Udhayanidhi Calls Sanskrit a ‘Dead Language’; BJP Strongly Rebuts Remark
Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin sparked a political row after describing Sanskrit as a “dead language,” prompting strong reactions from BJP leaders. Speaking at a public event in Chennai, Udhayanidhi reiterated his long-held views on linguistic inclusivity and the importance of promoting Tamil and other living Indian languages.
The BJP swiftly hit back, with senior leader Tamilisai Soundararajan criticising his remarks as insensitive and factually incorrect. She said that no one has the right to call any language dead, particularly Sanskrit, which continues to be used widely in prayers, rituals, traditional arts, and cultural practices across India.
The exchange has reignited the debate over linguistic politics in Tamil Nadu, a State with a long history of language-based mobilisations. Analysts note that Udhayanidhi’s comments may further deepen ideological divides between the DMK and BJP, especially ahead of upcoming electoral contests.
