In death, Jaya finds unlikely admirers in DMK cadre

Revering the indomitable spirit of a worthy opponent, arch rivals put out posters with poems praising Jayalalithaa

The whole of Tamil Nadu is grieving the death of their beloved CM J Jayalalithaa. Leaders across the country regardless of the party are pouring condolence messages. Her bête noire and DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi said, "her name and fame will remain forever."

Karunanidhi and DMK Treasurer's MK Stalin tweeted, "She was an iconic & courageous leader. This is an irreparable loss to the people of TamilNadu." But something that never had happened in the decades of AIADMK and DMK rivalry was observed on Tuesday. DMK cadres erected  a banner, with no trace of bitterness, mourning the loss of a formidable opponent that surprised everyone in Tamil Nadu.

Here is the translation of the post:   

You are no more

The brave adversary who stood before us

You are no more

Even if thousand leaders stand before us

Valiant maiden

How can they match you?

Everything you did 

You desired to be ahead of our leader 

But do you have to be the first one even in death?

Where will our commander go in search 

For a rival like you?

In the battle of elections

We intended to face you as a gallant maiden

But in the heart of leader and commander 

We always wished you a long life 

Never had any other thoughts

Now, where can we find a worthy opponent like you?

Without you, we are at the peak of sadness

DMK banner paying tribute to Jayalalithaa