Prominent Gandhian and Former TN Congress Leader Kumari Ananthan Passes Away
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Kumari Ananthan, a distinguished Gandhian and former president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, has passed away at the age of 93. His contributions to Tamil Nadu politics and advocacy for the Tamil language will be remembered.
Key Takeaways
- Kumari Ananthan was a significant political figure in Tamil Nadu.
- He was dedicated to public service and social justice.
- He advocated for the Tamil language in government offices.
- Ananthan received multiple prestigious awards for his contributions.
- His daughter, Tamilisai Soundararajan, confirmed his passing.
Chennai, April 9 (NationPress) Kumari Ananthan, the former president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) and a noted Gandhian, has passed away in the early hours of Wednesday at the age of 93.
Ananthan was receiving treatment for age-related health issues at a private hospital in Vellore, where he took his last breath.
A significant figure in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu, he was held in high regard for his steadfast commitment to public service, social justice, and the advancement of the Tamil language.
His daughter, senior BJP leader and former Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, confirmed the news of his passing and delivered a heartfelt tribute to her father.
Reflecting on his unwavering dedication to Tamil, she remarked, “I did not speak Tamil because I learned it… I speak Tamil because I was born to Tamil.”
Born on March 19, 1933, in Agasteeswaram in the Kanniyakumari district, Ananthan was the child of freedom fighters Harikrishnan and Thangammal. Inspired by the Congress leader K. Kamaraj, he embarked on a political path grounded in Gandhian principles.
Kumari Ananthan was elected to the Lok Sabha from Nagercoil in 1977 and served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Tamil Nadu on four occasions—specifically in 1980, 1984, 1989, and 1991.
During his leadership as TNCC president, he conducted numerous padyatras throughout the state, advocating for the rights of farmers and marginalized communities. One of his most notable achievements was leading a protest that resulted in the provision of free electricity for small-scale farmers.
He was also instrumental in pushing for the prioritization of the Tamil language in Central government offices within the state.
In acknowledgment of his lifelong contributions, Ananthan received numerous accolades, including the Mahakavi Bharathiyar Award and the Perunthalaivar Kamaraj Award.
On Independence Day in 2024, he was honored with the prestigious Thagaisal Thamizhar award by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
His remains will be available for public homage at his daughter's residence in Saligramam, Chennai.
