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DIOTIO
OF
BIOGR,
Of the Tails

NARY
APHY
of Ceylon

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Copyright S.Arumugam, 91 Blythe Road, London W140HP. England.
All rights reserved. Apart from fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism or review, no part of the publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, or by any means, without the prior permission of
the copyright owner. w
Published January 1997

A
D C T ON A R Y OF BIOGRAPHY
O F C E Y L. O N T A MLS
Compiled by
S.Arumugam
with assistance from
M.Theagarajah
and
C.J.T.Thamotheran

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Editorial Consultants
M.Theagarajah
V.Sankaralingam
C.J.T.Thamotheram
T.Balasubramaniam
C.Subramaniam
M.Nadarajah
A.Thurairetnam
K.Jayaseelan
and others.
Artwork and Layout: Dipa Raja Rayan

P R E F A C E
At the close of the twentieth century, history is being enacted in Sri Lanka. The Tamil image, established over centuries, is being erased off from the Island. Fleeing from their motherland, the Sri Lankan Tamils are seeking refuge overseas and are settling down all over the globe. They are on the verge of fast loosing their separate identity and are, in fact, becoming an "Endangered Species'.
The next generations, growing up in the environment of their new domicile, would be alien to their own culture and their Tamil traditions. Bereft of their kinsfolk, they would have scanty knowledge of their esteemed ancestors, who were once the prestige of their motherland.
This Compilation is for their benefit. It is an attempt to preserve some biographical information of those who contributed towards the lofty position achieved by the Tamil community in Ceylon. It is an attempt to remember those who deserve to be remembered and about whom I was able to collect information. It has no pretext of being a Biographical Dictionary of the Tamil Nation; that is beyond my scope and is left to the more competent and qualified to document.
Having lived for over "four score years and ten', personal knowledge of a large number of Tamils is an advantage I enjoy. In most families, I know of more than one generation, in many two or three and in a specific instance, I am familiar with even their fourth generation.
Obtaining biographical information has not been that easy, as we Tamils are loathe to speak about our achievements, ourselves and even about our forebears. Humility has always been the traditional basis of our expression. Nevertheless, the response and encouragement received from some are gratefully acknowledged. It is regretted that it has not always been possible to include all that has been received.
The enthusiasm infused by the ever ardent C.J.T.Thamotharam in obtaining information, reading of the Script and making suggestions, was most encouraging. M.Theagarajah, of "Palm Grove' (Madras) memories, has spent hours assisting at all stages; to him this preparation has been an enjoyable pastime, though at personal inconvenience. Associated with them was V.Sankaralingam, with a fund of memory and anecdotes. The veteran School Principal C.Subramaniam was a constant Consultant; his recollections, were ever so green, though less oratorical, at ninety plus. The demise of the last two was a sad loss.
The ever enthusiastic K.Jayaseelan, joining in later, brought fresh enthusiasm. He took delight in reading through and checking the work done. We met regularly every Tuesday.
All their assistance is gratefully acknowledged. With the blossoms provided by them, this garland has been happily strung together and offered to the memory of our elders - the pillars of the Ceylon Tamils community. −
A compilation of this nature cannot be free from errors; where mistakes occur they are of course unintentional. Suggestions regarding additions and amendments are welcome.
An eminent writer once reminded his readers:-
To find errors in another man's book is far easier than to write one's own book containing more".
London S.Arumugam
1996

