An inter-university Kabaddi tournament in Rajasthan turned controversial after opposing teams and local players allegedly attacked Tamil Nadu players.
The tournament, organized by private universities and featuring teams across India, saw participation from Tamil Nadu universities like SRM and Wales. Four teams from South India competed in the event. During a match between Tamil Nadu’s SRM University and Punjab’s Guru Kashi University, Tamil Nadu players raised objections to the referees over what they claimed were unfair scoring decisions.
The dispute escalated, leading to a physical altercation. Rajasthani players allegedly attacked Tamil Nadu players and coaches with seats in front of a crowd that included prominent actors and special guests. A video of the incident has since gone viral, showing the violence that left multiple Tamil Nadu players and a coach injured.
In addition to the physical assault, the Tamil Nadu players claimed they were verbally abused and asked to leave the tournament and “go back to Tamil Nadu.” A witness who filmed the attack on their cell phone was allegedly assaulted, with attempts made to delete the footage.
Following the attack, the Tamil Nadu government contacted the host university in Rajasthan to inquire about the safety of its students. Officials assured that adequate measures were in place, and the Tamil Nadu players participated in subsequent matches before preparing to return home.
Political Reactions
DMK ally Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi leader Velmurugan framed the incident as an act of anti-Tamil hostility. He claimed that North Indians were inciting hatred against the Tamil players was shocking and criticized what he termed an “anti-Tamil mentality” in the north. He condemned the assault as an attempt to undermine Tamil Nadu’s success in sports and called on the state government to ensure appropriate legal action against those responsible. He wrote,“The anti-Tamil mentality of North Indians who cannot accept Tamils winning even in a sports competition. The incident of an attack on a Kabaddi player and coach from Tamil Nadu in Rajasthan is very shocking. While teams from 4 universities from Tamil Nadu were participating in the All India Inter-University Kabaddi Competition being held in Rajasthan, the SRM University team from Tamil Nadu and the Guru Kashi University team from Punjab were playing in a league match, and the results were announced against the leading SRM University team and in favor of the Punjab University team, the incident of an attack on other teams and coaches from Tamil Nadu who opposed this is very shocking.
Three players and a coach from Tamil Nadu were injured in this attack, and the anti-Tamil mentality and hatred of North Indians are to the extent that it is unacceptable for players from Tamil Nadu to win even in a sports competition held to promote unity and brotherhood. I request the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that the state government takes appropriate action against the person involved in the above attack and exerts appropriate pressure on him.”
விளையாட்டுப் போட்டியில் கூட தமிழர்கள் வெற்றி பெறுவதை ஏற்றுக்கொள்ள முடியாத வட இந்தியர்களின் தமிழர் விரோத மனநிலை.
ராஜஸ்தானில் தமிழ்நாட்டைச் சேர்ந்த கபடி வீரர்கள் மற்றும் பயிற்சியாளர் மீது தாக்குதல் நடத்தப்பட்டுள்ள சம்பவம் பெரும் அதிர்ச்சியளிக்கிறது.
In a developing situation, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief and actor-turned-politician Vijay’s uncle, Xavier Britto, has decided to send a legal notice in response to the allegations made by the YouTuber Maridhas. Maridhas recently exposed the alleged Loyola syndicate and its connections to Vijay.
YouTuber and political commentator Maridhas recently disclosed a series of allegations, supported by documents, claiming that the Loyola syndicate, under the banner of the “Society of Jesus,” has taken control and heavily influenced internal decisions. These allegations include involvement in benami transactions, fraudulent activities, and a deeper web of corruption aimed at benefiting Vijay’s family. In response, on 8 November 2024, Vijay’s uncle, Xavier Britto, issued a legal notice on his behalf. On 22 November 2024, Maridhas announced on his official X account that he would continue his exposé.
விஜய் மாமாக்கு பிரிட்டோக்கு கோவம் வந்துட்டது… Ok start music அடுத்த வீடியோ லயோலா கல்லுரி துபாய் கம்பெனி தொடர்பும் – விஜய் மாமாவின் மாஸ்டர் பிளானும்… விரைவில்.. pic.twitter.com/GDodj2Ps8n
Maridhas traced these allegations back to the early days of Vijay’s acting career, starting with films like Naalaiya Theerpu (1992), Senthoorapandi (1993), Rasigan (1994), and Deva (1995), except for his first film, produced by Vijay’s father, Chandrasekhar, under VV Creations, all the others were made by XB Film Creators, owned by Xavier Britto, Vijay’s uncle. Britto has not mentioned this relationship in his PR despite producing these films.
This raised suspicions that led to further investigation, which led to another of Vijay’s uncles, Xavier Alphonse, who served as principal of Loyola College from 1992 to 1995. It is alleged that he embezzled or misappropriated society funds amounting to ₹2 crores, which were then allegedly funnelled into movie studios to kickstart their ventures. All of this supposedly occurred with the knowledge of SA Chandrasekhar, Vijay’s father.
All these allegations emerged in the context of an RTI request made by Mary Rajasekaran regarding the committee inquiry report that led to the dismissal of Vijay’s uncle, Xavier Alphonse, from Loyola College. She sought access to the related documents, but there has been no response—only a simple denial.
He also alleged that the issues extend beyond lobbying and the creation of syndicates, with numerous accusations surfacing regarding harassment of women, financial mismanagement, tax evasion, benami transactions, and a religion conversion mafia linked to the Society of Jesus.
