It is not without reason that Kamaraj is called ‘Perunthalaivar' (a tall leader). Who but him could have come up with a plan, in the early 1960s, to revitalise and boost the morale of the Congress party? In accordance with the ‘Kamaraj Plan’, a number of Central and State Ministers stepped down to work for the party, and that included him — he resigned as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister.
A man of few words, Kamaraj believed in letting his actions speak. As Chief Minister, he proved himself to be a ‘Karmaveerar', a man of action. Unlike several leaders in his generation, he had neither an affluent background nor collegiate education. And that is precisely what prompted him to commit himself to ensuring that neither hunger, nor poverty, nor distance stood in the way of children getting educated.
The author, Murugan, a first generation graduate of his family, has succeeded in crafting a volume that throws light on Kamaraj's personality by recalling some episodes from his life. For instance, Kamaraj politely declined an honorary doctorate offered by the Gujarat University; he counselled his grand-nephew, who secured a medical seat purely on merit, to join graduate course in agriculture.
The book has some rare photographs. Those in politics and those aspiring to enter public life will find it inspiring and stimulating.
PERUNTHALAIVAR KAMARAJAR: S. K. Murugan; Vikatan Publications, 757, Anna Salai, Chennai-600002. Rs. 105.
