Amma, the people’s CM

Chennai

From gracing the silver screen as the bold and beautiful actress, to being our very own version of the Iron Lady, Jayalalithaa has proven time and again that she is the Puratchi Thalaivi (Revolutionary Leader) of the state of Tamil Nadu.

Born in a Tamil Brahmin family, Jayalalithaa was encouraged to pursue a career in cinema by her mother. The shy, academically-inclined student entered the movies, and soon went on to become one of the most popular actresses of her time. Her charismatic personality took her to the political stage, with the support of her co-star and mentor, the late MGR. She had her first stint as a politician, when she was made the AIADMK’s propaganda secretary in the year 1983.

The journey from there has had its fair share of drama and turmoil. Her steely resilience has created a brand new persona, as the leader of a thriving state. Admired by many, Jayalalithaa is fondly addressed as Amma by her followers, a title she was given for being a beloved mother-figure to all. Today, she is unquestionably one of the most powerful female politicians that the country has ever seen!

Forging her way to the top

In 1972 Jayalalithaa was awarded the Kalaimamani by the Government of Tamil Nadu

She was instrumental in setting up India’s first company of female police commandos in Tamil Nadu in 2003

MGR wanted Jayalalithaa to be a member of the Rajya Sabha because of her fluency in Hindi and English.