It was highlighted that Vijay intentionally evaded disclosing an additional income of ₹15 crore during the financial year 2015-16, only revealing it under pressure in court later. Furthermore, until the release of his movie Mersal in 2017, he made statements under the heading “Jesus Saves,” raising doubts about his sudden advocacy for secularism, which many view as hypocritical.
Sexual Harassment Allegations
TVK Vijay’s uncle, Xavier Alphonse, has also been accused of sexually harassing a woman who worked with him in the Loyola Alumni office. The harassment allegedly occurred after the woman brought to light his plan to siphon off the college’s corpus fund into his personal trust.
This accusation was further validated with the international human rights organization ‘Ending Clergy Abuse (ECA)’—a global network of activists focused on children’s and victims’ rights—became involved.
ECA, which advocates for an end to clerical abuse and demands accountability from the Church, issued a statement warning Xavier Alphonse. The organization called for a thorough investigation and for justice to be served, criticizing the Church’s structural mechanisms that they believe enable such abuse to occur.
In a statement issued in August 2020, ECA expressed its full support for the All India Christian Forum in their fight for justice on behalf of Mary Rajasekaran, a victim of sexual harassment at her workplace by a Catholic clergyman. The incident took place at Loyola College in Chennai, and the accused is Father Xavier Alphonse, a Catholic priest. ECA condemned the actions of the Catholic institution, which allegedly prevented the victim from reporting the harassment to local authorities. The statement highlighted the shocking nature of the case, where the institution’s protection of the accused further compounded the victim’s suffering.
Looting In The Name Of A Trust?
It is alleged that in 2013, when TVK Vijay’s uncle, Xavier Alphonse, was serving as the head of the Loyola College Alumni Association, he organized a fundraising event during which a significant portion of the funds was allegedly misappropriated. According to the allegations, half of the tickets for the event were sold with the false promise that actor Vijay would attend, targeting his fan base. It is claimed that 50% of the tickets were sold under this pretext, and out of the total ₹6 crore raised, approximately ₹3 crore was diverted to Father Alphonse’s personal trust.
At the same time, Mary Rajasekaran, who was working under Xavier Alphonse, reportedly raised concerns about these illegal activities. As a result, she was allegedly dismissed from her job without any legitimate explanation. The official excuse given was that she was employed on a contractual basis, but an investigation into her appointment revealed that there was no mention of her being a temporary or contract employee. This discrepancy points to a larger pattern of corruption and power abuse by the Alphonse family, suggesting that the alleged syndicate was operating with the full backing of Vijay’s uncle within the institution.
Furthermore, Mary was already employed at the Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA) based on her merit and performance. She had earned recognition for her work, and the head of LIBA, Kashmiri Raj, recommended her for the position. According to Raj, her appointment was permanent, and she was serving a probationary period.
Fake Threat Allegedly Orchestrated By Loyola Syndicate
In 2013, Mary Rajasekaran’s family, particularly her son Kennedy, suddenly received a notice from the Coimbatore Cyber Police instructing him to appear at the station, but without specifying any reasons for the summons. At the time, the family was based in Chennai. Whistleblowers have alleged that the directive came allegedly under SP AK Vishwanathan, who had close ties with the Vijay’s family. However, when the whistleblowers sought to verify the legitimacy of the notice and they dug out a Right to Information (RTI) Act, the response from the police station was shocking. According to the RTI reply, no such direction had been issued on the date or with the reference number provided, revealing that the police summons was fabricated. In 2018, the officer involved in this incident was ironically honored with an award as a “Loyola Star.”
This latest round of accusations paints a troubling picture of a family network allegedly involved in a wide range of unethical practices, with the aim of consolidating both political and financial power. The whistleblowers maintain that these activities were carried out under the guise of the “Society of Jesus,” using it as a shield for protection, and they claim the scale of the wrongdoing extends far beyond what has previously been reported.
Two Sides Of The Same Coin: Xavier Alphonse’s Atrocities At Loyola College; Xavier Britto’s Lavish Life
On one side, Xavier Alphonse, one of actor Vijay’s uncles, has been accused of committing serious atrocities at Loyola College in Chennai. As the former Director of the Loyola Alumni Association and a priest, Xavier Alphonse allegedly siphoned off nearly ₹1 crore from the college’s funds, misappropriating money meant for the institution and funneling it into personal trusts. In addition to financial corruption, he has been accused of sexually harassing an employee, Mary Rajasekaran, who had raised concerns about his fraudulent activities. Instead of taking action against him, the college administration allegedly silenced Mary, transferring her to another office, eventually forcing her out of the institution without due process or explanation.
In the meantime, Mary’s son, Joseph Dominic Kennedy, sought justice through Canon law and the Vatican, though the response from church authorities was minimal. In 2019, after facing repeated disappointments, Team Hail Mary, led by the All India Christian Forum, wrote to the Indian Prime Minister, prompting further investigations. This led to a renewed inquiry by the Jesuit Curia, but Loyola College continued to deny responsibility.
Mary’s case was eventually taken up by the National Human Rights Commission and the National Commission for Women. However, despite support from international groups like the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), there was a deafening silence from the local Tamil Nadu media, the Catholic Church, and influential figures in the South Indian film industry, including her relative, actor Vijay. Despite these grave allegations, Xavier Alphonse remained untouchable, shielded by his position within the powerful Loyola syndicate system.
