Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution moved by Chief Minister Vijay, proposing that the state song ‘Tamil Thaai Vazhthu’ should be played first at official government events. The move received support from across the political spectrum, including the ruling DMK, AIADMK, VCK, PMK, CPI and IUML.

Addressing the Assembly, Chief Minister Vijay highlighted the emotional and cultural importance of the Tamil language, calling it a symbol of identity, heritage and pride for the people of the state.

‘Tamil Is More Than A Language’: Vijay’s Message In Assembly

Speaking during the discussion, Vijay said Tamil is not merely a language but an emotion and a way of life for the people of Tamil Nadu.

He said, “Tamil is not just a language to us, it’s our lifeline and an emotion,” while emphasising the deep cultural connection people share with the language.

The Chief Minister described the issue as a matter of Tamil identity and said that the state would stand united whenever Tamil pride and heritage were involved.

History Of Tamil Thaai Vazhthu

The Tamil Thaai Vazhthu was written by Manonmaniam Sundaranar in 1891 and has been performed at the beginning of government events in Tamil Nadu since the 1970s.

In 2021, the song was officially declared the State Song of Tamil Nadu, giving it formal recognition in state functions.

Resolution Comes Amid Vande Mataram Debate

The Assembly’s decision comes amid a broader political debate over the order in which Tamil Thaai Vazhthu, Vande Mataram and the national anthem Jana Gana Mana should be played during official programmes.

The issue gained attention after disagreements over ceremonial protocols at some government events, including those involving the Governor’s office. The Tamil Nadu government has been opposing what it sees as changes to the traditional sequence and has maintained that the state anthem should receive priority at official functions.

Centre-State Debate Likely To Continue

The latest resolution may add another layer to the ongoing Centre-state debate over language, cultural identity and official protocols. While supporters argue that the move protects Tamil heritage, critics view the issue through the larger lens of national symbols and federal relations.

With the resolution now passed unanimously, the debate over the role of state and national songs at public events is expected to continue.