# Introduction r.MGR belonged to a majestic family. His father Shri. Maruthur Gopala Menon was a district magistrate in Thrishoor, Kerala. Shri. Maruthur Gopalan was an honest judge and gave verdict on the merit of the case that had affected his own relatives. This had resulted in rift within the family circle, and Maruthur Gopala Menon decided to move to Srilanka in 1913. Ramu Pillai and Velupillai supported MGR's father to settle in Kandi of Srilanka (1). Marudur Gopala Menon was initially employed as an English teacher in a College and later entered in to the judicial service of Sri Lanka as the District Judge of Kandi (2). Unfortunately, due to freaks of fate, Marudhur Gopala Menon passed away in 1920 when MGR was only three years old. Though, Maruthoor Gopala Menon possessed huge land space and was also known as Jamindar in Kerala, Dr.MGR's family could not enjoy the benefit of the property, due to a strange law that had prevailed in Kerala, at that time which was known as "Marumakkathai". That entails the property of the D diseased would go to his son-in-law. Thus neither MGR nor M.G. Chakrapani or his beloved mother Smt. Satyabhama could enjoy the property. This strange law was repealed when EMS Namboodri became the Chief Minister of Kerala. Had the above law was not in force, in Kerala, at the time of demise of Dr. MGR's father, MGR's family would not have moved to Tamil Nadu and MGR would not have become a Cine star and then entered in to the nation's politics exclaims Mr.KP Ramakrishnan (3). After the demise of MGR's father, mother Satyabhama decided to move to Kumbakonam of Tamil Nadu where the maternal uncle of Dr. MGR (Mr.Narayanan) lived. Dr.MGR and Chakrapani were admitted to the school at Kumbakonan (Anaiyadi School). When Dr.MGR, became the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu the then Speaker of Tamil Nadu, Munu Aathi visited and dedicated the photo album of Dr.MGR to this School. Dr.MGR also visited the school on 30 th October 1977 and verified the enrolment register. The school register shwed that MGR joined on 7.12.1922 and left the school on 27. 7.1925. When the former congress MLA Thiru Kasi Raman wanted the school to be named after MGR, it was not agreed by MGR. Dr.MGR could continue only up to third standard. Due to poverty, he had to leave his study. During the school days, MGR acted as Lava in a drama known as Lava Kusa, which was his first drama and first role quotes S. Vijayan (4). Admiring, the acting skills of MGR, his uncle, who was then working with the Madurai Original Boys Company, made MGR and his brother to join the company. Mother Satyabhama was unhappy as she could not afford education to her children, and with heavy heart she allowed her children to take up a profession very early in their life. In the beginning, MGR's salary was four and half rupees per week. MGR met comedy actor Kali, N. Ratinam and PU Chinnappa in this troop. After joining the drama troop MGR acted in the drama "Mahabaratha" and his character was Abimanyu. MGR acted more than 30 dramas upto the age of 15 years quotes S. Vijayan (pp 3). # II. # Religious Traits of Mgr During the early age, MGR had deep devotion to Lord Muruga. MGR used to go along with Muthswamy to Chamundeeswari Temple in Mysore quotes S. . MGR was also a devotee to Annai Moogambigai. He had visited this temple (in Kollur) in 1976 and also presented a golden sword to this temple. Even today this sword will be placed near to the Devi's sacred Statue at the time of evening puja. MGR visited this temple again on 14.1.1987. This time MGR, not only gave gifts to the Priests (Archakaas) and the temple workers but having heard that the temple is providing free meals to the devotees (Anna Dhanam), MGR donated a sum of Rs.1.40 lakhs in his mother (Smt.Satyabhama's) name for this activity (quotes Mr.Vijayan, in the above book). MGR admired Lord Bhudha, Christ Jesus and Mahatma Gandhi. In his worship room, MGR kept his beloved mother's photo and beneath it, a couplet from Thirukkural "endra pozhuthin perithuvakkam tan maganai sandron ena ketta tai.)" has been written (i.e.)The joy that arise out of hearing her son called as a righteous person is greater than the pain laboured by her at the time of birth of the child). # a) MGR's Ordeal, From Drama to Films When MGR was acting in stage dramas, in Madurai Original Boys Company, he came to know that someone is going to convert the drama "Pathi Bakthi" to a movie, because of this drama has become very popular and successfully run for several weeks. This news annoyed MGR, as he thought, if the company converts every drama in to a movie, his survival in the field of drama, will pale in to insignificance. While thoughts like this chased the mind of this great man, he happened to meet Sri. M.K. Radha and his father Shri. Kandasamy Mudaliar. They asked MGR what he was doing. MGR said, that his company is pondering over with the idea of producing movies, and he and his brother Mr.Chakrapani, was expecting a chance may be given to them if the company determines to convert the drama in to a movie. Mr. M.K. Radha, asked MGR whether he is willing to act in movies, if good role is given? He also told, MGR that his owner was contemplating to produce a movie, Sathi-Leelavathi, and he is going to write the screen play. Elis R Donkan, an American, is going to direct the movie and asked if a role of an investigator is offered will MGR accept the same. MGR was surprised, by the unexpected opportunity. MGR and his brother, was called for a meeting with Mr. Marudhachalam Chettiar, necessary agreement was signed, and they received an advance of Rs.100/-. They had never seen a hundred rupee note, in their life. MGR asked his brother (Chakrapani) whether the currency is original. Chakrapani replied, that he too was not sure, as he had never seen, a hundred rupee note. MGR and his brother gave the money to their beloved mother Satya Bhama. MGR could not sleep, in the night, as he could visualize many hundred rupee notes spreading all over his room. The very next day, MGR woke up early in the morning, and was preparing himself, to go to the company, to meet his friends, and tell them the happy news. However, mother Satyabhama, advised MGR, not to reveal the news for some time. MGR was shocked and restrained himself. Next day, Mr. M.V. Mani Iyer who happened to know MGR, visited the company, and revealed the fact, that he is going to act, in a movie called Sathi Leelavathi and the role given to him was an investigator. This news rattled MGR, and it had become evident, that he will not get the role of investigator, any more. Few days later, MGR met Mr. M.V. Mani at Arakonam. This is the place where the drama, Sathileelavathi was staged. MGR politely asked him, whether he will get the role of the investigator, in the movie, or someone else had already been fixed for this role. Mr. Mani promised that he will get some other better role for MGR in the movie. MGR was happy. But this role was also gone to Mr. Nammalwar, due to some other compulsion, and finally they assigned the role of an Inspector to MGR in the movie Sathileelavathi. # b) Mother Satyabhama's Advice to MGR: MGR broke this news to Mother Satya Bhama, she in turn said the following: (in the words of Mother Satya Bhama in Tamil language): poda rombathan latchanam, vanam edinthu vizha pokuthunnu. Mottayile Boomiyai taduttuniruta yaravathu muyarchi seivargala. Muttayum Booyim kitta tatta ore vadivam thanda. Athai pola thane namum nam nilamayile ithai ellam yeppadi thadukka mudium. Nadakkirathu nadanthe theerum athukkaga yekka pattu kanneer vital mudivu maridava pogum. Boy's companiel irunthum pala perrukku enta vedam kooda kidaikkula vunakko intha vedam kidaichirukke santhoshapadu). # i. English Translation Go oh my boy! Will the sky tumble down! Can you stop the sky that tumble's down with the help of an egg. The shape of the egg and earth are the same. Our situation is also similar, how can we stop such things. Whatever is ordained, will