DR. M.G. RAMACHANDRAN BIRTH CENTENARY – Booklet – FGCO002076

1. M.G. RAMACHANDRAN BIRTH CENTENARY

( 1917-2017 )

Dr. M.G. Ramachandran who was affectionately known as “Puratchi Thalaivar” (Revolutionary Leader) was born on 17.01.1917 to M. Gopalakrishna Menon and Sathyabama in Kandy, Sri Lanka.  He was married to V .N. Janaki.  After debuting in films in 1940, he had an extremely successful stint of more than 35 years in the Tamil film industry.  He was introduced to Perarignar Anna in the year 1952 and was closely associated with him thereafter.  He was elected as a Member of Legislative Assembly from Parangimalai Constituency in the year 1967.  Dr. M. G. Ramachandran started the Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (ADMK) Party in the year 1972 and became the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu in the year 1977.  He continued to be the Chief Minister for three consecutive terms never having lost an election, till he breathed his last on 24.12.1987.

Dr. M.G. Ramachandran was one of the most illustrious, charismatic and popular Chief Ministers of the State of Tamil Nadu.  He is remembered nationally and internationally for having launched several innovative welfare programmes which have become model schemes implemented throughout the country.  The “Puratchi Thalaivar Dr.MGR Nutritious Meal Programme” implemented in all schools in Tamil Nadu has been commended by the Hon’ble Supreme Court and it was ordered to be replicated across the country.  Dr. M. G. Ramachandran laid the foundation for the rapid socio-economic growth that the State of Tamil Nadu has witnessed in the last three decades.  He established a number of Universities in the State including the Tamil University.  Mother Theresa Womens’ University and the Bharathidasan University.  He hosted the fifth World Tamil Conference.

The Government of India honoured Dr. M. G. Ramachandran with the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna for his unparalleled public service.

Dr. M.G. Ramachandran continues to be an inspirational figure who is always remembered for his qualities of magnanimity, generosity, commanding leadership and determination to fight for the legitimate rights of the States.  On his death, he gave away all his wealth for the welfare of hearing impaired and visually impaired children.  Dr. M.G. Ramachandran’s life story continues to inspire millions to strive for the greater public good through dedicated service.