Chennai, March 1: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President M K Stalin celebrated his 72nd birthday on Saturday, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to state autonomy, the two-language policy, and opposition to Hindi imposition.
In a symbolic gesture, Stalin administered an oath to party cadres, reaffirming their collective goal of protecting Tamil Nadu’s interests and resisting any attempts to impose Hindi. “Tamil Nadu will fight, Tamil Nadu will win,” he declared, with party workers enthusiastically echoing his words.
Grand Celebrations at DMK Headquarters
The DMK headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, was abuzz with celebrations as party cadres and office-bearers turned up in large numbers to greet their leader. Social media was flooded with messages hailing Stalin as “Dravida Nayagar” (Dravidian Hero).For over six hours, Stalin personally accepted greetings from party members, thanking them for their continued support. As part of the party's tradition, he paid homage at the memorials of former Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers C N Annadurai and M Karunanidhi at the Marina beachfront. He also visited the memorial of social reformer Periyar E V Ramasamy to lay a wreath.
Reiterating Opposition to Hindi Imposition
Marking the occasion, Stalin reflected on his long-standing opposition to Hindi imposition, recalling his stand at the age of 18 during a party conference in 1971. He vowed to continue defending Tamil and upholding the rights of the state.Political Leaders Extend Wishes
Several political leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Ministers such as Rajnath Singh, extended their greetings. PM Modi wished Stalin a “long and healthy life” in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi also sent his birthday wishes in Tamil, despite past confrontations with Stalin over issues like the National Education Policy (NEP).Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi also conveyed their wishes. Gandhi, referring to Stalin as his “brother,” reaffirmed their shared commitment to preserving India's diversity, federalism, and constitutional values.
Educational Initiatives and Greetings from Various Leaders
On the occasion, Stalin inaugurated the admission process for the 2025-26 academic year at the Royapettah Government School.Prominent personalities, including BJP Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai and actor-politician Vijay, also conveyed their birthday greetings to the DMK leader.
Stalin’s birthday celebrations served as a reaffirmation of his political ideology and the DMK’s enduring stance on Tamil identity, language rights, and state autonomy.
