IIM graduate and founder-CEO of Food King catering services Sarathbabu Elumalai is planning to join the AIADMK.
When contacted, the young entrepreneur who had a brief stint in Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) said a large party like the AIADMK would, through its “wide network”, help him “serve the people”. “If you look at the Amma canteen for example, it is a brilliant concept that ensures no one in the State goes hungry. Things look very promising under the leadership of the Chief Minister and that is why I am keen on joining the party,” Sarathbabu said.
Sarath has contested three elections – local body, assembly and parliamentary — as an independent candidate. However, he won none.
“An individual has his limitations in politics, but when you are part of a large organisation the scope of your work is expanded. I have mentored at least 500 aspiring entrepreneurs. I would like to use my skills for the people of Tamil Nadu,” he said.
In 2010 Sarathbabu, on the invitation of President Obama, visited the United States for a programme on legislative training. “I am eager to implement those ideas in Tamil Nadu,” he said.
G. Ramachandran, who graduated from IIM-Ahmedabad this summer, will also soon rejoin the party. The youngster made news for his choice to boycott placement interviews to return to the AIADMK’s youth wing in which he was part of prior to his management education. His father Singai Govindarajan, who is no more, was an MLA representing Singanallur Assembly constituency from 1991 to 1996.
Optimistic that the party will be receptive to his ideas, the youngster is also talking to his friends interested in politics. “My core competency lies in IT and training youth. I am a motivational speaker. I have met Swaminathan, secretary of the party’s IT wing, to discuss options,” Ramachandran said. Incidentally, Mr. Swaminathan is an alumnus of IIM-Bangalore.