it — with a secular lens. People will definitely accept this. This is my story. I lived this. From my childhood, all these events happened to me. I was affected. My identity was erased. My relationships were broken.”

He elaborated that the narrative depicts his own childhood and the trauma of identity erasure he faced. “My forefathers were turned into saints after death. Even Jesus, after his death, became a saint. That’s how people here see him. So don’t frame this film in religious binaries.”

On Tamil Identity and Indian Law

Responding to questions about whether the film disrespects Indian national symbols, the director flatly denied such allegations. He said, “The Indian tricolor or Tamil Nadu identity isn’t disrespected in any way. I respect this land. My argument is simple: why should anyone have to erase their Tamil identity for a foreign religious label?”

He further said, “There are many parts of our history and law that still need correction. Do you know how many amendments have come since independence? Why were they made if the original law was perfect? Ask the lawmakers — did they not know when they passed the first version? People are now waking up to their native identity. That’s why change is needed.”

Film’s Central Message

The director emphasized the thematic core of the movie: honoring ancestors and reclaiming indigenous identity. “In this film, I simply say that if you don’t worship your ancestors, you’re left calling them ghosts. That’s all. Where exactly are you finding fault?”

When asked about religious conversion, he issued a sharp rebuttal, “So now you’re asking — should people convert or not? I’m saying, don’t erase our identities.”

He elaborated further, “Again, you are seeing rituals as religion. I’m not. I view them as cultural. When I follow an Arab custom or some white man’s tradition, that remains his identity. But I’m a Tamil, I’m an Indian — and I want to retain my native identity. That’s what I’m saying. This film is not made to attack any other religion. It is to ask — why should religion stop two humans from loving and marrying?”

When asked about religious conversion and its portrayal in the film, he said, “You’re asking if converting is wrong. I’m asking why identities must be erased. When I go abroad, my rituals are seen as part of a religion—but I see them as part of my land, my soil.”

Critique Of Missionary Education

He launched into a detailed critique of Christian missionary schools, accusing them of co-opting state resources while propagating their religious identity. The most explosive part of the press meet came when the director turned his ire toward missionary-run schools in Tamil Nadu: “Tell me which school was built by Christians? We all call it Christian schools and that is their intention too. But even Christian schools got government support. I myself studied in one.  Those schools were built on government land. Salaries came from public funds. The British didn’t bring land from London — it was given by our government. And taxes? All from us.” He further added, “Government is paying the salaries. I even put that as a dialogue in the film — that it’s not just for some, everyone’s salaries come from the government.”

He pointed out the irony in praising Christian missionary contributions while forgetting native ones: “Before independence, you say we had no schools? What about Pachaiyappa’s College? Who built it? Why was it built? Go research.”

Calls for Historical Reevaluation

The director also called for a re-examination of India’s educational and legal histories. “Why do we still cling to colonial amendments and laws that were passed without consulting native voices?” he asked.

He emphasized the need for societal introspection, he said, “We must ask ourselves: why were schools in Tamil Nadu lacking Tamil instruction before 1954? Why were missionary schools the norm, while native forms of education like the ‘gurukulam’ were dismissed?”

The fiery press meet ended with the director reiterating that Paramasivan Fathima is neither propaganda nor a religious attack. “This is a story rooted in my experience. It’s about reclaiming identity—not attacking others’. If that’s controversial, so be it,” he said.

Paramasivan Fathima – The Film

Paramasivan Fathima, directed by Esakki Karvannan and starring Vimal, Sayadevi, and MS Bhaskar, is a daring Tamil film that tackles themes of religious conflict, forced conversions, and missionary propaganda. Set in two contrasting villages—Hindu-majority Subramaniapuram and Christian-majority Yakobupuram—the film explores interfaith love, sectarian strife, and the tension triggered by conversion agendas. The trailer features bold dialogues and controversial scenes, including critiques of missionary education and depictions of state-enforced “social harmony.” With sharp exchanges like “The white man came here to beg,” the film positions itself as a rebuttal to narratives that glorify missionary influence. The film is expected to stir debate, challenging the Dravidianist tone prevalent in Tamil cinema. It marks a significant political and cinematic move for lead actor Vimal.

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