“Were Our Forefathers Playing Pallanguzhi & Goli?”, Asks NTK Chief Seeman On Overemphasis Of EVR’s ‘Sole’ Role In Fighting Injustice In TN

Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator Seeman has voiced his strong displeasure with the portrayal of E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (EVR), known as Periyar to his followers, as the sole figure behind every achievement in Tamil Nadu. He questioned whether, while Periyar fought against injustice, other leaders were merely playing games like pallanguzhi and goli in the state.

This strong criticism arises against the backdrop of Kollywood actor and Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay’s visit to Periyar Thidal, where he paid his respects to EVR barefoot to commemorate his 146th birth anniversary on 17 September 2024. This event has ignited considerable backlash in both social and political circles, becoming a contentious topic of debate.

In this context, Seeman, chief coordinator of Naam Tamilar Katchi, addressed a press conference in Pudukkottai. When asked if he was waiting for actor Vijay to form an alliance with him, he firmly dismissed the idea, stating he has a clear path and goal ahead. He emphasized that any potential alliance would be based on those who accept his vision, explicitly ruling out collaboration with any Dravidian parties. Seeman questioned whether Vijay would acknowledge their leader Prabhakaran, suggesting that if Vijay is willing to embrace their politics, he would be welcome; otherwise, he should pursue his own path.

Seeman stated, “Let’s evaluate Vijay’s ideology and policies once he reveals them. Is Vijay’s garlanding of Ambedkar welcome? Certainly, as is honoring Periyar. However, he should also pay tribute to Thiru. V. Kalyanasundaram and recognize great leaders like Rettamalai Srinivasan. This acknowledgment must be ongoing. We must also remember figures such as Muthuramalinga Thevar, Immanuel Sekaran, Pulithevan, Velunachiyar, and the Maruthu Pandiyar. While we regard Ambedkar as wise, we must also honor leaders like Rettamalai Srinivasan, M.C. Rajah, and Iyothee Thass. A true leader should embody the legacy of their predecessors.”

A reporter then asked Seeman for his thoughts on DMK organizational secretary R.S. Bharathi’s statement that politics in Tamil Nadu cannot occur without mentioning name of EVR. Seeman, visibly agitated, challenged this notion, asking, “Whether our politics working or not? Did Jayalalitha speak of Periyar daily?” He continued, “We do not see Periyar as an enemy of Tamil Nationalism, but we also do not accept him as the leader of Tamil Nationalism, that’s our principle. Here’s how you should say ‘Periyar also fought for the abolition of caste, women’s rights, against untouchability, and abolishing superstitious beliefs.’ We agree that Periyar’s also fought for these, we accept not against it. However, (if you claim) only Periyar fought for these, we will not accept, and we are against it. I think you understand this.” Then Seeman questioned, “Did you think that our fathers and great-grandfathers were playing pallanguzhi and goli back then?”

Seeman then quoted Thiruvalluvar’s Kural, questioning whether there is anything beyond his philosophy and commonality. He further challenged the reporters by asking what they have done for Muthuramalinga Thevar, arguing that portraying him as a casteist has undermined Tamil pride, solely in favor of promoting EVR.

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