As we ring in the New Year 2019, Tamil Nadu looks back at 2018 to realise what an eventful year it was - from DMK chief M Karunanidhi's death to cyclone Gaja and more.

However, controversies have played quite a dominant role with politicians speaking their minds, often not knowing if they did have one.

Here is a list of top-five controversial statements made by Tamil Nadu politicians that raked up a storm in 2018.

Vijaya Bhaskar

In March, Tamil Nadu health minister Vijaya Bhaskar was asked a question by a journalist. To which, he replied, "Your spectacles are beautiful. You are beautiful." He made the remark in a bid to avoid political questions.

S Ve Shekher

In April, actor-politician S Ve Shekher took to Facebook and said that women journalists sleep around to accomplish their tasks, and hence shouldn't complain about a casual touch. The journalist had complained about the Governor Banwarilal Purohit patting her cheek without her consent.

H Raja

In September, BJP leader H Raja was seen arguing with two police officers when they stopped his Ganesh Chaturthi procession in Meyyapuram village, Pudukottai district, Tamil Nadu. He addressed the cops as "anti-Hindu" and "highly corrupt".

Karunas

In September, actor-politician Karunas claimed that despite hailing from the 'Thevar' community, he stood loyal to Sasikala while many from his community owed their allegiance to O Panneerselvam and Edappadi Palaniswami. He was later arrested by the Chennai Police.

KA Sengottaiyan

In December, Tamil Nadu school education minister KA Sengottaiyan courted controversy while answering a question on banning rings, anklets and flowers in schools. He said anklets made boys “lose concentration”.