PM Modi pays tribute to Jayalalithaa on 78th birth anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid rich tributes to former Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalithaa on her 78th birth anniversary, describing her as a “charismatic leader” and an “outstanding administrator” who earned a permanent place in the hearts of countless people.On the birth anniversary of the AIADMK stalwart, the Prime Minister said Jayalalithaa championed welfare-driven governance with a strong focus on women empowerment, social justice and inclusive development during her tenure as chief minister of Tamil Nadu.
“Remembering Jayalalithaa Ji on her birth anniversary. She has made a place in the hearts and minds of countless people as a charismatic leader and outstanding administrator,” Modi wrote on X.Stating that her life journey was marked by immense grit and determination, he added, “She was both compassionate and decisive. I recall with great joy my interactions with her.”

Remembering Jayalalithaa Ji on her birth anniversary. She has made a place in the hearts and minds of countless people as a charismatic leader and outstanding administrator. Her life journey was one of immense grit and determination. As the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, she… pic.twitter.com/oqOSgme0Hk

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2026

The Prime Minister also referred to his remarks about Jayalalithaa in his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, aired on Sunday. In the address, Modi said Jayalalithaa continues to live in the hearts of the people for her commendable efforts towards women’s welfare and maintaining law and order.PM noted that the mention of “Amma Jayalalithaa” brings a glow to the faces of people in Tamil Nadu, and that the connection of the country’s “Nari Shakti” with her legacy remains special.“In India, those who work for the welfare of society, those who prioritise the public in their noble deeds, always remain in the hearts of the people,” Modi said in Mann Ki Baat. He described Jayalalithaa as one such popular leader and said he could still feel the deep affection the people of Tamil Nadu had for her whenever he visited the state.
Recalling their association, Modi said Jayalalithaa attended two of his swearing-in ceremonies as chief minister of Gujarat in 2002 and 2012. “When we were both chief ministers, we often discussed topics like good governance. Her thinking was crystal clear, and her thoughts were uncluttered. This was a significant characteristic of her,” he said.The Prime Minister also shared a personal memory, recalling that many years ago Jayalalithaa had invited him to Chennai for lunch on the occasion of Pongal. “That affectionate gesture will remain with me. Once again, I pay my humble tributes to her. Her services to the people will always be remembered,” he said.Popularly known as “Amma”, Jayalalithaa served as chief minister of Tamil Nadu multiple times between 1991 and 2016. She passed away on December 5, 2016.