It was the publication of an opinion poll results in the Dinakaran (Tamil language) publication that created a rift between the DMK patriarch, Mr M. Karunanidhi and his nephews, the Maran brothers, who owned the Sun Network.

The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister saw the opinion poll as a ploy to intensify the rivalry among his children.

Out of this rift was born Kalaignar TV, as a business rival to Sun, in September 2007.

Kalaignar TV lost no time in roping in Mr Sharad Kumar, an estranged Director of Sun.

Despite the patch-up between the Marans and the Chief Minister's family, the rivalry between the TV channels still exists strong.

“As a trend-setter, Kalaignar TV has started giving the top channels a run for their money,” says the Web site of Kalaignar TV.

Published on April 25, 2011