On the other side, Xavier Britto, another of Vijay’s uncles, was embroiled in a separate controversy involving St. Britto’s Academy in Velachery, Chennai. Xavier Britto, who was the chairman of the school and also the producer of Vijay’s film ‘Master’, was accused of charging exorbitant fees from parents during the pandemic. Even though schools were closed due to COVID-19, St. Britto’s Academy allegedly collected full tuition fees, including ₹67,000 for online classes for LKG students. Many parents, already struggling financially due to the pandemic, protested the high fees. In response, the school allegedly removed students from online classes if their fees weren’t paid, further escalating tensions. Despite the protests, the school administration, backed by Xavier Britto’s wealth and influence, continued to shield itself from any accountability.
While Xavier Alphonse faces accusations of corruption and abuse within an educational institution, Xavier Britto runs a luxury lifestyle funded by his educational ventures. He owns 85 luxury villas on Chennai’s East Coast Road, a multi-billion-dollar logistics business (Kerry Indev Logistics), and continues to shield himself under the name of his educational trust, all while allegedly exploiting students and their families. Both men, part of the same family, seem to be untouched by the law or public scrutiny, hiding behind institutional titles and their connection to the “Society of Jesus” syndicates.
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A recent order issued by the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) adjudication authority in Chennai has uncovered a Tamil Nadu-based firm’s role in the financial scandal that brought down Germany’s largest fintech company, Wirecard. The downfall of Wirecard, first exposed by the Financial Times, led to its insolvency in 2020 and has since been chronicled in a book and the Netflix documentary,Skandal! Bringing Down Wirecard.
The ED order, dated October 30, detailed how Wirecard significantly inflated the purchase price of Chennai-based fintech company Hermes I Tickets Pvt Ltd (HITPL). Initially valued at ₹275 crore in 2015, HITPL’s sale price was artificially increased to ₹2,400 crore in 2016 through a Mauritius-based intermediary, Emerging Markets Investment Fund (EMIF). The ED labeled this as a “pre-planned insider agreement” aimed at siphoning off the excess funds.
The Financial Times had earlier flagged concerns about the inflated transaction in 2019, suggesting it was part of a broader fraud to falsely boost Wirecard’s revenues and profits. The scandal culminated in Wirecard filing for insolvency in June 2020, with €1.9 billion missing from its accounts.
Insider Links And Shady Offshore Payments
According to the ED, the original owners of HITPL, brothers Ramu and Palaniyappan Ramasamy, played a pivotal role in the deal. After selling the company to EMIF for ₹275 crore in 2015, the fund resold it to Wirecard just months later at nearly ten times the price. The ED investigation revealed that the brothers, along with their family members, received ₹195 crore in offshore payments.These payments were allegedly funneled through UAE-based firms, VR Payments and NSC Consulting, which were created to act as conduits for the illicit transactions.
The ED also noted that the business model of HITPL underwent a significant transformation after being sold to EMIF, shifting from a travel services agency to a payments-focused company. This drastic change in operations, coupled with the 900% spike in valuation, underscored the insider nature of the transaction, the agency claimed.
The ED order cited evidence showing that Ramu and Palaniyappan had multiple meetings with Jan Marsalek, Wirecard’s former COO, during the course of the transaction. Marsalek, who is now a fugitive and suspected of being a Russian intelligence operative, is believed to have played a key role in the deal. The Ramasamy brothers even traveled to Germany in late 2016 to finalize the settlement with Marsalek.
Following its investigation under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), the ED imposed a penalty of ₹566.5 crores on the Ramasamy brothers, their families, and their firm GI Retail Pvt Ltd. Additionally, the agency confiscated properties worth ₹195 crores connected to the illicit offshore payments.
A “unique aspect” of the Sabarimala pilgrimage is the tradition of stopping at the Vavar mosque in Erumeli, an apparent nod to a supposed friendship between Ayyappa and Vavar, a Muslim figure portrayed as a warrior, pirate, or even a mystical incarnation. However, a closer look at the historical and cultural basis of the lore of Vavar reveals a different story, one that lacks historical evidence and that many now argue may be a recent interpolation rather than an ancient, integrative tradition.
Who Was Vavar? What Are The Roots Of The Myth?
The story of Vavar Swamy as a close associate of Ayyappa has multiple, often contradictory, versions. Some tales describe Vavar as a foreign invader defeated by Ayyappa, while others cast him as a merchant or a warrior who migrated from distant lands. Some legends assert that he was a divine figure – Vapuran alias Vapar – an incarnation of Lord Shiva turned Muslim warrior who eventually aided Ayyappa in battles. These conflicting stories point to the fact that Vavar’s identity is largely based on oral lore, and this lore appears to lack foundational historical references, particularly before the 19th century.
In fact, despite Vavar’s association with Ayyappa in recent narratives, there is no mention of Vavar in older Hindu texts or Tamil literature. Ayyappa’s origins as Dharmashasta, a deity mentioned in various Puranas and ancient Tamil inscriptions from as early as the 3rd century CE, predate Islam by several hundred years. Similarly, iconographic evidence, such as murtis (sculptures) of Ayyappa/Shasta, were created centuries before Islam’s birth.
