Supporters wave at AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa as she leaves Bangalore Central Jail. (Photo: PTI)
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, who was convicted in a disproportionate assets case and arrested three weeks ago, walked out of a Bangalore prison on Saturday afternoon. She had been granted bail by the Supreme Court on Friday.
The day of her release on bail had its share of drama -- with conflict, big name stars and a supporting cast of thousands.
Three weeks ago, there was tension and drama outside the Bangalore jail, after Jayalalithaa was found guilty in a corruption case by a city court and sentenced to four years in prison.
Now, once again, this jail was the focus of attention.
Ms Jayalalithaa's supporters had gathered outside the jail - or as close to it as they were permitted to by the Bangalore police. There were prohibitory orders, barricades and nearly 2,000 police personnel in the area to make sure the situation stayed calm as the wait for the court orders granting bail, to reach the prison went on.
Just before 3.30 pm, Ms Jayalalithaa finally left the jail and her convoy sped past the supporters waiting outside, to begin the journey home.
There is still a legal battle ahead for Ms Jayalalithaa and the three other accused in the case - but for the AIADMK leader and her followers - it was certainly a day of relief and hope as she left Bangalore Central Jail.
Ms Jayalalithaa has told her followers that she is confident of emerging victorious in her appeal against the conviction.