• Health Crisis: In 1984, while serving as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) suffered a severe stroke and other health complications that required advanced treatment. His condition was serious, and he was flown to Brooklyn Hospital in New York, USA for medical care.
• Uncertainty: His hospitalization created uncertainty about his political future, as many questioned whether he would be able to continue as Chief Minister given his health challenges. However, MGR’s political influence remained remarkably strong.

• AIADMK’s Decision: Despite being bedridden, MGR’s popularity and influence within the AIADMK were undeniable. The party, recognizing his importance to their continued success, decided to project him as their candidate for the Andipatti assembly constituency in the 1985 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections.
• Nomination Process: Even though MGR was in the USA, his nomination papers were flown to New York, where MGR signed them from his hospital bed, a clear sign of his determination to continue his political journey despite his health setbacks.
• Election Campaign: The election campaign largely relied on MGR’s charisma, with his image, pre-recorded messages, and appeals used to rally support from his vast base of followers. His personal popularity and connection with the people of Tamil Nadu were central to the campaign’s success.
• Election Victory: Despite being physically absent from the campaign trail, MGR was elected in absentia to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, securing a decisive victory. This victory underscored his unwavering popularity among the Tamil Nadu electorate and showcased the power of his personal charisma.

• Return and Swearing-In: After recovering from his health crisis, MGR returned to India and was sworn in as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for his third term on 10 February 1985—43 days after the election results were declared. This marked his return to political office despite his health challenges.
• Symbol of Strength: His return to power after such a serious health issue further solidified his image as a resilient leader and symbol of strength to his supporters.

• Connection with the People: MGR’s re-election under these extraordinary circumstances highlighted his deep connection with the people of Tamil Nadu, who viewed him as a savior and a symbol of welfare-oriented governance. The fact that he was able to win the election despite his health crisis was a testament to the loyalty and trust his supporters had in him.
• Inspiration: His election victory while absent from the campaign trail became a significant moment in Indian political history, showcasing the power of personal leadership and the emotional bond between a leader and the electorate.

• Unparalleled Popularity: The 1985 election episode is a powerful reminder of MGR’s unparalleled popularity and the influence of personal charisma in Indian politics. His ability to win an election without being physically present was unprecedented and demonstrated the extent to which his public persona and leadership resonated with the people of Tamil Nadu.
• Political Legacy: This victory marked another milestone in MGR’s political legacy and affirmed his status as one of Tamil Nadu’s most beloved and influential leaders. It also highlighted the strength of the AIADMK as a political force and the lasting impact of MGR’s leadership.

M.G. Ramachandran’s re-election as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu in 1985, despite his serious health issues and absence from the campaign, is a remarkable story of political resilience and people power. His victory underscored his unique connection with the electorate and the trust they placed in him. Even in the face of adversity, MGR’s leadership remained central to his political career, and his ability to win elections under such extraordinary circumstances remains a key chapter in Indian political history.