The Dravidianist and Periyarist sympathizer actor Sathyaraj recently expressed concern over Vijay-led TVK ideology of Dravidianism + Tamil Nationalism saying that the latter ideology supports Aryans under the banner of Tamil nationalism. Sathyaraj made these remarks while participating in a seminar titled “Dravidam is Bulwark of Tamils,” in Chennai on 8 November 2024.
In the same breath, Sathyaraj aligned himself with DMK scion and Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, who had previously praised Vijay’s industry rival, actor Ajith. Echoing this sentiment, Sathyaraj also publicly praised Ajith, mentioning a viral video he had seen, and appeared to be “simping” for the actor in the process.
Recently, Vijay, during the first state convention of his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), announced that, “Dravidism and Tamil nationalism are one in principle.” This statement was met with strong condemnation by Naam Tamilar Party’s state coordinator, Seeman, who has been vocal in his belief that Dravidianism and Tamil nationalism cannot coexist.
Speaking at the event, Dravidianist sympathizer Sathyaraj positioning himself against Vijay and Seeman expressed that while Aryans may oppose Dravidianism, it is extremely dangerous to support Aryan ideology against Dravidianism in the name of Tamil Nationalism. He warned that promoting Aryanism could lead to the resurgence of superstitions, such as Shastras, Sampradaya (traditions), and rituals, which have long been outdated.
The actor also spoke about the large number of people from northern India who come to Tamil Nadu for work, stressing the need to extend Dravidian ideals to them in a way they can understand. “Northern states face more caste-related issues, and many of the northerners who come here for work belong to oppressed communities. When they come to Tamil Nadu, they experience no caste oppression or religious riots; they come here to live in peace. It is crucial that they understand that Dravidianism is what makes this possible,” Sathyaraj explained.
He further added that when these workers return to their native places, they will share their positive experiences of Tamil Nadu, promoting the values of equality and social justice. He clarified that the influx of northern workers for small jobs does not imply that locals are unwilling to work, but rather reflects the upliftment of people in Tamil Nadu, where there are ample opportunities for higher-level employment.
Illogical Narrative: Dravidianism and Tamil Nationalism are One
In an attempt to link Dravidianism and Tamil Nationalism as one, Sathyaraj attempted to present an intriguing story about his meeting with A.G. Perarivalan, a former convict in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. Audiences were likely intrigued, expecting a well-reasoned explanation. However, to their surprise, what followed was an empty and unconvincing story. Sathyaraj seemed proud of his narrative, but much like peeling an onion, it turned out that beneath his so-called Dravidianism and Tamil Nationalism are one, was nothing—just a hollow void with no substance.
Sathyaraj said, “Brother Perarivalan has come out in bail for fifteen day or one month period and was staying in Jolarpet. I decided to visit him and went to Jolarpet, the police allowed me to enter after getting my signature. However, Brother cannot come out, so only his mother welcomed me in. As soon as the door opened, a family who was in a frenzy and in so much trouble worried that the death sentence would be overturned. On the wall there was Periyar’s (EV Ramasamy Naicker) and Prabhakaran’s photo.” Shamelessly the audience encouraged his nonsense and clapped, he with proud face continued, “There is no better example than this to establish Dravidianism and Tamil Nationalism are one.”
Simping for Ajith
At the same event, Sathyaraj also took the opportunity to praise actor Ajith. Recently, a video of Ajith speaking during a bike tour went viral. In the video, Ajith shared a message last month, “There is a saying that religion can incite hatred towards people you’ve never met. That is true. Regardless of religion or caste, we tend to misjudge people before we even meet them. When you travel, you meet people from different nations, religions, and cultures. Through this, you gain a better understanding of the feelings of others. Travel makes you a better person.”
Sathyaraj, in pointing to Ajith’s message, praised the actor for his enlightened perspective and for being a role model in promoting unity and understanding across communities. However, his praise seemed less about Ajith’s views and more about following the political line set by his DMK master, Udhayanidhi Stalin, who had recently put an appreciative tweet of Ajith after Vijay attacked the DMK first family in his political speech.
Interestingly, Sathyaraj has worked closely with Vijay on numerous films but has never shared screen space with Ajith. The sudden praise for Ajith, therefore, raises obvious questions about the underlying motivations—something that appears more politically driven than genuinely admiration for the actor.
