**C. N. Annadurai: Architect of Dravidian Politics**

Kanchipuram Natarajan Annadurai (September 15, 1909 – February 3, 1969), popularly known as **Anna**, was one of the most influential political leaders, writers, and social reformers of South India. He was the founder of the **Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)** and served as the **Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu** from 1967 until his death. Annadurai played a pivotal role in shaping modern Tamil identity, politics, and social justice movements, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian public life.Annadurai was born into a humble weaver family in **Kanchipuram** (then Kanchivaram) in the Madras Presidency. Economic constraints forced him to discontinue his formal education early, yet he possessed a deep interest in literature, drama, and politics. His experiences with social inequality, caste discrimination, and economic exploitation profoundly influenced his worldview. From a young age, he displayed exceptional oratorical skills and a passion for the Tamil language and culture.Annadurai's political consciousness stemmed from his association with **Periyar E. V. Ramasamy** and the **Self-Respect Movement**, which aimed to challenge Brahminical dominance, caste hierarchy, and religious orthodoxy. He joined the **Justice Party**, which later transformed into the **Dravidar Kazhagam (DK)** under Periyar's leadership. Annadurai emerged as one of Periyar's most articulate followers, propagating rationalist ideas through speeches, essays, and plays. He strongly advocated for **atheism, rationalism, women's rights, and social equality**, arguing that religion was often used as a tool of oppression. However, ideological and strategic differences between Annadurai and Periyar eventually led to their separation. Annadurai believed in participating in electoral politics to bring about social change, while Periyar was against it. In 1949, Annadurai founded the **Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)**. Under his leadership, the DMK transformed the Dravidian ideology into a major political movement. The party emphasized **social justice, anti-caste principles, Tamil nationalism, and opposition to the imposition of Hindi**.

Annadurai was a gifted orator. He effectively used **Tamil literature, journalism, cinema, and theatre** to reach the common people. His plays and screenplays combined entertainment with social commentary, making Dravidian ideals accessible to the masses. As the editor of newspapers like *Dravida Nadu*, he articulated progressive political ideas in simple yet powerful language. His slogan-based politics and sharp wit made him one of the most popular leaders of his time.One of Annadurai's most significant political contributions was his leadership during the **anti-Hindi agitations** of the 1960s. He argued that making Hindi compulsory was a threat to the Tamil language and culture and a violation of the principle of linguistic equality. This stance resonated deeply in Tamil Nadu and garnered widespread support for the DMK. Although he initially supported the idea of ​​a separate **Dravida Nadu**, he later abandoned separatism after constitutional amendments and focused on achieving autonomy within the Indian Union.In **1967**, under Annadurai's leadership, the DMK achieved a historic electoral victory, ending decades of Congress rule in Tamil Nadu. Annadurai became the state's **first non-Congress Chief Minister**. As Chief Minister, he implemented several progressive reforms. He legalized **self-respect marriages**, allowing marriages without religious rituals, promoting social equality and reducing costs for the poor. He also implemented policies to **reduce caste-based discrimination** and promoted the use of Tamil in administration and public life. One of his most symbolic actions was **changing the name of the state from "Madras" to "Tamil Nadu,"** which strengthened Tamil linguistic and cultural identity. Annadurai also removed religious symbols from public spaces and government buildings, reflecting his commitment to secularism and rationalism. Despite limited resources, his government prioritized social justice over large-scale economic projects.

Annadurai was known for his simplicity, honesty, and approachable nature. He lived a simple life and maintained close contact with the common people. His leadership style emphasized persuasion rather than coercion, and he believed in dialogue and democratic processes. Even his political opponents acknowledged his integrity and intelligence.In the late 1960s, Annadurai's health deteriorated, yet he continued to work tirelessly. He passed away on **February 3, 1969**, and his death was mourned throughout Tamil Nadu. His funeral was one of the largest public gatherings in Indian history, reflecting the immense affection the people had for him.C. N. Annadurai's legacy lies in his transformative impact on Tamil Nadu.