Beginning this year, the Tamil Nadu Government has decided to officially celebrate the birth anniversary (October 1) of late actor Sivaji Ganesan. This was passed under Rule 110 (it allows for statements that entail no discussion) in the Assembly by Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisamy on Friday.
In 2017, the State built a memorial in Sivaji Ganesan’s name and it was inaugurated by present Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam. During the event, the South Indian Artistes Association (Nadigar Sangam) and the late actor’s family members had made a request that the Government celebrate his birth anniversary. That request was taken up and announced today.
Incidentally, the statue of Sivaji Ganesan that was removed from Kamarajar Salai (near the Marina Beach) is now at the Memorial.
Following Friday’s announcement, Sivaji Ganesan’s son Prabhu and the Nadigar Sangam expressed gratitude to the Government. “Though this comes late, I am happy that the Government will celebrate my father’s birth anniversary,” Prabhu told News 7.
In a press release, the Nadigar Sangam said: “Honorable Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisamy has announced that the birth anniversary of the legendary Mr. Sivaji Ganesan, on October 1, will be celebrated by the Government. The actor, who has been awarded the Kalaimamani, Padma Bhushan and Chevalier awards, has brought laurels to the film industry. The association extends its gratitude to the Government on behalf of the entire Tamil film industry for recognising ‘Nadigar Thilagam’ Sivaji Ganesan.”