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INTRODUCTION
"History is the essence of innumerable biographies”.
Thomas. Carlisle.
The object of a "Biography” is to provide in a compact and readable form, a brief outline of the lives of men and women of all ages who had made an impact on the lives of others.
It is most desirable for the growth of a nation to be aware of the biographies of its people. In the libraries of Great Britain, the largest section (other than fiction) is always the Biographical Section. What is spoken about fades with time, but what is written remains for all time. Biographies influence the young mind and inspire posterity. An awareness of men and events of the past provides a firm foundation for building the future.
Dictionary of Biography.
A Dictionary of Biography contains biographies of the many people who became well known because of the impact they made on the lives of others. Persons gain this position for various reasons. Many achieve this status due to a capability in their character, others by scholarship and writing. There are then the thinkers.Some achieve by devotion to a religious cause, still others due to patriotic role in freedom struggle etc.
Dictionary of Biography is found in most countries. The Dictionary of National Biography of Great Britain is an outstanding monument from the Oxford Press. The basic Dictionary consists of several volumes comprehensively covering up to the year 1900; since then additional volumes have been compiled for every ten year period. The work is massive and certainly monumental. A concise version, in three volumes, has been issued for easy reference.
Since of late however several one volume Dictionaries of Biography have been published. There are the Chambers’ Biographical Dictionary, Websters' Biographical Dictionary, Longmans' Dictionary of the 20th century Biography etc. Canada, Australia, Scotland, Ireland etc, all have their Dictionaries of Biography.
Who's Who
“Who’s Who' is an annual publication.providing information about persons prominent
only in that year. It was commenced in 1894 and is now in its 142nd issue. "Who was Who' is in
seven volumes commencing from the year 1897.
Occupational Trends
On a perusal of the occupational trends of the Sri Lankan Tamils it is noticed that there are definite and distinct periods when each occupation predominates, spheres of influence soon induced the adoption of the same vocation by several, even to the verge of overcrowding of the vocation.
During the eras of the Tamil Kings of Jaffna, 13th to the 16th centuries, there was a profusion of Tamil scholars. They were men well versed in Sanskrit and classical Tamil who showed their ability in verse composition. Great literary personalities appear only in certain periods is an oft

repeated saying. Casie Chetty has well observed that "Few nations on earth can perhaps boast of so many poets as the Tamils. Poetry appears to have been the first fixed form of language amongst them'. The erudite European Scholar Abbe Dubois has expressed more succinctly as, “They (the Tamils) have not a single ancient book that is written in prose, not even the books on medicine'. So, every choice from the period has to be a poet; it was a question whom to exclude, otherwise the compilation would have become another" Lives of the Poets'
In sharp contrast were the centuries that ensued, the early period of foreign domination. Every Tamil kept his head low; prominence was scarce. The few names known are of those who adopted Portuguese names etc., The Dutch strove to erase the religious traits established by their predecessors and substitute their own; so names of religious dignitaries are prominent in the period.
There was a remarkable change, late in the 19th century, when as a British Crown Colony. freedom of religious worship was recognised. Religious revivalists held sway. The popular occupation for the youths, early in the present century, was the Government Clerical service. Consequently the Headclerk occupied a very high status. An alternative Mercantile occupation was that of being a Broker. But that occupation was a monopoly of a particular Division of Jaffna. There, one was a Broker or a Guarantee Shroff. These carried high social status. There was the unique case of a Doctor who went to England to obtain further medical qualifications; there he was called to the Bar as Barrister. On his return to Ceylon, he pursued neither the medicine nor the legal profession but became a Bank Guarantee Shroff and was highly proficient in that.
During the Pre-Independence era and after, we see keener competition and Medicine and Engineering became the aspiration of the more capable Tamils. Many took to Law, becoming Advocates in particular. After Independence it was Accountancy as well. There was a surfeit of Accountants and they were readily absorbed overseas.
By the close of the 20th century, Computer Science has become a popular occupation of the Jaffna Tamil.
Conclusion.
These are the occupations of the persons who fill the pages of this compilation. It would be
seen that the occupational habits occurred in distinct periods, when there was a profusion of the
same vocation and it fast became overcrowded.
A Dictionary has to contain biographies of all the men and women of the country who had achieved a reasonable measure of distinction in any walk of life. Hence the names of Statesmen, Lawyers, Doctors, Engineers, Scholars, Writers, Poets, the Public & Mercantile Service personal, and Business men, etc., all who have made a significant contribution for the good of the community, deserve a place and justify preservation, No sphere of activity can be overlooked. The Dictionary preserve for posterity a record that would cause respect, pride and inspiration.
"To Honour those worthy of Honour is itself Honourable”

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A Note On the Abbreviations used
A person of noble ancestry Mudali. A person of high scholastic achievement Pandithar, Pandithamani Justice of the Peace, Unofficial Police Magistrate J.P.U.PM
Member of the State Council - M.S.C Member of Parliament M.P. Member of the Municipal Council M.M.C
United Nationalist Party U.N.P Federal Party FIP Tamils United Liberation Front TULF Tamil Congress T.C
Ceylon Civil Service C CS Sri Lanka Adminstrative Service S LAS Divisional Revenue Officer D R O Interpreter in a Kachcherior Office Interpreter Mudaliyar Chief Headmen Maniyagar, Mudaliyar, Vanniya, Adigar Headmen Udaiyar, Vidane, Vithanaiyar
TheYear of birth is only approximate, eg: c1880. Theyear of birth is not known, but year of demise known ... - 1946. Year of birth known, but not the year of demise 1884 - ....
Only a particular year of activity is known ... 1763..... Approximate decade of an event 1850's, 1920's.
An Asterisk * against a name indicates
that his /her biography appears elsewhere