This timeline disparity casts doubt on the historical possibility of an Islamic figure closely linked with Ayyappa’s worship, as Islam emerged over 1,300 years ago—well after the period in which Ayyappa devotion was already flourishing in South India.
How Dramatization Aided In “Establishing” This So-Called “Tradition”?
The myth surrounding Vavar and the practice of visiting the Vavar mosque during the Sabarimala pilgrimage can be traced back to a dramatization in the early 1940s. Nawab Rajamanickam Pillai, a renowned dramatist, was requested to adapt the story of Lord Ayyappa into a play while visiting Alappuzha. Initially hesitant, he was so moved by the tale that he created the play Swamy Ayyappan and personally undertook the Sabarimala pilgrimage.
However, in crafting his script, Pillai incorporated elements from both mythological and historical accounts, blending stories of the deity Ayyappa with the king Ayyappa. One significant addition was the character of Vavar, a pirate leader who, after a confrontation with Ayyappa, became his devotee.
This dramatic portrayal of Vavar’s transformation was intended to serve as an emotional high point in the play, but it inadvertently became a defining narrative for many devotees.
This is a notice about a play that altered the portrayal of Ayyappa devotees..!!
It was a drama staged in 1940 by Nawab Raj Manikya Pillai and M. N. Nambiar.
In this play, M. N. Nambiar played the role of the king of Pandalam. One of the scenes they included as an interlude… pic.twitter.com/AYPQvL5GRu
The power of the play left a lasting impression, leading audiences to believe that visiting the Vavar mosque at Erumeli was an integral part of the Sabarimala pilgrimage. This practice, however, has been dismissed by various authorities, including Nambiar Guruswamy M. N. Nambiar and other ancient gurus such as Punalur Subramania Iyer and C. V. Srinivasa Iyer, who emphasized that this tradition was not part of the original puja vidhanam. Historical texts like Sri Maha Shasthu Pooja Kalpam (1938) also clarify that Vavar is not a Muslim figure but a Shiva Bhuta, a guardian deity, and companion of Lord Ayyappa.
As discussions intensify over the identity of the guardian deity at Sabarimala—whether it is Vavar or Vapuran—a key historical reference has surfaced: Sri Maha Shasthu Pooja Kalpam. This authoritative text, written in Kollam Year 1114 (1938 AD) by Yogi Baladandayudhapani Swamikal, has been examined by Brahma Shri Vittala Ahithanal and published by Jayachandra Book Depot, Chalai, Thiruvananthapuram. At 86 years old today, this text holds significant relevance for devotees.
The Sri Maha Shasthu Pooja Kalpam makes the following unambiguous statement:
“Some mistakenly believe Vapuran to be a Muslim figure. This misconception likely arises because of the Vavar mosque in Erumeli. However, Vapuran is, in fact, a Shiva Bhuta, a guardian deity, and a parivara devata (companion deity) of Lord Ayyappa.”
The book further provides Vapuran’s root mantra: “Om Angarakshakaya Maha Shastru Parivaraya Vapuraya Swaha”
The text also elaborates on Vapuran’s form as a recognized deity, integral to the worship traditions associated with Lord Ayyappa. Vapuran is described as the protector of Vapurakkunnu, emphasizing his established role in Sabarimala’s spiritual heritage.
This rare book, predating Sabarimala’s widespread prominence, offers clarity: it is not “Vavar” or “Vaparan,” but Vapuran, the guardian deity residing at Vapurakkunnu.
Dear Ayyappa Swami devotees,
As debates heat up about whether the guardian at Sabarimala is Vavar or Vapuran, a key reference has emerged: Sri Maha Shasthu Pooja Kalpam, written in Kollam Year 1114 (1938 AD). This significant book, authored by "Yogi Baladandayudhapani Swamikal,"… pic.twitter.com/vyKzyqhvZh
The dramatist’s inclusion of unverified folk tales into his play created a narrative that many blindly followed, diverging from authentic Sabarimala rituals. Additionally, Islamic traditions themselves invalidate the practice of offering prayers at mosques with graves, further questioning the validity of the rituals performed at the Vavar mosque.
Okay this the end twist secular Hindus calling masjid/mosque don't even know that one should not offer prayers to Allah where graves Are present So whatever is happening in kadapa or varavar mosque is invalidated by Islam itself 😂@Eswarkarthikeya@_Saffron_Girl_@MAD_MAX863… pic.twitter.com/Af0q8oITUm
The mosque believed to date back about 500 years, initially began as a simple thatched hut, though no records confirm its exact origins. Over time, several renovations have occurred, culminating in the substantial concrete structure completed in 2001.
What Does The Inscription Inside Vavar Mosque Say?
The inscription on the plaque at the mosque states the“Ayat-ul-Kursi” (Verse of the Throne“
“Allah! There is no God but He,
the Living, the Self-subsisting, the Eternal.
No slumber can seize Him, nor sleep.
All things in heaven and earth are His.
Who could intercede in His presence without His permission?
He knows what appears in front of and behind His creatures.
Nor can they encompass any knowledge of Him except what he wills.
His throne extends over the heavens and the earth,
and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them, for He is the Highest and Most Exalted.
Allah, the Most High, speaks the truth.”
At the Vavar mosque, it’s written: “There is no god but Allah.” Then why do those who worship Ayyappa go there?
Why do devotees of Allah take the offerings from Ayyappa devotees without hesitation?