happen. By fuming and shedding tears will there be any change in the situation. There are several, who work along with you in Boy's Company none of them got a chance like you realize this truth, and be happy. # MGR's father Melakath Gopala Menon and his mother Mukhil Marathur Sathyabhamma Such sane advice of contentment made Dr.MGR wiser to face any adverse situation. # c) MGR avoids the role of Inspector in future movies In course of time, many chances to act as inspector, in various other movies came, but MGR did not accept, as he feared, that he will be sealed, with the role of an inspector for ever. On the other hand, he acted in small roles in movies like Iru-Sagothirargal (two brothers), Maya Machindra, Prahaladan, Ashokumar, Sitha Jananam, Tamilarium Perumal, Dasipen and proved his acting skills. Later, he was offered a chance to act as a hero in the movie "Chaya" but production of the movie was dropped. # d) MGR Staged Drama even after becoming Popular in Movies MGR also staged dramas, by the drama troop owned by him, after the movies for few years, at various places in Tamil Nadu. There were about 30 men and 8 women in his troop. His drama Inbakkanavu and Advocate Amaran were very popular at that time. When G.Muthuswamy came to see the drama Inbakkanavu, MGR requested him to convert the drama to a cinema, it was agreed, and the movie was produced in the name of "MGR Movies" along with Ramaswamy Iyer of Singapore but it was not released. Later, in his life MGR bought a piece of land at Vadapalani (part of Chennai), and provided all the sports equipment, for the actors to take proper physical practise, and met all the expenses by himself. Lady associate actress also took part. Those who are interested in dance, MGR identified a separate place for them to train. One of the actresses C.I.D. Sagunthala hailed from this training centre. She had not only performed dance in Nadodi Mannan, but also become a heroine later, quotes S.Vijayan (pp 171-172). Thus for nearly nine years, MGR had to struggle before, he actually got a chance to act as an hero in the film Rajakumari, released by Jupiter Pictures. Rajakumari was released in the year 1947, and much to the surprise of Mohideen, it turned out to be a big success! The profits were huge. MGR arrived as a hero, and it was the beginning of an astonishingly successful career, which would be discussed for years to come, exclaimed the leading English News Paper The Hindu (5). Later, A.S.A. Samy's Marmayogi (Robin hoodlike adventure) set the formula for MGR films, where he bashed up the villains and saved the heroine. The trend of the solo entry song, for the hero, started with MGR in his film Malai Kallan, where he appears singing 'Ethanai kaalam thaan aemaatruvar indha naatiley' (How long did politicians try to cheat people). Thereafter, MGR acted in the films called Iru-Sakothirargal (two brothers), Dakshakjam, Veera Jagadeesh, Maya Machindra, Prahaladhan, Ashokumar, Seetha Jananam, Dasipen, Harichandra, Paithiyakaran, Meera, Salivahanan, Sri.Murugan in small roles. The period witnessed, so to say, the transformation of a matinee idol becoming a demi-God, for his fans, and MGR joined the political party, Dravida Munnetra Kalagam (DMK) in 1953 owing to the influence of C.N.Annadurai (6). Jupiter Films, a significant film production company from Coimbatore that made path-breaking films, such as Menaka and Velaikkari, which dealt with social issues, such as widow re-marriage and women empowerment. They set new trends at a time when mythological films ruled the roost of film industry. They replaced songs (sometimes going up to a 100 in one film) with dialogues in chaste Tamil, and reached the common man. Velaikkari is an adapted C.N. Annadurai's play. It marked Arignar Anna's debut in films as a writer, and it is such films that later played a role in strengthening the Dravidian political movement. The film created the trend of the concept of "Robin Hood" and inspired various films like Neelamalai Thirudan (1957), Malaiyoor Mambattiyan (1983), Gentleman (1993) and Sivaji (2007) (7). The film, Malaikallan also created the trend of introduction songs, for the lead actors, and bags the National Film Award for the Best Feature Film in Tamil -President's Silver Medal in 1954 at the 2 nd National Film Award (8). MGR used to take part, in stunt scenes with full involvement even at shots considered to be risky. I could not see, any other actor, who had taken such risks, acting in stunt scenes other than MGR -quotes S.Vijayan (pp 102). It is not an exaggeration to record here, that respect for fighting scene came in to existence in Tamil cinema because of MGRs stunts. I have never seen a person like MGR, who had total control over food. MGR used to take food, prepared at his home only, and used to drink only zerraga (a kind of medicinal herb) water. I wonder, how MGR got this dreadful disease, that had taken away his life, exclaims Mr.Nagarajarao, quotes S.Vijayan (pp 109). # i. Forced Marriage MGR got married to Thangamani. This marriage took place forcibly, arranged by mother Satyabhama, at that time when MGR was participating in a shooting at Pune. Mother Satyabhama sent a telegram to MGR, that she was bed ridden, and MGR had to rush to Chennai. Mother Satyabhama then asked MGR to marry Thangamani. MGR had to heed to his mother's advice though hesitatingly. This marriage bond did not last long, as Thangamani died within two years after the marriage at Pallakad. MGR could not reach Palakkad in time and the family of Thangamani decided to bury her according to their custom. MGR could reach Palakkad only after three days. This incident had a huge mark in MGR's mind and his mother made MGR to marry Sathananthavathi to come out of the mental worries. The marriage took place on 16 th of Aani (June) 1942. Sathananthavathi belong to a very rich family, her parents owned 100 acres of fertile land in Pallakad. Sathananthavathi had to stay along with her parents nearly for 10 months. MGR hired a house at No.147, Waltax Road for rent of Rs.25/-per month and brought Sathananthavathi to Chennai. Sathananthavathi was suffering from lung disease and MGR had to spend considerable money for the treatment. This was followed by a tumour in stomach. MGR then moved to Adyar in 1947, where he hired a house for rent of Rs.170/per month, and MGR's beloved mother Satyabama passed away in 1950. The demise of mother Satyabhama also had a deep mark in MGR's mind and he had a feeling that he could not make his mother to live in his own house, with minimum comfort. MGR looked after his ailing wife and gave regular medical treatment, but Satanandavadi died on 25.2.1962. MGR observed mounam (silence) on every 25 th of February throughout his life. In memory of Satanandavadi, MGR constructed a memorial house, at her birth place and he himself designed the house. MGR also made his brother-in-law Narayanan to marry the relative of Satanandavadi to continue the relationship. After the success of his film, Nadodi Mannan and after participating its grand celebration at Madurai, MGR went to Satanandavadi's native place and named the memorial house as "Chandranantha Nilayam". MGR met Smt.Janaki in the film "Maruthanattu Ilavarasi" and they have become friends for life thereafter. ii. Buy's a house MGR bought a house in Loyd's Road for Rs.40,000/and lived along with his brother Chakrapani. Then MGR bought Ramavaram Garden from Krishna Pictures Lena Chettiyar, however, he did not moved there and continued to live in Lloyd's Road. iii. # MGR -Anna's Idayakkani Many were anxiously expecting that the fruit that was hanging on the tree would fall on their lap. Fortunately it fell on my lap and I kept it in my heart. That heart's fruit is MGR! Exclaimed Perangar Anna. (8a) The attitude of charity displayed by MGR (few incidents): Na. Muthulingam states that Dr.MGR adviced him to do charity: (in the words of Dr.MGR): When I was acting in small roles at the beginning of my career, if I get Rs.10/-I used to spend