MDMK general secretary Vaiko resumed his state-wide 'Samathuva Payanam' or equality march in Madurai district on Saturday, delivering an inspirational address to party workers while dressed in a distinctive black military commander's outfit. The march, originally flagged off by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin in Trichy on January 2, entered Madurai from Sivaganga on Friday night.
A Fiery Start and a Change of Attire
Emerging from the Moovendra Mandapam in Melur at 8 am, Vaiko motivated his cadres to proceed towards Madurai city with immense enthusiasm, or 'josh'. Following his spirited speech, he changed into his more familiar white veshti and turban, complemented by a pair of black sunglasses. The march then proceeded with hundreds of participants chanting slogans against drug abuse and in favour of social equality and communal harmony.
Throughout the route, the veteran leader received warm receptions from the public and party members. He was honoured with shawls and presented with fruit baskets as a mark of respect. Ganesan P, a VCK party member from Chokkampatti in Melur, expressed his deep admiration, stating he entered politics inspired by Vaiko.
Allies Join and a Tribute to 'Dravidian Sword'
The march gained further momentum when Dravidar Kazhagam president K Veeramani joined Vaiko, walking alongside him for about 100 metres. In a departure from his usual veshti, Veeramani wore a t-shirt and trousers for the occasion. Vaiko acknowledged his presence, stating that his tiredness vanished upon Veeramani's arrival and fondly recalled that it was Veeramani who had bestowed upon him the title 'Dravidian Sword'.
Explaining his casual attire, the 82-year-old Veeramani humorously remarked, "He (Vaiko) is an 82-year-old young man. I shouldn't be perceived as an old man, hence my change in attire." The march was enthusiastically welcomed in Therkutheru village, where sanitation workers and other villagers greeted Vaiko with traditional drum beats, music, and 'kulavai' (joyous shouts).
Public Support and a Personal Moment
P Prema, a cleaning worker from Therkutheru, voiced strong support for the march's anti-drug stance and its message of unity, questioning the need for religious divisions among people. Before commencing the day's march, Vaiko shared an emotional moment with a close aide, N P Narayanan Raja from Rajapalayam, who had helped him during financial difficulties. Raja revealed a tattoo of Vaiko's image on his chest as a mark of loyalty.
An unfortunate accident occurred after Vaiko left Therkutheru. A man who had stopped his car to see the leader was hit by another vehicle while crossing the road to return to his car. He sustained serious head injuries. MDMK cadres immediately halted their march and provided assistance until an ambulance arrived to transport the injured man for medical treatment.
