There is a lot of noise in Tamil Nadu social media circles regarding a recent controversy involving motivational speaker Mahavishnu from the Paramporul Foundation.
What’s The Controversy?
During his speech, Mahavishnu stated that ancient Indian education systems, like Gurukulams, were destroyed by British rule, leading to the loss of powerful knowledge once written on palm leaves (olaichuvadu). He asserted that reciting certain mantras could heal bodies, cause “rain of fire,” or enable one to fly, alluding to mystical powers lost over time. He then stated that social inequalities, and people’s circumstances—whether rich, poor, criminal, or heroic—were the result of actions in their previous lives.
A school staff member objected to the content of Mahavishnu’s speech, pointing out that the speaker was invited for a motivational talk, not a spiritual discourse. This led to a heated argument, with Mahavishnu questioning the teacher how a child will live a proper life without knowledge about past life karma. A video of the incident, later uploaded to Mahavishnu’s YouTube channel, went viral, triggering widespread criticism among Dravidianists.
At a Govt School in Chennai … pic.twitter.com/LqAXqdmDH4
— KS / Karthigaichelvan S (@karthickselvaa) September 5, 2024
Who Is ‘Mahavishnu’?
Mahavishnu of the Paramporul Foundation is said to have received ‘Deeksha’ from his guru, Tat Sat Bramma Gnani Sri Sri Sri Kanchi Viswanatha Swamigal. Previously known as a standup comedian, Mahavishnu even won the title “Asathal Mannan” in Sun TV’s stand-up comedy show in 2010, as mentioned on his LinkedIn profile. Following his deeksha, he transitioned into a motivational speaker, Reiki healer, and mental care counsellor. He has since delivered numerous talks and conducted spiritual programs both in India and internationally, according to his website. At a recent school event, Mahavishnu discussed topics such as past-life sins, karma, and rebirth, explaining to the children how one’s current life struggles are linked to their actions in previous lives.
Karma & Rebirth – Anti-Abrahamic Ideas
Mahavishnu, in his videos, extensively discusses topics such as God (Iraivan), karma, and rebirth. He advises people to live kindly and diligently, encouraging them to emulate the Siddhars, who, according to tradition, transcend the cycle of rebirth. He also speaks about Mukti, the ultimate liberation, and attaining the Lotus Feet of the Supreme. In his recent ‘controversial‘ speech, Mahavishnu emphasized living a virtuous and principled life, which he believes will lead to a better existence in the next birth.
His videos on karma, a core concept in Hindu Dharma, are aimed particularly at young people who might be at risk of straying from the right path, helping them avoid mistakes that could ruin their youth. Mahavishnu also integrates teachings from the Thirukkural, the writings of Saint Vallalar in the Thiruvarutpa, and wisdom from Tamil saints like Agastyar and others into his speeches, making his message deeply rooted in the spiritual traditions of the Tamil region.
Meeting With DMK Members
In 2023, Mahavishnu met with members of the DMK government, especially the education department—Minister Anbil Mahesh and the head of the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation, Dindigul Leoni—to submit a petition on behalf of the Paramporul Foundation and all well-wishers requesting to incorporate Vallalar’s Thiruchitrambala Kalvi Thiruvarutpa in school textbooks. He stated that this literature would benefit students immensely. In his video, he states that the leaders promised to look into it and recommend it as necessary.
A Facebook post of the Paramporul Foundation also shows that Mahavishnu met with HR&CE minister Sekar Babu and also presented a similar petition.
The Facebook page also has posts of Mahavishnu meeting DMK ministers – Mano Thangaraj and Ma Subramaniam.
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