Rs.2/towards charity; if I get Rs.100/-I used to pay Rs.10/towards charity. Similarly when you grow bigger, you should also do charity to the society. Taking this sane advice, I also used to help people around me. Likewise, if people leave aggrandizement and cultivate the attitude of charity, the great evil (corruptive practice) that threatens the society can be weeded out and the money supposed to be spent for the developmental activities will certainly serve its purpose, and the poor will be better off states Muthulingam (9). Actor Rajesh, says "In 1962 elections MGR threw a open challenge with the Congress leaders that "he will write a WILL OF TESTAMENT that after his demise, all his properties would go towards the poor and orphans" can the congress leader would do the same? (10). MGR was always the first, to personally offer relief in disasters and calamities like fire, flood, drought, and cyclones. Similarly , when the former Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru sought liberal donations from the philanthropist through All India Radio to help the war veterans of China war in 1962, MGR was the first donor from Tamil Nadu during announced a donation Rs.75,000. Immediately met the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Perunthalaivar Karmaveerar Kamaraj at the Egmore Railway station (who was about to leave Chennai) and handed over Rs.25,000/-cash. This was acknowledged by the former Prime Minister late Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru by writing to him (11): # Dr.MGR -Karmaveerar Kamaraj Letter of Prime MinisterPandit Jawaharlal Nehru e) In the words of Shankar Rao (Assistant Photographer) During the suiting of the movie "Ninaitatai Mudippavan" (achiever of whatever has been thought) I was standing and holding my camera with unbearable stomach pain. MGR noticed it. During the lunch interval, MGR asked his personal doctor Dr.P.R.S. to make a thorough check-up. After the medical check-up, MGR called me and said, Shankar the operation is fixed day after tomorrow! I was astonished and do not understand the reason for the operation. Then MGR told me that I am suffering from hernia -it is at the beginning stage, however, doctor advises to go for operation at the earliest. I told him that I would undergo the operation next month. Why do you postpone it to next month, anyway you have to undergo surgery, go and admit tomorrow, and I have already spoken to your uncle about it -MGR said. I was admitted to a private hospital nearby Dasaprakash hotel. MGR visited the hospital the next day at 6.30 A.M. along with Director Pa Neelakandan and actor Asokan. MGR asked the Doctor whether he can stay inside the operation theatre and watch the operation, the doctor agreed. After successful completion of the operation, MGR went away. Three days after the operation, we went to the cash counter to pay the bill; we were informed that the bill was already settled by MGR pictures. I was only an Assistant Photographer and I have no important role to play with MGR's film activities, still MGR helped me which I can never forget in my life says Sankar Rao (12). # III. In the Words of Major Sundarrajan Actor Nagesh was acting along with me in the dramas'. He had to receive an award at the Corporation stadium of Chennai, and I accompanied Nagesh. Makkal Thilagam MGR also took part in the function. Once MGR brought Balachander to watch our drama i.e. Major Chandrakanth, so that he can write a story for one of MGR's movie. It seems MGR watched me acting in the drama. When I met MGR in the above function, he recognized me, and dropped me at my house. I was residing in a small house at Triplicane. The street was so narrow the car cannot take a turn within the street. I requested MGR to drop me at the entrance of the street but he insisted the driver to go to my residence. When he came to my house, he gladly accepted a cup of butter milk offered to him; while he was leaving he gave the badge given to him by the organizer. He wrote in his own hand writing "long-live" (13). It was during Anbeva (Come Dear) film suiting that had to take place in AVM studio at Chennai, MGR went to inspect the set, that was built for the proposed suiting. MGR saw an old man was sticking the floor stickers. MGR went near to the old manand embraced him with full of tears in his eyes. The people around were bewildered, and to their surprise, MGR told them that this old man was the hero in dramas where I was acting in small roles. Time had changed and this gentleman is suffering now. He then he took the old man to his dressing room. After enquiring about his family, MGR gave a huge sum of money that made the old man to come out of his difficulties. A Producer-cum-Director used to scold MGR invariably and treated MGR as his enemy for no fault of MGR. A very famous actress (Madam Sarojadevi) who had co-acted with MGR in number of films, used to appeal to this Director, not to treat MGR like that but he refused to do so. When this Director went abroad, his son fell down from the stair case and broke his hand at his residence at Chennai. At that time, MGR was in a suiting spot at Satya Studio, Chennai. MGR stopped the suiting, and resulted to the place where the boy fell down. Took the boy to the hospital and made all arrangements to give him the best treatment. The director came back to Chennai next day. He directly went to MGRs residence and fell at his feet (14) The Tamil magazine (Tamil Cinema) not only used to denounce the activities of MGR, it also made malicious and wild allegations against him. However, MGR never used to react to it, nor did he gave any rebuttal, though of course the fans and the followers of MGR reacted to such careless criticisms made by the magazine. In course of time, this company ran into bankruptcy, and lost its identity in the market. The owner had suddenly become penniless. At the same time, the marriage proposal of his son had to take place. This man went from post to pillar to get financial help but in vain. Some of his friends, asked him to contact MGR for succour. This man finally decided to meet MGR at his Ramavaram bungalow. The security officers who knew about this man, refused entry and this man stood outside the gate. MGR came to know about this and asked his secretary to bring the person. The man was brought to the presence of MGR. The person was asked to dine along with MGR. MGR then enquired about his welfare and the purpose for which he wanted to meet him. Upon hearing the financial crisis, MGR gave money that was more than sufficient to perform the marriage. The well-wishers of MGR got angry and said that "you should not have helped this man who have been denouncing you, from time to time and tried to show you in poor light". MGR replied, all that you say it is true but he had come to my residence, think of the mental agony that he would have undergone by standing outside my house -that itself is sufficient. I am the follower of Peraringar Anna's ideology Marappom Mannipom (forget and forgive) (15). The quality displayed by MGR proves the point that he controlled his ego that made him to forgive the sins of the defaulter. This incident also reminds us the wonderful MGR film song in the Movie Dharmam Thalai # Kakkum -(year 1963) and establishes the fact that MGR translated his life experience in to film songs The Charity one gives will save him, at times it will save his life as well. Even though act of sabotage done cunningly by those who are closely associating with a righteous person The noble deeds performed by him will save him. Even mountain big problems would recede as mountain dews Those who made our life miserable will be made to come to our door steps with their head down cast. The following information about an old lady from Dindivanam of Tamil Nadu, who wanted to help Dr.MGR to get out of his financial problem to pay income tax, reflects the love and affection the common man had towards MGR: It was during the period when MGR started his own political party, the