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College Road renamed after actor Jaishankar; Chennai Corporation approves 'Jaishankar Salai' street name as tribute to 'James Bond of the South'

College Road renamed after actor Jaishankar; Chennai Corporation approves 'Jaishankar Salai' street name as tribute to 'James Bond of the South'

Time of India19 hours ago
, who debuted as a hero in Tamil cinema in the 1960s and later played important roles as a villain, has earned an indelible place in the hearts of fans with his unique acting. Affectionately known as the 'James Bond of the South', he has acted in over 300 films in his film career.
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Jaishankar, who died of a heart attack in 2000, lived on College Road in Teynampet, Chennai. His son Vijay had personally requested the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister to name a road after him.
Chennai Corporation approves ' Jaishankar Salai ' as new name
Following this request, a resolution was passed in the Chennai Corporation Council meeting, granting permission to name College Road as 'Jaishankar Salai' after Jaishankar. Following this decision, there was a gratifying reaction among Tamil cinema and its fans.
It is seen as a political recognition that Jaishankar's contributions are unforgettable.
Nadigar Sangam thanks CM and Deputy CM
The South Indian Artists' Association welcomed the decision and expressed its gratitude to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. In a statement issued by the Nadigar Sangam, it was stated, "This decision to respect and treat artists without forgetting them, despite being fully engaged in real-time politics, administrative work and public service, it is a beautiful reflection of the heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Thank you for giving a new identity to College Road in the name of Jaishankar."
Govt's past tributes to Vivek and SPB recalled
Previously, roads have been named after former Tamil cinema stars, actor Vivek and singer S.P. Balasubramanian, at the request of their families. These prove once again that the Tamil Nadu government is committed to respecting the work of artists and giving them due respect.
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The impact of these efforts is visible in the increasing number of students from marginalised backgrounds securing seats in top institutions. In recent years, Tamil Nadu has consistently produced one of the most inclusive higher education landscapes in India. Legacy of providing education for all Tamil Nadu's Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education stands at 47%, while the national average is 28.4%. Among women, Tamil Nadu's GER is 47.3%, against the national figure of 28.5%. These figures are the result of a political movement that placed social equity at the heart of governance, and an administrative system that has pursued that goal with seriousness and clarity. The roots of this achievement lie in the social justice movement and the educational reforms initiated by the Justice Party and later institutionalised by the Dravidian movement. 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The Illam Thedi Kalvi initiative, launched in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, has helped ensure educational continuity, bridging learning gaps among vulnerable communities. The free breakfast scheme for primary school students has improved attendance and nutrition, especially in rural and disadvantaged areas. Taken together, these schemes have contributed to the growing pipeline of students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are excelling in competitive environments. Importantly, these are not isolated success stories. They reflect a systemic change. The education revolution will continue When students from disadvantaged sections of society make it to institutions of eminence, it reaffirms our core belief that excellence in education is not the preserve of the privileged, but the natural outcome of providing equal opportunity and support. The 135 students we felicitated on July 31, 2025, represent more than individual achievement. 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We will ensure equal opportunities for all, guided by our cherished principles of social justice. We will empower our people through education, so we can keep building a Tamil Nadu that is just, prosperous and humane. M.K. Stalin is the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu

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