Rajah Iyer of Ramnad Remembered-21st Feb 21

On this 47th Rememberance Day!

For many even after several Decades of leaving their Rajah’s High School,Ramnad,they cannot forget their beloved Head Master,

Appa’s Last Picture

Shri Rajah Iyer.

My Father’s Last Photo in a Function and his Quote from Kamba Ramayanam in his own writing!

1.Mr.Parasaran:

I am fighting a case against some wealthy Industrialists, involving a huge amnt, for nearly 15 yrs now, handled by my ‘so called close adv.friend of mine!’
Shocked beyond words,by his lethargy, I decided after careful study to change the Lawyer!
Though, I know very closely some reputed Lawyers , my instinct compelled me to approach a Highly Reputed one, of Great eminence!
I decided to approach Mr.Parasaran, as his wife, Hema and all her brothers and sisters, were my father’s students!After I wrote to him, exactly within 48 hrs, I got a call from his Secretary!He was so nice to tell me ‘Sir wd like me to come and see him.!’
When I called on him at his Residence,he received me with so much affection,saying to his DIL :”Not only Hema and all our family members but almost every one from Ramnad, today sitting in various parts of the World, owe something to Mr.Rajah Iyer!He was a great Educationist indeed in Tamil nadu, as a whole!”
It brought uncontrollable tears in my eyes, hearing such nice words, from the Legal Legend of the Land. He insisted on me taking coffee with him and gave a basket of fruits, asking his Secretary to take me to his son!
Embodiment of Humility and True words from his heart!Such moments are worth any amount in one’s Life!

2.Kosalai Chellappa:

I was moved beyond words when a good friend of mine ,Kosalai Chellappa,senior to me talked to me a few days back for renovating our Ramar Koil in Ramnad,where we have lived and grown as Disciplined Citizens!

He narrated “How he cannot forget his HM,Mr.Rajah iyer in his LIfe!I was to join Leather Technology after SSLC when my father asked me to take the opinion of Sri Rajah Iyer.I visited your house when your father was reading in hte front room in an easy Chair.I told him about my ambition to go for Leather Technology and my father wanted me to take your opinion SiR!He suggested “Better do Mechanical in Alagappa than going for Leather Tech!” which infact changed my life as I got into Indian Oil afterwards soon after the Graduation!”

3.A Stranger in a Train:

His unimaginable compassion for anyone who approached him for help is something we must all try to emulate.

In 97, when my mom who was bedridden due to Cancer in my Adyar House,asked me to visit her Srirangam House in Uthara Street,where she lived for 25 yrs after my father’s demise , to find a buyer.I was travelling by Rockfort express which arrives at an Odd time of 4 AM at Srirangam.I saw a 70 yr old Iyengar in the lower berth and requested him to wake me up at Srirangam.He said :”Don’t worry.I am also going to Srirangam and I will wake you up.By the way do you belong to Srirangam?”he asked.

I said “I belong to Ramnad but my mom spent 25 yrs here in Srirangam..thats why..”

“Ramnad near Rameswaram?”

“Yes Sir!”

“Where in Ramnad?”

“Sir have you heard of Sri Rajah Iyer..?”

“OMG..How cannot I know that God?I was working for LIC and he helped me in my life which I can never forget!How do you know him?”

“He is my father Sir..”

That Old man got up from his berth..Then started narrating :

“My boy I am so happy to see you, the son of a very Great Man indeed..Except I was working in LIC Ramnad, I never had any  chance of meeting him , tho’ I have heard of his Compassion for all in Ramnad..It so happened that I was transferred to Madurai all of a sudden in the middle of an academic Year,in October.I tried to get admission for my son in a good school in Madurai and no where I cd get admission.Then LIC Manager  in my Ramnad office suggested me to approach Sri Rajah Iyer who can ‘get you a seat in best school either Saurashtra or TVS High School’!I told the Mgr  that I have personally met the HM of TVS High School who categorically said “House Full!”…The LIC Mgr said..’anyway meet Mr.Rajah Iyer..He will suggest something..!’ I met your father and explained my situation.He said “I don’t know whether my letter will have any weight but the TVS High School HM is my good friend and you can take my letter if you wish!” I said “Sir I have tried there and he categorically said “Housefull!” Your father said I will word  the letter in such a way that “either in your school or any other nearby school where you can help him..” “Believe me when I went with your father’s handwritten letter to TVS High School HM..He read it twice and asked me :

“How do you know Mr.Rajah Iyer?” I said because I am working in LIC Ramnad?”

He said”For this letter if I cannot accomodate you,I will be committing a big mistake as he is responsible for my elevation to this post through his influence years ago when there was a competition for this Prestigious Post..!”

The old man almost wept in the Train saying  “My son today is 42 and working in a Good co.,..all because of your Father..”

I cdn’t control my Tears!

He has helped many as one can see from this incident I received in Dubai from MUslim Students of Keelakkarai,Devipattinam: Dubai,Alburaimi Incidents

For such a Noble Man I am fortunate to have Created a Block in his name in Hindu Mission Hospital,Tambaram,just at the very Entrance(OP Ward)

Also for my mother next to his:

Rajah Iyer Block,Hindu Mission Hospital,Thambaram

Kamala Rajah Iyer Block,Hindu Mission Hospital

OP Ward Hindu Mission Hospital,Thambaram

I have brought out a Book on my Great Teacher,Philosopher and Guide which is available in KIndle(Free for 21st Feb 21): https://author.amazon.com/homeOr very keen on Reading in PDF Copy :

Rajah Iyer of Ramnad ,Remembered

I cannot Thank God in any other way for having been born as his son than to Circulate this to whomever interested in him with Gratitude!

Sathyameva Jayathe!

Mayalagu..a Gem in Mylife is Gone!

 

I am shocked to receive the news,a close friend of mine from the High School Days,Dr.Mayalagu,a man of High ambition and determination to succeed against all odds,tho’ born in such a poor family,is No More!

He must remain as an ICON for Today’s Youth,if you care to read my Blog (Reproduced below)which I wrote some years back in Sulekha.I dont have words except to say that :

“Mayalagu,despite all things against you ,poverty beyond all definitions,you brought Glory to your profession,Dignity wherever you went and most of all,I just cannot think of any other student of my father,who remembered him every second of his Life..even naming your son as Gurudev!”

May you Rest in Peace !”

Dr.Mayalagu

From My Sulekha Blog  2008:

The world is a great place to look for innumerable examples of Gods creations and we humans think we are the only most intelligent ones-whereas we are not .Life becomes so simple and uncomplicated if only we take a leaf or two from episodes of this nature-to imbibe humility and social committment to ourselves.I sometimes wonder why these politicians go on making money and more money,that too in illegal ways and act as if they are the apostles of Gandhian thoughts-especially when they act on stages when the elections fever at its highest pitch.Here is a quiet revolution in a afar away corner of earth,where rains attack once in 10 years,the sand and soil are bone dry,where the cattle cant find a good green leaf,where children from lowest ladder of society,the SC/STs used to walk atleast 20 kms every day to reach the nearest school,where Higher education is impossible for many,where living on a mouthful of rice every day,parents didnt know what to do for the rest of the 12 mouths looking in awe!

Ramnad-a far away dry land.Where the Sethupathis gloried themselves in the 18th century,when Bhaskara Sethupathi financedSwami Vivekananda’s visit to the Chicago conference,and when Swami Vivekakanda returned to India via Colombo-he purposely landed in Mandapam to pay his respect to Bhaskara Sethupathi.Swamiji was startled when Bhaskra sethupathi pulled the Chariot himself as a mark of respect to this Great Indian who spread our culture in far&wide!

However time changed when later day princes preferred wine and women,leave alone the races and the empire vanished in no time,as Swamiji himself made a speech once,”It takes only a few seconds to finish the great culture we can boast of,if we donot follow our true tradition and the dharmic way of life”

Dr.Mayalagu

Well ,Rajah Iyer,the Teacher,suited and booted in the British days,removed them on 15th aug 1947 and became a Khadi clad,simple Teacher :”To serve is my motto”

My Father’s last Photo in a function in Ramnad

He saw to his agony these SCs are helpless in nearby villages-there is no school even in Rameswaram wherefrom Abdul Kalam was coming by the only train in the morning and went to Shwartz High school,as it was nearer the Railway station!He felt an urgent need to do something,as he was keeping what Gandhiji has been preaching all along.He created a Vivekananda Hostel-exclusively for SCs-

They can come there ,stay,eat&play freely and attend the classes in Rajahs Hight school freely,as long as they are committed to excel in studies.Many benefitted and Mayalagu was one of them!

