Stalin in UK: Tamil Nadu CM unveils Periyar portrait at Oxford; hails 'Self-respect Movement'

NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin said social reformer Periyar (E V Ramasamy)’s rationalist ideals now resonate across the world, and the Self-Respect Movement he launched a century ago redefined freedom by breaking chains and restoring dignity.Unveiling a portrait of social reformer Periyar at Oxford University’s St. Antony’s College on September 4, to mark the centenary of the Self-Respect Movement, Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin highlighted Periyar’s progressive legacy during his ongoing UK tour to attract investments to the state.The portrait, created by Indian art director, painter, and production designer Thotta Tharani, was dedicated as part of the commemoration.

Stalin underscored the global influence of the Self-Respect Movement and praised Periyar’s lifelong advocacy for rationalism, gender equality, and anti-caste reforms."It is a lifetime honour to unveil the portrait of Periyar at Oxford University - an institution synonymous with knowledge, human rights, and dignity. This unveiling is proof that Periyar's rational light now shines across the world beyond Tamil Nadu's borders," he said at the event.

"Self Respect Movement - A revolution that redefined freedom! Chains fell, dignity rose. Thanthai Periyar's Self-Respect Movement shattered fundamentalisms, awakened dignity, nurtured scientific temper, and made us a guiding light of social transformation," Stalin said in a post on the social media platform 'X'."At Oxford, I spoke with pride as heir to Periyar's legacy, honouring the revolution that turned centuries of subjugation into the eternal anthem of Self Respect. We aren't just celebrating history; we are guiding tomorrow," he further said. (With inputs from agency)