Tamil Nadu, Karnataka’s neighboring state, has seen frequent controversies over language, religion, and culture - especially from leaders of Dravidian movements. A year ago, Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin sparked outrage by calling Sanatana Dharma a “disease that eradicated.” Now, actor and politician Kamal Haasan has reignited the debate by making similar remarks.
During the 15th anniversary of actor Suriya’s Agaram Foundation, Kamal Haasan criticized the NEET medical entrance exam, claiming it has deprived many students of education since its introduction in 2017. He said:
“No matter what else you do, without education, it’s difficult to win. Education is not just a weapon; it’s a war, a chisel that can sculpt the future of the nation.”
He further added that education is the only force capable of dismantling Sanatana Dharma. These comments have drawn massive backlash from Hindu groups and political opponents.
This isn’t the first time Kamal Haasan has criticized Hinduism. In the past, he referred to some Hindu deities as “lacking compassion,” questioned epic narratives like the Mahabharata, and made derogatory comments about religious attire. He even faced legal scrutiny for his claim that the Kannada language originated from Tamil, which further angered many in Karnataka.
Now, Kamal is being accused of using controversial religious rhetoric to appeal to a particular vote bank. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Tamil Nadu BJP leader, accused him of showing more loyalty to DMK than his own party and dividing people on language and religious lines.
Even as Congress remains silent, the public discourse around Sanatana Dharma is intensifying.
What is Sanatana Dharma?
Sanatana Dharma is often misunderstood. It is not just a religion—it is a way of life, a timeless path rooted in ancient Indian civilization. "Sanatana" in Sanskrit means eternal, beginningless, endless. Unlike religions with fixed commandments, Sanatana Dharma allows flexibility, evolution, and internal reform. ಸನಾತನ ಧರ್ಮ ಅಂದ್ರೇನು ಗೊತ್ತಾ.? ಕಮಲ್ ಹಾಸನ್.!?
The Indian Supreme Court has even remarked that “Hindu is not a religion but a way of life.”
Sanatana Dharma emphasizes values like:
Righteousness (Dharma)
Truth (Satya)
Knowledge (Jnana)
Karma (right action)
Spirituality through yoga and meditation
The belief in rebirth and karma’s effect on one’s soul
Yes, critics point to caste-based oppression historically associated with certain interpretations of Sanatana Dharma. But it also holds within it the tools for self-correction and reform, unlike many rigid dogmas. That’s why defenders argue Sanatana Dharma adapts to the times without abandoning its core values. ಕೈಲಾಸ ಪರ್ವತದ ಮಹತ್ವವೇನು..!
Kamal Haasan himself has portrayed devout Hindu characters in many films. His sudden opposition to Sanatana Dharma is being seen as politically motivated, especially after being nominated to the Rajya Sabha by the opposition bloc.
Final Thoughts:
Despite repeated attempts by some Tamil Nadu leaders to push Aryan-Dravidian narratives and denounce Sanatana Dharma, the irony remains—many temples, traditions, and religious symbols in Tamil Nadu itself stand as testimony to Sanatana Dharma’s deep roots. Kamal Haasan’s remarks may fetch short-term political gains, but they risk alienating large segments of India’s diverse spiritual population.ಅಮೆರಿಕದಿಂದ ಭಾರತಕ್ಕೆ 25% ಸುಂಕ ಹೊಡೆತ: ಔಷಧೋದ್ಯಮಕ್ಕೂ 200% ತೆರಿಗೆ ಬೆದರಿಕೆ..!