Dr.Mayalagu in his Farm near Ramnad

He is a short and sweet chap,only problem with him is God provided him with one extra finger in all his hands & toes-totalling 24 in all!But he used to write Tamil and English so well,he caught the special attention of his Head Master!tI have seen his father,who was thinking that he is so untouchable-he used to salute the Teacher Rajah Iyer from the far end of the road -the nice Teacher used to shout at him-

“Why dont you come near here and be by my side?”

“NO Yajamaan(Master)…. it is not correct!”

What is right&what is wrong in life?

Mayalagu excelled in examns-he was so studious he always became first in many subjects and stood first in SC/ST in the district.When he finished his school,he was helpless as he has to go to his farm,where there is no water.Feed his cattle which are starved of everything.Feed his parents who have never had anything,atleast he was lucky to be in Vivekananda Hostel.

He met his Teacher who told him “I will get you admission in RDM College,Sivaganga-go and study Pre University”

“Sir,fees?”

“Dont worry about it.I will take care of it”

He finished PUC in honours,but promptly repaid the dues when his scholarship amount came(normally for even SC/ST who need special support,the sholarship will arrive only at its own pace!)He came to the Teacher “Sir,I have finished in Honours!”

“You go to agricultural college.I will get you admission”

He did so.He broke all records in agricultural college.He applied to foreign university and went to Colombia and obtained his Ph D in Agri Science!

He wept over the phone for a long period when he came to know one fine day,in 1974,that his beloved Teacher is dead and gone!

He came back with vigour and worked to establish exemplary norms in Agricultural university in Madurai & Coimbatore.He never corrupted himself as a mark of tribute to his teacher.

He even named his only son as Gurudaev,after his beloved Teacher .He beacme the Director Agri University in Coimbatore and desreved to become the Vice Chancellor for which he tried several times.

He used to come to me and weep :”I am missing my Teacher who wd have ceratinly made me a V.C”

I used to tell him:”Let it come when it comes.Today’s world is totally corrupt.The very fact none considers you for that post shows you are absolutely above corruption!”

He is retired and lives in Madurai.Running a an elementary School giving education for the poor near by! 

He once in a way weeps over phone for that great master of his-like Abdul Kalam knows how hard those days were-only a few living  could imagine!

Those were the days!

Sathyameva Jayathe!

Happy Deepavali To You!

Wish You all a Very Happy Deepavali:

My Most Memorable Deepavali!

 

Father’s Day-Remembering a Great Educationist!

When we read about the Great Raja Raja Chozhan’s materpiece the Brahadeeswarar Temple,one cannot miss his Gratitude etched in the memory of his Guru,Karuvur Devar, who was instrumental in building this Historic Monument.Same way as Time passes,I want future generation from Ramnad who may get educated from the Sethupathy Arts College,Ramnad to remember the great Troubles taken by my father in 1963 to bring this college to Ramnad in the name of Sethupathys,one of his Life’s Dreams!

Sethupathy Arts College Ramnad

To fulfill his Dream,my father wanted to fly to Malaysia & Singapore in the 60s,as many of his old students were well settled there and it was easy for him to collect the necessary funds,but due to circumstances beyond control he cdnt go there.He decided to go around the Villages nearer Ramnad and the Aboobackers of Keelakkarai ,happily came forward to give funds and a Jeep for him to go around.Despite my father’s untiring efforts ,the funds collected was short by 60% of the Minimum Requirement  of Rs 5Lacs.I used to travel with him and could understand his agony !We used to return late in the Nights and my father  was not able digest the disappointments,mainly due to the poverty all around the Villages!But he was able to get a commitment for the balance amount from the Rajah of Ramnad ,Shanmuga Rajeswara Sethupathy thro some disputed lands between the Government and the Palace ,with a condition ‘if my father cd convince the CM ,Bakthavatsalam to be given as security!’As my father was a sitting MLC & was very close to Bakthavatsalam,he easily got  all the necessary permissions and the Ramnad College was Sanctioned.

Initially the college was functioning from the Ramnad Palace with a First Principal ,Mr.Minakshisundaram, who used to run to my father for all initial teething troubles.My father was more than willing to help him.

To establish a permanent premises on the outskirts of Ramnad,in Achundavayal,on the main Road towards Madurai,my father & the Govt met with innumerable resistance from the farmers who refused to give their Lands so easily.Since almost all in that area upto Paramakkudi, were my father’s students,after my father’s assurance to them that ‘It is your own children who are going to benefit with College Education’ they relented and what we see Today in Achundavayal as above is because of  his Tireless efforts!

Because of my father’s immeasurable Gratitude to Shanmuga Rajeswara Sethupathy,who brought my father to his school ,Rajah’s High School in 1933 and later  on gave full responsibility of the School & allowed him to continue as a HM even after becoming an MLC also,,my father wanted to name the college after him but the Congress Govt resisted under this name and there was a stalemate.Suddenly the Govt changed in 67 with DMK in power and Nedunchezhian as Education Minister was more opposed  for Raja’s name but my father approached Sri Annadurai ,who gladly accepted as a compromise and named the College as Sethupathy Arts College!Many would have benefitted from this college,I am sure,&I admire the single minded devotion of my father to make his Dream for a College Possible despite many hurdles & Politcs!This college also gave employment opportunities to many ,like one Ulaganathan,who was just a paper boy for my Chithappa and my father helped him to get recruited as an attender in the college!He must be well settled ,now,somewhere I am sure!

Syed Ammal School Ramnad

As a simple High School Headmaster,my father achieved so many things for Ramnad that History will remember him for many more years to come.

There was a young Dynamic Doctor in Ramnad,Dr.Abdulla,fresh from Medical college, wearing Cream colour Dress,spick & span always,doing a great service in  his small hospital named after his mother Syed Ammal.He used to meet my father in 65s when my father was an MLC and well known to all CMs .He wanted to convert his small school in his mother’s name as a Higher Secondary School and my father helped him ..My father always admired Abdullah’s interest in education for the underprivileged and over a period,Abdullah built Arts,Medical & Engg.,colleges. in Ramnad.He also built a big Bungalow on the outskirts of Ramnad in 2 Acres and wanted my father to come & bless him & his Family.This Bungalow was the next  Biggest after  the Ramnad Palace in size, in those days

My father did so much for Ramnad Town like bringing this new Hospital Building(Picture -inaugurated by Minister Jyothi Venkatachalam),water connection to many streets in a town where people had to walk miles for water and the whole of Ramnad was so grateful that they gave such a send off when he passed away that still many remember that Day with Gratitude!

CM Kalangyar’s Tribute to Rajah Iyer in the Council

 

CM Kalangyar’s Tribute to Rajah Iyer in the Council

 

I am sure many would have benefitted from these Institutions.

Once,when I was in Dubai,I wanted to buy some Gold and entered  a Jewellery Shop. From the counter ,the owner was watching me for a while ,from the time I entered the shop with curiosity, and I was wondering ‘why this man is looking at me ?’ I selected a nice Chain  weighing 38 gms and was about to pay. Before preparing the bill ,he asked me :

“Are you not Suri,son of HM,Rajah Iyer of Ramnad?”

I said “Yes”

“I am Basheer from Mandapam.I am now so well off because of your father.I came with a single Lungi from Ceylon in the  6os when your father accepted me in the School & educated me.When ,many Srilankans like me didnt have proper birth certificate,the DMK govt made a Legislation notifying ‘Any Gazetted Officer/MLA/MLCs Can certify for all Srilankan Migrants like me!” and your father kept a box in front of your house for us to drop the application form and he signed for almost all Srilankans like me without charging a Pie..Such a Great Man  is my HM!So I cannot charge you a pie..Indeed there are so many here in Dubai who will all be so Grateful to see our HM’s son..You shd come for a dinner I am arranging..!”He arranged a dinner in Al Khaleeza Hotel when I met nearly 100 students & families from Keelakkarai,Devipattinam, each one talked so much about their affectionate   HM & the Rajah’s High School Hostel, which made them what they are Today & each one of them showered me with Gifts !It was a very moving Moment in my life!

Appa just after His Shashtiapthapoorthi Passed away!

When I was in Al Buraimi,Oman,the House cleaning is done by contract workers from an outside Agency.One day when a set of workers was cleaning my house happily chatting in Tamil,I asked them :”Are you from Tamil Nadu?”

“Yes Sir..Keelakkarai!”

“OMG Thats my Place.. Ramnad!”

“Ramnad where Sir!”

“Do you know Rajah’s High School?”

“Sir we all studied there…”

“I am son of Sri Rajah Iyer..”

“OMG..call Azlam…” Azlam the owner of the contract agency cdnt control his emotions..   “My ஆசான் My ஆசான்’ s son”

Such Moving moments in One’s life is worth its weight in Gold Indeed!

