From protest to politics: How Tamil Nadu’s melthundu became an identity marker
- Posted on April 21, 2026
- By Business News Today
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- 1 min read
From protest to politics: How Tamil Nadu’s melthundu became an identity marker
A simple shoulder cloth, the melthundu, has a rich history in Tamil Nadu. It began as a gesture of respect, was later used to challenge caste norms, and became a symbol of equality. Dravidian leaders adopted it as part of their identity. Today, the melthundu is re-emerging as a political branding tool for upcoming elections.