M.G. Ramachandran
AIADMK founder, former CM
A demigod by popular perception, Ramachandran was born to Malayalee parents at Kandy, Sri Lanka. However, his origins were never questioned, not even during the height of regional chauvinism in the state. His domination over the political landscape was so complete that he was elected chief minister thrice, despite the presence of present CM M. Karunanidhi in the opposition camp. Even today, 20 years since he left the stage, fans and cynics keep their ears close to his tomb on Marina beach in Chennai to confirm the rumour that his watch continues to tick – proof of his undying fame.

Vijaykanth
‘Black MGR’
His roots can be traced to Andhra Pradesh from where his parents came to settle down in Madurai a little before he was born. Though overshadowed by Rajni, Vijaykanth has acted in over 150 films. The day he stepped into the political arena by launching DMDK in 2006, he described MGR as his political guru and went on a step further by using a campaign vehicle once used by his guru.

J. Jayalalithaa
AIADMK general secretary, former CM
Was born and brought up in Mysore, Karnataka, before making it big at the box-office and subsequently in politics in Tamil Nadu. However, Jaya insists that she is from Srirangam, Tiruchy in Tamil Nadu. “Though I was born in Mysore, I was born in a Tamil family and Tamil blood is flowing in my veins. My mother tongue is Tamil,” Jaya said in an attempt to put questions about her legacy to rest.

Rajnikanth
Kollywood Boss
He is the only ‘outsider’ who achieved the superstardom status that MGR once enjoyed. He is a Maratha by birth and Kannadiga by upbringing, but found success in Tamil Nadu and has been a Tamilian since. Rajni’s background is a part of the local folklore, along with his humble beginning as a bus conductor.

Nayantara
She was already a star in Kerala after a string of good performances since her debut in 2003. By the time she did her first Tamil movie, Aaya, she had worked with the top stars in Kerala, under acclaimed directors.

Meera Jasmine
Apart from national awards, the the Malayalee actress has won the Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Actress (Special Award) in 2006. So far, she has worked in 12 Tamil movies, 8 Telugu and two Kannada films, apart from 16 films in Malayalam.

Asin
After debuting in Malayalam in 2001, Asin made Chennai her home now, and has been active in Kollywood.
The others
Arjun was born in Bangalore and acted in Kannada movies before moving to Chennai in 1984.
Karnataka-born Murali was particularly harsh while condemning the protests in Karnataka.
There have been several heroines from other states who made it big here. While Nayantara, Meera Jasmine and Asin are from Kerala, Khushboo and Simran are North Indians.