No evidence or historical record of Lord Ram's existence: Tamil Nadu minister triggers controversy

New Delhi: A major controversy has arisen following comments by SS Sivasankar, a minister in Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government, who stated there is no "historical evidence to prove Lord Ram's existence." During an event celebrating the birth anniversary of the Chola emperor Rajendra Chola in Ariyalur, state transport minister SS Sivasankar emphasized the importance of commemorating historical figures with proven legacies. 

Minister's remarks spark debate

He stated, "We must celebrate the birthday anniversary of our great ruler Rajendra Chola, who made our land proud. We should celebrate his birthday; otherwise, people may be compelled to celebrate something that has no connection or evidence to them."

Furthermore, Sivasankar stated, "To show that Rajendra Chola lives on, there are ponds constructed by him, temples built by him, and his name is mentioned in scripts, sculptures, and other artifacts. We have history and evidence for it, but there is no evidence or historical record of Lord Ram's existence. They call him (Ram) an avatar. An avatar can't be born. It is being done to manipulate us, hide our history, and present another history as superior," as quoted by ANI.

BJP's sharp response

The remarks quickly drew a response from Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai, who criticized the DMK's stance in a post on social media platform X. "DMK's sudden obsession with Bhagwan Shri Ram is truly a sight to behold—who would've thought? Just last week, DMK's Law Minister Thiru Raghupathy declared that Bhagwan Shri Ram was the ultimate champion of social justice, the pioneer of secularism, and the one who proclaimed equality for all," he wrote.

Targeting Sivasankar, Annamalai stated, "Fast forward to today, and we have the scam-tainted DMK Transport Minister, Thiru Shiva Shankar, boldly asserting that Lord Ram never existed, claiming it's all a ploy to erase the Cholan history."

Annamalai also pointed out, "Isn't it fascinating how quickly DMK leaders' memories fade? Weren't they the same folks who opposed our Hon PM Thiru @narendramodi for installing the Chola Dynasty Sengol in the new Parliament Complex?"

He further suggested, "It's almost comical that the DMK, a party that seems to think Tamil Nadu's history started in 1967, has suddenly discovered a love for the nation's rich culture and history. Perhaps it's time for DMK Ministers Thiru Raghupathy and Thiru Shiva Shankar to sit down, debate, and reach a consensus on Lord Ram. We're confident that Thiru Shiva Shankar could learn a thing or two about Bhagwan Shri Ram from his colleague."