May 30, 2011

From Lights to Power: The Rise of Jayalalitha

Jayalalitha wasn't just a style icon, she was one of South Indian cinema's leading actresses in the 60s and 70s. Though she dreamt of becoming a lawyer, family circumstances led her to acting after her father's passing.

Fate took another turn when she collaborated with the hugely popular MGR, both on screen and in politics.  In 1981, she entered the political arena through MGR's party, the AIADMK, even being nominated to the Rajya Sabha in 1988.

Jayalalitha, or "Amma" as she's affectionately known, faced internal party struggles after MGR's death in 1987. But her political prowess shone through as she led her own faction to victory in the 1989 Tamil Nadu elections.

This law student turned film star turned politician became Chief Minister a record six times, not three, serving over 14 years and leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu.

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