Kalaignar Muthuvel Karunanidhi (generally referred to as M. Karunanidhi), (born June 3 1924) is one of the founder members and the present leader of the DMK party in Tamil Nadu, India. He is the president of the DMK party since 1969. He has been the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu four times (1969-71, 1971-76, 1989-91, and 1996-2001).

Karunanidhi started his career as a script-writer working in the Tamil film industry, but his wit and oratorical skills rapidly made him a popular politician. He has never lost an election in his long political career spanning over 60 years. However, numerous allegations of corruption have dogged his years in power. On June 30, 2001 he was arrested for alleged involvement in the "flyover scam". Although later released on health grounds, his arrest provoked riots, and brought the government of Tamil Nadu into conflict with the Central Indian Government.

His son, M.K. Stalin is widely expected to succeed him as leader of the party, causing his political opponents to criticise him for attempting to establish a political dynasty. His defenders counter that Stalin has been in the party for several years and has contributed to its growth.

His grand-nephew, Dayanidhi Maran , is currently the Union Minister of Communications & Information Technology.

External link

• Biography
• M.Karunanidhi - One Hundred Tamils of 20th Century