Upanishads says of All Dhanams Education is the Best:

”  Vidya Dhanam Sarva Dhanam Pradhanam!”

Thirumular says  the Beauty of any Person is One’s Education:

“குஞ்சி யழகும் கொடுந்தானைக் கோட்டழகும்
மஞ்சள் அழகும் அழகல்ல – நெஞ்சத்து
நல்லம்யாம் என்னும் நடுவு நிலைமையால்
கல்வி அழகே அழகு.”

The ‘I’ FACTOR!

 THE ‘I’ FACTOR!

GURU POORNIMA SPECIAL!

Adi Sankara

Someone asked Sankara :

“I want Happiness!”
Sankara replied :

“Its very Easy :(1) First Remove the ‘I’.. it is Ego! (2)Then Remove the ‘want’.. it is Desire (3)Then what you see is ALL Happiness!”

EGO FROM DOB TO DOD!

“Man gets his Ego right on the day he kicks his feet in his mother’s womb itself and he can never get out of it till his last day to the Graveyard “says Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev.

The famous scientist, Albert Einstein, probably aiming at his educated peer group, made an equation for the Ego of a Man :

Einstein on Ego!

” One has to Starve the Ego and Feed the Soul!”
Swami Paramarthananda used to narrate a nice anecdote to nail the Powerful ‘I’ factor like this :
There was a very successful District Collector whose contributions to the entire poor and downtrodden people of the District was very much appreciated by one and all, like the famous Sahayam! His attender was all in admiration of the collector’s help, particularly for his family too in getting his children educated! But the day came when the Collector was transferred to another district,  which many like this attender cdn’t stand at all! The farewell party was over and a Group photo with this famous Collector was also taken. The photographer brought the Group photo when the Attender was also standing near the Collector? Please tell me where the attender’s eyes will get focused on the Photo instantly?  Not on the Famous Collector but to that corner, where he was standing! That’s natural Ego as he can’t even notice with whom he is standing! Everyone of us can’t get out of this ‘I’ but can try to ‘minimize its influence’ , Swamiji used to say!

My Classmate Mouli’s Beautiful Tagore Sketch!

The ‘I’ factor is surely responsible for one’s immeasurable anger too! Because of the big ‘I’ we fail to place ourselves in the other man’s position and understand his problem !
Everyone  knows about the great Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. The fact is many such great people have another side to them, Short Temper! One day Tagore had to go for an important function at 7AM. The day before,  he had directed his driver to come on time so that Tagore Cd attend the function on time!
Next day 7AM.. Driver absent.. 8AM.. 9..10… 
Tagore was furious beyond words!
Driver came after 2 days and Tagore burst out for 30 minutes, even asking him to quit, without allowing the Driver to speak, who was silently weeping, beyond words!
When the Volcano subsided, the poor driver said, weeping, “Saab, I lost my 3 year old son and I cdn’t send the message as we were all unable to think of anything else and I was far away in my place..!”
For a minute Tagore was dumbstruck to realize his Stupidity! He hugged the Driver and apologized profusely and felt so ashamed, that he wd  never ever get angry anytime in his life. Tagore writes ‘I failed to place myself in his position because of my position, power and arrogance! “
“It is better to Lose your Ego to Save the one you Love, than to Save Your Ego to Lose your Love!”
Let’s learn to Analyze our’ I’ FACTOR on this Guru POORNIMA!

Abdul Kalam,humility personified!

Abdul Kalam has brought my native place Ramnad

so much Respect in the World map,I feel so sad to hear about his demise..

Abdul Kalam

Despite his positions,he spared a few minutes for me too,to discuss about his Math’s Teacher,Mr.Ramakrishna Aiyer,and my father,Mr.M.Rajah Iyer.

Abdul Kalam’s guide in early days,was one Mr.Manikkamwho was my father’s old student from Rameswaram.Abdul Kalam  has  paid rich tributes to both Manikkam and Ramakrishna Aiyer in his “agni sirakukal”

I wrote about their connection some years back in my blog column,which I reproduce here…

http://creative.sulekha.com/abdul-kalam-and-ramakrishnaiyer_250556_blog

I recall the day when I saw this mention of Ramakrishna Iyer in ‘அக்னிசிரகுகள்’ I wrote to the President Kalam that I wd like to come n get his autograph!

Exactly after 2 days I got a call from President’s Secretary :

‘Sir President feels you need not come all the way to Delhi. President will be in Chennai on such n such dt n wd see you @Raj Bhavan! ”

On that day when I was ready, Secretary reminded me ‘President will meet you at 9″

I was pleasantly surprised when President in all humility shook hands with me and said : ”  I know your father. As I have mentioned I owe my growth to Ramakrishna Iyer and Manikkam! You must be really proud of a great Teacher! Where is the book? ”

He autographed it n gave it!

That’s real definition of Humility!

Very proud I  belong to that Punya Bhoomi!

May his Soul Rest in Peace!

For many,A High School Teacher is God Himself!

Karmegam,is a School mate of mine.

On Every Full moonday he never misses to go for Girivalam@Thiruvannamalai.

I come to know that it is a Full Moon Day because of his never Failing SMS..

“Suri..I am doing this Girivalam,praying sincerely for your family’s welfare!”

President’s Award 1965

Invariably,tears will blind my eyes,when I see this SMS!

Karmegam means,A  Dark Cloud-literally if translated.

Was it a Dark cloud around this wonderfil fellow in his early days?May be Yes.

My Father’s last Photo in a function in Ramnad

Dry lands of Ramnad produced drier people and their ability to think and do something great was relative to their intake- after all you need food which is hard to get.Karmegam was a young man who desired to excel in studies but poverty prevented him from pursuing what he wished to do.

One day he met his Teacher and explained to him his desire to study and his inabilty to come all the way from his village which was 15 kms away.He was also from a very poor SC Family,adding to his woes.His Teacher,being taken aback by this man’s

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amazing enthusiasm and alertness in General Knowledge Quiz he did for him,said:”You can join VIvekananda Hostel and study well.But with a condition that you must excel every where to become an engineer ultimately to bring glory to this Ramnad!”

Well Karmegam used to live on frugal meals in that Hostel and did well to go to Engineering college as demanded by his Teacher.He excelled in Engineering and he became an authority in Water Management in India.He went to various conferences in UK,USA and presented his papers.One fine morning in 1990 he came to see me at a very early dawn.He greeted me with an young boy of 15 yrs age.

“Suri,I want you to bless my son….”

“Karmegam,come on man,who am I to bless your wonderful Boy?”

“I see my beloved Teacher in you and I want your blessings before he Joins his engg., college?”

“Nice to know he is going to do engg.All the very best and do well like your Dad?”I said

“You know ,Suri.He is a British Citizen!”

“Thats a great news Karmegam.How come?”

“well when I was in England I got married to a Malaysian Lady and we are nicely settled now and as you know I am the Director of Water Management at Anna University!”

“I am so proud that from such a background like Ramnad,you have come thro hard fought life and indeed you deserve everything in life,Karmegam”

“It is definitely my Teacher’s blessings and thats why I chose to take yours for my son too today.”

After a few years again Karmegam gave me a ring.

“Suri I am retiring as Director of Anna University tomorrow.But I want to confide with you that the Correspondent of Rajalakshmi Engg., college was after me for a while and he wants me to be the Dean!”

“Great news.Why dont you join,Karmegam”

“I want to take your blessings before I do that on MOnady -day after tomorrow”

He is now heading that Institution with Honour and Pride!

I sulked a bit ,as ,as a son I haven’t been telling my father many things in life and what great citizens this Teacher has produced.

Tho’ these anecdotes are not for self glorification,it may one day motivate others to emulate them to do more good to the society.

‘vidyadhanam sarva dhanam pradhanam

Pls read this Blog too:
Mayalagu, a Gem in Mylife

Are you a Laughing Stock..?Nothing Wrong!

To day is World Laughter Day!
If anyone doesn’t know how to Laugh,One doesn’t deserve to be a Human…
As we dont know whether Animals laugh at us but every one else will!!

There is also nothing wong if someone laughs at us..
Look at Me..
The people around me try to avoid me as I am supposed to be a Moran..
Sometims my own closest family members wd like to avoid me as they wd like to have some more pleasnter ,laughabale company,as I am not that very Laughable!!

Well dont worry..

If we know how to laugh at our ownself we have achieved the Ultimate..

Upanishads divided the HUman form into 5 Kosas or Shields starting from the Earthly Mass…our Body as the very Basic form as Annamay Kosa….till the ultimate 5th one as Ananda Maya Kosa!
Yes..We,every one of us, are supposed to be the Happiest for ever and ever…

So dont worry if anyone says you are a Laughing Stock..

