Tributes Paid to Veteran Congress Leader Ananthan by TN BJP Leaders; Tamilisai Comforted Over Loss
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On April 9, senior BJP leaders from Tamil Nadu, including L. Murugan and K. Annamalai, paid tribute to Kumari Ananthan, former TNCC President, who passed away at 93. They acknowledged his significant contributions to Tamil politics and society, expressing condolences to his family, including daughter Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan.
Key Takeaways
- Kumari Ananthan was a significant political figure in Tamil Nadu.
- He was awarded the ‘Thagaisal Tamizhar’ for his contributions.
- His death marks a profound loss for Tamil Nadu.
- He dedicated his life to advocating for farmers and marginalized communities.
- Ananthan was a prominent advocate for Tamil culture and language.
Chennai, April 9 (NationPress) Senior BJP leaders from Tamil Nadu, including Union Minister of State, L. Murugan, BJP Legislative Party leader Nainar Nagendran, and Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai, offered sincere tributes to former Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) President, Kumari Ananthan, who passed away early on Wednesday morning at the age of 93.
Kumari Ananthan, a distinguished Congressman and notable Gandhian, was also the father of former Tamil Nadu BJP President and former Governor of Telangana and Puducherry, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan.
The BJP leaders celebrated Ananthan as a significant figure in Tamil Nadu’s political sphere, recognized for his humility, principled politics, and unwavering dedication to Tamil society and culture.
Union Minister L. Murugan expressed his sorrow on social media, stating: “Ayya Kumari Ananthan, a literary icon and devoted Congressman who collaborated with Perunthalaivar Kamaraj, dedicated his life to Tamil society. He was awarded the ‘Thagaisal Tamizhar’ award for his substantial contributions. My heartfelt condolences to Dr. Tamilisai, her family, and all supporters.”
BJP Legislative Party leader Nainar Nagendran characterized Ananthan as an “eminent nationalist and principled politician” who made a lasting impact on the state’s political and cultural history.
“He held the position of TNCC chief, served as a five-time MLA, and was a Member of Parliament. His departure creates a significant void in Tamil Nadu’s socio-political and literary communities,” Nagendran remarked.
State BJP President K. Annamalai reflected on Ananthan as a “dedicated disciple of Kamaraj” who led a purposeful and committed life.
“He ardently campaigned for river-linking initiatives, palm cultivation, and Tamil pride. His foot marches motivated generations of young leaders. His passing is a profound loss for Tamil Nadu,” Annamalai stated.
Other BJP leaders, including actor-turned-politician R. Sarathkumar, also conveyed their condolences to Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan and her family, praying for peace for the departed soul and strength for the grieving family.
Born on March 19, 1933, in Agasteeswaram, Kanniyakumari district, Kumari Ananthan was the son of freedom fighters Harikrishnan and Thangammal.
Inspired by the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and the guidance of Congress leader K. Kamaraj, he began his political career rooted in the values of social equity and community service.
In 1977, Ananthan was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Nagercoil constituency. He subsequently served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Tamil Nadu four times — in 1980, 1984, 1989, and 1991.
During his tenure as TNCC President, he led multiple padyatras throughout the state, advocating for the rights of farmers, laborers, and marginalized communities.
One of his most significant contributions was leading a movement that resulted in the provision of free electricity for small-scale farmers — a policy shift that brought enduring advantages to the agricultural sector.
A fervent advocate for Tamil culture and language, Ananthan also campaigned for the prioritization of Tamil in Central government offices within the state.
He received the ‘Thagaisal Tamizhar’ award in recognition of his relentless efforts for Tamil society and his contributions to literature and public life.
Kumari Ananthan had been undergoing treatment for age-related health issues at a private hospital in Vellore, where he passed away in the early hours of April 9.
