Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Udhayanidhi Stalin, officially launched the year-long birth centenary celebrations of the legendary Dravidian figure, 'Isai Murasu' Nagore Esmail Mohammed Hanifa, in Nagore on Saturday. The event served as a powerful platform to reiterate the state government's unwavering commitment to Tamil language and culture, while honoring a multifaceted personality known for his contributions as a singer, lyricist, politician, and former legislative council member.
A Tribute to a Dravidian Stalwart
In his address, Udhayanidhi Stalin extensively praised the literary and vocal legacy of Nagore Hanifa, highlighting his pivotal role in advancing the Dravidian ideology and supporting the growth of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party. He specifically commended Hanifa's active participation, alongside former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, in the historic anti-Hindi imposition protests that spanned from the 1940s to the 1960s.
Drawing a direct line from the past to the present, Udhayanidhi invoked Hanifa's legacy to make a strong political statement. He affirmed that Tamil Nadu would never permit the imposition of Hindi as long as "Nagore Hanifa's footsteps remain on this soil and his voice echoes in this air." This declaration framed the current government's stance as a continuation of the historical struggle championed by figures like Hanifa.
Accusations Against the Centre and a Firm Stand
The Deputy Chief Minister used the occasion to launch a sharp critique against the central government. He accused it of attempting to force Hindi and the three-language policy upon Tamil Nadu by allegedly using financial leverage. Udhayanidhi claimed that about Rs 2,000 crore in education funds were being withheld as a pressure tactic.
He stated that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's administration remains resolute in its opposition, declaring that the state would not bow to such imposition "even if offered Rs 10,000 crore freely." This strong rhetoric underscored the deep-seated political and cultural sentiments surrounding the language issue in the state.
Welfare and Harmony: The Contemporary Message
Beyond language politics, Udhayanidhi also highlighted Nagore Hanifa's embodiment of religious harmony. He urged that Tamil Nadu must eternally remain a model state in this regard, asserting that Chief Minister Stalin is safeguarding religious harmony "like a fortress."
The Deputy CM listed various welfare schemes implemented by the DMK government for the Muslim community and called for their continued support for the administration. This segment of the speech connected the commemorative event with the government's current outreach and policy agenda.
Concrete Memorials and Inaugurations
The event was not merely symbolic. Udhayanidhi Stalin threw open the 'Isai Murasu' Nagore E M Hanifa Centenary Memorial Park, a children's playground located near Silladi beach in Nagore, for public use. This serves as a lasting physical tribute to the late leader.
Further adding to the day's activities, he flagged off a yachting and sailing training camp for students on behalf of the Royal Madras Yacht Club, promoting youth engagement in sports.
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries, including School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, Information Minister M P Saminathan, V Selvaraj (MP), J Mohamed Shanavas (MLA), and District Collector P Akash.
