Kamaraj

Kamaraj was born on 15th July 1903.

More interested in the freedom struggle than in his studies, Kamaraj spent his time listening to the speeches of freedom fighters. S. Satyamurti was his idol and inspiration. Kamaraj spent most of his early twenties behind bars for his participation in the freedom struggle.

After being released, he continued serving the people by joining politics and eventually became the CM of TN. Serving as the CM for 3 consecutive terms, Kamaraj single-handedly transformed the face of TN forever.

He started the mid-day meal scheme, as part of which, free food was provided to children in schools. This was done to encourage the students to study by eliminating their need to work to earn their food.

He built dams and promoted the industrialization of TN through several other measures.

Simple and straightforward, he was a true statesman. Despite being uneducated, he was immensely wise and much more practical than many of his educated peers. Always ready to help out and always accessible, he redefined leadership. As fate would have it, he eventually lost the Chief Ministership and TN has been limping on ever since. Yes. Limping on. Many might quote statistical facts to prove otherwise. Granted, TN is one of the most developed and industrialized states in India. My take is that, TN has achieved only a fraction of its potential. Under the leadership of an able leader like Kamaraj, TN would have achieved all this in a much quicker time frame.

A lifelong bachelor, despite the fond wishes of his mother and a teetotaller, Kamaraj dedicated his entire life to the growth of TN, which he fondly referred to as "Nam Naadu", meaning our country.

An excellent film has been made about this great leader by Ramana Communications. I strongly recommend this movie to anyone interested to know more about Kamaraj. Kamaraj's family maintains a blog, which contains some rare pictures of Kamaraj.

A dedicated son. A true leader. A great statesman. An unparalleled Kingmaker.

Best of all, Karmaveerar par excellence.

On behalf of his innumerable fans and followers, I take this humble opportunity to thank him for his efforts to improve TN, particularly his mid-day meal schemes and other education related welfare schemes. Thank You Sir.