17 Jan : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and iconic actor MG Ramachandran (MGR) on his birth anniversary, remembering him as a transformative leader whose influence continues to shape the state’s social and cultural landscape.
In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister described MGR’s contribution to Tamil Nadu’s progress as remarkable, while also acknowledging his pivotal role in promoting the Tamil language and culture. He reaffirmed the commitment to work towards realising MGR’s long-standing vision for society.
Prime Minister Modi noted that remembering MGR is not only about honouring the past, but also about reaffirming the values he stood for: service, compassion, cultural pride, and inclusive development. He emphasised that these ideals remain relevant in today’s governance and nation-building efforts.
MGR’s life and work continue to inspire leaders and citizens alike, standing as a reminder of how empathy-driven leadership can leave a lasting impact on society.
From Cinema to Public Service
MGR’s journey from humble beginnings to national prominence remains one of the most compelling stories in Indian public life.
Rising to fame as a celebrated film star, he used cinema as a platform to highlight issues of social justice, dignity for women, compassion for the poor, and pride in Tamil identity.
His on-screen roles consistently mirrored the aspirations of ordinary people, helping him forge a deep emotional connection with audiences across generations. This widespread popularity later translated into strong public trust when he entered politics.
As Chief Minister, MGR carried the same people-first approach into governance. He introduced several pioneering welfare initiatives that reshaped Tamil Nadu’s development model and placed inclusive growth at its core.
Programmes focusing on nutrition, education, social security, and the welfare of marginalised communities became hallmarks of his administration. Many of these schemes later influenced welfare policies in other parts of the country, reinforcing his reputation as a visionary leader.
Beyond governance, MGR played a significant role in strengthening Tamil cultural consciousness. Through films, speeches, and policy decisions, he ensured that the Tamil language, heritage, and self-respect remained central to public discourse.
He viewed culture as a living, dynamic force capable of empowering society, rather than as a static legacy of the past. This cultural emphasis continues to resonate strongly in Tamil Nadu’s political and social life.
