M. Karunanidhi vs Tharman Shanmugaratnam

Karunanidhi wrote screenplays and dialogues for several Tamil films, including 'Parasakthi' (1952), which became a landmark in Dravidian cinema. His writing promoted social reform, rationalism, and anti-caste themes, influencing Tamil culture.

Karunanidhi became Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after the death of C. N. Annadurai. He led the DMK party and served five non-consecutive terms, focusing on social welfare, Dravidian identity, and Tamil language promotion.

Karunanidhi led the DMK to a landslide victory in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections, winning 184 out of 234 seats. The victory consolidated his leadership and the DMK's dominance in the state.

Karunanidhi played a key role in the Cauvery water dispute with Karnataka, advocating for Tamil Nadu's share. He led negotiations and protests, including the formation of the Cauvery Protection Committee, to secure water rights for Tamil farmers.

Karunanidhi was arrested in connection with a corruption case related to the construction of flyovers in Chennai. The arrest was seen as politically motivated by the rival AIADMK government, and he was later released on bail.

Tharman served as Deputy Prime Minister from 2011 to 2019 and as Minister for Finance from 2007 to 2015. He oversaw Singapore's economic policies, including the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and social spending initiatives.

Tharman was appointed Chairman of the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) of the IMF in 2011, serving until 2014. He played a key role in global economic governance and reform of the international financial system.

Tharman Shanmugaratnam was elected as the 9th President of Singapore on September 1, 2023, winning over 70% of the vote. He ran as an independent candidate, focusing on national unity and social issues.