Jayalalithaa Jayaram was a celebrated Indian actress, classical dancer, singer, writer and politician who became one of the most influential figures in Tamil cinema and Tamil Nadu politics. As an actress, she worked primarily in Tamil, Telugu and Kannada films, appearing in around 140 films between 1961 and 1980. She was widely admired for her versatility, screen presence and dancing ability and was popularly associated with the title “Queen of Tamil Cinema.”
Her notable films include Vennira Aadai, Aayirathil Oruvan, Kandan Karunai, Adimai Penn, Enga Oor Raja, Pattikada Pattanama, Suryagandhi, Sri Krishna Satya, Thirumangalyam and Izzat. She also formed one of the most successful screen pairings in South Indian cinema with M. G. Ramachandran (MGR), appearing with him in 28 successful films.
J. Jayalalithaa was a celebrated Indian actress, politician, and one of the most influential personalities in Tamil Nadu's history. Before becoming a powerful political leader, she enjoyed a highly successful film career in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada cinema. Known for her beauty, intelligence, graceful screen presence, and exceptional acting skills, Jayalalithaa appeared in more than 140 films and was among the leading actresses of the 1960s and 1970s.
Full Name: Jayaram Jayalalithaa
Popular Name: Jayalalithaa, Amma
Date of Birth: 24 February 1948
Place of Birth: Mysore
Date of Death: 5 December 2016
Place of Death: Chennai
Profession: Actress, Politician, Writer
Years Active (Films): 1961–1980
Languages Worked In: Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, English
Jayalalithaa was born into a Tamil Brahmin family in Mysore. Following the death of her father at a young age, she was raised primarily by her mother, actress Sandhya. An academically brilliant student, she excelled in school and was awarded a scholarship for higher studies. However, she entered the film industry at a young age to support her family and soon became one of South India's biggest stars.
She was fluent in multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and English, which helped her succeed across various film industries.
Jayalalithaa made her acting debut as a child artist before transitioning to lead roles in the early 1960s. Her breakthrough came with the Kannada film Chinnada Gombe (1964). She later entered Tamil cinema and quickly rose to stardom.
Her on-screen partnership with M. G. Ramachandran became one of the most successful pairings in South Indian cinema. Together they appeared in numerous blockbuster films, making Jayalalithaa a household name.
Apart from Tamil films, she also starred in successful Telugu and Kannada movies. Her performances were admired for their elegance, versatility, and strong screen presence. By the late 1970s, she had established herself as one of the most successful actresses in Indian cinema before eventually transitioning into politics.
These popular songs were picturized on Jayalalithaa:
During her acting career, Jayalalithaa received numerous accolades and became one of the highest-paid actresses of her era. She was admired for her versatility and ability to perform both glamorous and dramatic roles. Later, as a politician, she became one of the most influential leaders in India and served multiple terms as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
Jayalalithaa's life remains one of the most extraordinary journeys in Indian public life. From being a celebrated film star to becoming a powerful political leader, she achieved success in two highly competitive fields. Her contribution to Indian cinema, particularly Tamil films, continues to be remembered by audiences, while her political legacy remains deeply influential in Tamil Nadu. She is fondly remembered by millions as "Amma", a title reflecting the affection and admiration she inspired among her supporters.
Browse the complete collection of Jayalalithaa movie songs lyrics on Lyrics Sangrah and rediscover the timeless songs from the films of one of Indian cinema's most iconic actresses.