AIADMK in 1972. News spread in the print media, that MGR had to pay a huge sum of money towards income tax, and the income tax department served notice on him. Those people, who are the fans of MGR, wrote several letters to MGR, that they can contribute their might in order to reduce his burden. Fans wanted MGR's permission to raise funds through his fan clubs. They said that even if they raise Rs.500/-per club, it will reach Rs.80.00 lakhs. Even if they could raise 50% of the target amount, MGR will be able to pay the income tax due. MGR was not willing to entertain such an idea, as he never wanted his fans and their families to suffer for him. One teacher from Dindivanam by name Sheriff wrote two letters to MGR. This letter dated 10.3.1972 states that I pay my obeisance to our beloved deity, who is residing in the hearts of crores and crores of his fans. I am working as a Teacher in Dindivanam, I feel very sad to note your income tax problem. We at home had decided to sell our only house, that will fetch Rs.40,000/-and submit the amount at your blessed feet. It is the desire of our blessed mother, and my mother is willing to dedicate her life for your welfare. MGR was taken aback on reading the letter, and requested his secretary to give a telegram to the family to stop selling their house. After receiving the telegram, Sheriff again wrote a letter on 7.4.1972 expressing their determination to sell the property and dedicate it, as a humble offering to their deity (MGR). Though MGR refused the offer, however, he was elated and exclaimed that it is true that I lost my mother but she had appeared in the form of an old lady, and therefore I am not an orphan. MGR became the Chief Minister in 1977. Upon hearing that this old lady was seriously ill, MGR went to her house and sat by her side. He gave huge sums of money to her, but the lady refused to accept and told MGR that I saw you in person that is enough; I will die a peaceful death. MGR consoled her and asked her to accept the money. After a year this old woman passed away and MGR attended her funeral too (16). This real incident makes us to remember a very popular MGR song from the movie Pudiya Boomi (1968) Written by Poovai Senkuttuvan Sung by Sri T.M. Soundararajan, Music Director: M.S. Viswanathan. Translation of the song in English: I am a son belong to your house and this fact is known to everyone! The path I undertake is that of Peraringer Anna's The lesson on the Change that is required from time to time is required here If the heart is considered as the rose (flower) thereby the thoughts will smell sweet Where there is heart there arise eternal-love that alone will rule me Temple that shows the tower (gopuram i.e. imperishable gateway) that leads to God Similarly if there is mind that should excel with good attitude If one lives without forgetting these ideologies will raise like the Gopuram There is a share that certainly exist for you and me in the world The world will prosper through the hard work of every labourer If one accepts whatever that happens in one's life then his bravery lone will stand by his side and guide him. That earth which is led by the youth alone is called the new earth My service is that of alleviating hardship of poor's and the depressed # a) Interpretation or meaning of the song The hero of the song portrays that he belongs to everyone in the society as their son. A very noble thought that sees the rich and the poor as equal. This song assumes heart as flower rose; and therebythe thoughts that arise would smell sweet. Sane advice was given in this song to cultivate the mind in goodness, wherein eternal-love would spring. The mind of the youth in the society should become like a temple tower giving equal opportunity for others to grow. The youth should inculcate the attitude of goodness to transform the earth into a new earth so that only goodness prevails. The above quality of charity and forgiveness displayed by Dr.MGR can be compared with the virtue contemplated by the great Thiruvalluvar in his work Thirukkural. The meaning of Righteousness in Tamil is "Dharma" or "Aram", in other words dharma or aram is synonymous to each other. In English also the words such as charity, philanthropy reflect the same meaning. It is very important to understand the inner meaning of the word Aram/dharma (Charity/Philanthropy or Virtue/ Righteousness as indicated by Thirukkural. People may casually read these words and come to a conclusion that it is all about Goodness. But philosophy goes beyond the mundane understanding, and explainswhat is right and what is wrong; and what constitute morality. It is important to understand the inner meaning of the word Virtue or Righteousness from the great work of Thiruvalluvar. Chapter 3 entitled Aran Valiyuruthal (emphasize of Virtue) gives a wonderful explanation to the concept of Aram/dharma. These immortal couplets are discussed hereunder: 35. Jealousy, aggrandizement, Anger, Ill-conceived words devoid of these four perpetually is righteousness. Meaning: Avoiding jealousy, aggrandizement, anger, illconceived words for ever should be known as virtue or righteousness. Thiruvalluvar wrote this couplet in such a way that if one avoids the first attitude, i.e. jealousy; the rest of the three attitudes will not recur. For example, if one has jealousy towards a particular thing, he will have an inward urge to attain it. When the urge becomes predominant, he would treacherously device various methods to attain it by any means. If he fails to achieve it, he will develop fury against those who stood between the object and his attainment. Anger would prevail and it may lead to open fighting to the extent of destroying each other.If one has to analyze the root cause, of this misery, it will come to light that it is because one is envious and jealous about a particular thing that had caused the chain reactions. If the tendency of jealousy, would have been controlled this suffering would have been prevented. Thiruvalluvar rightly caution's not to give room for jealousy as this attitude is a disease that spoils the reasoning power and leads one to commit sin (17) After explaining the concept of righteousness, Thiruvalluvar emphasizes the importance of practicing it without any delay. He emphatically states that if one practices virtue without hesitation that will stand by him un-destructively (as a shadow) at the time of his death. That means, the virtue one practices in this life will follow as a shadow to give him ocean of goodness in his next life. Couplet 38 is very important wherein it says, "If one practice virtue consistently without compromise, it will pave the way for the state of birthless-ness. Thiruvalluvar beautifully brings home the immortal concept of deathlessness in this couplet. When a man attains the state of deathlessness there is no re-birth, and he attains the state of emancipation (i.e. the highest state of religious pursuit). Therefore, it should be understood that one has to practice virtue to attain the state of emancipation. An aimless virtue that is practiced for publicity should be considered as void. In the couplet 39 Thiruvalluvar brings home the objective of practice of virtue. The happiness derived from the practice of virtue alone is true happiness, rest of the mundane attainment, will not result in happiness nor does it bring fame. Therefore a person has to necessarily practice virtue that alone should be considered as his duty in life. By all means he should guard himself from earning bad name concludes the 40 th couplet. It is not an overstatement when Thiruvalluvar gracefully states in the 31 st couplet that "virtue brings greatness, wealth and therefore nothing is greater than practicing virtue to a living being. Finally he concludes that one should be flawless and truthful to himself that is virtue other prideful behavior will only result in exaggeration. Thus in the ten couplets Thiruvalluvar with his timeless wisdom not only explains the objective and scope of