Every one else is also..to be TRue to Upanishads…

There was a time Times of India sold their dailies ‘Only based on R.K.Laxman’s catoons..People used to buy only just for that momentary tocklish time..”

Look at the Kerosene Lantern!in 1995!!

Because when we laugh,we reach the ultimate eality Ananda Maya Kosa..
Even after today’s Karnataka Elections,
we may again see a Krishna who read a wrong paper in a wrong coutry as External Affairs MInister,as CM of Karnataka,for alll that you know..

In every Election Politicians Promise the Moon!

Don’t worry..Just Laugh..
Laughter is the best Medicine..
Especially in India when we see Darkness and Corruption everywhere!
Have faith in your ownself..
That you are the Happiest by Nature..
Thats what Upanishads say!
Look at these catoons for a change & Relax!!

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My Father’s greatest strength..

Feb 21st is a fasting day for me since 1974..

I cdn’t digest the sudden departure of a Great Gandhian & guide in mylife.

It was just impossible to forget Him from then on,I have always been a miserable man!

Receiving President’s award in 1965

My father’s greatest strength was His Truthfulness.He never ever deviated from the Path of Truth and I wd like to recall some incidents as a tribute to His greatness on this day..

1967…

He being a simple Headmaster of  Rajah’s High School ,was only a servant to the Rajah of Ramnad,Shamugaraja Sethupathi who commanded so much respect all over Tamil Nadu and in many Princely states..But since my father was such a strict disciplinarian and headed a school of nearly 2000 students with such discipline,none including the Rajah,wd like to interfere with this great Institution..Rajah also had so much respect for my father and probably my father was the only one Rajah of Ramnad used to call “Mr.Rajah Iyer” as all others wdn’t get that special respect..

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In 1967 when the elections were announced,Kamaraj,the great Congress Leader refused to give COngress Ticket to the Rajah,who was earlier a COngress MInister!Rajah wanted to contest the elections as an Independent!

Since my father was also an elected M.L.C representing the TEachers COnstituency,He was well aware the mood of the people.So my father ‘advised’ the Rajah ‘not to contest’ as th mood was against him..Rajah refused to listen to my father.My father went out of the way to tell the Rajah that people around him were after his money only and hence ‘this elections wd be a big drain on his wealth’.He didnt listen to My father…

I was doing my Final year Engg. examn when the elections was in the offing and had come down to Ramnad to prepare for the examns.Normally I used to spend a lot of time with my father and when we were together in an afternoon in our HOuse,there was such a noise outside our house..that nearly 400 to 500 boys shouting slogans..’Vote for DMK..Vote for Thangappan’ was heard.My father was a bit startled when the very crowd suddenly became silent when they reached my house!

A tall 6 footer,with a thick MOustache,Thangappan entered my house with a Huge Garland of Roses..He prostrated before my father seeking His blessings..

My father,being never afraid of anyone,leavealone Thangappan,an Old student of His,told him”How dare you enter my own House and ask for my vote for you?”. The crowd  was watching!Thangappan again prostrated and sought His blessings.My father told him”All the best..”

Thangappan won the elections and Rajah was devastated after losing the elections,that too to a drop out from his own school!Thangappan,after the announcements were made,again came with nearly a 1000 boys with a bigger garland and prostrated to my father..”I need your guidance in the Assembly.”

My father told him”Do everything possible for the poor..all the best.”While Thangappan was going back ,my father called him and asked him “How did you come?”

“By a Horse -Cart!”

“Don’t worry..sooner you will get a car!”

Exactly in 6 months’ time,he was given a car by the DMK and he drove straight to my house to take my father’s blessings…

In the meantime,the Rajah was bedridden after the elections..

He sent word for my father and my father went to the Palace..Rajah hugged my father and wept over His shoulders

“Rajah Iyer..you are the Only One who advised me Truthfully..I have lost a few crores..I am so much upset..”Rajah was uncontrollable..

He passed away in a few months..

My father used to say..”Rajah cd have lived a bit more had he ‘not stood for that elections.”

My father served as an M.L.C., for 12 yrs between 1962-74 when he died as a sitting member(see Govt notification)He was commanding so much respect from all the Chief Ministers,like Kamaraj,Bakthavatsalam,Annadurai and Karunanidhi.

He died a poor man.He never had a car.He always travelled by Bus in Madras as an M.L.C.,Some of His students are holding top positions in Nasa,in UK,Singapore&Middle East and the Crescent Group Chairman was my father’s student..Abdul Kalam used to recall about my father’s greatness,as narrated by Abdul Kalam’s gaurdian in Rameswaram,Manikkam,who was my father’s student.Kalam writes he owes a lot to Manikkam!

Well..He has left behind a wealth of pride for us,thats immeasurable!My tribute@Ramnad function

A Day with Lions,Leopards &Rhinos!

13 th Jan 2013!

A memorable birthday present for me from my younger daughter!

a day with Lions,Leopards,Rhinos,Wilddogs!

Lion Cub 1

Sarasa with Lion Cubs

Set in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve lies roughly 40 kilometres north-west of Johannesburg; a chance to see white rhino, lion, buffalo, hippo and other species of game up close and within half an hour of the major metropolis.

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If you get to the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve at feeding time, you’re virtually guaranteed to see predators, as they are hand-fed – a bit like cheating, but a big bonus if you haven’t the time to head off to the Kruger National Park on safari. You can also select to go on a game drive offered by the reserve with a knowledgeable ranger, and with roughly 600 head of game within the reserve, a visit is bound to include almost all of the reserve’s species – endangered species such as cheetah, wild dog and the Cape vulture.

The highlight of any visit to the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, which covers 1200 hectares of land, is without doubt a visit to see the lion cubs, one of the species that forms part of the reserve’s breeding programme. Most of the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve’s focus is on their breeding programme.

Lion Cub 1

Swan

Warthog1

Cheetah

Sarasa with the cubs

Wild dogs are endangered species

Wild dog

Wild dog

leopard family

Wild dog

King lion

King Lion..ready to charge!

Another interesting project of the reserve is the vulture restaurant – literally a way of providing the vultures that live in the surrounding Magaliesberg with carcasses, donated by local farmers. Up to 200 birds feast at a time in the reserve.

If you wish to enjoy a ride in a Nature Reserve,with an experience of touching the cubs like Lions,Tigers,Cheetah..this is the place to be in!

Story of A Watch…

Story of a Watch..
My watch is a HMT Sona,1971..I will appreciate if you can give me its worth after reading this Blog..Thank You!
A watch cannot be a piece of adornment for many and for me it has been a symbolic description of everlasting memories.My watch has been seeing its ups and downs both in my personal life and in its own physical endurance.After all a HMT Sona watch,introduced in the early 70s with mechanical keying has predicably oscilated between slowing down in times of pain and beating faster in times of ecstacy.

I didnot care to switch over to the more costlier varieties of Diamond studded Breitling($65000)

Diamond studded $ 65000Brei

Rolex

or a gold plated Rolex ($52500)to advertised models of Breguet or Cartier($55000) par excellence…..not that I could not afford one of them at any point of time of my life,but I valued and continue to value the particular story of my wonderful watch I wear,the HMT Sona of January 1970!

The purpose of a watch ,according to my simple mind is to depict the Time and needs to be perfect when it does.Over a period of Time,watches from Swiss to Japan have revealed more than mere Time,in terms of advertising young models in order to attract everyone’s attention.But my HMT Sona was not among those greatly advertised ones but this model was indeed from a different pedigree !

Atleast that was what my most admired man on earth,my teacher,guru,guide and philosopher,my late father ,Mr.M.Rajah Iyer,thought in the 70s.He surprised me on a fine morning when I was sipping my morning coffee in a Bachelor’s apartment in Madurai,with a close look at the Time on the wall clock ,which gave atleast another 90 minutes to hurry up to my office!He was nearly 100 kms away from my place, normally,a poor Headmaster in a High School.There was no need for him to surprise me at that hour all the way.He made me happy when he did ,in his usual smiling face,melodious voice& asked from behind:”Ennnaa..”(how are You?)
I was taken aback to see my dad at that Time and was so happy and thrilled and offered him a coffee too.He said “NO thanks.”
Then he gave me this wonderful Watch”HMT SONA”embedded in GOld….”
and wished me”Happy Birth Day to you”(14thJan1971)
“Oh Appa.Thank you.Indeed thank you for this nice Gift.Thanks for remembering my Birth Day……Did You come all the way from Ramnad just for this”
“I had Legislative work and I came and stayed here Yesterday and wanted to surprise you on your BIrth Day!”
“Thats so sweet of you appa.”
“You know it cost me 25% of my Salary!”
“Thanks a lot Appa.”Tears rolled down my eyes as Rs 105 for a watch for a man nearing 56 was a lot of money.It also meant he was getting only rs 420 as his last salary as a Headmaster.
“I will cherish this for ever in my hands Appa.”

