Seeman Questions Periyar’s View on Tamil Language & Criticizes Dravidian Politics
Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) coordinator Seeman has once again stirred controversy by questioning E.V.R. Periyar’s statements about the Tamil language and strongly criticizing the Dravidian movement. During his campaign for NTK’s candidate Seethalakshmi in the Erode East by-election, he made bold remarks against Periyar and Dravidian parties, declaring that “we will not sleep until Dravidianism is eradicated.”
Seeman’s Criticism of Periyar’s Views on Tamil
Seeman referenced Periyar’s controversial remark, where he allegedly described Tamil as the “language of barbarians and primitives.” This statement has long been debated, with Periyar’s critics using it to claim that he disrespected Tamil, while his supporters argue that it was taken out of context. Seeman, however, firmly believes that Periyar undermined the Tamil language and its rich history, making it a key point in his anti-Dravidian rhetoric.
Seeman’s Stand Against the Dravidian Movement
Seeman has been a consistent critic of the Dravidian movement, which has dominated Tamil Nadu politics for over 60 years. During his speech, he proclaimed, “We will not rest until we eliminate Dravidianism,” and added, “I have come to burn down the 60-year-old garbage of Dravidian parties.”
He argues that the Dravidian ideology has divided Tamil society, weakened Tamil identity, and has been politically exploited by parties like DMK and AIADMK for decades. According to Seeman, these parties have only used Tamil sentiment as a political tool while failing to genuinely uplift Tamil people.
Seeman’s Harsh Words Against Periyar
In a particularly fiery remark, Seeman stated:
???? “Throw onions at me, I will throw bombs at you!”
This was in response to Dravidian supporters who idolize Periyar and defend his statements. Seeman’s aggressive stance has drawn both support and criticism. While his supporters view it as a bold challenge against Dravidian politics, his opponents see it as an attack on a social reformer.
NTK as an Alternative to Dravidian Politics
Naam Tamilar Katchi positions itself as a Tamil nationalist party that rejects both DMK’s and AIADMK’s brand of politics. Seeman argues that:
???? The Dravidian parties perpetuate caste divisions while claiming to fight casteism.
???? They undermine Tamil nationalism and align with external political influences.
???? They selectively follow Periyar’s ideology while ignoring his contradictions.
Seeman and NTK aim to replace the Dravidian parties with a Tamil nationalist political force. Whether this vision will gain mass appeal in Tamil Nadu remains to be seen.
Reactions & Controversy
Seeman’s speech has sparked intense debate.
???? Dravidian supporters & Periyarists: Strongly condemned his remarks, arguing that Periyar was a champion of social justice and that Seeman is misrepresenting history.
???? Tamil nationalists & NTK supporters: Applauded Seeman for challenging the dominance of Dravidian parties and exposing their contradictions.
Seeman’s open attacks on Periyar, DMK, and Dravidianism have increased both his popularity among Tamil nationalists and his opposition from mainstream Dravidian parties.
Seeman vs. Dravidian Politics: A Long-Standing Battle
Seeman’s opposition to the Dravidian ideology is not new. Over the years, he has consistently:
✅ Criticized DMK & AIADMK for betraying Tamil interests.
✅ Opposed caste-based politics in Tamil Nadu.
✅ Called for Tamil unity beyond Dravidianism.
His political movement is still struggling to gain mass electoral success, but his influence in Tamil nationalist politics is growing.
What’s Next for Seeman & NTK?
With Tamil Nadu’s political landscape shifting, will Seeman’s anti-Dravidian stance help NTK emerge as a major force? Or will the dominance of DMK and AIADMK continue?
What do you think?
???? Is Seeman right in criticizing Periyar’s stance on Tamil?
???? Can Tamil nationalism replace Dravidian politics?
