CHENNAI: The city was gripped by MGR fever on Sunday as his movie 'Thirudathey' completed 50 years on the mega screen. An auditorium packed with hardcore fans of the evergreen actor gave a rousing welcome to the ‘Makkal Thilagam’ on Sunday.
Even as enthusiastic fans wearing black spectacles staged a performance with movements of MGR off the dias, some were on their feet to praise their leader. This is how MGR fans enjoy his films even today. It was visible at the German Hall, where the golden jubilee celebrations of 'Thirudathey' was held. The event had some interesting moments, including an exhibition of rare photographs of MGR.
“Have we entered Thalaivar’s (MGR) house?” Muthumari, a housewife from Madurai asked her husband having a look at the photographs. After being told that it was an auditorium, the couple posed for the lensman with the exhibits.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, actor Saroja Devi recalled her experiences with MGR during film shootings. Stating that the former Chief Minister was a person with helping tendency, she said, “MGR is a god. He was a man who knew the pulse of his fans.”
When Saroja Devi, who acted with MGR in 26 movies, said that she was seeing MGR in the faces of his fans, it evoked a huge applause from the audience.
In her speech, actor Jayachitra underlined that there was no match for MGR. “Till this earth exists, the popularity and fame of MGR will continue to be alive,” she said. “There is no match for MGR.” Produced by ALS productions in 1961, 'Thirudathey' was one of super hit movies of MGR. The black-and-white film ran for about 25 weeks in the cinemas.