My HMT SONA!

Which I do till date.It has shown me ups and downs.If the keys dont work I needed to spend a lot to get the keys.If the gears disappear I need to specially fly down to HMT factory to get one.Nowadays it doesn’t lose much time,except for a correction factor of 30 mts Everyday!

The Watch has been a great companion and witness to all my deeds in Various places and countries from Hongkong to NIgeria and South Africa,Oman,Dubai USA ,Europe,UK.It has travelled with me showing dutifully a Time that was always cherished in my memory.

One of them is when I decided to wind up my NIgerian assignment and settled down in Chennai.I had decent job offers and one of them I was seriously considering was as a CEO in TTKs.The ORganiasation appreciated my CV and I was most certainly offered the job when there was a hicup.The Board wanted me to be in Tanjore,where the Tantex factory is located which I refused,saying I had shifted to Madras mainly for my kids’ education and any place other than Madras was non-negotiable.After all they also wanted me.There was a stalemate.

Then T.T.Jagannathan,Group Managing Director called me for a discussion at his office in Bangalore and I went there.He and his mother Padma Narasimhan were alone in the BOard Room when I was asked to come in.He said:
“Suri,we all appreciate your great work in reviving companies in various countries and we do want you in Tantex.But your adamance in not going to Tanjore is the only hitch.”
I said “I cannot go anywhere and after all Tanjore is not far off from Madras and I can visit the factory 3 days in a week sitting in Madras.”
There was a long spell of silence.Then it happened.
He looked at my watch!
“Suri,dont tell me you are wearing a HMT Watch.I expected an Omega or Rolex in your hand,having spent many years abroad?”TTJ said.

 

“It has more value than all the described watches you just did put together.”
“Why”
I narrated the story of my watch.

He bacame highly emotional after hearing this story ,especially in front of his Mom.A gigantic fellow,he got up from his chair and literally hugged me and lifted me up:
“Man I like that.I like that.You know something.The whole world thinks TTK means TT KRishnamachary-my Grandpa.NO.NO.NO Way…My Dad.TT Narasimhan used to go all the way to Kerala in 30s and brought things and sold here in BUrma Bazaar and built it up brick by brick by shear hard work….My dad is the one responsible for TTKs…..”
He was emotional too.His mom was watching.
“Suri….You can give me a blank paper and I will sign your appointment letter now and here”he said.

I always felt that I had a great time with not only TTJ but with Narasimhan and Padma who used to even drop into my sweet home for a surprise dinner.I also made Tantex a household name due to sheer hardwork! 

Time is something ,which stands still on occasions like this,especially if you have followed ceratin principles and stood by them,over a period of Time.

Please read my blog on my Mom also:Old is Gold

An Open Letter to the PM!

PM Modi’s Birthday Greetings

Respected PM Sir,

I have been writing to you ,since 2014,especially before the Budget on what I thought a Great PM of India ever, can do to remove every poor Indian out of poverty !

I am happy that atleast one of my suggestions is implemented!

“Don’t bother much about deficit but open out with as much stimulus every where to create Growth,has been done today, thanks to a Covid Compulsion!”

(1) I have been Quoting Rajaji, repeatedly”Govt doesn’t have any Business to be in Business”& wanted Many white elephants to be privatised!Your Govt shows right intention, but the pace is too Slow.

Cant understand paying salaries for NTC workers for playing Cards inside the Mills!As early as in 1975 when the World Bank report termed NTC as Industrial Slums,I wrote it’s one of many sources of permanent conduits for politicians &Babu’s!(I was one of the selected Few from South, the World BankTeam sought views at that time!)It’s painful that even after 46 years of that report,no government has taken notice of that Report!NTC is only one of many PSUs used as conduits for the Politicians&Babus!

(2) I suggested in 2014 that getting a massive mandate is great “but extending friendly hugs to Mamtas & Nitishs to single out the biggest enemy of India,Congress will porve Greater!”Unfortunately Chanakya’s philosophy on “How to defeat a Common Enemey!” was not heeded too.As otherwise You wd have transformed India to a Greater extent ,at a Faster Pace, by Now I sincerely feel

(3)Same way I suggested in Delhi not to go for re-election when you had 32 seats but a coterie around you ,again didn’t have the Foresight & created a monster,by going for an Election!

(4)Same way losing the Financial capital of India ,thanks to the coterie created an enemy out of a dependable friend!Again Artha Shasthra ignored!

(5) Amidst various points in 2014,I suggested that to eradicate Black Money,which is running a Parallel economy,I suggested “Tax on Expenses instead of Income ” but fortunately you have successfully saved India to a great extent from this menace by Demonetisation,for which every Patriotic Indian must be ever Grateful!I Still I hold my views that Taxing Expenses for a Huge country with Black MOney would be a Great Way to eliminate Poverty for ever,though needs great planning & execution!

Sir,

(1)Your contribution to cleanse India of Corruption is immense,immeasurable,but 70 years of Ruin have got their hold in every part of the Judiciary & Admin!Its a David Vs Goliath War!

(2)Your boldness in the borders& Kashmir shd make every patriotic Indian like me to serve your commands without any hesitation but our Media is controlled by Traitors!Democracy sometimes is a Myth I strongly feel as Palkhiwala used to say often!Otherwise why shd ever a Kamaraj be Defeated?

(3)In India ,Looters don’t like Honest Modis to Rule, as you know how much money is there to loot.Rajajis,Kripalanis &Ramakrishna Hegdes,were never welcome but only dishonest people as you know!

Media doesn’t show how many NE Women were Raped in 1964 Chinese War,Aruchanala Pradesh occupied, but would go on repeating Oxygen episodes till 2024!Thats what we learn in Politics in India-Goebbels can easily mislead the gullible!

Imagine Sir,if only you had extended a hug to all in 2014 except the Traitors!

Alienation of Senior Citizens:

Also I lexpressed my disike when a FM announcing in a Budget speech reduction in FD interest rates which has alienated most Senior Citizens!That was a sad day for us!
Many times I pleaded that GST of 18% on Senior Citizens Homes is too high but all the FMs ignored my pleas! As a great PM ,you cannot ignore the SEnior Citizens who live on their hard earned money with Dignity!

Atleast in 2022 this must be reduced to 5%& interest rate on SC FDs raised by 2%.My arithmetic says it’s peanuts for a 2Trillion dollar country!

In conclusion even now its not too late to get Mamtas to your side in the interest of the Great Nation & try to cement all sides before 2024 -as a Patriot I am interested in India,not just your election in 2024 & prevent Traitors take over again for another 70 Years!

I am writing these just for you to take action against a coterie which is systematically bringing down a Great Brand ever in India”Modi”!

Pardon me for my frankness as Vedas says “Sathyam Vatha!”
Tks for your Greetings (once)

Sathyameva Jayathe
Rajah Iyer Surianarain
Coimbatore
9840083124

Jamshedji,Greatest of all Philonthrophists!

Jamshedji Tata

“Satheshu jayathe suraha;sahasreyushatha panditha;

Vaktha sathas sahasreushu; dhatha bhavathi va nava”

says the Upanishads!

One in a Hundred will be a Suran!One in a Thousand will be a Pandiit.But to find a real good Giver(Dhatha),Very Very Rare like the Great Visionary Jamshedji!

To give without any expectations,one must have Inner Richness says the Upanishads!Jamshedji’s Genius to earmark a sum equivalent to several Billion Dollars in Today’s equivalent for Scientific Research in Bangalore,stands tall today as the Greatest of all Philonthrophies in the Whole World! What a Great man Jamshedji is!

It is a pity most Indians know the Birthdays of Rajni Kanths but haven’t heard of Jamshedjis & Adersh Godrej!If you are a Patriotic Indian and if you haven’t read Jamshedji’s biography or Adersh Godrej’s Vijitatama(I have donated my copy to Shenbagam Library),I suggest you must!

Jamshedji’s vision for starting a Steel Plant ,was ridiculed by the Britishers and Jamshedji went all the way to US to bring the best Brains to plan a unique Steel Plant in a Jungle ,today called Jamshedpur!Alas he was not alive to see his dreams fulfilled except to see the Taj Mahal Hotel!

Towards the end of the 19th Century, Jamsetji Tata walked into one of Mumbai’s most expensive hotels – but, so the story goes, he was told to leave because of the colour of his skin.

Legend has it that he was so incensed he decided to build his own hotel – a better one that would welcome Indian guests.

And so, in 1903, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel opened its doors on the waterfront in Mumbai. It was the first building in the city to have electricity, American fans, German lifts and English butlers. It’s still the height of luxury today.

