The Karnataka government has been at the loggerheads with Tamil Nadu over the Cauvery row. The relationship had taken a severe blow a few months ago over the water-sharing issue, leading to violence. But this is not stopping the political leaders from Karnataka from paying their tribute to Jayalalithaa, who passed away on December 5 after prolonged illness.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his condolence on Twitter and confirmed that he would be attending her funeral at 4.30 pm at Chennai's Marina Beach. Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda is also heading to Chennai to pay homage to her. Karnataka Energy Minister DK Shivakumar described her as an iron lady, who remains an inspiration for him. Many other politicians from the state are expected to be in Chennai on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, reports say that JD(S) leaders from Karnataka's Mandya district have proposed a memorial at Jayalalithaa's birthplace in Melukote. It has to be seen whether the Karnataka government will consider it seriously.
Jayalalithaa's brief history
Jayalalithaa was born in Mandya in an Iyer family of Jayaram and Vedavalli. Following her father's death, her mother shifted to Madras (now Chennai) and started acting in films in supporting roles. Her mother's connection with the film industry helped Jayalalithaa to cinema without much struggle.
After being successful in films, Jayalalithaa forayed into politics with the support of actor-turned-politician MG Ramachandran. But after his death, there was uncertainty over her political career as AIADMK was split into two – one headed by Janaki, wife of MG Ramachandran and other by Jayalalithaa.
After much struggle, she took control of the party and was elected the state chief minister for the first time in 1991. Since then, she served the state thrice and died in her fourth term. The Cauvery issue was a major challenge for her government.
