Chennai, Dec. 24 -- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday paid tribute to social reformer Periyar E V Ramasamy, on the occasion of his 52nd death anniversary, describing him as a towering figure who instilled self-respect, rational thought and equality among the people.

In a post on X, Stalin said that Periyar straightened "bent backs" and empowered people to stand tall with dignity, dedicating himself entirely to the soil of Tamil Nadu. He asserted that Tamils would never bow their heads or submit to domination, as Periyar's ideals of rationalism, humanism and social equality continue to guide society.

"Bent backs straightened, standing tall to protect dignity, offering himself to this soil--glory and salutations to Father P...