Taj Mahal 1903

In Beyond the Last Blue Mountains,R.M.Lala describes Jamshedji’s vision to build POwer Plants,Hotels,Steel Plants&Textile MIlls to create huge employment opportunities and compete equally with the Britishers.in every field.He was so patriotic he named the Textile Mills in MUmbai he started as Swadeshi Mills!Jamshedji while Travelling in the Ship to US for a Steel Plant,meets Swami Vivekananda ,whose advice changed Jamshedji’s Philosophy to be more Welfare Centred than Profit Centred.But he strongly felt in creating enterprises which can only solve the problems of unemployment&poverty in India!His philosophy of Freedom in a poor country like India is amply explained by him:

“Freedom without the strength to support it and, if need be, defend it, would be a cruel delusion. And the strength to defend freedom can itself only come from widespread industrialisation and the infusion of modern science and technology into the country’s economic life.”

On his demise this is what LOrd Curzon,the Viceroy has said:

“No other Indian of the present generation had done more for the commerce and industry of India.” —Lord Curzon, the viceroy of India, following Tata’s demise!

Independent India Failed miserably to utilise such a Great Benevolent Welfare Oriented Group to its Full Potential,which wd have otherwise,made India No 1 in the World in every Field by Now:

It is a pity that when JRD Tata prepared a Master Plan to build Indian enterprise based on Jamshedji’s vision in 1946 ,it was put in the dust bin by the First PM of India.Infact JRD writes in Beyond the Last Blue Mountains,”Not only Nehru ignored my Bombay PLan of 1946 but when in 1953 an ordinary minister called Jagajivan Ram came to tell me that my well run ,Profitable Tata Airlines is being Nationalised,I thought I am being stabbed on my Back by my own trusted Friend!”

Air India has been used by Babus&Ministers to be looted left&Right all these years!

Every Indian must be proud of the Tatas for their selfless contribution in every field.My younger daughter Sharmi was selected as one of the 15 Juries for the Childrens Film Festival in Paris in1995 when she was just 15!I told her to pay a visit to JRD’s Resting Place,as a Mark of my Greatest admiration for a Great Patriotic Indian,if possible,which she did!

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  Sharmi one of the 15 Jury’s in French Children’s Film Festival

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  JRD’Grave,Paris

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  Sharmi Interviewing French Actor in Paris Film Festival

I salute Jamshedji and JRD for their great Patriotism which every True Indian must emulate!

Sathyameva Jayathe!

Dr.Shanta -Service Before Self

Dr.Shanta

Dr.Shanta

 

Some people are God’s Gift to Humanity and the way they give their entire life for some Social Cause,like Dr.Shanta is amazing when we see only People, who are all so selfish and accumulating Material Wealth only for their own Self!

Look at her Awards, having sacrificed her whole Life,for Cancer Patients by starting the Cancer Institute Adyar,with Dr.Subbulaxmi!

She is from a family of Outstanding achievers — both her maternal uncle S Chandrasekhar(NASA has named the Outer Space Station after him!) and maternal grandfather C V Raman are Nobel laureates — Shanta graduated in medicine in 1949 from Madras Medical College, later specialising in Gynaecology and Obstetrics.
Her work had her win several awards, including the Magsaysay Award, Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award given by the Government of India.I know her sister thro my classmate and close friend Easwar,who always used to spend a few minutes with me after every concert at Hamsadwani!Another sister is instrumental in running the Avvai Homes for the destitute Children in Theosophical Society!

I remember ,meeting Dr.Shanta,when I went to Cancer Institute in 2000 December to do a small contribution in my Mom’s name,as she died of Cancer,she was so affectionate to take me around and suggested “See these poor families of the Cancer Patients.The Patients’ families need support by way of food/shelter as they don’t have any means..!”

I did my best to add my name in this Golden Cause..

I came to know Shanta is the Chithi of my good friend and classmate Easwar,who is the Dean of Amherst,in a function in 98 when she along with Parasaran received the Chandrasekhara Saraswathi Award for outstanding contribution to the Society from Jayendrar in Sanskrit College  and today this is what I wrote to Easwar:

With Easwar @ Amherst

Easwar,

I remember 1998.Dr.Shanta was one of the recipients of yearly honour of Chandrasekara  Saraswathi Award along with Parasaran@Sanskrit College by Jayendrar.Your mom somehow finds time to spot me n talks to me either in Hamsadwsni or like here.I asked her”How come You have come here?”

“Don’t you know Shanta is my Sister?”

Oh what a family

Another sister’s service at Avvai Homes too.

I don’t know how to say Thank you God!

Take care

Loving Suri

If you care to know how humble this family is,with  Chandra ,after whom NASA has named the Space Station,please read this :Chandra the Nobel Laureate 

Some People Leave their Names for Posterity Etched in Golden Letters and Most Others ,Leave Just Solid Gold Nuggets for their Kith and Kins!

Laughter The Best Medicine-My New Year Blabber!

While  Thanking  all those Health Care Professionals,all over the world,for their Sacrifice during the worst Year in Our Living Memory,Lets Remember the Great Florence Nightingale’s selfless service despite being born with a Silver Spoon ,plunging herself in War Torn areas to help the Injured i-a True Example of Service before Self!The upper-class British life into which she’d been born,Florence Nightingale became a nurse on the front lines of war,advocated for improved sanitation in hospitals, and started the world’s first official training program for nurses.

Florence Nightingale

Humour:

We humans are different from Animals in atleast one way!Animals cannot laugh but humans can and an ability to enjoy Humour helps you to overcome adversities.Its a Natural Gift! We shd know ‘How to Laugh ‘atleast in such Pandemic Situations,just to be Stress Free.There was a Time RK Laxman’s Cartoon used to tickle every one and  was eagerly awaited by Millions in the TOI:

Cartoon by RK Laxman

So come laugh with me if you can in this Newest Year:

The Gujjus are quite Conservative and calculative too it is said;There was a Grandpa in a Family of Gujjus who passed away and the eldest son called his son to go to TOI and find out the most economical way to announce the Obituary and insert an advert;

The GRandson went to TOI and enquired the Classified Column Agent who said “$50/word!”

“OK..Insert “Grandpa Died!”

“No it must be a Minimum of 5 Words!”

“OK then add “Wheelchair For Sale!”

RK Laxman

A man went to an Eye specialist to get his eyes tested & asked

‘Doctor, will I be able to read after wearing the Glasses?’

‘Yes, ofcourse’ said the doctor’Why not?’

‘Oh!That wd be great!’ said the Patient with Great Joy’

I thought I wd never learn to read!”

****************

To me JRD TATA Was a man of unimaginable Wit! I used to attend many AGMs in those days, as I used to get Free Lunch and a handful of gifts in Bhulabai Desai Auditorium! On one fine morning when Tata Chemicals AGM was on, a Serious shareholder complained :

‘Sir, I am sorry to say that Your ‘Hamam’ Soap has deteriorated in Quality! I am sorry to report that!

”Ever quick witted JRD Promptly replied :”Sorry to hear that but you can always change the Soap! “

The Shareholder not relenting insisted :’ Sir I don’t use it but my wife always uses Hamam Sir! ‘

JRD reacted immediately :” Ask your wife to change the Soap! “Not convinced with the response, the shareholder, said :’ Sir my wife is so Loyal to Tatas, she wdnt ever change the Soap Sir! ‘

Immediately, JRD, bent down to the Mike and in a mild manner told him :

” Man I tell you what! Better Change your Wife! “It took hrs for the audience to stop laughing. JRD is as cool as a Cucumber!

With Easwar @ Amherst

I have such great Pals like Easwar, who is the Dean of Amherst in USA, a cool guy,very humorous !My Satire ‘Lord Rama @IIMC ‘ used to be hilarious and Easwar helped me with Hindi Tunes, Lyrics and supporting on stage too!

Lord Rama @IIMC

I  can’t forget the thunderous cheers at XLRI, when a Father wanted me to reenact it for their Annual Function too! Easwars’  always have a smile  it is so pleasant being in their company!They give Happiness Wherever They Go! 

 Try to read a Joke a day before going to bed..Your Life will be +vely Different!

Me and my daughters used to watch Tom and Jerry ,Sharp Intake of Breath ,Mind Your Language,which I feel is a nice way to build up your Immunity against adversities in Life:

Wishing you all a Very Very Happy New Year with a Hilarious Panjabi Wedding of Prince Williams :

A WOMAN OF WISDOM-REMEMBERING MY MOM!

