A commemorative coin marking the birth centenary of M Karunanidhi, the late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and a prominent leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), was released in Chennai on Sunday. The event drew tributes from prominent political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who hailed Karunanidhi as a “towering figure” in Indian politics, literature, and society.
In a letter to Karunanidhi’s son and current Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, Modi expressed his admiration for the late leader’s contributions. Sharing the letter on X, Stalin thanked Modi for his kind words and support for the event.
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also paid his respects, stating that Karunanidhi’s progressive vision and dedication to empowering people had a profound impact on millions of lives. He credited Karunanidhi’s leadership with guiding Tamil Nadu towards bold and transformative changes.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, who officially released the commemorative coin, echoed the sentiments, describing Karunanidhi as a “towering figure” whose influence extended far beyond Tamil Nadu. He highlighted Karunanidhi’s role as a titan of Indian politics, a cultural stalwart, and a tireless advocate for social justice. Singh emphasized that Karunanidhi’s contributions benefited not only Tamil Nadu but also the entire nation.
Singh also emphasized Karunanidhi’s commitment to Indian unity, stating that the DMK leader never allowed regionalism to undermine the nation’s cohesion. He pointed out Karunanidhi’s understanding that the strength of Indian democracy lies in its ability to accommodate diverse voices and identities.
Recalling a significant moment in history, Singh mentioned Karunanidhi’s role in securing the right for Chief Ministers to hoist the national flag on Independence Day. Singh also reminisced about Karunanidhi’s constructive role in supporting the Vajpayee government during the DMK’s time in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) between 1999 and 2004.
Despite ideological differences, Karunanidhi’s support was instrumental in protecting India’s interests during the 1999 WTO conference in Seattle, according to Singh. He recounted how Karunanidhi, through his then Commerce Minister Murasoli Maran, ensured that India’s stance was effectively represented, leading to a successful outcome for the nation.
In his address, Stalin expressed his joy at the nationwide celebration of Karunanidhi’s legacy through the commemorative coin. He also invited BJP state president K Annamalai to join him in the first row at the event, showcasing a spirit of unity amidst political differences.
Prior to the ceremony, Singh and Stalin paid their respects at Karunanidhi’s memorial on the Marina, emphasizing the profound impact of the late leader’s life and work. The event served as a reminder of Karunanidhi’s lasting contributions to Tamil Nadu and India, and his legacy as a visionary leader, a literary figure, and a champion of social justice.