This belief in Vavar Swamy is merely a reflection of a general psychology common… pic.twitter.com/7dPSXEmeww
The presence of the inscription “There is no god but Allah” at the Vavar mosque raises questions about the nature of Ayyappa devotees’ offerings at this site. This inscription underlines a seeming incongruity: Hindu devotees, revering Lord Ayyappa, traditionally stop to pray and give offerings at a mosque that proclaims an Islamic creed—a belief system not acknowledging Ayyappa or Vavar as divine but God/Allah as the “Most High“.
Offerings are often collected by the Devaswom Board, which manages temple finances across Kerala, but a significant portion of donations made by Ayyappa pilgrims ultimately supports a religious site with no established connection to Lord Ayyapa’s history.
For today’s devotees, this historical understanding presents an opportunity to reconnect with the original spiritual journey to Sabarimala. The path to Lord Ayyappa’s darshan need not include practices added centuries after His manifestation by uninformed people. True devotion is best expressed through adherence to the authentic traditions that have survived since ancient times, untouched by recent political and social constructs.
The growing awareness of these historical facts suggests that pilgrims might reconsider including the Vavar mosque visit in their sacred journey. After all, the Sabarimala pilgrimage’s essential spirituality lies in its ancient, verified traditions—not in its modern additions.
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A complaint has been filed in Coimbatore against singer ‘Gaana’ Isaivani and director Pa Ranjith for performing a song deemed disrespectful to Hindu God Ayyappan during an event hosted by the Neelam Cultural Center.
At an event hosted by Pa. Ranjith’s Neelam Cultural Centre in 2020, Isai Vani sang a song targeting Lord Ayyappa and questioning the faith of Ayyappan devotees, with the line, “I am sorry Ayyappa” instigating women to enter the temple of the celibate Hindu god.
The lyrics of song goes like this:
I’m sorry Ayyappa
What’s wrong if I enter pa?
This is not the age old times to restrain us by terrorising
I am the granddaughter of the beard man (referring to EV Ramasamy Naicker hailed as ‘Periyar’ by his followers)
Times have changed now
If you keep us away saying ‘theetu’ (untouchable)
I’ll progress like a ‘mass’
Whether it is jeans pant or saree, I’ll decide
Whether nurse or doctor, I’ll tell for myself after I grow up
Whether I’m single or committed, it’s my decision
I’ve the courage to hit back
Whether Sports or Dappankutthu, I’ll handle it if you let me free
If you extend a dupatta, shall I spit on your rituals?
I’m sorry Ayyappa
What’s wrong if I enter pa?
What’s this new confusion?
What if we enter breaking the barriers?
If you don’t give the rights, we’ll snatch it
If we don’t snatch it, we’ll lose it
The sky is near
If we study, everything is in our pocket
What’s the secret in birth?
If they don’t open the doors, we should break it open
Should she stand feeling shy? Should she keep bindi?
Should I get trapped at the hands of a monkey after studying hard?
My life is for me, why are you sad?
Why should I give my freedom to someone else?
I should choose my life partner myself
There’s self-respect, why should I be worried?
I’m sorry Ayyappa
What’s wrong if I enter pa?
This is not the age old times to restrain us by terrorising
As the song circulated online, outrage grew among netizens calling for action against the singer and Pa Ranjith for disrespecting Hindu god Ayyappan and Ayyappa devotees.
Critics highlighted the disparity in how the authorities handled similar incidents, referencing actress Kasthuri Shankar’s arrest for her remarks in Hyderabad. They demanded to know if Isai Vani would face similar consequences for insulting not only Hindu gods but also the devotees observing a 48-day fast known as Vratha.
In response to the situation, a formal complaint has been lodged at the Mettupalayam police station against Isai Vani and director Pa Ranjith. The complaint, filed by Ayyappa devotees, accuses them of belittling the Hindu god and undermining traditional worship practices, as well as targeting the Neelam Cultural Center for organizing the event.
It is noteworthy that the same Isaivani has also sung in praise of Jesus Christ several times.
Here is another song titled “Yesuvai Ni Vittu Pogadhe” which literally translates to “do not leave Jesus” was also sung by her. The songs literally preach the listener to not go in the “wrong path” insinuating other religions as “Satan’s path”.
Isaivani was also contestant in Bigg Boss Tamil Season 5. She was also featured on the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) ‘100 Women 2020’.
Pa. Ranjith is a rabid anti-Hindu Dravidianist filmmaker who had shot to fame using Rajinikanth by directing films like Kabali and Kaala. In Kaala, he subtly weaves anti-Hindu sentiments, portraying Hinduism and its symbols as inherently oppressive. The movie’s villains are given distinctly Hindu names, reinforcing negative stereotypes associated with the religion. In his recent flop film Thangalaan, he pedled the usual Dravidianist stereotyping of Brahmins as vile and cunning, de-Hindufying village deities, references to the Varna system, Vishnu, Buddha, Saint Ramanuja, Christianity, and Islamist tyrant Tipu Sultan. In the film Attakathi, he even had dialogues that positioned pre-marital sex as a sort of achievement.
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The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is leading in all three Assembly segments as vote counting progresses in Karnataka. Congress, which initially led with a thin margin, is suffering a setback in its traditional bastion, Sandur.
