the history of Conjeevaram Natarajan Annadurai ( ANNA )காஞ்சீவரம் நடராஜன் அண்ணாதுரை வாழ்க்கை வரலாறு (அண்ணா)

     C. N. Annadurai

Conjeevaram Natarajan Annadurai, affectionately known as "Anna" (meaning "elder brother") and "Perarignar" (meaning "scholar"), was a prominent Indian politician, writer, and orator who played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Tamil Nadu. Born on September 15, 1909, in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, he rose from humble beginnings to become the founder of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the first Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. His contributions to Tamil society, politics, and culture have left an indelible mark on the state's history.

Early Life and Education

Annadurai was born into a lower-middle-class family in Kanchipuram. His father, Nataraja Mudaliar, was a weaver, and his mother, Bangaru Ammal, served in a local temple. Despite financial constraints, Annadurai was determined to pursue education. He attended Pachaiyappa's High School but had to leave temporarily to work as a clerk in the municipal office to support his family. Later, he resumed his studies and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from Pachaiyappa's College in Chennai in 1934. He further obtained a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Economics and Politics from the same institution. Following his academic achievements, Annadurai worked as an English teacher at Pachaiyappa's High School before transitioning into journalism and politics

Entry into Politics and Association with Periyar

Annadurai's foray into politics was significantly influenced by his association with E.V. Ramasamy, popularly known as Periyar, the founder of the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK). Periyar's radical ideas on social reform, anti-caste movements, and atheism resonated with Annadurai. He became an active member of the DK and quickly rose through its ranks due to his exceptional oratory skills and commitment to the Dravidian cause. During this period, Annadurai edited several political journals, using them as platforms to propagate the principles of the Dravidian movement.

Formation of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)

In 1949, ideological differences emerged between Annadurai and Periyar, particularly concerning the approach towards achieving social reforms and the question of Dravida Nadu's secession. The rift widened when Periyar married Maniammai, a woman much younger than himself, which many, including Annadurai, viewed as contradictory to the movement's ideals. Consequently, Annadurai parted ways with Periyar and established the DMK on September 17, 1949. The new party aimed to achieve social equality, eradicate caste discrimination, and promote Tamil culture and identity within the framework of a united India

Role in Tamil Cinema and Propaganda

Annadurai was a pioneer in utilizing Tamil cinema as a medium for political propaganda. He recognized the power of films in reaching the masses and scripted several plays and movies that conveyed the principles of the Dravidian movement. His works, such as "Nallathambi" (1948), "Velaikaari" (1949), and "Or Iravu," criticized social injustices, promoted self-respect marriages, and challenged the prevailing social order. These films were instrumental in popularizing the DMK's ideologies and garnered widespread support among the Tamil populace. 

Anti-Hindi Imposition Agitations

One of the significant movements led by Annadurai was the opposition to the imposition of Hindi as India's official language. He argued that such a move would undermine the linguistic diversity of the country and marginalize non-Hindi-speaking regions. The DMK organized protests and agitations against the central government's language policy, emphasizing the importance of preserving Tamil and other regional languages. Annadurai's stance resonated with many in Tamil Nadu, bolstering the DMK's popularity.

Electoral Success and Tenure as Chief Minister

The DMK's persistent efforts culminated in a historic victory in the 1967 state elections, where the party won a majority, ending the Congress party's dominance in the region. Annadurai became the Chief Minister of Madras State on March 6, 1967. During his tenure, he implemented several progressive policies, including the legalization of self-respect marriages, which allowed weddings without the presence of a priest, thereby challenging traditional caste-based rituals. He also introduced a two-language policy, promoting Tamil and English, and was instrumental in renaming Madras State to Tamil Nadu, reflecting the state's Tamil identity. 

Literary Contributions and Oratory Skills

Annadurai was renowned for his eloquence and literary prowess. He was an acclaimed writer in the Tamil language, scripting and acting in several plays that addressed social issues and propagated the ideals of the Dravidian movement. His speeches were characterized by their clarity, wit, and persuasive power, earning him admiration from supporters and critics alike. His ability to connect with diverse audiences through his oratory was a significant factor in the DMK's political success. 

Health Challenges and Demise

In late 1968, Annadurai was diagnosed with cancer of the gullet. Despite undergoing treatment, his health deteriorated. He continued to fulfill his duties as Chief Minister until his condition worsened. Annadurai passed away on February 3, 1969, at the age of 59. His death was mourned by millions, and his funeral in Chennai was attended by an estimated 15 million people, making it one of the largest funerals in history. 

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