CHENNAI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described former Chief Minister and AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa as a towering embodiment of women's power, recalling his long association with her and praising her contribution to governance and law enforcement in the State.

Speaking during his monthly radio address, Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said his memories of Jayalalithaa "remain etched in my mind like carvings on stone."

"She was a true manifestation of women's strength. Her commitment to public service and administrative clarity left a lasting impression," Modi said, underlining her role in safeguarding law and order in Tamil Nadu during her tenure.

Recalling a personal moment, the Prime Minister said Jayalalithaa had attended his swearing-in ceremony when he assumed office as Gujarat's Chief Minister. "When I took the oath as Gujarat Chief Minister, she graciously participated in the ceremony. Such gestures reflected the mutual respect we shared despite political differences," he noted.

Modi said Jayalalithaa's governance model, marked by decisive leadership and welfare-oriented initiatives, continues to inspire many. "Her life journey stands as a testament to resilience, determination and the strength of democratic institutions," he added.