Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to MG Ramachandran (MGR), former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and founder of AIADMK, on his 108th birth anniversary on Friday.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi wrote, “I pay homage to Thiru MGR on his birth anniversary. We are greatly inspired by his efforts to empower the poor and build a better society.” Along with the message, he shared a short video highlighting MGR’s political journey and his contributions to Tamil Nadu.
Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai also honored MGR, recalling his contributions to society. He said, “Former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Bharat Ratna recipient, and revolutionary leader MGR focused on uplifting marginalized communities. His visionary projects transformed Tamil society, including healthcare initiatives, vocational training programs, self-employment schemes, educational infrastructure, women’s development, and nutritious meals for school children. He also hosted the World Tamil Conference, instilling pride in Tamil culture. We pay tribute to Dr. MGR, a great nationalist who dedicated his life to advancing socially and economically backward communities.”
In its official message, AIADMK stated, “The wisdom that laid out public welfare plans, a great heart that beat for the poor. Happy 108th birthday to MGR, who will live in our hearts then, today, and forever.”
Born on January 17, 1917, in Kandy, Sri Lanka, Marudur Gopala Menon Ramachandran (MGR) hailed from a Nair family from Kerala. Starting his career as an actor, MGR made his debut in the 1936 film Sathi Leelavathi, directed by Ellis R. Dungan. He rose to fame with the 1954 film Malaikkallan and won the National Film Award for Best Actor in 1972 for Rickshawkaran. He also received the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor for Adimaippenn.
After a fallout with DMK chief M. Karunanidhi in 1972, MGR founded the AIADMK, a party that would become a dominant political force in Tamil Nadu. Serving as Chief Minister for a decade (1977–1987), MGR was known for his populist schemes aimed at improving the lives of the poor. These included free midday meals for school children, healthcare initiatives, and infrastructure development.
In 1988, MGR was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, recognizing his remarkable contributions to public service and Tamil society.
MGR remains a revered figure in Tamil Nadu, celebrated for his dedication to social welfare and his lasting impact on the state’s politics and culture.