A
elected Chairman for the years 1942 and 1943.
He took great interest in educational matters; he mooted the establishment of a Public Library in Jaffna. It was he who was responsible for the continued functioning of the
Vaidheeswara Vidyalayam School of the
Allen Abraham 1866-1923 (alias Subramaniyar Ambalavanar) Fellow, Royal Astronomical Society.
Allen Abraham was a great teacher. He worked along with famous teachers such as Hudson Paramasamy and J.V.Chelliah.
He was a reputed AstronomerMathematics Professor at Jaffna College Vaddukkoddai.He won his astronomical renown working with a small telescope, presented to him by an American Missionary in the 19th century. He had the unique distinction of having seen Hayley's Comet from Jaffna. Unfortunately he died early in life.
Some of his contributions are found in the College archives.
K.Aiyadurai 1892-1967 Proctor S.C., Chimn. Jaffna U.C.
Aiyadurai, born in 1892, was the son of Kandavanam and Paruvathipillai of Evenai, Punnalaikadduvan, Jaffna. He was educated as a free scholar at Kantharodai English Institute (later Skandavarothaya College) and later at Jaffna Hindu College, from where he Matriculated in the First Division. He proceeded to Madras, as a scholar, and passed the First in Arts Examination. Returning, he joined the Ceylon Technical College and qualified as a Trained Science Teacher. He taught at Jaffna Hindu College for some time.
He then entered Law College, passed the Proctor's examination and took his oaths in 1923. He was a popular person and rapidly built up a large practice; he had two offices, one at Vannarpannai and the other at Punnalaikadduvan.
He was largely interested in the political and social matters of Jaffna, and was a member of the Jaffna Urban Council for about ten years. There, he was chosen as Vice-Chairman for the years 1934 and again for 1939. Later, he was
Ramakrishna Mission in Vannarpannai. He passed away on the 15th of August 1967, at the age of 75.
Aiyadurai married Nagapooshani, daughter of Thillaiampalam and Suntharam and had five children: Dr. Karunanandan, Pathmavathy Jayaseelan, Leela Balasingham, Justice Sivanandan*, Thilaga wathy Wijeyaratnam and Sivayogavalli by his second marriage to Manonmani daughter of Thambimuthu
V.Akilesapillai 1853-1910
Tamil Scholar; Trincomalee
Velupillai Akilesapillai, born 7 th March. 1853, was a Tamil Scholar from Trincomalee. He had his education under Kumaravetpillai, a reputed Scholar. He was also educated in English.
Commencing as a teacher, he was later Headmaster of a Govt. School. He was also the managing Trustee of two Hindu Temples in Trincomalee.
He edited and published several valuable works relating specially to the Trincomalee region; among which were Thiru Karassai Puranam., Verukalampathy, Chithra Velautha Swamy Kathai etc. But the work by which he is well known, is his own composition entitled Thiru Konasala Vaipavam, which narrates in prose, events relating to Koneswaram. He explains, in the Preface, that the work was based on the Thakshana Kailasa Puranam by King Segaraja Sekaram and other more recent works; the work was published by his son A. Allahakone in 1950 and copies are available today. Among his other works are: Kanthaswamy Kali Venpa and Visalachi Viruththan .
His demise on the 1st of January 1910, at the early age of 57, was a loss to Trincomalee
Allahakone and Rasakone were his sons.

