Thiruvalluvar had said: The biggest favour a son can do to his father is to make others say, 'How fortunate a father he is to have a son like this.' Stalin has indeed done this favour to his father M Karunanidhi.

It was 3rd Jan, 1969n Stalin made his maiden speech at a DMK Public meeting held at Kodambakkam-Mambalam High Road in Chennai. Thirty nine years down the road, he is now ready to take over the reins of the State.

It was 31st January 1976. Among a large number of state and district level functionaries of the DMK, DK and the CPI (M) , Stalin was imprisoned during the emergency. One month later, Kalaignar visited him in the prison. He told his father that he was not assaulted fearing that the truth might upset Kalaignar.

It was 23rd April, the same year. Stalin appeared for B.A Examination in Presidency college under police escort. After almost an year, when Indira Gandhi withdrew emergency and  the  MISA deteneus all over the country were released from jail, Stalin was also released on 23rd January .1977.

He had the distinction of being the first directly elected Mayor of Chennai.

On May 5 2008, Stalin replied to the discussions on the grants to the Ministry of Industry, held by the Chief Minister himself. What more proof is necessary to confirm that he is all set to occupy the coveted seat? And, his distinguished father was by his side in the Tamil Nadu Assembly when he replied to the discussion.

The son has risen!