Science is only way to progress: Tamil Nadu CM Stalin amid govt school spiritual event controversy

New Delhi: A motivational speaker, Mahavishnu, was arrested on Saturday upon his return from an overseas trip, following an incident at a Chennai school that ignited widespread public outrage. Mahavishnu faces charges of promoting superstitions and publicly humiliating a visually impaired teacher during a school event. The controversy erupted at the Government Higher Secondary School in Ashok Nagar, Chennai, where Mahavishnu was invited to speak last week.

During the event, which was intended to inspire students, Mahavishnu made controversial remarks attributing physical disabilities and social inequalities to sins committed in past lives. His statements included, "Don’t think you can live whichever way you wish and die. Your next birth will be cruel," and "If God is merciful, he should have created everyone equally. Why didn’t he? This birth has been assigned to you based on your deeds in your last birth."

Visually impaired teacher confronts Mahavishnu

The remarks provoked a strong reaction from Shankar, a visually impaired teacher at the school. In a widely circulated video, Shankar confronted Mahavishnu, challenging the validity of his statements. Mahavishnu’s dismissive response, which included belittling Shankar and questioning his qualifications, further inflamed the situation. The video quickly gained traction on social media, amplifying public discontent.

Take a look at the video: 

Mahavishnu from Paramporul Foundation gave a lecture at Government Girls School in Chennai.

His discourse on Spirituality has rattled the D Stocks in Tamil Nadu. Their "ecosystem" is in danger.

One speech, I repeat, one speech has rattled the entire D Stocks. #TamilNadu… pic.twitter.com/Huq52oNStJ

— Raman Nidamarthi (@nvramankumar) September 6, 2024

Government response and reforms

In response to the incident, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, currently in the United States, issued a statement emphasizing the need for scientific and progressive thought in educational events.

"Our high-quality textbooks contain the best scientific ideas that students need to know. The teachers themselves can bring out the best ideas needed to face future challenges with confidence and sharpen the knowledge. Actions will be taken by the School Education Department to provide the necessary innovative training, social education with appropriate departmental experts and scholars." the Chief Minister said in a post on X. "Science is the only way to progress," Stalin asserted, highlighting the importance of fostering a scientific mindset among students.

மாணவச் செல்வங்கள் அறிந்துகொள்ளத் தேவையான சிறந்த அறிவியல் சிந்தனைகள் தரம் மிகுந்த நமது பாடநூல்களில் இடம் பெற்றுள்ளன.

எதிர்காலச் சவால்களை, தன்னம்பிக்கையோடு எதிர்கொள்ளவும், அறிவாற்றலைக் கூர்மைப்படுத்திக் கொள்ளவும் தேவையான சிறப்பான கருத்துகளை ஆசிரியர்களே எடுத்துக்கூற முடியும்.…

— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) September 6, 2024

Mahavishnu’s meeting with education minister raises questions

The situation was exacerbated when it was revealed that Mahavishnu had previously met with School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi. Photos of their meeting circulated online, prompting questions about how Mahavishnu was granted a platform at the school. Poyyamozhi defended himself, stating, "I cannot be expected to check the antecedents of every person who meets me."

In response to the controversy, Poyyamozhi visited the school to commend Shankar for his bravery and announced strict measures against those responsible for organizing the event. "I won’t leave this easily. He came into my territory and insulted my teacher. Strict action will be taken against him," Poyyamozhi vowed.

Political parties clash over Mahavishnu’s school appearance

The incident prompted criticism from various political factions. Allies of the ruling DMK, including the Congress and the CPM, condemned the government for allowing Mahavishnu to speak at a school. Opposition parties, such as the AIADMK and PMK, also called for action against Mahavishnu and the school authorities who invited him.

Mahavishnu's supporters, however, defended him, claiming that his teachings were intended to inspire and guide students toward personal improvement. With over 400,000 subscribers on YouTube, Mahavishnu has a significant online following, where he shares content on spirituality, yoga, and meditation through his foundation, Paramporul, which offers training programs across India.