Poet-lyricist Vairamuthu has claimed that his novel Kallikaattu Ithikasam (The Epic of Kallikkadu) deserves a Nobel Prize. Speaking at ‘Vairamuthiyam’, an international conference he organised to celebrate his literary contributions, the veteran lyricist lamented the lack of global recognition for his work. He also expressed that he feels a sense of safety—for both himself and the state—when interacting with Chief Minister MK Stalin. Vairamuthu faces multiple allegations of sexual harassment.
“There is no other option but for me to recommend my own work, Kallikaattu Ithikasam, as one of India’s literary works deserving of a Nobel Prize. Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea won the Nobel, and just as it was translated as Kadalum Kizhavanum, Kallikaattu Ithikasam could be translated as Nilamum Kizhavanum (The Land and the Old Man). Kallikaattu Ithikasam is no less than The Old Man and the Sea. But there are no organisations outside Tamil Nadu that would bring my work to the forefront,” he said, adding, “Since no one else is willing to shine a light on me, I am burning my own fingers as candles.”
He then went onto quote a lyric from Kurunthokai, classical Tamil text: “Tell me what you found and not what pleases me!” —- implying that literary organisations or universities should recognise his works and translate them independently.
“Instead, it has become a practice where I must gather people and speak about myself. For the first time, my dark cheeks are turning red—not just from shame, but from anger. And since there is no other way, that shame is now transforming into the red of fury,” he said.
“Every party will want me to write what suits them. But is there a party that will let me write what I truly want? Chances are, my thoughts will simply bounce back to me like a ball hitting a wall. The scholars and thinkers gathered at this conference have ignited my mind. I trust that those present here will guide me toward a better path. I am deeply grateful to my brother and friend of 30 years, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, for attending this event. He never hesitates to participate in any event I invite him to, and his unwavering support is as warm as the hand my Tamil teacher, Kalaignar, once held. Amidst his demanding days, he has come seeking the shade of the great banyan tree that is Tamil,” he said.
He concluded his speech by stating, “My journey alongside Muthamizharingar Kalaignar, Thalapathy Stalin, and my brother Udhayanidhi Stalin is not driven by a love for power—it is an extension of my gratitude. Every time I interact with the Chief Minister, I feel a sense of safety, both for Tamil Nadu and for myself.”
CM Stalin, who attended the event, praised Vairamuthu’s influence in blending classical and modern Tamil literature. He also spoke about Vairamuthu’s contributions to film and poetry over the past four decades. “There may be people who have not read his books, but there is no one who has not listened to his songs. Despite his success, including national awards, he still identifies himself as a Dravidian movement writer. I have come to appreciate that,” he said.
Multiple women, including noted singers Chinmayi Sripaada and Bhuvana Seshan, have accused Vairamuthu of sexual harassment. However, no formal action has been taken against him, and he continues to receive honours from political and cultural institutions.