According to official statistics released by the Election Commission of India (ECI), Annapurana Tukaram, the Congress candidate who was leading in the Sandur Assembly segment by 205 votes at the end of the fifth round is trailing by 867 votes at the end of counting of the seventh round. She polled 33,352 votes.
Her rival BJP candidate Bangaru Hanumanthu has recovered from the initial setback with 34,219 votes. There are 19 rounds of counting for this Assembly segment. 466 persons have preferred the NOTA option.
In the high-profile Channapatna constituency, NDA candidate Nikhil Kumaraswamy is leading with 1,306 votes at the end of the fifth round. Nikhil polled 25,469 votes while the Congress candidate C. P. Yogeshwara got 24,343 votes.
There are 20 rounds of counting for this segment which witnessed a remarkable 88.80 per cent voting in the by-elections. 89 voters have opted for NOTA here.
In Shiggaon Assembly constituency, BJP candidate Bharath Bommai has increased the lead from 440 votes in round three to 1,835 votes in the fifth round. He polled 27,432 votes and Congress candidate Yasir Ahmed Khan Pathan got 25,597 votes. The counting of 14 rounds is remaining. 262 NOTA votes have been counted so far.
Political parties in Karnataka are eagerly waiting for the results of the bypolls to three Assembly constituencies. The results are expected by noon. The three went to polls following the resignations by legislators who successfully contested the Lok Sabha elections.
Of the three seats, the Channapatna seat is considered the most high-profile, as it has witnessed a showdown between the families of former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda and Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Congress President D. K. Shivakumar.
The by-elections were held for the high-profile Channapatna Assembly seat represented by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H. D. Kumaraswamy, Shiggaon seat held by former CM and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai. Sandur seat, where BJP has never won, was represented by Congress MP E. Tukaram.
–IANS
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In another shocking incident from the Athur-Thalaivasal region of Salem district, a viral video has caused widespread outrage. The footage shows students being instructed to massage and squeeze the legs of their teacher, Jayaprakash, during afternoons to help him sleep.
Jayaprakash, a mathematics teacher at the local government high school, has been accused of summoning students to perform this task during periods when there were no classes. The video shows two students sitting on the floor beside him, massaging his legs, while he rests. In addition to this, other videos have surfaced showing Jayaprakash sleeping in the classroom without delivering lessons, further fueling the controversy on social media.
Furthermore, it is alleged that despite the matter being reported to the school headmaster, no action was taken. There are also claims that the math teacher, Jayaprakash, has been arriving at school intoxicated on certain occasions.
#JUSTIN ஆத்தூர்:மாணவர்களை கால் அழுத்த சொல்லி வகுப்பறையில் ஓய்வெடுக்கும் ஆசிரியர்
This is not an isolated incident. Government schools and private schools in Tamil Nadu are plagued by a range of serious issues, including sexual harassment, forced imposition of religious beliefs, screening of controversial movies, caste-based violence, and students falling into drug abuse, among others.
Sexual Harassment
On 3 September 2024, Dr. S. Samson Daniel (31), a government doctor, was arrested under the POCSO Act on sexually assaulting minor girls at a hostel affiliated with a government-aided school in Trichy. His mother, S. Grace Sagayarani (54), who is the headmistress of the school, was also taken into custody for helping to cover up the offenses.
On August 2024, a 13-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a Naam Tamizhar Katchi (NTK) functionary named Sivaraman during a fake National Cadet Corps (NCC) camp at a private school near Bargur in Krishnagiri district.
Substance Abuse
A Chennai school in Kalyanapuram, Vyasarpadi, has become a hotspot for underage substance abuse, with students as young as pre-teens consuming beer and tobacco. A report on 23 August 2024, revealed a Class IX girl drinking beer in the classroom on her birthday, with her Class VII brother purchasing it, while three Class X boys were caught smoking Beedis. These incidents highlight a disturbing trend of substance abuse among students at the school.
Administrative Failures
On 9 November 2024, a government-aided girls’ school in VK Puram, near Ambasamudram, screened Tamil films such as Vijay’s ‘GOAT’ to senior students and Rajinikanth’s ‘Vettaiyan’ to younger students, with charges of ₹25 and ₹10 per student, respectively.
The government secondary school in Theethipalayam, Coimbatore, faced a severe classroom shortage, leading to a decline in student admissions and forcing existing students to attend classes under trees and in the parking area. Despite ongoing construction, about 100 students in classes 8 and 9 are left without proper facilities.
On 27 August 2024, three students were injured when a section of the ceiling plaster fell on them during class at a government-run school in Krishnagiri. The accident raised significant concerns about the safety and structural integrity of the building, which had only been opened two months ago with MPLADS fund. In another similar incident July 2024, a ceiling of a newly constructed Panchayat Union Middle School near Kanchipuram collapsed, wher the building, completed three months prior.
On August 2024, anotherceiling of a classroom at a government school in Thiruporur collapsed, injuring five female students and sparking protests from parents who questioned the quality of the construction.
On 12 June 2024, The administration of St. Paul’s Girls’ Higher Secondary School in Mayiladuthurai forced students to clean their classrooms to “instill” discipline, a practice exposed when a ninth-grade student refused and was slapped by a teacher.
The Government Higher Secondary School in Mogappair, Chennai, become a site of student distress due to poor conditions, including unhygienic facilities and unsafe infrastructure. Girl students raised alarming concerns that they were subjected to verbal harassment and forced cleaning duties, with teachers complicit in the mistreatment.
