CHENNAI: A political and ideological debate has resurfaced in Tamil Nadu after Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi president Thol Thirumavalavan made remarks on Chola dynasty rulers, including Rajaraja Cholan, drawing sharp reactions from Naam Tamilar Katchi chief coordinator Seeman and Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam leader TTV Dhinakaran.
The comments have reignited an ideological clash over Tamil identity, historical interpretation and Ambedkarite politics, gaining traction ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
The controversy followed a speech by Thirumavalavan at the Muthukumar Memorial Day event last Tuesday. Referring to Chola rulers Rajaraja Cholan and Rajendra Cholan, he questioned whether their names were truly Tamil. He also alleged that during the Chola period, Tamil was gradually removed from temples and replaced by Sanskrit, and accused the rulers of contributing to the decline of the Tamil language. The remarks went viral on social media, triggering widespread debate.
Responding on Saturday, Seeman dismissed the allegations, saying he had no particular opinion on the issue. He described Rajaraja Cholan as the “King of Kings” and noted that the ruler was also known as Arunmozhi Cholan. Questioning Thirumavalavan’s criticism of historical names, Seeman pointed out that Thirumavalavan’s father was named Ramasamy and that he later adopted the name Tholkappiyan. He further claimed that the term ‘Dravida’ had Sanskrit origins, citing linguist Robert Caldwell and references to the Manusmriti.
Meanwhile, Dhinakaran issued a strongly worded statement condemning Thirumavalavan for allegedly blaming ancient Tamil kings, including the Cheras, Cholas, Pandyas and Pallavas, for the decline of Tamil culture. He termed the remarks “half-baked” and accused the VCK leader of targeting historical icons to please the ruling DMK. He also challenged Thirumavalavan to question the non-Tamil names of several DMK leaders before criticising Tamil kings.