Chennai:Ā Perhaps for the first time in history, a cry of joy and cheer had its justification in the demise of a political leader, after the Madras High Court ordered to bury former chief minister M Karunanidhi’s mortal remains at Marina Beach here.
As soon as news reached Rajaji Hall inside the Government Estate where the body of the former chief minister was kept for homage, lakhs of DMK cadres and public rejoiced. For a second, they seemed to have forgotten their sorrow.
This ‘News Today’ correspondent spoke to some supporters at the spot.
“Doctor has asked me to take rest after a fracture on my shoulder and spine due to a road accident two weeks back. But it is not more painful or important than the loss of our Thalaivar,” said Anand, who has travelled all way from Vaniyambadi to see the face of his leader one last time.
A horde of cadres from southern districts jointly arrived at Rajaji Hall to pay their respects to Karunanidhi.
“Take my life and give back our Karunanidhi,” said Vasantha, another cadre.
Karunanidhi’s last journey witnessed not only elderly people, but many toddlers and youth.
Vishal (13) was leading a crowd by raising the slogan “Vendum Vendum” while the people around him chimed in with “Marina Vendum”. Vishal was with his family members from Vyasarpadi in the city.
Once it was announced that the court ordered in favour of the DMK, the entire crowd erupted with joy and a sense of victory. Despite being in the midst of sorrow, their dream coming true overrode all other emotions.