G. K. Moopanar

A Respected Statesman of Tamil Nadu

G. K. Moopanar, born Govindasamy Karuppiah Moopanar on 19 August 1931, hailed from Kapisthalam village in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. He was born to Shri R. Govindasamy Moopanar and Smt. Saraswathy Ammal.

Although family circumstances did not permit him to pursue studies beyond high school, he was self-motivated and went on to learn English and Hindi in addition to his mother tongue, Tamil.

Political Journey

In 1950, he came into close contact with the veteran Congress leader K. Kamaraj and became one of his most devoted followers. Immersing himself fully in the activities of the Indian National Congress, Moopanar steadily rose through the party ranks. He served as President of the District Congress Committee and became a member of the State Congress Committee.

His political career expanded to the national stage when he served as a Member of the Rajya Sabha from 1977 to 1989. He also held the position of General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee from 1980 to 1988. In February 1988, he assumed office as President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, and in 1989 he became the Leader of the Congress Party in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.

In 1996, Shri G. K. Moopanar parted ways with the Congress and founded a new political party, the Tamil Maanila Congress, marking a significant chapter in Tamil Nadu’s political history.

Public Service and Legacy

A respected statesman and influential political leader, Moopanar also contributed to cultural and cooperative institutions. He served as President of the Thiruvalyaru Thiyaga Brahma Sabha and was associated with the Co-operative Society of Chandrasekarapuram.

Shri G. K. Moopanar passed away on 30 August 2001, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, simplicity, and dedicated public service.

Commemorative Stamp

In recognition of his contribution to public life and Indian politics, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp in honour of Shri G. K. Moopanar, celebrating his enduring influence on the political landscape of Tamil Nadu and the nation.