Jayalalitha's Rise to Power: How She Overcame Obstacles to Become Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu

Trailing the footsteps of her late husband, M.G. Ramachandran, Jayalalitha made waves in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu. Initially overlooked by the senior leaders of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), she eventually rose to become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, surpassing her contemporaries and laying the foundation for her party's political dominance.

A Talented Secretary and Dedicated Campaigner

Her journey began in 1981 when Jayalalitha joined the AIADMK as a propaganda secretary. During her tenure, she was known for her unparalleled grassroots activism, ensuring no village in Tamil Nadu was left untouched. Known as a tireless worker, she became so influential that her role in the 1984 general elections was pivotal in securing the AIADMK's victory. It wasn’t just her hard work but also the significant damage that other ministers had caused, which led to their defeat in the 1984 local body elections.

However, her rise was not without challenges. Despite M.G. Ramachandran's bedridden condition, the administration attempted to stop Jayalalitha from campaigning in the 1984 elections. This decision, coupled with the AIADMK's loss, led M.G. Ramachandran to reconsider his choices and eventually bring her back into the political limelight. Her return was electrifying, and she demonstrated a clear and decisive leadership, even in the presence of her husband.

Charismatic Leadership and Charisma

For a political party in Tamil Nadu, having a charismatic leader is crucial. While political acumen is important, it must resonate with the masses, particularly the lower strata of society. There are few leaders who can match Jayalalitha's charm, and her training under M.G. Ramachandran further enhanced her appeal.

Unlike other actors, Jayalalitha had undergone extensive training under the tutelage of M.G. Ramachandran. This made her not only a formidable political figure but also a voter magnet. Her presence became a ruling power in Tamil Nadu, solidifying the AIADMK's position as a dominant force.

The Influence of Cho Ramasamy and the Thuqulq Magazine

The rise of Jayalalitha can be partly attributed to the astute editorial decisions of Cho Ramasamy, the editor and founder of Thuqulq magazine. During a time when M.G. Ramachandran was bedridden due to illness, Cho Ramasamy played a crucial role by endorsing and elevating Jayalalitha as the next leader in line. This move was a response to a series of events involving AIADMK and DMK leaders, including an incident where Cho Ramasamy felt he was denigrated and insulted by M.G. Ramachandran's family supporters.

The importance of Cho Ramasamy's efforts cannot be overstated. His mastermind role in grooming Jayalalitha led to her eventual rise to power. It is no surprise that even to this day, the AIADMK and Jayalalitha show deep veneration for Cho Ramasamy. Even the BJP, in its attempt to meet him while he was hospitalized, seeks to understand the strategic steps behind Jayalalitha's political prowess.

From grassroots activism to the heights of political power, Jayalalitha's journey is a testament to her untapped potential, the pivotal role of a charismatic leader, and the importance of strategic leadership in shaping political landscapes. Her rise to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu is a story of talent, hard work, and the power of political training.