Watch: Actor Rajinikanth, AIADMK members pay tribute to former Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa on her 77th birth anniversary

NEW DELHI: Actor Rajinikanth paid floral tribute to former Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalithaa on her 77th birth anniversary on Monday.

Meanwhile, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, along with other party leaders and members, paid respects at Jayalalithaa's decorated statue at the party headquarters in Royapettah. Following the tribute, Palaniswami distributed a 77-kg cake among party workers.
O. Panneerselvam, the expelled former chief minister, separately visited Jayalalithaa's statue with his supporters to offer floral tributes.

Known as 'Puratchi Thalaivi,' 'Idhaya Theivam,' and the 'Iron Lady,' Jayalalithaa was born on February 24, 1948. Her legacy includes significant social welfare initiatives such as Amma Canteens, Amma Pharmacies, the Gold for Thali scheme for underprivileged women, and various programs supporting girl children.
Her achievements include implementing reservation policies, defending Tamil Nadu's rights over the Cauvery River, and establishing herself as a prominent leader in a male-dominated political landscape.

She passed away on December 5, 2016, following over 75 days of hospitalization in Chennai.
To commemorate her birth anniversary, AIADMK members organized blood donation drives and distributed welfare items such as mixers, grinders, sewing machines, and medical supplies across the state.
Quoting her famous words, "Makkalaal naan, makkalukkagave naan" (I am because of the people, and I live for the people), Palaniswami urged party workers to focus on winning the 2026 Assembly election.
"A victorious alliance will be formed under AIADMK’s leadership. We are set to achieve remarkable victories. Let us work tirelessly and remain true followers of Amma," Palaniswami posted on X.