The biggest funeral in history was for C.N. Annadurai, the charismatic Chief Minister of Madras (now Tamil Nadu), India.
A Historic Gathering of Millions
His funeral, held on February 3, 1969, attracted an unprecedented estimated 15 million people. This colossal turnout, according to police estimates at the time, made it the largest funeral gathering ever recorded, a testament to his immense popularity and the profound impact he had on the region.
Annadurai was a prominent Dravidian politician, known for his eloquent speeches, literary contributions, and for founding the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party. His passing at the age of 59 due to cancer led to a massive outpouring of grief and respect from the public, transforming his final rites into a historical event of unparalleled scale in Madras (now Chennai).
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Individual | C.N. Annadurai |
| Role | Chief Minister of Madras (now Tamil Nadu), India |
| Date of Funeral | February 3, 1969 |
| Estimated Crowd | 15 million people |
| Significance | Largest funeral gathering in history |
This extraordinary attendance highlights the deep connection the public felt towards Annadurai, reflecting not just political allegiance but a widespread personal attachment to a leader who championed social justice and regional autonomy.
