Prime Minister Narendra Modi honoured the memory of DMK stalwart M Karunanidhi on what would have been his 100th birthday. Karunanidhi, affectionately known as Kalaignar, served as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu for nearly two decades across five terms, from 1969 to 2011. He left a lasting impact on the state and its people through his dedicated service and leadership.
"Today, on his 100th birth anniversary, I pay my respects to Kalaignar Karunanidhi Ji. Throughout his extensive career in public service, he tirelessly worked for the progress and welfare of Tamil Nadu and its citizens," remarked Prime Minister Modi.
Karunanidhi's legacy extends beyond his political achievements; he is also remembered for his scholarly pursuits and intellectual contributions. Prime Minister Modi fondly recalled his interactions with the late leader, including their shared experiences as chief ministers of their respective states.
Born on June 3, 1924, in Thirukkuvalai, Nagapattinam district, Karunanidhi entered politics at a young age. His political career began with his involvement in the anti-Hindi agitation during the late 1930s.
This movement was pivotal in shaping his political ideology and aligning him with the Dravidian movement. He joined the Dravidar Kazhagam, led by Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, and later became a founding member of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) under C.N. Annadurai's leadership.
Karunanidhi was not only a political leader but also a prolific writer and playwright. He used his literary talents to promote Dravidian ideology and social justice.
His works in Tamil cinema, such as screenplays and dialogues for numerous films, played a significant role in spreading the party's messages. His contribution to Tamil literature and culture earned him the title "Kalaignar," meaning "artist" in Tamil.
Throughout his tenure as Chief Minister, Karunanidhi implemented numerous progressive policies aimed at uplifting the marginalised sections of society. His initiatives included land reforms, affirmative action in education and employment, and schemes for social welfare.
One of his notable achievements was the introduction of the noon meal scheme for school children, which significantly improved school attendance and nutrition among children.
Karunanidhi was also instrumental in infrastructural development. He championed the creation of new districts, expanded the state's transportation network, and improved healthcare facilities.
His vision for Tamil Nadu's development included a strong emphasis on industrialization and modernization, which helped transform the state into one of India's leading economic hubs.
His leadership was marked by his steadfast commitment to federalism and state rights. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of Tamil Nadu within the Indian union and often engaged in negotiations with the central government to secure favourable outcomes for his state.
The centenary celebration of M Karunanidhi's birth serves as a moment to reflect on his remarkable journey and the profound impact he had on Tamil Nadu's political landscape.
His dedication to public service and his commitment to the people of Tamil Nadu continue to inspire generations. His contributions to politics, literature, and social reforms have left an indelible mark, ensuring that his legacy will be remembered for years to come.
As Prime Minister Modi noted, Karunanidhi's scholarly nature and his efforts toward the development of Tamil Nadu and the Tamil people earned him widespread respect. His life's work continues to be a source of inspiration and a testament to his enduring legacy in Indian politics.
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