Annamalai chooses a brand new icon: APJ Abdul Kalam

After the resignation was accepted by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the party's former state unit chief, K Annamalai, on Friday announced that he would launch a new political movement based on what he called the "Kalam School of Ideology". Scientist and former President APJ Abdul Kalam is a symbol of excellence, dedication, sacrifice, unity and nationalism. Bringing Kalam, a proud Tamilian and nationalist, into the narrative of Tamil Nadu's politics, which has thrived on exclusions, is a masterstroke by Annamalai.

In his first public address after his resignation was accepted, Annamalai said the movement, named 'We The Leader', would function under the APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Ethics and Politics, a training and research institution which will be established by him in Coimbatore.

Annamalai praised Kalam's contributions to both India and Tamil Nadu, describing him as "a humanist, a proud Tamilian, and a nationalist".

The characterisation is notable because it closely mirrors Annamalai's own political positioning, which has consistently sought to blend Tamil identity with Indian nationalism. Like Kalam, Annamalai has often argued that pride in one's Tamil heritage and commitment to the nation are complementary rather than contradictory, making the former President a natural ideological inspiration for his new movement.

By choosing Kalam as the ideological icon, Annamalai appears to be



positioning his politics around nationalism, development, scientific temper, and social harmony. Kalam, one of the country's most-respected scientists and popularly known as the "Missile Man of India", remains a rare public figure who is admired across political, religious, and social divides.

Outlining the core principles of the movement, Annamalai said it would oppose social divisions, dynasty politics, and personality cults, while promoting scientific temper, nationalism, Tamil pride, good governance, and overall development. The choice of Kalam is a strategic move, allowing Annamalai to blend regional aspirations with a broader national vision without being tied to traditional ideological camps that currently dominate Tamil Nadu state politics.

Annamalai also revealed that the movement would gradually evolve as a political party and contest the Tamil Nadu Assembly election in 2031.

Just within 10 hours of its launch, Annamalai's political movement achieved a milestone as it registered over 1 million members.

"Our political movement has achieved a milestone, with over 10 lakh leaders registering within just 10 hours. This extraordinary response is a powerful reflection of the growing belief in our shared vision and collective mission," Annamalai posted on X on Friday.

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every individual who has placed their trust in this movement," he added.