Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, on Tuesday, paid rich tributes to the late singer Nagore E M Hanifa, describing him as a towering symbol of communal harmony and inclusive politics during his centenary celebration function.
A Legacy Beyond Community and Party Lines
Stalin emphasized that Hanifa's remarkable work and influence could not be restricted to any single community. The Chief Minister stated that Hanifa did not belong to just one community or political party but was a beloved figure for the entire state. His powerful voice, Stalin noted, connected deeply with individuals across all faiths and regions, effectively acting as a unifying force in the public sphere. The CM pointed out that even today, Hanifa's songs continue to resonate in people's hearts, effortlessly transcending religious divides.
Hanifa's Role in Dravidian Politics and Social Justice
The event also highlighted Hanifa's significant political associations. He was a close confidant of former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi and served as a prominent minority face for the DMK party. The centenary function was widely perceived as part of the ruling party's ongoing outreach to minority communities.
Stalin elaborated on how Hanifa's life demonstrated the potent confluence of culture, art, and politics in advancing societal ideals. "Hanifa actively participated in the Dravidian movement from a young age and remained committed to its ideals till the end of his life," Stalin said. He connected this to Tamil Nadu's broader political tradition, which has consistently rejected divisions based on religion and language, asserting that Hanifa's life perfectly embodied that progressive legacy.
Stalin's Parallel Push for Sports Excellence
Earlier on the same day, the Chief Minister engaged in a separate initiative focused on youth and sports. He released a video from his 'Vibe with Stalin' programme, featuring an interaction with sportspersons. Drawing a parallel to his administration's goals in other sectors, Stalin declared his aim to propel Tamil Nadu to the number one position in the field of sports as well.
The centenary celebration of Nagore E M Hanifa, therefore, served a dual purpose: honoring a cultural icon whose life preached unity and reinforcing the state government's commitment to social harmony and inclusive development across all fronts, from culture to sports.
