Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K. Annamalai on Monday hit back strongly at Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leaders after they mocked him at a Mumbai rally ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.At the rally, Raj Thackeray derided Annamalai by calling him “Rasmalai” and invoked the controversial slogan “Hatao lungi, bajao pungi,” which has historically been viewed as disparaging towards Tamilians. Annamalai responded by daring the Thackerays, saying he would still go to Mumbai despite threats. “They are saying my legs will be cut if I come to Mumbai. I will be in Mumbai. If you can, cut my legs,” he said, asserting he would not be intimidated.
Annamalai accused the leaders of insulting not just him but Tamil culture by mocking traditional attire and questioned who they were to threaten him. He described himself as a proud son of a farmer and claimed that facing the ire of the Thackerays was a badge of honour.
The exchange reflects heightened political tensions ahead of the municipal elections in Maharashtra, with leaders from different regional parties trading sharp barbs over identity and political influence.
The remarks have triggered sharp reactions in Tamil Nadu, with several political leaders condemning the use of derogatory language and regional slurs. Annamalai said such comments reflected a “dated and divisive mindset” and accused the Thackerays of attempting to revive identity politics for electoral gains. He maintained that Tamil identity and self-respect would not be compromised under any circumstances.
Political observers say the war of words has added a new dimension to inter-state political sparring, especially with elections approaching in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu witnessing heightened political activity. While leaders from both sides continue to trade barbs, the controversy has once again brought issues of regional pride, cultural identity and political rhetoric into sharp public focus.