.In 2023, a disturbing video went viral showing mentally challenged students at a Tamil Nadu government-aided school, run by the Church of South India (CSI), being forced to clean toilets. The students, attending the CSI School for the Mentally Challenged in Sivakasi, were reportedly made to perform this task as part of their school routine. The incident, involving over 100 students, sparked outrage after the video was shared on social media.
Proselytization Attempts in School
The headmistress of Government High School in Diwanshah Pudur allowed Friday Namaz to be held on school premises, disrupting the secular environment. The prayers have been conducted regularly such practices may cause religious discord and mental distress as the school serves a diverse student body
In August 2023, protests erupted in Acchankuttam village, Tenkasi, over concerns that a government-aided Christian school was engaging in proselytization. The Tahsildar filed a complaint, leading to police action against 12 individuals accused of inciting communal unrest by mobilizing Hindu parents to withdraw their children from the school. The case stems from fears of religious conversion within the school.
In 2022, Beatrice Thangam, a tailoring teacher at a government school in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, was accused of making objectionable remarks about Hindus and attempting to preach Christianity to her students. A Class 6 student revealed in a video that Thangam referred to Hindus as “sathaan” (devil), forced students to read the Bible, and even made them kneel and recite Christian prayers. The teacher allegedly pressured Hindu students to stitch Christian crosses and dismissed the Bhagavad Gita as “bad.”
In 2022, a 17 year old girl studying at Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School in Thirukattupalli near Thanjavur, committed suicide by drinking poison after she was allegedly tortured to convert to Christianity by the school for her to continue her studies.
Caste Pride & Violence
A 10th-grade student at a government-aided school in Sripuram, Tirunelveli, was dismissed for carrying weapons, including a sickle and knives, after a student clash. The weapons were discovered during a routine bag check on 18 September 2024. .
On 30 July 2024, two students at the Government Higher Secondary School in Valliyoor, Tirunelveli, were injured in a caste-related clash triggered by derogatory remarks about a specific caste written on a toilet wall.
In December 2023, students from Periyar Government Higher Secondary School in Cheranmahadevi attacked students from a nearby polytechnic college over caste issues, leaving one student stabbed.
On 1 July 2024, another instance of caste-based pride sparked a clash among 12th-grade students at Rosalind Chelliah Government Higher Secondary School in Maruthakulam village, Nanguneri, Tirunelveli.
Instead of addressing the pressing issues and improving the state’s abysmal school education standards, the Dravidian-model government has chosen to arrest motivational speakers who discuss the Thirukkural, focus on ways to influence students into joining the DMK through its youth wing, ban NEET, and engage in various political stunts.
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Over the past decade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has perfected the art of blending diplomacy with culture. During his just-concluded visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, he carried with him several unique gifts that reflected India’s rich cultural heritage.
According to sources, as he strengthened India’s diplomatic ties with countries from Africa to Latin America, Prime Minister Modi carried with him several specially-curated handcrafted artefacts and products as gift for the foreign leaders. It included eight items from Maharashtra, five from Jammu and Kashmir, three each from Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan, two from Jharkhand and one each from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha and Ladakh.
The gifts from Maharashtra included Silofer Panchamrit Kalash (pot) – a stunning example of traditional craftsmanship from Kolhapur – given to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu; Warli paintings – a tribal art form originating from the Warli tribe primarily located in the Dahanu, Talasari and Palghar regions of Maharashtra – for Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and also as one of gifts in the customised gift hamper given to leaders of Caribbean countries; natural rough amethyst with silver camel head on top from Pune given to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese; hand-carved silver chess set with traditional design given to Portugal PM Luis Montenegro; an exquisite silver candle stand given to Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni and a hand-engraved silver fruit bowl featuring intricate depictions of a peacock and a tree, given to CARICOM Secretary General Carla Natalie Barnett.
Jammu and Kashmir’s vibrant culture was represented through gifts of a pair of papier-mache gold work vases given to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer; Pashmina shawl in papier mache box for the First Lady of Guyana and Kashmiri saffron in the customised gift hamper given to Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders who attended the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown.
The gifts from Rajasthan include a silver photo frame with floral work showcasing the state’s rich heritage of detailed metalwork and traditional motifs given to Argentina’s President Javier Milei; marble inlay work, also known as ‘Pietra Dura’ with base marble sourced from Makrana, given to Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Store and gold work wooden Raj Sawari figurine, a beautiful representation of traditional Indian craftsmanship, combining intricate gold work with finely carved wood, given to Prime Minister of Guyana, Brigadier (Retd.) Mark Anthony Phillips.
Andhra gifs included silver clutch purse studded with semi-precious stones handcrafted with intricate floral motif designs, given to spouse of Brazilian President of Brazil and Araku coffee, which is grown by indigenous communities in the Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh, in customised gift hamper given to leaders of CARICOM countries.
Sohrai painting from Hazaribagh – known for depiction of animals, birds, and nature and being a reflection of the agrarian lifestyle and the reverence for wildlife in tribal culture, were given to Vice President of Nigeria; and Khovar painting – a traditional art form that originates from the tribal regions of Jharkhand, given to President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto, representing the rich cultural diversity of Jharkhand.