practicing virtue but also enunciates the goal of practicing virtue.From the various example indicated above one can find that Dr.MGR practiced this virtue and thereby not only purified his heart but also purified the pages of political history of Tamil Nadu. # b) NT Rama Rao took MGR's advice NT Rama Rao was known as MGR in Andhra and was called as Andra MGR. He was a great friend of MGR. When he wanted to float his party, NTR met MGR in Ramavara garden. MGR asked NTR what was the name of his party; NTR said "Telegu Rajyam" but MGR asked him to change it to Telegu Desam. Thus the political party Telugu Desam emerged from Ramavara garden (pp 25-26). # c) MGR's Birth day Known to the Public only on 17.1.1978 To the public MGR's birth day was known only when an advertisement flashed in the Daily Thanthi on 17.1.1978. This advertisement was released by Shri. V.M.Paramasiva Mudaliar who was the owner of the oldest theatre known as Sri Murugan Takies. The advertisement contained the inscription asfollows : (18) Tamil Transliteration: When the Van reached Samayanallur we were stopped by a huge crowd asking MGR to hoist the party flag there. MGR agreed and hoisted the flagfrom the van itself. Thereafter, he showed his V-fingers. That was the first occasion when MGR showed his third and fourth finger in a V-shape folding rest of his fingers (19). # e) Flood of People on the rail route After launching the AIADMK party, MGR visited Madurai in 1973. MGR travelled in Pandian Express and scheduled to meet the then Prime Minister Smt.Indira Gandhi. People who came to know that MGR's arrival, assembled in large numbers and the train had to move slowly like an auto rickshaw from Trichy to Madurai. The Pandian express that was supposed to reach at 7.00 A.M. reached Madurai by 5.00 p.m. MGR wanted to get down at Kodai Road and travel by Car; but the station master approached him and requested him not to get down, since people are waiting on both sides and it will be very difficult to run the train without MGR S.S. Ramakrishnan. Now a day, political leader comes out in public only with Black Cats carrying AK 47 guns in their hands. # Photo PP-2 f) MGR -an incarnation "par-apart" (thanipiravi) It was during the generalelection days, this time we planned to go to Coimbatore in the Van. As usual, MGR used to address huge gatherings, then at places he used to hoist the party flags. The van was running fast and crossed the city. Still MGR was standing on the open terrace of the van; KAK asked him to sit and take rest for few as there will be no villages for nearly MGR said is fine; am by standing breeze comes from corners. After some time, MGR wanted the driver to stop the Van. I and KAK got down from the van and found that few old women(who were working in the paddy field) came running to see MGR. Those women who came near to MGR said "it is our fortune that we have seen you in person and blessed him to live long". MGR got down from the van and spoke to them very affectionately. MGR then went to the house of a party cadet who had died when he came to attend the election campaign. MGR directly went into the thatched house of the party worker, and placed a garland on the photo and marked his respect. The mother of the party worker (an old lady) came and hugged MGR and cried. MGR too cried along with her, and assured all the necessary help will be given to the family. I shudder to think that any old lady could move so closely to any political leader because of such attitude. I have no doubt to call MGR as an incarnation par apart writes S.S.Ramakrishnan (pp 87). # g) S.S.Ramakrishnan recalls another incident It was in the same election campaign, MGR stayed in Hotel Alankar in Coimbatore, from there he used to go round Coimbatore for the campaign, and returned to the hotel in the night. Noting this, people used to gather, in large numbers, at the hotel, during morning and evening hours. When MGR travelled in the open van, people from the roof top used to pour flowers. It so happened that dust particle fell in MGRs eyes and that had irritated his eyes, and resulted in cancelling the campaign for the day. Suddenly there was a power failure in the hotel. As the news spread people gathered outside the hotel, and the news went to MGR. MGR decided to address the people, but it was resisted by the party functionaries. However, MGR came out and addressed -it was rumours spread by the opposite parties. Now that you have seen me alright; please go back to your house safely, and I shall meet you all tomorrow in the campaign. When the election campaign came to an end, we were about to depart, I requested MGR to stand with me for a photograph leaving the focussed camera to my friend writer Anandan. MGR agreed to stand along with me, Anandan took a snap. MGR was not satisfied with the take, he said you are an experienced writer but an amateur to the field of photography; you should take another snap. When I developed the film, I found that the first snap showed only half what was focussed, the second snap alone showed full figures. I realized the instruction of MGR to take the second snap and it proved to me what a genius craftsman MGR was in photography S.S.Ramakrishnan (pp 96). IV. Mgr Behaved Like an Ordinary Person Among the Common man a) In the words of Mr.S.S.Ramakrishnan. It was during the initial stage of formation of AIADMK, MGR planned to tour Madurai and stayed in Pandian Hotel. MGR went to Avaniyapuram and addressed the gathering. The crowd was huge. Many ladies including aged women were waiting to see MGR with children in their hands. Noticing this, MGR came towards the ladies and exchanged words with him. They wanted MGR to name their children\, and it was done. One very old lady pushed the police personnel and approached MGR. MG Rrushed to her and asked about her welfare. She told the difficulties faced by her, and MGR immediately asked Kalimuthu to help the lady. MGR decided to return to the hotel for the day. When the lift of the hotel was about to move, the operator of the lift suddenly caught the hands of MGR, and wanted to take a photograph. MGR did not show any interest, rather starred at him, and went to his room. This had created commotion. Next day afternoon, MGR had to leave Madurai by flight. He called Pattu Rajan to find out the flight timings, and asked the room boy to call the lift operators of the hotel. All the lift operators came to MGRs room;MGR asked who wanted to take photograph along with him. The poor man replied, kindly forgive me Sir. MGR asked him to come near to him for a photograph and asked me to take a snap. It was watched by other photographers who thought they were left out; realizing their intention MGR wanted all of them to join him for a photograph, and asked me to take a snap. Thus MGR moved so closely with his party workers, and ordinary workers, wherever he want and earned a name for himself and I shudder to think any other person who had behaved as ordinary as MGR exclaims Mr.S.S.Ramakrishnan. # b) No deviation in the traffic When he was the Chief Minister, MGR used to go to the Secretariat from his Ramavaram residence only by his own Ambassador Car TMX 4777. There will be a car piloted by the Police Officials, and there will be only two cars coming closely behind MGR's car. There will be no change in the routine traffic. No one will be required to stop their vehicles so that MGR's car passes them. It so happened that one day when MGR car crossed Teynampet signal, an Auto rammed into MGR's car. The Police were annoyed, and the auto driver came crying to MGR, that it was break failure, that had caused this damage. MGR pacified the auto driver, but also Rs.1500/-, asked him to repair his Auto, and advised him to be careful in the traffic, K.P. Ramakrishnan in his book (PP 41). # c) MGR visited ailing Kakkan MGR went to Madurai to celebrate May Day in 1980, and went to see Muthu who was admitted in the Government Hospital. When he was about to return, Kalimuthu and Balaguruva Reddiyar informed