In 1970, Karunanidhi conferred on EVR the title"Socrates Of Southeast Asia" by Tamil Nadu UNESCO Mandaram, which has no connection with the United Nations. Lies about UN's UNESCO bestowing the said title on EVR is published in school textbooks. Petition filed in High Court to correct school textbooks in this matter. Also, EVR portrayed as champion of Tamilians and Tamil, detested Tamil and wanted it to be replaced with English.