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W.T.I.Alagaretnam O.B.E 1895-1973 B.E., M.I.C.E., M.I.WE, Irrigation Director.
Winslow Thambiah Ivers Alagaretnam was born on 12th March. 1895. After his early education in Ceylon, he proceeded to Madras, where he graduated in Civil Engineering.
Returning to Ceylon in 1921, he joined the Irrigation Department as an Assistant Irrigation Engineer, being the first Ceylonese qualified engineer to join that service. He served at many stations, often under very arduous conditions due to malaria. In due course he was promoted to higher posts, often grudgingly, as he was the first Ceylonese to aspire for higher positions in the Department. He became the first Ceylonese Irrigation Engineer in 1934, Divisional Engineer 1943, and ultimately the first Ceylonese Director of Irrigation in 1952. He held that post with distinction till his retirement in 1955.
Alagaratnam earned a high reputation due to his hard work, high integrity, and meticulous office administration
Later he was a Director of the Water Resources Board for a few years before his demise in 1977.
He married Daisy Anketell and had three daughters: Chandra who was married to Mailvaganam and has four sons, Pathmini to Dr.F.Ratnesar and has Shiranee, Kamini, Nimal and Sharmala and Kamalini married to Dr. Brian Seneviretne and has Shireen and Ramesh.
M.Alalasundaram T.U.L.F M.P for Kopai, 1981.
M. Alalasundaram WaS from Nayanmarkaddu, Jaffna. Graduating in Madras he became a School master. He contested and won the Kopai seat in the Parliament as a Federal Party member, at the Elections held in July 1981. He was a very eloquent speaker.
He lost his life under tragic circumstances, being shot by unknown assailants in 1983.
V.A.Alegacone 1903-1973. J.P.U.M., Proctor, Chimn. T.C. FIP M.P for Mannar; 1956.-1973.
Virasipillai Albert Alegacone, born on 19th March 1903, was the son of Bastiampillai Virasipillai Sinniah and Annamah, a leading family in Mannar. He received his early education at St. Xavier's College Mannar. He adopted a career in Law. Becoming a Proctor and Notary Public, he practised at Mannar, his home town.
He was elected a Member of the Mannar Town Council in the 1940's andfunctioned as its Chairman from 1947 to 1956. In 1952 he contested unsuccessfully the Mannar seat in Parliament. However, he gained the seat in the 1956 General Election, contesting as a Federal Party candidate and defeating Sir Kandiah Vaithianathan and the sitting Member Minister C.Sittampalam. He was an active member of the Federal Party and was involved in all its activities. He continued to be Member of Parliament for 17 years, till his demise on 25th Nov. 1973. He was President of Mannar & Jaffna Diocesan Council for several years.
He married Mary Sebastiammah, daughter of Bastiampillai Arasaratnam and had five children: Arun thathie, Thevathasan, Balendra, Sathiyavan and Arichandran
Gate Mudaliyar R.W.Allegakone
1857-.... . Mudaliyar, Trincomalee Kachcheri.
Rasiah William Allegakone was born in 1857. He passed the Govt. Clerical Examination in 1879, and was attached to the Trincomalee Kachcheri. He was made a Mudaliyar in 1885 and promoted as a Cadet in the Ceylon Civil Service, in 1898.
In appreciation of his meritorious services, the titular rank of Gate Mudaliyar was conferred on him in 1911.
His father William Allegakone was a Mudaliyar at the Batticaloa Kachcheri and his son a Village Tribunal President.

