Did MK Muthu, the Eldest Son of Karunanidhi, Just Pass Away at 77?
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Synopsis
M. K. Muthu, the eldest son of the revered former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, has sadly passed away at the age of 77. His contributions to Tamil cinema and the Dravidian movement are fondly remembered, as tributes pour in from family and political leaders alike. Dive into the life of this multifaceted personality who left a lasting legacy.
Key Takeaways
- M.K. Muthu was a significant figure in Tamil cinema.
- He was the eldest son of M. Karunanidhi, a legendary political leader.
- Muthu's contributions to the Dravidian movement were notable.
- His song Uyarndha Idathila Pirandhavan Naan is a cult classic.
- Chief Minister M.K. Stalin paid tribute to him.
Chennai, July 19 (NationPress) M. K. Muthu, the eldest son of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK patriarch M. Karunanidhi, passed away on Saturday morning due to age-related ailments.
He was 77 years old.
Muthu, who had been experiencing health issues for several days, took his last breath around 8 a.m. at his home in Chennai.
He was the elder sibling of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. In light of his passing, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has cancelled all formal events planned for that day.
His remains will be available for public homage at the Gopalapuram residence of his father, Karunanidhi.
Born to Karunanidhi and his first wife, Padmavathi, Muthu was a versatile individual who made notable contributions to Tamil cinema and music before venturing into politics.
He made his acting debut in 1972 with Pillaiyo Pillai, portraying a dual role, and later featured in films like Pookkari, Anayaa Vilakku, and Ellam Avale.
His on-screen charm and striking resemblance to M.G. Ramachandran, the iconic actor and former Chief Minister, brought him considerable acclaim. Besides acting, Muthu also served as a playback singer.
His song Uyarndha Idathila Pirandhavan Naan from the film Anayaa Vilakku, filmed at the Anna Nagar Clock Tower in Chennai, remains a cult classic among aficionados of Tamil film music. Muthu's association with the Dravidian movement began early, significantly shaped by his father Karunanidhi's political heritage.
Although his political career was short-lived, he maintained a connection to the Dravidian ideological space throughout his life.
Chief Minister Stalin paid his respects to his elder brother in person and expressed his sorrow through a heartfelt post on social media.
"The news of the passing of my beloved elder brother, MK Muthu, the eldest son of our family's pillar Kalaignar, has struck me like lightning. He loved me as much as our parents did. I am deeply pained by the loss of someone so close to my heart," CM Stalin shared on his official 'X' handle.
He reminisced that Karunanidhi had named Muthu after their grandfather Muthuveeran.
"Like our father, Muthu contributed to the Dravidian movement through theatre from a young age. He had a unique style in acting, dialogue delivery, and body language. It was this passion that drew him into cinema in the 1970s," CM Stalin added.
Point of View
It is our duty to recognize the profound impact M.K. Muthu had on Tamil culture and politics. His contributions resonated deeply within the Dravidian movement, and his passing is a significant loss to both his family and the wider community. This moment compels us to honor the legacy he leaves behind.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused MK Muthu's death?
MK Muthu passed away due to age-related ailments.
How old was MK Muthu when he died?
He was 77 years old.
Who was MK Muthu's father?
His father was M. Karunanidhi, a former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
What contributions did MK Muthu make to cinema?
He made significant contributions as an actor and playback singer in Tamil cinema.
Did MK Muthu have any political involvement?
Yes, he was associated with the Dravidian movement and had a brief political career.