MGR, that congress leader Kakkan was also admitted in the hospital. MGR went straight in to his room and asked him "What do you want me to do" Kakkan replied: Your affection itself is enough MGR then asked whether he can request hospital authorities to change him to a special ward, but Kakkan refused. When he was about to leave, MGR again requested Kakkan to ask him for any help, S.S. # Ramakrishnan (pp.48). Brings Krishna Water: In the words of Shri. H.V .Hande When Sri.NT Rama Rao was the Chief Minister of Andrapradesh, MGR invited him for a morning breakfast at his Ramavaram residence. Since, I knew how to speak Telugu, MGR asked me to go to the Airport to receive NTR. I went to the Airport and received him. When we reached MGRs house, I witnessed the Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu standing at the entrance and welcomed; MGR himself garlanded NTR. As they are all good friends already, NTR asked MGR why all these formalities Annagaru! Please tell me what am I supposed to do? MGR then opened the subject matter of Krishna water to Tamil Nadu -to everyone's surprise NTR immediately agreed without even consulting his ministers or the Secretaries. Can any event, would have taken place, like this, in the history of any political affairs exclaims Shri.H.V.Hande former Minister in MGR's cabinet (20). # i. Brings Cauvery Water In one peculiar instance of Cauvery Row in the 1980's, MGR was the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu while Ramakrishna Hegde was Karnataka's Chief Minister. As usual, Karnataka refused to release water to Tamil Nadu. MGR, suddenly went to Bangalore and landed right in front of Hegde's house. Hegde was astonished by MGR's sudden visit. Hegde invited MGR for breakfast and during the course, MGR got hiccups and Hegde immediately offered him water. A clever MGR said to Hegde: "My people in Tamil Nadu too are having hiccups. Will you provide water to them? " A stunned Hegde, applauded the MGR's wit and released water to Tamil Nadu. Newspapers flashed the news "Karnataka releases Cauvery water to Tamilnadu". That was a friendly effort of Dr.MGR in the 1980's. ii. MGR fell's ill: It is unfortunate that MGR fell ill on 6 th October 1984 and admitted in Apollo Hospital and on 16 th October 1984 Smt.Indira Gandhi who was the Prime Minister of India visited MGR at Apollo Hospital and made special arrangements to air life MGR to Brooklyn Hospital, USA. # Dr.M.G.Ramachandran & Former Prime Minister of India Late Smt.Indira Gandhi # iii. Return of MGR in 1985 The entire Tamil Nadu world was awaiting the appearance of MGR, after his treatment from America, on 4 th February 1985. A huge stage was arranged at the army ground at St. Thomas Mount. The crowd was numerous and it looked like the famous function of Madurai where Azagar travels from the Azhagar Temple to Vaigai. It was 7.00 A.M. The general public showed sign of joy, on seeing the aircraft flying in the air to be landed at the airport. Few minutes after MGR arrived in his car 4747. The stage was arranged so that MGR's Car can be driven on to the stage itself. But MGR stopped the car and rushed to the stage at his usual style of raising his hands. It was a pleasant surprise to everyone, more so to his critics exclaims S.S.Ramakrishnan (pp 70). It is quite appropriate here to quote what was said by Puratchi Thalaivi Dr.J.Jayalalitha, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu: We hear stories about the war between Devas and Asuras, in the heaven in the Puranas. Thereby the winners and losers will also differ. The Asuras (demons) were complaining everywhere, that Lord Brahma was favouring the devas by offering to them; thereby they attained the state of deathless. Hearing this complaint, Brahma called the demons and offered cup of elixir to each demon, with a situation, that they should consume the elixir without bending their elbow. The demons tried their level best; but, could not succeed. Finally Brahma called the Devas, and gave the elixir to each of them and stipulated the same condition. The devas thought while, and one sat in of the feed the elixir to the other deva who was sitting exactly opposite, thus all the devas consumed the elixir. This may be a story but there is an undisputed fact behind it (i.e. "if you wish to give it to others, you will certainly get it") this is real socialism. Bharat Ratna Dr.MGR followed the policy of giving it to others and stands tall in the annals of history of philanthropy in Tamil Nadu. Puratchi Thalaivi Dr.J.Jayalalitha further states (in her own words about MGR) (21) People enjoy happiness by praising MGR as Ponmana Chemmal, Puratchi Thalaivar; Makkal Thilagam, Idayakkani. The three syllables MGR itself is a mantra. These three syllables give us mental strength when we think about it; and when we chant, it gives courage. In the film industry and in politics, it is our leader Puratchi Thalaivar who planted the victory flag. We can see great people in the history of every country, who work for the upliftment of the poor and oppressed day in and out. MGR is not only equivalent to such leaders of the world, but has qualities beyond these great leaders. When we think of such historical leader, who has been gifted to us by God himself, we are elated with tears of joy in our eyes. He stood as the heart's fruit (Idayakkani) of Peraringer Anna, who was responsible for the growth of DMK and stood as its root and nourishment. The pride goes to Puratchi Thalaivar MGR, who worked day in and out to alight DMK Party to the throne to rule Tamil Nadu. To establish equity and justice in the society, to provide education to all; to provide mid-day meal to every school going children; to provide justice to the down trodden and deprived people; to weed out corruptive practice in the society; to drive out bad elements from the society; and to establish peoples rule thereby enabling the benefits of the development activities to reach the unreached and to attain these through peaceful mean devoid of violence MGR entered in to politics. In politics and in administration the changes MGR made have entered in the annals of history and stands as a silent revolution. It is because of the popular schemes that were implemented by Dr.MGR during his rule in Tamil Nadu he lives in the hearts of people even this day. # d) MGR's Political achievements MGR's emphasize was on education and social development. One of the greatest schemes announced by Dr.MGR was the "Mid-Day Meals Scheme". In his famous speech on AIR on 30.06.1982, Dr.MGR he gives reasons for the implementation of the schemes: ( 22): e) In the words of MGR I came here to speak about the Noon Meals Scheme, which was introduced with a view to relieve the sufferings (created by hunger) of the poor children of Tamil Nadu: Mahatma Gandhi used to say that "God shows his form to the poor's through the food plate", at the same time, Peringer Anna used to say that I could see God in the smiling face of the poor's. The great Thiruvalluvar says Tamil Transliteration: "virupasium ovapinium serupagayum seratiyalvathu -English Translation-"Devoid of starvation, disease and attack by enemy country alone should be considered as Nation." The country is crossing the population of 70 crores. Due to excessive population and resultant poverty, the poor children are mal-nourished and leading doctors of the country came to a conclusion that the children are mal-nourished, due to prevalence of extreme poverty. # English Translation-"Devoid of starvation, disease and attack by enemy country alone should be considered as Nation." The country is crossing the population of 70 crores. Due to excessive population and resultant poverty, the poor children are mal-nourished and leading doctors of the country came to a conclusion that the children are mal-nourished, due to prevalence of extreme poverty. Great saint Avvaiyar says "greatest distress is poverty and that too poverty occurs in childhood days". I introduced the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, as