W.C.R.Allegakone 1882-.... . Village Tribunal President
William Covington Rajadurai Allegakone, born in 1882, was the son of Gate Mudaliyar R.W.Allegakone.
He worked in the Irrigation Department, as a clerk, in 1900; later he acted as Vannia Mudaliyar and was appointed President Village Tribunal Batticaloa North, in 1912.
K.Alvapillai O.B.E
1905 - 1979. B.A, CCS, Permanent Secretary, Chairman, State Corporations.
Alvapillai, son of Kovindapillai and Thangam of Thumpalai, Pt. Pedro, was born on 23rd November 1905. He had an elder sister Thevayogam, who was married to K.C.Praesoody*.
He had his early education at Hartley College Pt. Pedro, where he passed the Cambridge Senior with distinctions and Honours. He graduated from the Ceylon University College, and proceeded to London University, as a scholar and obtained First Class Honours in mathematics.
He joined the Ceylon Civil Service as a Cadet in 1929; thereafter he held several positions serving at many stations, in that service. He was appointed Director of Food Supplies in 1945 and later Food Commissioner. In 1953, he was made Permanent Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Food and later in 1959 Permanent Secretary to the Minister of Commerce and Trade.
After retirement in 1963, he was in turn Chairman of the Petroleum Corporation, the State Flour Corporation and the Shipping Corporation. All these Corporations embarked on important undertakings during his tenure.
He was a keen Saivaite and held a leading position in religious societies. He was President and later Patron of the Colombo Vivekananda Society. He worked hard for its progress, during the latter period of his life. He passed away on 17th February 1979, at the age of 74.
He married Kanagammah, daughter of
Nallathamby of Tellipallai and had two sons: Vijayaraghavan, a Surgeon and Senthilkumaran Engineer and a daughter Bhavani, who is married to Rajasingham, High Court Judge in Uganda.
J.C.Amarasingham 1890-1964 Principal, Training College.
J. Chelliah, third son of V. Amara singham of Punguduthivu, was educated at Jaffna Central College and graduated from the Madras University. He also qualified for a Diploma in Education, Colombo.
He was a teacher at Jaffna College Vaddukkoddai for some time. He agitated for a Vernacular Teachers' Training Institute and was appointed its Principal when it was established at Chavakachcheri. Later it functioned as Teachers' Training College, Nallur.
He was a well known educationist. He was Manager of American Mission Schools, President of the Jaffna College Board of Directors, President of the Jaffna Christian Union and was very much involved in the development of the co-operative movement in Jaffna. He unsuccessfully contested the Vaddukkoddai seat (1934) and the Kayts seat (1947) in Parliament.
He married Nallamma Kathiripillai and had seven children: Saraswathy, Pushpawathy, Raman, Luxmanan, Thilakavathy, Parathan and Sathurukan. Saraswathy was later Principal Uduvil Girls' College.
Velautham Amarasingham 1850-1942 School Master & Physician.
Amarasingham was the i son of Velautham of Tellipallai who had settled in Punguduthivu. Well educated in Tamil, young Amarasingham studied medicine in the Tamil medium under Dr.S.F.Green*, at Manipay.
He practised as a physician at Punguduthivu and also taught at the Christian Mission School there. He married Chinnathangam, daughter of Pastor Kanthar Hemhil and had five sons and two daughters.
The eldest son S. Ponnusamy

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Amarasingham entered the Postal Department and retired with the title of Muhandiram after long service. Dr.A.E. Duraisamy, the second son, distinguished himself in the Malayan Medical Service and was a leader of the Tamil community in Kuala Lumpur. He was conferred the O.B.E and J.P. J.C. Amarasingham became a School Principal.
The next two, J.Thambyiah Amarasingham (1893-1963), known as "J.T and J. Sabaratnam Amarasingham (1898-1970) known as "J.S', completed their medical studies in Edinburgh and were popular doctors in the Ceylon Medical Department. J.T was, at one time in charge of the Leprosy Hospital at Mantivu, Batticaloa. On retirement, he set up in private practice in Colombo. He was involved in community care work. He married Queenie nee Wadsworth and had two children: Thirukumaran and Nivadita, J.S., who was shorter than his elder brother, was eventually Medical Supt. Jaffna Govt. Hospitals, when he retired. He was then Medical Supt. Manipay Mission Hospital for seven years. He married Rathy nee Ariacutty, and had seven children: Chandran, Ragavan, Manoharan, Indran, Sahadevan, Arunthathy and Nalani.
Muththamma, the elder daughter of V. Amarasingham, was a teacher at Uduvil Girls' School and died young. Annammah, his last child, was married to R.K.Arulampalam who ended his career as a Civil Servant, and had five gchildren: Kamalamalar, Dr. Arul rajah, Rasamalar, Dr.Thanga- rajah, and Thirumalar.
A. Ambalavanar 1855-1932 Navalar, Tamil Scholar of
Vaddukkoddai.
Ambalavanar, born in 1855, was the son of Arumugampillai and Suntharavalli Ammaiyar of Vaddukkoddai. He had his early education in Tamil under M.K.Vetpillai, an able scholar from Madduvil. He became proficient in Sanskrit under the tutorship of Sivapragasam Pandithar of Neerveli. He also studied English under Mudaliyar Kanagaratnam.
He was an able scholar. He very soon became proficient in reciting the traditional
Hindu Puranams and in interpreting them. This talent brought him name and fame later.
He started life as a teacher in an English School, which he himself founded in Vaddukkoddai. But because of his talents, he was invited by religious organisations in India for rendering puranic recitations and their interpretations. He carried on with this work for several years.
He was conferred with the title of “Navalar' at Thiruvavaduthurai. He spent his later life writing and publishing books of great value.
Rt.Rev. D.J.Ambalawanar 1928Bishop, The Jaffna Diocese of the C.S.I., 1971-1993.
Rt.Rev. David Jeyaratnam Ambala-vanar, born 28th February 1928, is the son of Rev. Joseph Ponnambalam Ambalavanar and Annamma (nee Somasundaram).
He had his early education at St.John's College Jaffna (1932-1942) and later at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai (1942-1947). He was in the Undergraduate Dept. of the Jaffna College from 1947 to 1950.
He proceeded to Serampore College in West Bengal and obtained his B.D Degree in 1955 and functioned as Minister of the Jaffna Diocese of the Church of South India. He obtained the London B.A Degree in 1959 and the M.Th. from King's College London 19661968. He then functioned as Bishop of the Jaffna Diocese of the C.S.I., from 1971 to 1993.
During his tenure, he had been actively engaged in large scale relief and rehabilitation work. He implemented over 2000 low cost houses for the refugees and started 10 Children's Centres, 65 Day Care Centres and 8 Vocational Training Centres. He started the Christian Theological Seminary at Chunnakam. He has also been engaged on Church OutReach Work in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.
Rt.Rev.D.J. Ambalavanar is a spokesman, both in Sri Lanka and at International Organisations, for Tamil Rights and Human Rights Violations,
He married Dr.Chandraranee

