ABSTRACT
On the 14 September 2005 the filmstar-politician Vijayakanth launched a new party, the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). The launch rally was a glittering spectacle held on a site covering 74 acres of private land outside Madurai (Frontline 2005). Vijayakanth arrived in the old blue van used by MGR for campaigning. The van was said to be a gift from MGR’s widow Janaki. The stage from which Vijayakanth addressed the crowds was decorated with images of the actor himself, Annadurai, Periar, Kamaraj and MGR (India Glitz 2005). The Dravidian colours, black and red, used in the party flag, were much in evidence. Images of MGR were a common sight, including a montage that depicted the social service activities of both MGR and Vijayakanth. Party sources claimed that 200,000 people attended the rally (Times of India 2005).
