Jayalalithaa birth anniversary: Here are some interesting facts about Former Tamil Nadu CM

J Jayalalithaa. File Photo

On February 24, we commemorate the birth anniversary of one of India's most charismatic and influential leaders, Jayaram Jayalalithaa, fondly remembered as Amma. Born in 1948 in Melukote, Mysore State (now Karnataka), Jayalalithaa's journey from a young actress to a revered political figure is nothing short of remarkable.

Jayalalithaa birth anniversary: Entry into politics

Jayalalithaa's entry into politics was marked by her association with the legendary M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), the founder of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). Under his mentorship, she quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing her administrative prowess and unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people.

As the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Jayalalithaa left an indelible mark on the state's political landscape. Her tenure was characterised by a series of transformative initiatives aimed at uplifting the marginalized sections of society. From implementing groundbreaking welfare schemes to championing women's rights, Jayalalithaa's leadership was defined by her commitment to social justice and inclusive development.

Jayalalithaa birth anniversary: Here are a few interesting facts about the Former Tamil Nadu CM

Jayalalithaa completed her education at Sacred Heart Matriculation School in Chennai. As a student, she excelled at her studies and was offered a scholarship to pursue further education. She won the Gold State Award for coming first in Class 10 in Tamil Nadu.

Fluent in several languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, Malayalam and English, Jayalalithaa is also trained in classical music, western classical piano, and various forms of classical dance.

Jayalalithaa learned Bharatnatyam when she was just 3.

She gave her debut dance performance at the Rasika Ranjani Sabha in Mylapore in May 1960.

It was the chief guest there, Shivaji Ganesan, who advised Jayalalithaa to become a film star.

She made her debut as a lead actress in Chinnada Gombe (1964) while she was still studying in school. She was just 15 at the time.

Jayalalithaa wanted to be a lawyer but her debut film was so successful that she immediately became a well-known face.

13. Her successful Kannada films include Badukuva Daari (1966), Mavana Magalu (1965), Nanna Kartavya (1965), and Chinnada Gombe (1964).

After MGR's death, she single-handedly managed the party. Later on, she won 27 seats in the state polls in 1989.

Jayalalithaa holds a Guinness Book of World Records for hosting a lavish wedding for her adopted son Sudhakaran in 1995.

She became the first woman leader of opposition in the Legislative Assembly of Tamil Nadu.

She was the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu without a portfolio. O. Panneerselvam was handling all the portfolios. Jayalalithaa was re-elected as the chief minister for the second consecutive term in 2016, marking the history in Tamil Nadu politics.