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Kanapathipillai F.R.C.O.G and has two sons:
Dr.Devathayalan F.R.C.S. and Devadarshan Ambalavanar.
Mudaliyar S.Ambalavanar
c 1880-..... Chief Shroff
Ambalavanar was the son of
Saravanamuttu Sinnappa, a leading resident of Sandilippai. He held responsible positions as Shroff in several Govt. Departments. He very soon rose to the position of Chief Shroff and won recognition for his able and devoted service. He married Sivayogam, daughter of the reputed philanthropist Shroff S.Cathiravetpillai and a talented progeny ensued.
S.Ambalavanar 1924-1985 B.A., LL.B., Barrister; Tax & Investment Consultant.
S. Ambalavanar, twin brother of Kathiravelupillai M.P for Kopay, was a son of Proctor S.Sivasubramaniam of Colombo.
After graduation, he took to a legal career and became an Attorney - at - Law. He was a visiting lecturer in Mathematics in 1945 and an Asst. Assessor, Dept. of Inland Revenue 1948-53.
He then set up as a legal practitioner, specialising on the legal aspects of International Investment and Tax matters. He built up a very wide practice, with offices in Madras, Bombay, Singapore and London.
He held a leading position in several International organisations and travelled extensively, attending seminars etc. He passed away on 13th January 1985 at the age of 61.
S.Ambikaipakan 1908-1986 B.A (Madras)., Principal, Vaitheesvara Vidyalayam Jaffna.
S. Ambikaipakan, Principal of Vaidheeswara Vidyalayam Jaffna, was the son of Sangarapillai and Sivakamasundari of Mallakam. He was born on 3rd May 1908.
He was educated at Taylor Thuraiapah's School (now Maha Jana College) Tellipallai, and later at Jaffna Hindu College. During his early years, he came under the spiritual influence of Yoga Swamikal and Sellachi Ammaiyar of Chunnakam. Later, he proceeded to Pachchaiyappah College Madras from where he graduated; he also identified himself with the Congress movement, there.
On his return in January 1934, he was appointed a teacher at the Sivananda Vidyalayam Batticaloa. In October 1935, he was appointed Principal Vaidheeswara Vidyalayam, Jaffna and commenced a long career. By hard work and untiring effort he fostered the growth of Vidyalayam. The School grew up from being a small school to a recognised educational institution, during his regime of over thirty two years. He retired in May 1968.
He was a popular person who always took a leading partin religious and cultural activities organised in Jaffna. He was a frequent visitor at the Kalalayam cultural centre of K. Navaratnam and an active member of education committees and several social and religious institutions.
After retirement he led a quiet life and passed away on 26th January 1986.
Ambikaipakan married Nagul- ambikai, daughter of R. Mailvaganam of Mallakam and had three sons: Ananda Kumaraswamy an Accountant, Bala Subramaniam Associate Professor of Chemistry in the U.S.A, and Senthil Selvana Lecturer in Statistics and two daughters: Poongothai who was married to Accountant Sarvendiran and Ananda Gowri, a Bank Official who was married to Engineer Navanandan.
He has contributed several articles of educational value to various journals and made publications on the lives of Swami Vipulananda*, Yoga Swamikal* and Ananda K. Coomaraswamy*.
A.Amirthalingam 1927-1989 FIP M.P for Vaddukkoddai 1956 General Secretary, TU.L.F. Leader of the Opposition.
Appapillai Amirthalingam, born on 26th August 1927, had his early education at the

