Guv, CM cross swords over missing line in Tamil anthem

CM decries skipping of line with word "Dravida" in Tamil Thaai Vaazthu, asks Ravi if he advocates Aryan ideology; guv calls comment racist

TAMIL Nadu on Friday witnessed a verbal duel between Governor RN Ravi and CM MK Stalin over what is perhaps a non-issue after those who sang the Tamil Thai Vazhthu in the presence of the former at the Hindi Month celebrations skipped the line with the word "Dravida".

While Doordarshan after a while apologised for the "inadvertent" miss caused due to a distraction and there was no intention to disrespect, Stalin had quickly reacted by then, blaming the governor for disrespecting the sentiments of Tamil people.

Leaders from many political parties, including the AIADMK, also quickly condemned the governor. The valedictory of the Hindi Month celebrations itself began amid opposition from many parties. Those who sang Tamil Thaai Vazhthu skipped the line "Thekkanamum Adhil Sirantha Dravida Nal Thirunaadum"