I had undergone such a state of starvation, when I was a child. Had not my neighbour, a generous lady, did not give a bowl full of rice to appease the hunger caused due to starvation for nearly three days-my mother, myself along with my brother would have died long ago" as we were starving for three days without food. Such motherhood made me the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu with full confidence on me. To wipe the tears of millions of such mother-hood, I have undertaken the path known to me. I have realized that, it is my duty to reduce the sufferings of the mother-hood, atleast to a certain extent, and introduced this scheme so that poor children, from the age of two ten will from this scheme. According to census of Tamil Nadu, the total population is 4.82 crores in 1981. In which the children belonging to the age of two to five is estimated to be 42.10 lakhs. Children belonging to the age limit from 5 to 10 are 73.73 lakhs. Thereby the total children from 2 to 10 years are 105.83 lakhs in which about 60 lakhs children belonging to below poverty line will be benefitted. The children with the age limit from 2 to 5will avail this benefit from the child care centres. The children beyond the age of five will avail this benefit from their own schools. The district level officers, will take the responsibility of implementing the scheme. I have taken the responsibility of myself to head the higher level committee consisting of eminent persons, who are ministers and philonthrophers. The social welfare department is running about 4343 child care centres throughout the state; moreover, this scheme facilitates, establishment of one centre per village and thereby 15,501 child care centres were established. To impart education a qualified lady teacher had been appointed in each of the centre. Preference was given to young widows. They will be nominated by the officers in consultation with noted social personality of the local area. The selection process was over, they are undergoing training, and they will take charge from 1 st July onwards. The children beyond the age of 5 to 10 will avail the benefit from thirty six thousand primary schools of Tamil Nadu. It is true that a noon meal scheme is being run by the state of Tamil Nadu for the school children; however, there is a big difference in the new scheme introduced by me. The old scheme was benefitted only one third of the pupils. The new scheme will benefit all the poor children of the schools. In the old scheme midday meals was provided only for 200 days, but the new scheme will provide food for all the 365 days of the year. The government spends about 10 Paisa in the old scheme, wherein every block should give 5 paisa per student belonging to their block. Due to economic constraints, these blocks were not able to meet the expenditure, and I have ordered that the entire expenditure would be borne by the Government itself, and therefore the old scheme got the recognition of the Government. This scheme should not be considered merely a noon-meal providing scheme. I expect these centres, will provide avenues for the poor children, come together, forgetting their religion and cast and grow in an atmosphere of total freedom from the social evils and thereby, it will pave way for social integration and general health will be promoted. I have plans for construction of public toilets to be used by women and this will be used by the children as well. I also have plans to generate powers from the human waste. These children will be educated to use the toilet at their very young age. More-over the children will maintain their own lunch plates and the drinking water tumblers. They will also be trained to cultivate vegetables in the gardens of the centres. Physical exercises will also be taught to the thereby they will maintain good body condition. I expect that children from these centres will become useful citizens and think of the welfare of the society early in their age. The total expenditure per year will work out to be Rs.100 crores, and this expenditure will increase year after year. I expect that the general public will extend their fullest co-operation to avail this important scheme, and the NGO's will come forward to give their helping hand. The plan sketch for the building for the Centre is ready, and it is estimated that about Rs.38,000/-will be the construction cost of each centre. The Prime Minister of the country came forward to understand this scheme. Various foreign organizations have shown interest to know about the scheme. I feel the children are the wealth of the nation and it is my duty to nurture them so that the burden on their parents will be reduced. Welfare measures implemented by MGR as Chief Minister: ? He ordered 20 kg of rice to be given through Public Distribution System through TUCS and reduced the rate of rice to Rs.1.75/-? He introduced scheme for assistance to the destitute women for their marriage expenses. ? MGR is the reason for the development of PDS system in Tamilnadu. ? MGR developed Hosur as an industrial estate which was reason for development of Banglore ? Apart from education, MGR focussed on women welfare. ? He introduced women-centric buses. ? MGR even concentrated on the preservation of cultural and heritage buildings and monuments, such as temples, historical sites and so on. This in turn led to a boost in tourism. The popular schemes are: ? Schemes for Children MGR brought Dr. Jayalalitha, who had acted in 28 films along with him, to lead the party, and strongly believed, that Madam Jayalitha, had the fire power, to lead the party from the front. To a question from the senior Minister; MGR replied, every creation, will have a future dissolution, and when there is a development, there should be recession. After me, to take our objectives further, and sustain its development and fame, Ms. Jayalalitha (affectionately called as Ammu by MGR) alone can do it. If I hand over the reign of this party to others, I will be doing a great discredit, to Annaquotes Balu Manivannan (pp 75). This prediction, had become a reality, when MGR was admitted in Broklyn Hospital, USA, madam Jayalalitha singlehandedly, campaigned Tamil Nadu Elections and made AIADMK victorious. # g) MGR makes his property public: Puratchi Thalaivar Bharat Ratna Dr.MGR wrote a WILL of testament of his property and wanted charity to be done from the money earned by his properties and that is being done even today: Nearly 29 years after the death of AIADMK founder and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran, the Madras High Court on Thursday appointed retired judge Justice D. Hariparanthaman to administer properties, ending one more battle over the execution of the actor-politician's will (23). In the past three decades, MGR's legal heirs had fought numerous battles in the court over the administration of the charismatic leader's estate. Justice M.M. Sundresh the latest order while dismissing a batch of applications moved by the AIADMK founder's relatives seeking to appoint them as the Administrator of the properties left behind by him. The judge then appointed Justice Hariparanthaman to handle the job and directed him to file a comprehensive report in eight weeks after inspecting all the properties and the accounts of the Trust. The order passed on Thursday could be traced back to the WILL that had turned contentious since the death of the former Chief Minister on December 24, 1987. Through the WILL, which was registered on January 18, 1987, MGR had appointed senior advocate N.C. Ragavachari (since deceased) as its executor. He had named a relative M. Rajendran to succeed Ragavachari after the latter's lifetime. It is worth noting the intention of the WILL of Dr.MGR which is important to the subject matter of this research endeavour: Broadly dividing his properties into two Dr.MGR, in his WILL, made it very clear that he did not have any other legal representative except his wife, Smt.V.N. Janaki. Even