Published Mar 15, 2026 | 10:23 AM ⚊ Updated Mar 15, 2026 | 10:23 AM
Vairamuthu.
Synopsis: After the 60th Jnanpith Award for 2025 was announced for Tamil poet and lyricist Vairamuthu, criticism has erupted from several quarters over sexual assault allegations against him.
After the Bharatiya Jnanpith announced that the 60th Jnanpith Award for 2025 will be conferred on Tamil poet and lyricist Vairamuthu, criticism has erupted from several quarters over sexual assault allegations against him.
According to the Jnanpith Award Selection Board, the award recognises his significant contribution to Tamil literature, creative writing, and distinctive poetic expression.
In a statement, Bharatiya Jnanpith director Dr RN Tiwari said the decision was taken at a meeting of the organisation’s selection committee. The award is considered India’s highest literary honour.
With this recognition, Vairamuthu becomes one of the few Tamil writers to receive the prestigious award, following earlier recipients Akilan (1975) and Jayakanthan.
Following the announcement, several political leaders and personalities from the film and literary worlds extended their congratulations to the poet. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, actor Rajinikanth, and actor-politician Kamal Haasan were among those who welcomed the announcement and praised Vairamuthu’s contribution to Tamil literature and poetry.
However, the announcement has also triggered criticism from several feminist activists. Singer Chinmayi Sripaada and others have questioned the decision, referring to the sexual misconduct allegations made against Vairamuthu in 2018 during the #MeToo movement, when multiple women accused the lyricist of inappropriate behaviour.
In posts on social media, Chinmayi said several women had publicly named the poet as their alleged abuser and criticised the decision to honour him with the country’s highest literary award. She also recalled earlier controversies related to awards and public recognition involving the lyricist.
Several activists have since echoed similar concerns, arguing that the allegations and the voices of women who spoke out during the #MeToo movement should not be ignored while conferring such honours.
Vairamuthu (72) is considered one of the most prominent voices in modern Tamil literature. He began his career in 1972 with the poetry collection Vaigarai Megangal. He has written more than 40 books and has also had a prolific career in the Tamil film industry as a lyricist, with nearly 7,500 songs to his name.
(With inputs from Subash Chandra Bose.)
