#LIVE: தமிழ்நாடு திருநாள் விழாப் பேருரை https://t.co/OHhasvLa9b

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin delivered the keynote address at the official state celebrations marking Tamil Nadu Day in Chennai, reflecting on the historical struggle that established the state's linguistic and cultural identity. Addressing ministers, scholars, historians, and citizens, Stalin elaborated on the rationale behind declaring July 18 as the authentic Tamil Nadu Day, commemorating the momentous day in 1967 when Arignar Anna steered the resolution renaming Madras State as Tamil Nadu. He emphasized that the name Tamil Nadu was not handed down easily; it was earned through decades of resolute political activism, intellectual advocacy, and ultimate sacrifices.

The Chief Minister articulated how Dravidian governance turned a peripheral state into an economic, social, and industrial vanguard in modern India. He detailed how progressive legislation—from universal school education and land reforms to women's property rights and community reservation—shaped Tamil Nadu's distinctive development model. Stalin cautioned that state autonomy and linguistic rights face persistent threats from centralizing forces, urging citizens to remain ideologically vigilant. He concluded by calling on the people of Tamil Nadu to preserve their self-respect, uphold communal harmony, and build an equitable society that continues to lead the nation.