The event where Ponmudy made the remarks was organized by TPDK to commemorate the centenary year of popular orator of the Dravidian movement, Tiruvarur K. Thangarasu, who wrote the story and dialogues for the M.R. Radha-starrer superhit film Ratha Kanneer, known for its biting atheist and rationalist commentary by the anti-hero protagonist.

Addressing the event, Ponmudy recalled how orators of those years spoke about “obscenities” in Hindu religious texts through pattimandram – a format of public debate.

He recounted one such pattimandram held in Coimbatore many decades ago, which was advertised as “adults only” and for which entry tickets were sold.

Despite TPDK leader Kovai Ramakrishnan, who was on the dais, suggesting that he avoid the topic, Ponmudy went on to recollect a crass joke involving the distinct ways Saivites and Vaishnavites apply religious marks on their foreheads. He also addressed the women in attendance, asking them not to misunderstand his remarks.

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