Caste and religious differences were created "later" to destroy unity of Tamils, said Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin after the inaugration of a grand jallikattu arena in the state on Wednesday. The CM also urged Tamils to conduct cultural events like Jallikattu unitedly.
In his speech, Stalin accused the BJP-led Centre of "staging a drama" in granting permission for the sport in the state, just before the Supreme Court issued a favorable verdict on the matter.
He remembered that the DMK founder, the late CN Annadurai, gave the name Tamil Nadu upon the state (previously known as Madras Presidency), while Karunanidhi secured classical language status for Tamil.
He said, his "Dravida model government" has constructed the expansive arena in this district to spotlight "aeruthazvhuthal," representing Tamil culture.
"At this juncture what I want to tell you is--caste divisions and religious differences were created later to destroy Tamils' unity. Let us conduct such cultural festivals unitedly with the Tamil identity," he said, as per a report on PTI.
On the arena, Stalin said, "The Jallikattu arena, a traditional sport of Tamils, has been built by the DMK government in Madurai. The opening of this Jallikattu arena during the Karunanidhi centenary is an extra special feature. I am proud to have my name in history as Stalin who built the Jallikattu stadium."
Jallikattu, also referred to as "aeruthazhuvuthal," translates to embracing the bull.
The "Kalaignar Nootranduu aeruthazhuvuthal Arangam," named in honor of Karunanidhi for his centenary, spans 60.8 acres in Keelakarai village, Alanganallur, a renowned location for jallikattu events.
The Chief Minister previously announced in the state Assembly the construction of a separate grand arena for jallikattu.
The complex includes features like the 'vaadivasal' (bull release point), a bull waiting area, a veterinary hospital, a first aid center, and can accommodate up to 5000 spectators.
Stalin personally witnessed the jallikattu event in Madurai.