The DMK appears to be struggling to preserve its carefully cultivated Dravidian ideology, which has been central to its identity for decades, especially in the wake of actor-turned-politician Vijay’s launch of his new party. While DMK leaders and spokespersons insist that they are unfazed by Vijay’s political move, their actions and statements tell a different story. In fact, they have now resorted to courting Vijay’s rival in the film industry to divert attention, rather than directly confronting.
How Much Does Sathyaraj Truly Adhere to Dravidian Principle Himself?
Not even a fraction, it seems. Sathyaraj’s recent speech at a Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) event marking the 61st birthday of party chief Thol. Thirumavalavan raises doubts about his true commitment to Dravidian principles. While addressing the gathering, Sathyaraj made an odd attempt to connect Dravidian ideals with the longevity of Okinawans, a Japanese community known for living well past the age of 100. He used this example to wish a long life for Thirumavalavan, but his speech seemed more about flattering the VCK leader than offering any real insight into Dravidianism.
Sathyaraj, in his speech, lauded the people of Okinawa for their simple, charity-driven lives, which he believed contributed to their long life spans. He attributed their longevity to their understanding of equality and social work. Continuing in his typical style, Sathyaraj praised Thirumavalavan’s commitment to social justice, equating his mission to the “joyous journey” of Okinawa’s elderly population. “Thiruma has made it his life’s mission and passion to serve the people,” Sathyaraj said, wishing that Thirumavalavan would outlive even the oldest Okinawans.
But it was Sathyaraj’s critique of India’s current trajectory that caught the attention of critics. “More than a Digital India, we need a Reformed India. An India that is equal to all,” he said, calling for a society rooted in the principles of Periyar, Ambedkar, and Marx, while also admiring the bravery of Tamil nationalist Prabhakaran. He emphasized the need for a reformed India—one that eradicates caste and superstition in the name of tradition, rituals, and religious scriptures.
However, Sathyaraj’s public declarations on caste abolition and the rejection of traditional rituals were soon met with skepticism after a viral video surfaced. In the video, social activist ‘Airport’ Moorthy revealed that Sathyaraj had recently organized his son’s wedding according to traditional caste-based rituals, directly contradicting his earlier rhetoric on breaking away from caste and superstition. In response, Satyaraj apparently revealed that while he personally adheres to certain principles, his family members were insistent on following rituals for the wedding. Critics noted the discrepancy between Satyaraj’s public statements and his actions in a private context, asserting that his inconsistency was evident and could be perceived as hypocritical.
Sathyaraj has become nothing more than a political tool for the DMK, used to promote anti-Hindu sentiments and stir up controversy when around Dravidian ideology or DMK is under attack. His statements are often strategically crafted to divert attention from pressing issues, but recent attempts have fallen flat. At present, Sathyaraj is like a drifting boat in a political sea, aimlessly caught between conflicting ideologies.
Sathyaraj recently attempted to distract from the growing unrest in Tamil Nadu with a provocative speech. However, despite his best efforts, his remarks failed to capture widespread attention. The timing of his speech was curious, when Tamil Nadu was grappling with news of drug-related scandals connected to the DMK. Amidst this turmoil, Sathyaraj chose to weigh in, yet his speech hardly made a ripple in the political landscape.
He attempted to shift focus by discussing religious harmony in Tamil Nadu, claiming that while religious storms may be brewing in the North, the situation here is just a “Madappuyal” (foolish storm). He also expressed concerns over outsiders influencing local food choices, particularly beef, warning of the dangers of such trends. Despite his best efforts to stoke a controversy, his remarks seemed to miss the mark, revealing how increasingly irrelevant and ineffective his role in the DMK’s political strategy has become.
Sathyaraj’s Unconditional Support to DMK: A Misguided Hope for Political Gain
Political critics suggest that Sathyaraj’s unwavering loyalty to the DMK stems from his hope that the party will eventually offer his daughter a political opportunity. According to some sources, Sathyaraj has been pushing the DMK for this favor, even claiming that the BJP had approached him to get his daughter to join their ranks during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Despite this, the DMK has not yielded to his demands, leaving the actor in a state of frustration.
It seems Sathyaraj is still holding on to the hope that the DMK will come through for him, even his controversial charm appears to be waning. Critics believe that he is clinging to a false hope, only to realize later that the DMK will likely discard him once they have fully used him for their own purposes.
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