EXTRACTS FROM MY BOOK ” A WOMAN OF WISDOM” ON MY MOM IS REPRODUCED ON THIS 29TH NOVEMBER,HER REMEMBERANCE DAY:

(Above Ebook available For Free on 29th November 2020 Only,about an Amazing Woman who never even asked for a Metacin Tablet for 25 Years!)

Srirengam Days!

In 1974, I cdn’t recover from the shock of my beloved Father’s untimely demise,  for quite sometime when I asked my mother ‘what shd I do for her!’ She said in one word:”I can never live in Ramnad after having lived like a Princess all my life.You take steps to get this house disposed off and give me the amnt.Let not any of you(6 of us)bother about me!”

I took power of attorney for my borther and elder sister,took all younger sisters to Sub Registrar’s office Ramnad and handed over the amnt to her!

She single handedly went and bought a house next to the Srirengam Temple,in West Uthara Street and decided to live a lonely life!I used to visit her often but she never ever bothered to show the Registration documents of that house and I used to make fun of her that ‘ it is certainly Not in her Name!’

Recently,I went to Srirengam where my Mom spent nearly 25 years all alone after my father’s sudden demise in 1974!I cdn’t control my tears when I looked at the house she spent all alone in West Uttara street and never depending on any one of her 6 children for any help whatsoever! Amazing Will power!

Happy Days In Srirengam:

Amma@Kallanai

 

She was so affectionate to me and my daughters that its difficult for me to control my emotions…Recalling the days when I used to buy fresh vegetable on the North Tower at 7 AM and go for a Dip in Kolladam with my Two Daughters,come back when my mother wd have made a sumptuous Vaththa Kuzhambu for Lunch!I used to have such a nice sleep up to 2 PM,those days were really the Happiest Ones!

Hannam Clarke Award Won By Charu From TRINITY COLLEGE,LONDON:

Charu & Sharmi both have done all The Piano Examns From Trinity College Of Music London.My mom always used to appreciate both of them & was proud to tell all her Friends in Srirengam about their Achievements!

When Charu received the Prestigious Hannam Clarke Award  at the British Council,for Coming First amidst 40000 students  (all over the World for Grade 8 Piano Examn)  in Trinity College of Music, London,the British Council Arranged A Function to Distribute the Awards.I somehow felt my Mom must be also present for such a Rare Honour!I insisted my Mom’s  presence,but she vehemently said

‘ No..How can I come there in Madisar..”

I said unless ‘she is present,I won’t go too..She said OK!’

When Charu received the Shield and came and hugged my mother,one cd imagine her Happiness!

Charu after Receiving Hannam Clarke Trophy,My Mom Watching in a Madisar!

TTK Incident:

As CEO Of TTKs Tantex Division I used to come to Tanjore Factoy once a week!When I visited the Factory after taking charge on my return from Nigeria,Iwanted to take my Mom’s Blessings.

We used to have a well Dressed Chauffeur, Dressed  in White with a British style Hat too and I thought my mother wd be so proud, to receive me,and hence drove in that Chaffeur Driven Car to her WestUttara Street.! My mother’s house was inside the West Uthara Street at a blind end and I parked the car at the Corner and greeted her with so much Pride.The whole Street was looking at me & the Car as is normal in Srirengam!She came from the backyard and looked at me ,theDriver!To my great surprise,she wasn’t too happy to see the car!She asked me to pay the Chaffeur and send him back somewhere along with the Car,which I did!First thing before dinner she said : “See Don’t bring the car hereafterwards here!I am living a very very simple life and all my people shdn’t know that my son is a Big shot..it doesn’t help me as I can’t afford to pay the servant maids if they raise their demands.So Never do that!”

I said ‘Ok Ma” There afterwards I never used to bring Tantex car near West Uthara Street  but occasionally I wd drive in my car all the way from Madras,with my kids!Every time I used to visit,she used to be so affectionate to my kids,as her Love for my kids can never be Quantified!

MY TOYOTA CAR IN 86

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LAST DAYS:

One day we drove to Srirengam after a Diagnosis that she was suffering from Throat Cancer!While we were leaving(normally she refused to come with us in the Car to Madras)she told me :”Keep my bag also in the Car!”

“Are you coming with me Amma?”

“I have already decided that I wd die only in Sarasa’s hands!”

In our Venkatratna House,Adyar,I used to make Coffee for her every day in the morning and sit by her side and spend a nice time,cracking jokes!One day she wanted me to go and see the Srirengam house and she quoted a figure which I laughed like Hell,at her Expectated Price for a house I have never even seen the Regd Documents!When I visited to decide  a Buyer,I saw virtually a long Queue from NRI’s to Jeer’s representatives to Retd IAS,all  begging me to fix any price but give them the house…(SEE CHAPTER IYENGAR WHO BOUGHT THE HOUSE)

AMMA’S TREASURES

One day when I was taking Coffee, in the morning, with her I wept uncontrollably looking at her sufferings!

She told me :”Why are you Weeping?Do you know how much I suffer!If you imagine, a room full of  the Hottest Chllies  and I am sitting inside,that much agony,  I am undergoing!So if you REALLY LOVE ME,PRAY TO GOD TO TAKE ME IMMEDIATELY!DON’T THINK ABOUT SENTIMENTS!”

That was a Thursday!I sincerely Prayed to Mahaperiyava to spare my Mother from all the sufferings! She passed away peacefully on Monday Morning,the 29th Of November’1999!All my staff from my Co FLORENTIA FASHIONS Ltd gave a nice send off!

I can never forget her special  love and affection for me and my kids!  She used to Systematically send New Year Greetings like this every year(See Below)

If I have built the OP Ward Block at the Hindu Mission Hospital,Tamabaram in my parents name,it is just to perpetuate their memory, for the Great kindness, showered by them, not only on me but on many more deserving Poor!

With Srinivasan,Sec of Hindu Mission Hospital

OP Ward Hindu Mission Hospital,Thambaram

Kamala Rajah Iyer Block,Hindu Mission Hospital

Rajah Iyer Block,Hindu Mission Hospital,Thambaram

Varalaxmi Amman

A WOMAN OF WISDOM BY SARASA SURI,DAUGHTER IN LAW!

Like any other Indian girl ,  I saw my mother-in-law for the first time when she visited our house to see her future daughter in law. A small made, un assuming, little reserved , down to earth person.. that was my first impression about her…

Though she didn’t talk much , I noticed her sharp eyes and keen observation…She was very warm and  everything went well…

After marriage when I went to their house I could see the other side of her…

She was so enthusiastic, very active, not rested for a minute, very eager to find out whether I’m comfortable , now and then.. !!
I think it made even my sisters-in-law become jealous of me…

I had to join my husband in Bombay after finishing my studies ..My mother-in-law was with him.

I was accompanied by my mother.Being new to Bombay I got down at V.T. station instead of Dadar where my husband was supposed to pick us.

Already it was too late.He luckily found us V.T. station,  not moved  an inch because of fear and  insecurity..It was almost twelve in the night when we reached Mulund…

Even when I recollect that day my eyes are filled with tears……

My mother-in-law was waiting for us, without having a wink of sleep..

I saw the dining room full of variety of food items.All made by her single handedly.., without any modern gadgets..Unless one has unconditional love and determination it was not possible…

After the demise of my father-in-law she was not very happy staying with her children. She told me one day that she is fed up of this family bondage and wants to spend her time alone in the vicinity of a temple , and the place she chose was Srirangam..

All her children hesitated  but  my husband  was fully supportive of her decision, helped her to settle down in Srirangam.

Now only I realised she has a third side..

She was very keen on travelling, the burning  desire which was kept inside under lock and key because of the family circumstances..

Now that she is free she visited all the temples to her heart’s content.
Sometimes women are taken for granted ,and people believe that their place is in the kitchen.She was one such misunderstood woman.

Ever year she used to visit us atleast thrice  , and we developed a nice bond.
Intially she used to cook whenever she visited, such tasty food.Charu and Sharmi love her  ‘Rasam’… Even now say nobody can make Rasam like ‘ Srirangam Patti’..My brother Raman & Jiji manni often recollect the sumptuous meals she served them,whenever they visited her!They say she is a Great woman with exemplary courage ,simplicity,clear mind & immense affection for everyone who visited her ,living all alone in that long & narrow  Srirengam House,

When she was getting old  she let me cook and always appreciated my food.
Not once we had any misunderstanding, but had healthy arguments..

She was very different from the women of her age  of those days.

Never talk about petty things like sarees or jewels.Since her husband was an M.L.C .her talk was mostly about the VIPS who visited her house and about her father and childhood days and the places she visited….

She would proudly say that she belongs to the family of  great sanskrit scholar ‘  Apphaya Dikshithar’…She was diagnosed with carcinoma of thyroid when she was around  seventy years of age. She was terminally  ill after two years and decided to stay with us during her last years ..