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Meihandan Tamil School, Pannakam and at Victoria College Chulipuram, Jaffna. He ... graduated from the Ceylon University College, Colombo. Deciding on a legal career, he passed out as an Advocate.
Amirthalingam was a forceful speaker both in Tamil and in English. He was a pioneer member of the Federal Party, who joined in 1949 and became leader of its Youth Front. In 1952, he contested the Vaddukkoddai seat in Parliament but was not successful.
However, he won the seat later in 1956, and continued to represent the Vaddukkoddai constituency for 14 years. During his Parliamentary career there was the "Anti Sri' campaign in 1958 and the dispute with those not satisfied with a "Federal Status' demand; he figured prominently in these. He lost his seat in Parliament, along with several other members of the Party, in 1970.
His “T.U.L.F era" began when the Tamil United Liberation Front swept the polls in 1977. With M.Sivasithamparam as their President, the "Front' became the chief Opposition party in Parliament. He was appointed the Leader of the Opposition in the House, which position he held for over five years. When the residence of the Leader of the Opposition was damaged during the 1983 holocaust, he proceeded to Tamil Nadu and returned to Colombo after five years. On 13th July 1989, some assailants who called at his Colombo residence shot and wounded him fatally.
Thus ended Amirthalingam's life. He had lived through forty years of troubled political strife, often face to face with moments of danger. But he always braced himself saying" the brave die only once”.
Amirthalingam married Mankayarkarasi, daughter of Vallipuram a leading merchant of Bandarawela. She was herself an eloquent speaker. They had two sons, Kandeepan and Bhagiravan. The latter is a Doctor in the U.K
Mrs. Mankayarkarasi Amirthalingam c 1935 -
Mankayarkarasi is from Pannakam in Jaffna; she is the daughter of Vallipuram, a
leading merchant of Bandarawela. She did not show any special inclination for politics during her school days at Ramanathan College, Chunnakam.
However, her talent in Carnatic Tamil music was outstanding. This made her father take special interest in developing her natural talent. Eventually she became qualified and very proficient in Tamil vocal music.
She gave several recitals. It was one of the recitals that brought about her marriage to A. Amirthalingam, the T.U.L.F Leader. At first she used to only accompany her husband at his political meetings. Then she was happy to sing to the audience who appreciated her able renderings. Very soon, becoming familiar with the cause of her husband's Federal Party, she commenced addressing some of their meetings; thus commenced her political motivation.
Eventually she became totally involved in the cause of her husband's party. Once she was arrested and kept in detention along with other members of the Party.
During the last years of troubled politics and perilous living of her husband, she always stood beside him. After his lamentable assassination in July 1989, Mankayarkarasi has retired from public life.
Dr. C. Amirthalingam 1903-1982 B.Sc (Hons)., Ph.D, Professor, University of Sudan
Amirthalingam, born on 29th April 1903, was the youngest son of Chellapah and Meenachchi of Urumpirai and a brother of Suntharalingam M.P*.
After a brilliant school career, he obtained the B.Sc Degree with Honours and proceeded to Cambridge where he got his Doctorate in Zoology.
He was Director of Fisheries in the Andaman Islands for a short time. Returning to Ceylon he held the post of Asst. Marine Biologist in 1938, and Director of Fisheries in 1941. He was also Lecturer at the Ceylon University College for some time. Later he proceeded overseas and held the post of Professor at the University of Sudan for a long time, before retirement. He passed away on 21st January