Other gifts include finely fretted and engraved silver and rosewood ceremonial photo frame from Uttar Pradesh given to the President of Chile Gabriel Boric; wooden toy train, a signature product from Channapatnaa – a small town in Karnataka, given to younger son of President of Guyana; Tanjore painting from Tamil Nadu, given to French President Emmanuel Macron; a Madhubani painting, also known as Mithila painting, a traditional art form originating from the Mithila region of Bihar, given to President of Guyana Irfaan Ali; a rare and exquisitely crafted filigree boat made of pure silver – a fine example of the centuries old silver filigree art practised in Odisha’s Cuttack, given to Vice President of Guyana; and Ladakhi kettle adorned with semi-precious stones, given to Speaker of National Assembly of Guyana.
Last year, as India concluded the landmark G20 Summit in New Delhi, the visiting leaders received several artefacts – some the product of centuries of tradition and cherished across the world for their unparalleled workmanship and quality – that spoke volumes about India’s rich cultural traditions.
The gift hamper given at that time comprised Sundarban honey, Orange Pekoe tea from Darjeeling and Nilgiri tea, coffee from Araku Valley, saffron from Kashmir valley, different designs of stoles from different states to the G20 first ladies.
– IANS
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Naam Tamilar Party leader Seeman recently found himself in the spotlight following his meeting with actor Rajinikanth at the latter’s residence. The meeting, coupled with his controversial remarks, has sparked significant debate in political circles. After the meeting, Seeman addressed the use of the term “Sanghi,” which is typically used in a derogatory manner to mock followers of the BJP and devout Hindus. Seeman, however, defended the term, stating that “Sanghi” simply means “friend,” a comment that has ignited widespread controversy.
This is not the first time Seeman has made such a statement. In the past, he has asserted that “Sanghi” is not a negative term, further fueling discussions and criticisms within political circles.
On 21 November 2024, Naam Tamilar Party leader Seeman met actor Rajinikanth at his residence. Speaking to the media afterward, Seeman explained that their meeting had been planned for some time, but it had not materialized until yesterday. He described the meeting as a respectful and casual discussion.
Seeman further clarified that the purpose of their conversation was to provoke thought and raise important questions. He acknowledged Rajinikanth’s long-standing success in the film industry and his close connections with many political figures, perhaps even more than Seeman himself. “Politics is a harsh and unforgiving field,” Seeman said, “where one must endure criticism and insults. In today’s climate, it is especially challenging for honest individuals to thrive in politics.”
In response to criticism of actor Rajinikanth being labeled as ‘Sanghi’ and he was considered a B-tean for the BJP, Seeman addressed the use of the term “Sanghi,” saying, “Do you even know what ‘Sanghi’ means? It simply refers to a colleague or a friend, but they use it from Sangh Parivar. And you know who the real ‘Sanghis’ are, right? Those who label us as ‘Sanghis’. Suddenly, they go and meet the Prime Minister son in the morning, and father in the evening and they don’t even explain why they met or what was discussed. At least I’m saying I met Rajinikanth and spoke, but you don’t even acknowledge that. Then they’re asking me ‘Is it some illicit relationship?’ No, there is a good relationship. It’s like when a parent-in-law meets the family after giving their daughter in marriage you go meet and come, but after coming out you label us as ‘Sanghis.’ What a cruel thing? If opposing the DMK makes us a ‘Sanghi,’ then I guess we should proudly accept that label ‘Sanghi’ which also means ‘Friend’!”
Earlier, during the controversy when the DMK IT wing claimed Rajinikanth was a “Sanghi,” and Rajinikanth’s daughter, Aishwarya, publicly stated that her father was not a “Sanghi,” Seeman responded by saying that Aishwarya need not worry about others labeling her father as such. He also reiterated that the term “Sanghi” was not a derogatory word.
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The Madras High Court has once again asked the state and central governments’ views on forming a separate regulatory body for church assets, akin to the HR&CE department and Waqf Board. This follows a division bench’s call for a similar law less than a month ago.
Justices P Velmurugan and K K Ramakrishnan, while hearing a case involving a Christian society in Thoothukudi, noted that such legislation is necessary to safeguard church properties and prevent their sale or lease without prior court approval.
The bench pointed out that church assets worth over ₹1 lakh crore have been unlawfully alienated, with many Christian properties across the country involved in fraudulent claims and transactions. The judges observed that administrators of Christian communities have been misappropriating these properties for personal gain, violating the original charitable intent behind their acquisition.
“These properties were originally purchased by Christian missionaries with the sole purpose of uplifting the underprivileged and aiding those in need,” the bench remarked. “However, the absence of appropriate legislation to manage church assets has allowed for these illegal transactions to occur.”
The judges emphasized that a proper legal framework is urgently needed to regulate the administration of church properties and prevent fraudulent activities, such as unlawful claims by different factions within the same community. They highlighted that such actions contradict the core values of the church and its mission of serving society.
In light of these concerns, the bench recommended that the central government introduce a law similar to the Hindu Religious Endowments Act and the Waqf Act to regulate the administration of Christian institution properties and curb illegal activities.
This follows a similar recommendation by another single judge of the High Court last month, who pointed out the absence of a statutory framework to regulate Christian endowments, unlike those for Hindu and Muslim charitable trusts. The judge had called for the establishment of a statutory board to oversee Christian institutions and ensure greater accountability, directing the central and state governments to file reports on the matter.
