2019 - Dr. M.G. Ramachandran | Commemorative Coin

The 2nd commemorative coin for the year 2019 was released to mark the Birth Centenary of Dr. M G Ramachandran.

Marudur Gopalan Ramachandran (17 January 1917 – 24 December 1987), affectionately known as M.G.R., left an indelible mark as an Indian actor, filmmaker, and statesman, notably serving as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for an impactful decade from 1977 to 1987. Revered as "Makkal Thilagam" (People's King), MGR transcended the realms of cinema and politics, earning a lasting legacy as one of Tamil cinema's most influential figures.

In his early years, MGR, alongside his elder brother M. G. Chakrapani, joined a drama troupe to support their family. Drawn to Gandhian ideals, MGR initially aligned himself with the Indian National Congress. His cinematic journey began in 1936 with the film "Sathi Leelavathi," marking the inception of a remarkable acting career. Graduating to lead roles in the late 1940s, he dominated the Tamil film industry for the next three decades.

MGR's foray into politics saw him align with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) led by C. N. Annadurai. Leveraging his cinematic popularity, he swiftly ascended the political ladder. In 1972, after Annadurai's demise, MGR parted ways with the DMK, forming his own political entity—the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). The culmination of his political acumen came in 1977 when he led the AIADMK alliance to a resounding victory, unseating the DMK.

Historically noteworthy, MGR became the first film actor to ascend to the role of Chief Minister in India, holding the position except for a brief interlude in 1980 when his government was ousted by the Union government. His tenure witnessed triumphs in the 1980 and 1984 elections, solidifying the AIADMK's electoral prowess.

Marudur Gopalan Ramachandran's multifaceted journey reflects the seamless integration of cinema and politics, leaving an enduring impact on the cultural and political landscape of Tamil Nadu.

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