On Republic Day, Tamil Nadu displays tableau rejected by Center

Freedom fighters, the Marudu brothers, Velu Nachiyar and VO Chidambaram Pillai were among those featured in the tableau; Earlier, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi hoisted the flag in the presence of CM Stalin.

The Republic Day celebrations in Tamil Nadu saw a display of tableaux depicting the sacrifices of freedom fighters – Marudu Brothers, Velu Nachiyar, Kapplottiya Tamizan VO Chidambaram Pillai and many more.

The tableau, originally conceived by the Tamil Nadu government to participate in the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, was rejected by the Centre.

In a tableau the Marudu Brothers – Chinna Marudu and Periya Marudu – were hanged after being defeated by the British at Tirupattur. Velu Nachiyar was seen riding a horse. National poet Subramaniam Bharathiyar was featured prominently in a tableau along with VVS Iyer, Quaid-Millat and others. Freedom fighter VOC, pulling an oil press, was also part of the illustration.

However, the tableau with Periyar grabbed the most attention of the participants. He was the key figure in the tableau showcasing Tiruppur Kumaran, who continued to hold the flag even after falling victim to the lathis of the British police.

Earlier, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi unfurled the national flag in the presence of Chief Minister MK Stalin, Chief Secretary Irai Anbu and other dignitaries.

In his message, Mr Stalin said, “Let us on this Republic Day reaffirm the upholding of the secular ethos of the Constitution and take pride in the great achievements in all spheres for the upliftment of the people of our country.”

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