Tamil Nadu minister mocks Sanskrit ritual chants, sparks language controversy

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UPDATED: Jul 4, 2025 14:49 IST

A Tamil Nadu minister has ignited a language controversy by suggesting that mantras during rituals and pujas should be recited in Tamil instead of Sanskrit. The minister questioned the allocation of funds for Sanskrit development, claiming it receives over 2,500 crore rupees despite being spoken by a small percentage of the population. He argued that Tamil, also an ancient classical language, deserves more funding. The minister's comments have drawn criticism from opposition parties, with the BJP Tamil Nadu Vice President calling it a continuation of anti-Hindu sentiment. This incident has reignited the long-standing language tension between the centre and Tamil Nadu, with the DMK accusing the central government of giving 'stepmotherly treatment' to Tamil while promoting Sanskrit.

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