The ‘Amma’ of Tamilnadu, that one woman who single handedly commanded the state’s politics; made her entire cabinet of ministers touch her feet (all are men, mind you!); always ready to lock horns with political giants like Karunanidhi, is no more and never to return. Ms. Jayalalitha Jayaram, fondly called by her followers as ‘Puratchi Thalaivi’ (the revolutionary leader) has carved a niche for herself in the plethora of politicians of southern India.
Last week, I’ve seen a picture of a lady in the social media who looked similar to Jayalalitha. It is being said that she was the daughter of late Ms. Jayalalitha, whom she conceived through a relation with a prominent film actor of yesteryear’s. Any ways, finally it was revealed that this woman has no connection what so ever with Jayalalitha. And for almost two weeks, this photo circulated through social media. Even some of the news channels made programs about the controversial issues of Jayalalitha’s life as if it was entertainment. This is all so unfortunate and unfair to the late Ms. Jayalalitha. I mean how much lowly some people can think and behave. Why can’t she be seen as a symbol of women empowerment? Despite her being in the limelight many a times for all the wrong reasons, she has done some spectacular things that no ordinary woman could imagine to achieve. She stood state first in her tenth standard board exams. She was also a classical dancer and gave performances across the country. Then she went on to become an actress and for two decades, she dominated the silver screen working with almost all the super stars of south Indian cinema at that time. After the death of Mr. MGR, she took over the AIADMK party. She became the the youngest and the first woman Chief minister of Tamilnadu. She implemented many schemes and policies for women empowerment during her tenure. ‘Cradle Baby scheme'(1992) for adoption of unwanted female children, 30% quota for women in police recruitment, establishing around 60 all women police stations and many others. But unfortunately no body bothered to speak about these things.
I’m not here to compare her with any ‘Mahatma’ or make her a ‘Goddess’. All I can say is, ‘No one is perfect in this world. Heaven knows she is not. But then, should we bother dwelling into her personal life and controversies& spend time spreading silly rumors; or should we just let her rest in peace and feel proud that we knew this wonderful lady who inspired many women of our country…
Dr.Naresh.com 