On September 17, 1949, C.N. Annadurai (Anna) founded the DMK after splitting with Periyar E.V. Ramaswamy. The party steadily gained mass appeal, shedding its separatist stance in 1962 and winning power in Tamil Nadu in 1967. Since then, it has remained a major force, first under M. Karunanidhi and now under M.K. Stalin.

Despite political upheavals—including M.G. Ramachandran’s 1972 split, its 1976 ousting during the Emergency, dismissal in 1991 over alleged LTTE ties, and a 1993 split—the DMK has endured, reclaiming power in 2021.

Known for its pioneering welfare policies, the DMK now promotes its ‘Dravidian Model’ as a national alternative, emphasizing Tamil cultural nationalism and cooperative federalism. Yet, 75 years on, it faces challenges from caste-based and nationalist forces, as well as accusations of corruption and dynastic rule.

At this crucial juncture, veteran political commentator R. Kannan examines the DMK’s journey and future, offering an objective and comprehensive account of its role in Tamil Nadu politics.

Author R. Kannan will be in conversation with Author & Editor Karthik Venkatesh. A Q&A session with the audience will follow.