"Will close my eyes after..." - Kalaignar's last speech

The DMK veteran Dr M Karunanidhi passed away at 94 at Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday at 6.10 pm. The five-time former CM was admitted to the hospital on July 26 following fever due to urinary tract infection.

His body was kept at his residence in Gopalapuram for a few hours and then taken to his residence at CIT Nagar as well. Kalaignar's body was later taken to Rajaji Memorial Hall for public view. Many prominent people turned up to pay their last respects to the DMK patriarch.

During his stay at Kauvery, many ardent followers were seen praying for the leader to wake up and address them again. It has been quite some time since TN last heard the magnetic speech of Kalaignar.

The DMK Chief last spoke at the Anna Arivalayam during the 'Muperrum Vizha' in 2016. Addressing the crowd, Kalaigar said, "I am 92 now. No matter how old I get, I will achieve the goal - the important goal. I will give my party victory in Tamil Nadu and only then will I close my eyes."