Not once she complained about her illness.But once she said she should not die of cancer because she knows how painful it will be..She was very sympathetic about anyone who is suffering from any Financial or Health related issues & went on checking about their Welfare Constantly!Concern for others!

OUR FAMILY DR.MINAKSHISUNDARAM

She was a woman of great courage and resilience and I feel many of her grandchildren have got her genes and doing well in life.

Amma’s New year Greetings

Her Last New Year Greetings to Me!

She used to tell me often that she doesn’t know how to show affection by hugging and kissing her children and grandchildren but always pray for their well-being.

Thats my mother-in-law Smt.Kamala Rajayer affectionately called as  ‘ Sambu’….

OUR FAMILY’S LAST PHOTO

 

SPB’S Farewell Note!

The amazing Musical Journey of a Gifted SPB came to an abrupt stop!His humility despite some astonishing Mesmerising Voice ,made him more sought after by one and all!

It was 1979 I think!

I was involved in Jaycees,as I started the Pollachi Chapter roping in some well to do Gounders of that Place!One GD(There is a famous theatre in his name) who was a successful Transporter cum Businessman,accepted my invitation to be its President!He was also involved in Film Distribution.

GD is such a frank nice gentleman that he used to tell me all his success stories.He was narrating ‘how he gambled on “16 வயதினிலே” Distribution for several Districts,and how he made a good bonanza!’

Generally I found my days in Pollachi with some amazing,unassuming, simple People despite their huge wealth & name like GD ,N.Mahalingam & his son in Law,Krishna Raj Vanavarayar,an unforgettable Time of my Life!

Some how they also liked me so much and when I was to part ways with them for a Lucrative assignment in Nigeria,GD & Vanavarayar being close friends wanted to give me a nice Farewell !GD said ‘he will bring Ilayaraja and we can also collect funds for Jaycees & also give Suri a Musical Farewell Note!’

Ilayaraja brought the great SPB & his sister Shailaja was also getting introduced on that Day!It was such a memorable Occasion that I cd never forget that day in my Life!

Getting introduced to one of the Greatest Gifted Singers,SPB,Ilayaraja,Shailaja, On that day and having dinner with them in GD’s Bungalow is still fresh in my memory! Since Krishnaraj Vanavarayar & myself are great devotees of Kanchi Mahaperiyava,SPB was so happy to tell us about his Great devotion to Mahaperiyava during dinner & how he has influenced many including Vinu Chakravarty & others to seek Mahaperiyava’s Blessings when they are under stress!

SPB’s Sankarabaranam is my favourite and his Lingashtakam Cassette,& Kanchi Sankara, I bought when I visited Chamundeswari in Mysore on a Dassera Time,used to be my Suprabhatam every day!

“Na Jayathe Mriyatheva Kadachith”…

“Neither Born Nor Dies..”

Lets console ourselves with these Words of Krishna that He is Eternally Ever Present!

 

47 Years of Togetherness-Wedding Anniversary Memories!

 

 

On my 47th Wedding Anniversary,I am so proud to have been u by a wonderful Life Partner by God all along my journey in this Life!Many unforgettable moments flash by and a few for posterity’s sake..some worth a theme for Sujatha’s Novels! 

Me&and Sarasa@Robben Island

Just after my wedding I lost my beloved father and Sarasa was doing her M.Sc at Jipmer and I took care of my mother and two unmarried sisters in an apartment in Mulund Opposite to Johnson &Johnson.She visited me for the first time, Bombay on a Holiday with her mother  and those days  only correspondence was by letters or Telegrams.I presumed they would get down at Dadar but when the Train arrived as usual, very late in the Night, I searched and searched Dadar thoroughly and didn’t see Sarasa and her Mother!I was very much worried and rushed to VT by 3 AM.Since the train had arrived hours back the Platform was deserted and I saw them sitting in the Platform at 3AM..Luckily,Sarasa ,didnt trust anyone ,waited & waited and didn’t get into any Taxis !!When we arrived at4 AM to my apartment @Mulund,Sarasa was taken by surprise when my mother had made special Payasam for her and was waiting eagerly for her arrival without even eating..

That was the day in 74 a life long relationship of so much Love and affection between my Mom and Sarasa developed till my mother died in her hands in our Adyar House in 99!Sarasa loved my mother more than anyone else all thro’ her Life!

She is solely reponsible for getting both my unmarried sisters to get married and keeping a nice relationship with their In Laws too.

At Lantau Islands

When my last sister wanted to marry someone from another caste,Sarasa analysed all aspects well and said there was no other way but to accept their decision,& we were the only Two from our Family to attend her Wedding in a Revolutionary Marriage of just 6 Guys near Madurai…Later on when the same sister was in a Big problem Sarasa was the one who suggested to me that we should buy a small apartment for her in T Nagar which became a Life Saver for my sister  and her two children… Opposite to TNagar Bus stand and just walking distance to Alpha School,where they got educated!

When this sister ,who was an out caste in our own family,at that time, was to deliver her first baby,my wife was the one  who took care of her in Pollachi,where her son was born.Real affection!

Life is not just Reading Soundarya Lahiri every day..we must Translate every Scriptural Sentences into Practice!

Me&Sarasa in front of Mandelas house

Our Sastra stipulates Aparigraha as one of the Yamas.Don’t keep anything for yourself and give everything for others living a simple life!Sarasa believes in this Philosophy never bothered about herself!The next episode ia a Thriller!

 

In those days when we had some extra cash we wanted buy a Land in ECR!

After thorough analysis I was to buy a piece of Land in Neelangarai and I suggested to my next Sister(Those were the days when we had whats called ‘affection for each other’!)and when both of us were about to register,the Muslim Real estate Promoter requested me, to buy one more plot too!I told  him “OK provided you get me  the Patta within a few months..”On that promise I paid for that extra land in my another sister’s name in Bombay who has not even seen this plot..all because of my wife who said  “Let us buy this for that sister..!”

Within a few months the Muslim Real estate owner came to my house and handed over the Pattas for all the 3 Plots(Mine/my two sisters out of which one was paid by me in 1989!)Later on  I came to know from many who invested in that area ‘How Patta was never given to most of them and they all lost their investments completely..!From this angle if we  analyse what I have done in 89 ,was a golden investment indeed for all of us! Our idea was to build 3 nice Bungalows and live a happy retired life with my Sisters!

I completely forgot about these plots for years ,as it was only an Investment!

It was 2009…some one by name Ganesan contacted me and said he got my no from my office in Perungudi..He said he is the POA for a big Real estate Man in Middle East and he was interested in my plot in Neelankarai.I asked him to meet me at my Besant Nagar house and he came one morning…My wife was standing next to me when he said :”Sir I have bought the adjacent Two Plots already for my friend Rabeek in Middle East and we are interested in your plot also as together only it will make some meaning for us..!”

I asked with astonishment:“You have already bought the adjacent Plots?”

“Yes Sir..Registered too..See the copies..”

I saw my sisters’ faces in the copies..I cdn’t believe..I asked Sarasa to have a look at them..Ganesan was nervous..He asked “Sir..anything wrong Sir..I asked them about your plot or contacts,they said ‘They don’t have any idea!“

I cdn’t control my tears..Ganesan asked Sarasa “Why..anything wrong Madam!”

Sarasa said “They are his own sisters..Infact for one of the Plots he has Paid..”

Ganesan(he is till living in Madras)..”OMG..Sir how many times I asked them about your plot..they said..they don’t know anything..!”

Ganesan cdn’t believe such things are possible in Life..I took the whole episode with a pinch of salt..Rabeek became my good friend after hearing the whole story…

We become absolute Idiots once its a question of Our Money….If its some one else’ we are all Highly PHilonthrophic!Its Money MOney Money Honey!

Thanks to my wonderful wife we never bothered about all such things in our Life as my mother has cautioned  both of us about every one of her Children with these words…:

“All of them will use your Father’s (Rajah Iyer’s)name liberally but none will have the Will Power to Live by his preachings…You are the only one who has taken care of me ,and the last Two unmarried daughters when he passed away and thats why I want to die only in your hands..Thats why I want you,Sarasa to do Varalaxmi Puja to this Idol I have been doing every Year(see Pic)”

Knowing Sarasa quite well,she may not like me writing this Blog but I want the world to know ,one day or other how Selfish even Blood Relations can be for posterity’s sake..!

https://youtu.be/dxy3neNdtJk

Apt wordsfrom Mahakavi Bharathi for such people:

“நெஞ்சில் உரமுமின்றி நேர்மைத் திறமு மின்றி,
வஞ்சனை சொல்வா ரடீ! – கிளியே!
வாய்ச் சொல்லில் வீரரடி.”

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