Smt.V.N.Janaki was given only a life estate, apart from certain articles.MGR had divided his vast properties -including the 6.47 acre Ramvaram estate, which was the nerve centre of Tamil politics during his three tenures as Chief Minister -into two parts, granting his heirs and wife a life estate, but also stipulating that the majority of them be used for philanthropic purposes. This had resulted in the creation of a home and school for the deaf and dumb at Ramvaram in 1990, as well as the MGR Janaki College of Arts and Sciences for Women in 1996, with the former funded by the income derived from his property in Chennai's salubrious Saligramam area, Sathya Gardens. The WILL stated that the shares of Sathya Studio Private Ltd would go to the AIADMK. The administration and maintenance of the building have to be done by it, apart from appropriating the income for the party. In the event the party gets divided or dissolved, the shares would go to the 'MGR Oomai Illam Trust'. There is no right of sale or alienation or encumbrance of Sathya Studio Private Ltd, which was named after his mother. Since Mr. Rajendran, the last executor appointed by MGR, died on January 8, 2013, and as the WILL did not name any one to succeed him, Mr.Rajendran's wife Latha and other relatives of MGR approached the High Court seeking to appoint them as the Administrator of the properties. Refusing to accept their applications, Justice Sundresh said, "The testator is none other than the former Chief Minister of the State, who is known to be a philanthropist par excellence. After the life time of Mr.Rajendran, the will authorises the High Court to appoint an Administrator as per law. Thus, conspicuously, the WILL did not name any one thereafter, including any of his relatives". Photo Courtesy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZL_fPgv9Ojo Noting that the intention of MGR was very clear that the properties were to be utilised for a philanthropic purpose mainly, among other things, Justice Sundresh appointed Justice Hariparanthaman as the Administrator. The above reminds the intention of Puratchi Thalaivar Bharat Ratna Dr.M.G. Ramahandran as quoted by Actor Rajesh, that "I will write a WILL that after my demise, all my wealth will go towards the poor and orphans" and the noble MGR lived up to his words and made his intention clear (19). V. # Conclusion Thus in this paper an attempt has been made to portray the life history of Bharat Ratna Marudhur Gopalamenon Ramachandran with real life examples. The various narrations above would indicate that MGR displayed his eternal love towards the people of Tamil Nadu. # Limitations of the paper There are several books available on MGR's life and history. Especially, I enjoyed reading the Books of S.Vijayan, K.P. Ramakrishnan (MGRs personal body guard); S.S. Ramakrishnan (MGR's Personal Photographer), Ve. Kumaravel. It is the experience of this Researcher, that whatever has been described in this paper, is only an over view (which is part of the Ph.D research work) when compared to what is available in the print media (which are numerous). This researcher is bewildered to note, such great many books were written on one noble soul, Puratchi Thalaivar, Ponmana Chemmal Dr. MGR who will certainly inspire generations as he inspired me to do this research work. ![Accidental insurance ? Pension coupled with gratuity ? Interim relief after accident ? Housing schemes for the fishermen and weavers ? Savings and relief ? Life insurance to Building labourers, rickshaw pullers, koolies and pension scheme Schemes for the elderly: ? Monthly financial assistance ? Every day Mid-day meals ? Free dresses twice a year f) MGR wanted Ms.Jayaraman Jayalalitha as his successor:](image-2.png "?") ![](image-3.png "") Yindru 61vadu piranthanal kanumYen aruyir kudumba nanbarMGR avarkalPallandu Nalamudam VazhaPirarthittu Valthumi. English TranslationWitnessing the 61 st Birth day, my family friend SriMGR, I pray and wish that he may live several years withgood health and prosperity.d) MGR clarifies the air of doubtMGR attended a religious function organized bySanto Chinnappa Devar at Marudamalai (Coimbatore). He gave a free hand to the police to go against thenaxals and till today there is no naxalism/Maoism inTamil Nadu. Now TN is free from Terrorism!? M.G.R implemented lot of freebies but to whom itwas really needed. Freebies including Sewingmachine for ladies etc. (Note: Not TV, Grinder orMixer)? M.G.R opened Vandalur Zoo, the largest zoologicalgarden in India.? M.G.R created Tamil University in Thanjavur.? M.G.R conducted 5th Tamil World Conference inMadurai.? M.G.R established nearly six Universities MotherTherasaWomen'sUniversityBharathiar,Bharathidasan? Made selling of Liquor only through TASMAC whichincreased Government's income & reduced Methylalcohol deaths. ? Mid-Day meals scheme -about 1,98,990 staffs areworking throughout Tamil Nadu most of them arewidows.? About children are availing this benefitfrom 60,000 Noon Scheme Shelters(Sathunavu Koodam).? Free Uniform? Free Text books for children? Free tooth powder? Free chappalsEmployment Schemes? One employment per family? Incentive to the educated unemployed? Equipments to the self employed? Self-employment.Schemes for the Women:? Marriage assistance to the widows and the destitute? Gold for the mangalyam? Service Centres for the women? Hostels for the working women? Welfare houses for the children and motherSchemes for the Poors:? Construction of 30.00 lakh houses for the downtrodden? Free electricity for the poorsSelf-Sustaining Schemes:? Construction of houses? Providing drinking water facilities? Creating water resources? Providing Link Roads? Constructing small bridges? Medical shops in Rural areas? Burial Grounds for the Adi Dravidas.Schemes for the Peasants:? ## Acknowledgements I acknowledge with great reverence to (i) the Publisher -Tamil Magazine Kumudham who had published articles about MGR for nearly a year and (ii) my thanks are due to Puthiya Thalaimurai (Tamil Weekly Magazine) wherein Durai Karuna is writing articles after articles bringing multi-various facts about Bharat Ratna Dr.MGR. I also acknowledge with thanks the services rendered by Ms.Hemamuruthi, of Centre Education, IIT Madras in formatting pictures of this article. ## Dedication I dedicate this to the beloved and blessed motherof Bharat Ratna Marudhur Gopalamenon Ramachandran Late Smt.Mukhil Marathur Sathyabhamma; (i.e. The joy that arise by hearing her son called as a righteous person is greater than the pain laboured by her at the time of the birth of the child). * MGR Oru Sagaptham K PMr Ramakrishnan 2007 published by Vikadan Prasuram (pp 188) 2. * ShrikanthVeeravalli "Mgr A Biography Rupa Publications India Pvt. Ltd 2013 * MGR Oru Sagaptham KPRamakrishnan 2007 Vikatan Press * MGR Kathai (Story of MGR)" pp 2. Published by Arulmozhi Veliyeettakam SVijayan 1989 * Congress 100 Years RamPande PP 286 1985 Jaipur Publishing House * Manathai Thotta Makkal Thilagam by Edited by Sabitha Joseph PP 23-45 Muthulingam Na 2016. 2014 * Puratchi thlaivarai Muthalaga Parthapothu Mullai Pathippagam 2013 * Kumudam Weekly Magazine ShankarRao 2016 88 9 * Puthiya Thalaimurai Weekly Tamil Magazine for Social Awareness Mr.Durai Karuna dated 1.2.2018 (pp * Essay on MGR by Mr.Durai Karuna, Puthiya Thalaimurai Weekly Tamil Magazine for Social Awareness, dated 21 2017 12 * Puthiya Thalaimurai Weekly Tamil Magazine for Social Awareness, dated 21 Mr.Durai Karuna 2017 12 * Mercurysun's Thirukkural Tamil & English Versions) 2014 Mercuryson Publications * MGR Nadippum Arasiyalum Balu Manivannan Summadu Publications 19 2015 * Makkal Manathil MGR SSRamakrishnan 2008 Nakkeeran Publications 28 * former Minister in MGR Cabinet, Kumudam weekly magazine dated 15 HVHande 2017 * MGR Centenary Celeberations-Malai Malar -Tamil Daily Special Edition Thirunelveli dated 12 Bharat Ratna Puratchi ThalaivarDr 2017 * MGR Speeches and Writings Ve Kumaravel Mullai Pathipagam Chennai 2015 * References Références Referencias