CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Wednesday declared former CM J Jayalalithaa’s memorial on Marina Beach in Chennai open.
The phoenix-like structure has come up at a cost of Rs 80 crore with the support of experts from IIT-Madras.
The inauguration that comes just ahead of the assembly election saw thousands of AIADMK members and functionaries thronging the Marina since morning. Chants of "Puratchi Thalaivi Vazhga" reverberated the air.
"Her rule was a golden era of Tamil Nadu. She implemented several welfare schemes in various sectors. The memorial has been built for the future generations to know her," Palaniswami said, while declaring the renovated Bharat Ratna Puratchi Thalaivar Dr MGR and Puratchi Thalaivi Amma Selvi J Jayalalithaa memorial complex open. The marble petals of MGR memorial have been replaced.
Palaniswami said that winning the assembly election in 2021 would be the gratitude for the departed leader and the AIADMK cadre should take a pledge. Deputy CM O Panneerselvam was present.
Jayalalithaa's memorial has inscriptions of her popular slogans – “Makkalal Naan, Makkalaukkaga Naan” (By the people, for the people) and “Amaithi, Valam, Valarchi” (Peace, prosperity, progress) that steered the party and government)
The 15metre high, 30metre long and 43metre wide structure with polyurethane coat of paint reflects the personality of the departed leader. The foundation has been strengthened by 500-tonne of steel and 1,068 cubic metre of concrete while the superstructure 300 tonne of steel and 800 cubic metre of concrete.
The state government has set up a knowledge park and museum on either side of the memorial in an area of 8,555sq ft each, which will have mementos, statues and achievements of the leader. About 100 members could sit and watch in an audio-visual presentation. Greenery on 1 lakh sq ft with 15,000 saplings, and granite pathways on either side are the other attractions. There are 40 CCTV cameras, 20kW solar system and high-mast lights and ornamental lights.