Gandhian and former TN Cong chief Kumari Ananthan passes away

IANS April 9, 2025 345 views

Kumari Ananthan, a respected Gandhian and former Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president, passed away at 93 in Vellore. Born to freedom fighters, he dedicated his life to public service and social justice, serving multiple terms as a legislator. His political journey was deeply inspired by Congress leader K. Kamaraj, and he was known for advocating farmers' rights and promoting the Tamil language. His daughter, BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan, confirmed his demise and paid an emotional tribute to her father's remarkable legacy.

"I did not speak Tamil because I learned it... I speak Tamil because I was born to Tamil." - Tamilisai Soundararajan
Chennai, April 9: Kumari Ananthan, former president of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) and prominent Gandhian, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday. He was 93.

Key Points

1

Prominent Congress leader who served four terms as MLA

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Deeply influenced by K. Kamaraj's political philosophy

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Championed farmers' rights and Tamil language

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Respected Gandhian with multiple prestigious awards

Ananthan had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments at a private hospital in Vellore, where he breathed his last.

A towering figure in Tamil Nadu politics, he was widely respected for his unwavering dedication to public service, social justice, and the promotion of the Tamil language.

His daughter, senior BJP leader and former Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, confirmed his passing and paid an emotional tribute to her father.

Recalling his lifelong commitment to Tamil, she said, "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 son of freedom fighters Harikrishnan and Thangammal. Deeply inspired by Congress stalwart K. Kamaraj, he embarked on a political journey rooted in Gandhian ideals.

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 four times -- in 1980, 1984, 1989, and 1991.

During his tenure as TNCC president, he led several padyatras across the state, championing the cause of farmers and marginalised communities. Among his notable achievements was spearheading a protest that led to the provision of free electricity for small-scale farmers.

He also played a pivotal role in advocating for the prioritisation of the Tamil language in Central government offices in the state.

In recognition of his lifelong contributions, Ananthan was honoured with several awards, including the Mahakavi Bharathiyar Award and the Perunthalaivar Kamaraj Award.

On Independence Day in 2024, he was conferred with the prestigious Thagaisal Thamizhar award by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.

His mortal remains will be kept at his daughter's residence in Saligramam, Chennai, for the public to pay their last respects.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
A true Gandhian till the end. His work for farmers and Tamil language will never be forgotten. Rest in peace sir 🙏
R
Rajesh M.
While I respected his dedication to public service, I wish he had been more vocal about bridging the political divide between his daughter's party and his own. Still, a great loss to Tamil Nadu.
S
Saranya V.
That quote about Tamil language gave me goosebumps! What a legacy he leaves behind. My grandfather used to tell me stories about his padyatras across TN. True people's leader 💙
K
Karthik B.
Free electricity for small farmers was revolutionary at that time. We need more leaders like him who actually walk the talk. 93 years well lived!
M
Meena R.
The fact that both DMK and BJP leaders are paying respects shows how much he was respected across party lines. That's rare in today's politics. Om Shanti 🕊️
V
Vijay S.
From freedom fighter's son to freedom fighter for farmers' rights. What an inspiring journey! His work for Tamil language in govt offices made daily life easier for so many people.

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Tags:
Kumari Ananthan Tamil Nadu Congress Indian Politics Gandhian Leaders Tamilisai Soundararajan
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