It was increasingly apparent that Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan’s actions were driven by a desire to stir controversy and reinforce his minority appeasement with a viral video showed him rubbing off vibhuti (sacred ash) from his forehead just as a couple approached for a selfie yesterday. Although he had earlier accepted the vibhuti and a sacred garland during a temple visit, he appeared to deliberately remove the ash in front of cameras—suggesting a calculated attempt to distance himself from overt Hindu symbolism.
The video quickly gained traction online and was even picked up by national news outlets. However, in response, the Dravidian political ecosystem rallied to defend Thirumavalavan. Notably, pro-DMK journalist Arvind Gunasekar downplayed the issue, questioning, “So, one can’t wipe their own face in ‘New India’? How is this even news?” as a response to the news carried by Times Now.
Critics, however, pointed out the perceived double standards. While Thirumavalavan was seen visibly distancing himself from Hindu religious marks, he was later photographed at a dargah, smiling and wearing a skullcap, apparently without hesitation—prompting accusations of selective religious posturing for political gain.
"இதற்கு பெயர் தான் மதச்சார்பின்மையா"???🚨
இன்று மதுரை திருப்பரங்குன்றம் சென்றிருந்த திருமாவளவன்,
🔻"முருகன் கோவிலில் கொடுத்த திருநீறை அழிக்கிறார்".
🔻"சிக்கந்தர் பள்ளிவாசலில் தொப்பியை போட்டுக் கொள்கிறார்". pic.twitter.com/hUFgLuUUUo
— MR.Anil (@Saffron_Anil_) June 19, 2025
It appears that self-proclaimed journalist Arvind Gunasekar expects everyone in India to echo the Congress-DMK narrative, targeting the BJP while turning a blind eye to any criticism of his preferred political allies. Check what qualifies as “newsworthy” in the eyes of this hypocrite below.
Maharashtra makes Hindi general third language in schools under National Education Policy, 2020.
Precisely why Tamil Nadu Govt opposes NEP 2020 arguing NEP facilitates “backdoor Hindi imposition”.https://t.co/OVx7nj9pNp
— Arvind Gunasekar (@arvindgunasekar) June 18, 2025
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin calls out Israel… https://t.co/THBEMRqWQm
— Arvind Gunasekar (@arvindgunasekar) June 14, 2025
Yet, Centre stops even that (meagre) contribution if PM Modi’s picture is not included in the posters / banners of the schemes ! https://t.co/4SolvOu12r
— Arvind Gunasekar (@arvindgunasekar) June 14, 2025
Israel not just to be blamed but condemned. Hold them accountable for the destruction of lives and livelihoods.
— Arvind Gunasekar (@arvindgunasekar) June 14, 2025
It seems Arvind Gunasekar works full time as a PR for DMK-Congress-Left ecosystem and only a part-time journalist.
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