(This article is authored by Alar)

On the occasion of MGR’s birth anniversary, Kamal Haasan took to his social media to pay homage to the legendary actor and politician, who is fondly remembered as Ponmana Chemmal (the golden-hearted) by his fans and followers.

Kamal Haasan took to X, and wrote in Tamil, "Today is the birthday of Ponmana chemmal MGR, who has no equal in the Tamil film industry and was part of the people's era. A sweet person who is still in the hearts of many people. The memories of the revolutionary leader who lived to say who is like him will live on forever."

MGR, whose full name was Marudhur Gopalan Ramachandran, was born on January 17, 1917, in Kandy, Sri Lanka. He started his career as a stage actor and later became a popular film star, playing roles of heroes, villains, and comedians.

He was known for his charismatic screen presence, melodious voice, and philanthropic activities. He also founded the AIADMK party in 1972 and became the chief minister of Tamil Nadu in 1977, a position he held until his death in 1987. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, posthumously in 1988.

Kamal Haasan, who is also a film star and a politician, has often expressed his admiration and respect for MGR. It's worth remembering that MG Ramachandran and Kamal Haasan who wanted to make Ponniyin Selvan, before Maniratnam. He had decided to rope in director Bharathiraja to helm the historical project, with late actress Sridevi also in the lead.

தமிழ்த் திரையுலகில் ஒப்பாரும் மிக்காரும் இல்லாத, மக்கள் சகாப்தமாகத் திகழ்ந்த பேராளர் பொன்மனச் செம்மல் எம்ஜிஆர் அவர்களின் பிறந்த நாள் இன்று. ஏராளமான ஜனங்களின் இதயத்தில் இன்றும் இருக்கும் இனியவர். இவர் போல யாரென்று ஊர் சொல்ல வாழ்ந்த புரட்சித் தலைவரின் ஞாபகங்கள் இன்று போல் என்றும்…

— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) January 17, 2024