Tributes pour in for former CM Jayalalithaa on 78th birth anniversary

Rich tributes poured in from across the country on Tuesday to mark the 78th birth anniversary of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa , with national leaders, party functionaries and admirers remembering her as a charismatic mass leader and architect of welfare-oriented governance .

Expelled AIADMK leader V. K. Sasikala paid floral tributes at memorial sites and participated in commemorative events to honour Jayalalithaa. Addressing supporters at a gathering, she invoked Jayalalithaa’s legacy and indicated the start of a new political journey , stating that her movement would follow the Dravidian path shaped by C. N. Annadurai , M. G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa. Her remarks were seen as signalling renewed political activity while paying homage to her late mentor.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled Jayalalithaa as a leader who occupied a special place in the hearts and minds of millions. He said her life reflected grit and determination, and noted that as Chief Minister she championed inclusive development with a strong focus on women’s empowerment , social justice and welfare-driven governance. Modi also fondly recalled his interactions with her, describing her as both compassionate and decisive.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Jayalalithaa reshaped Tamil Nadu’s development trajectory through her commitment to the welfare of the poor and empowerment of women, ensuring governance reached the last person . Her dedication to public service , he added, would remain a lasting inspiration.

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami described “Amma” as the identity of the party and a symbol of hope for the poor, stating that her policies set benchmarks in poverty alleviation and transformed the lives of ordinary people. Former Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan and several other leaders also paid floral tributes, recalling her lasting impact on public life.

Widely revered as “Amma,” Jayalalithaa served multiple terms as Chief Minister and left a profound imprint on Tamil Nadu’s political and social landscape. Her tenure was marked by pioneering welfare schemes , subsidised food programmes, healthcare initiatives and women-centric measures that earned her enduring popularity. Known for firm administrative control and decisive leadership, she combined strong governance with compassion for the marginalised.

Across Tamil Nadu, AIADMK cadres and supporters observed the day with floral tributes, commemorative programmes and welfare activities such as medical camps and distribution of essential items, reflecting Jayalalithaa’s enduring emotional bond with the people and the continued relevance of her welfare-focused vision.