Who Is M. G. Ramachandran? Age, Biography and Wiki
M. G. Ramachandran, affectionately known as MGR, was born on January 17, 1917, in Kandy, Sri Lanka. He became a highly influential figure in Indian cinema and politics, serving as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu from 1977 until his death in 1987. A charismatic actor and a beloved politician, MGR left an indelible mark on Tamil culture and society. He passed away on December 24, 1987, at the age of 70. His legacy continues to resonate in 2025, with numerous tributes celebrating his contributions to film and public service.
| Occupation | Film Producer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 17, 1917 |
| Age | 70 Years |
| Birth Place | Nawalapitiya, Ceylon Province, British Raj (present-day Kandy District, Central Province, Sri Lanka) |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | Sri Lanka |
| Date of death | 24 December, 1987 |
| Died Place | Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India |
Popularity
M. G. Ramachandran's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While M. G. Ramachandran's specific body measurements and weight during his heyday are not well-documented, he was known for his commanding presence onscreen. His height is estimated to have been around 5 feet 10 inches (177 cm), allowing him to stand out among his contemporaries in the Tamil film industry.
Petralthaan Pillaya was the last film of Ramachandran-M. R. Radha together. Shooting ended just few days before Ramachandran was shot. The bullet was permanently lodged in his neck and his voice damaged. Within hours of the shooting, some 50,000 fans had gathered at the hospital where Ramachandran had been taken. People cried in the streets.
For six weeks, he lay in the hospital as fans awaited each report of his health. He was visited by a steady stream of commoners and luminaries of film industry, polity and bureaucracy. From his hospital bed, he conducted his campaign for the Madras Legislative Assembly.
He won twice the number of votes polled by his Congress rival and the largest vote polled by any candidate for the Assembly.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
M. G. Ramachandran was married to actress Janaki Ramachandran, who remained a pivotal part of his life and career. After MGR's passing, Janaki entered politics and was elected as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, carrying forward his vision. The couple had a strong bond, and there is no documented information regarding extramarital relationships outside this partnership.
M.G.R. His parents were Nairs from Palakkad district. M.G.R. further claimed to be of Tamil Kongu Vellalar descent, whose ancestors had settled in Kerala centuries ago and become nairs.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, M. G. Ramachandran had accrued significant wealth through his successful career in films and politics. Although the exact figure of his net worth has not been publicly disclosed, it is estimated that he amassed several crore rupees, making him one of the wealthiest actors of his time. His earnings from films, endorsements, and political endeavors contributed to this substantial wealth.
Even after his death, Ramachandran proved to be very popular in the state and his rule has been cited by many of his contemporaries as best in the country. However, his rule is not without criticism.
Economic data under his rule showed that annual growth and per capita income was lower than the national average and the state went from being second among 25 industrialised states in development after Kamaraj's rule to tenth.
This decline, according to critics has been due to shift of government resources from power and irrigation to social and agriculture sector according to Madras Institute of Development Studies reported in 1988. In addition, the emphasis on "welfare schemes" such as free electricity to farmers, mid-day meal schemes, etc.
has been seen by many as taking money away from infrastructure development that could have benefited the poor. In addition, the liquor tax imposed during his rule was considered to contribute to a regressive tax mostly affecting the poor.
Career, Business and Investments
M. G. Ramachandran's career spanned several decades, during which he starred in numerous blockbuster films, including classics like Marudhanattu Ilavarasi and Nadodikkattu. In addition to acting, he directed and produced films, cementing his position as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. Beyond cinema, MGR was deeply involved in politics, founding the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) party and serving as a two-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
It was in school that M.G.R. started his acting career and joined the Boys Company drama troupe, taking part in the rigorous training programs conducted by the troupe in the areas of singing, dancing, sword fighting, diction, and memory with active interest and involvement.
Social Network
While M. G. Ramachandran was not a part of the modern social media landscape, he remains a symbol of charisma and leadership in Tamil Nadu. Since his passing, fan pages and cultural tributes have proliferated on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, celebrating his life and career. His political legacy also has a significant digital presence, reflecting the affection that people continue to hold for him.
Maruthur Gopalan Ramachandran (17 January 1917 – 24 December 1987), popularly known by his initials M.G.R. and as Puratchi Thalaivar, was an Indian actor, politician, and philanthropist who served as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu from 1977 until his death in 1987.
He was the founder and former general secretary of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. On 19 March 1988, M.G.R. was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour. M.G.R. is regarded as one of the most influential politicians of post-independence India.
Apart from politics, as a film personality, he won the National Film Award, three Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and three Filmfare Awards South.
Education
M. G. Ramachandran's formal education was limited, but his life experiences and dedication to the arts and politics made him an astute leader. He pursued his passion for acting early, eventually becoming a celebrated figure in Tamil cinema. His journey from humble beginnings to stardom showcases his commitment and resilience.
In 1989 Dr. M. G. R. Home and Higher Secondary School for the Speech and Hearing Impaired was established at the erstwhile residence M.G.R. Thottam, Ramapuram, in accordance with his last will and testament written in January 1987. His official residence at 27, Arcot Street, T. Nagar is now M.G.R. Memorial House and is open for public viewing.
His film studio, Sathya Studios, has been converted into a women's college in the name of Dr. MGR-Janaki College of Arts and Science for Women.
