As the nation reflects on the life and contributions of one of Tamil Nadu’s most influential figures, J. Jayalalithaa, on the anniversary of her passing, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari pays tribute to the indomitable leader who left an indelible mark on Indian politics.
Born on February 24, 1948, J. Jayalalithaa traversed an extraordinary path that spanned both the world of cinema and the arena of politics. Her iconic status as “Amma” and “Puratchi Thalaivi” resonated not only within her party, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) but also among the people of Tamil Nadu.
J. Jayalalithaa began her career as a leading film actress in the mid-1960s, starring in 140 films across Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada languages. Her versatility, coupled with her exceptional dancing skills, earned her the title “Queen of Tamil Cinema.” Notably, her association with M.G. Ramachandran (‘M.G.R.’), a cultural icon and political luminary, played a pivotal role in her foray into politics.
Joining the AIADMK in 1982 during M.G.R.’s chief ministership, J. Jayalalithaa swiftly climbed the political ladder. After M.G.R.’s demise in 1987, she emerged as the sole leader of the AIADMK, marking the beginning of her remarkable political journey. In 1991, she became the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, the youngest to hold this position at the time.
J. Jayalalithaa’s political career was marked by highs and lows. The cradle-baby scheme, her extensive social-welfare agenda, and the AIADMK’s return to power in 2001 were significant accomplishments. However, legal challenges, including corruption cases, resulted in periods of disqualification and opposition.