1982.
He had two sons: Panchalingam who is with the "Oxfam', and Dr. Prathalingam
V.S.Kumar Anandan ....-1984. B.Sc(Lond), LL.B(Ceylon), Winner - World Records, in Guinness Book of World Records.
Kumar Anandan, son of Vivekanandan of the Engineering Service of the Irrigation Department, Sri Lanka, was from Valvettiturai, Jaffna. -
From his early days, Kumar set his heart on distinguishing himself and becoming an outstanding member of the community.
He had a successful educational career, graduating in Science of the London University. He also obtained the Bachelor of Laws degree in Ceylon and was an Attorney at Law by profession.
Very soon he commenced his efforts at winning World Records and seeing his name in the Guinness Book of World Records. By 1983, he had secured several records:
Record - Swimming the Palk Strait, from Sri Lanka to India and back, in 51 hours, in the year 1971.
Record - Twist Dance for 128 hours, in December 1978.
Record - Non-stop cycling for 187 hours, a distance of 1487 miles, in May 1979.
Record - Balancing on one foot for 33 hours, in May 1979.
Record - Ball punching for 136 hours, in December 1979.
Record-Sit ups: 165 in two minutes, in May 1980.
Record - High Kicks: 9100 times, in December 1980.
Record-Walking non-stop for 159 hours, a distance of 296 miles, in August 1981.
Record - Water-Treading for 80 hours, performed at the Anna Swimming Pool in Madras, in August 1981.
He was unfortunate to meet with a serious motor accident and was in hospital for six months; afterwards he had to be in crutches for another six months. Even after that, he performed Billiards Cue-Levelling and Speed
Motor Cycle riding.
But tragedy befell on the 6th of August 1984. A day of disaster to this "Heroic and Restless Life'. He collapsed half-way while attempting to swim the 30 mile stretch of the English Channel from Doverto Cape Gris Nez. He encountered heavy and unfavourable currents and collapsed after six hours of valiant defiance. That was the end of a World Record Holder, a restless life who aspired to be Champion Endurance Sportsman of the world.
Ananadan married Manel and had two sons: Rajan and Rajesh.
C.E.Anandarajan 1932-1985 B.Sc., Dip. Ed., Principal St. Johns College.Jaffna, 1976-1985.
Chelliah Edwin Anandarajan, born on 31.1.1932, was the eldest son of G.S.Cheliah, Principal Christian College Kopay. He had his early education at the Kopay Christian College and later at St.John's College Jaffna where he was Senior Prefect in 1951.
He graduated from Christian College Madras, with Zoology as the main subject. On his return he joined the staff of St.John's College. Later he obtained his Diploma in Education in 1962 and also had further training
s, in Oxford. He was then appointed Vice-Principal
of St.John's College. He assumed Principalship in 1976 and functioned very ably for nine years. Unfortunately, he met with a tragic death by assassination on the 26th of June 1985. It was a period of great political turmoil in Jaffna.
C.E.Anandarajan showed great ability in guiding the College through a difficult and exacting period. He was a popular personality, much liked by all. His premature demise was a shock and a great loss to the College and to the whole community.
C.E. Anandarajan married Padma, daughter of Kadirgamar and had five children.
V.Anandasangaree 1933TULF M.P for Kilinochchi, 1977.
Veerasingham AnandaSangaree, born 15th June 1933 in Pt. Pedro, is the son of Sangarapillai Veerasingham Principal Sri

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Somaskanda College Puttur and Ratnamma, of Thumpalai Pt.Pedro. He is one of seven brothers and two sisters.
He had his early education at Thumpalai and Puttur. Later he proceeded to Hartley College Pt.Pedro and Zahira College Colombo. He was a member of the Tutorial Staff of Christ the King College Jaela and Sri Kotalawelapura Tamil School, between 1953 - 1959.
He entered Law College and passed out as an Attorney at Law, in 1967.
He was actively interested in politics and was a member of the Lanka Sama Samaj Party. As a Member of that Party, he contested the Kotahena South Ward of the Colombo Municipal Council in 1959, the Kilinochchi Seat in Parliament in March 1960, in July 1960, and in 1965, but without success. He resigned from the L.S.S.P due to differences in Language Policy in 1965.
In 1967, he was elected to the Kilinochchi Town Council, where he was chosen as Chairman. He won the Kilinochchi seat in Parliament in 1970, as a Tamil Congress candidate. He joined the Tamil United Liberation Front in 1972 as a Founder Member and won the Kilinochchi Seat again in the 1977 Elections, defeating a Cabinet Minister by a large majority.
Thangammah Appacuddy 1925Pundit, Saiva Pulavar: Cultural Lecturer. & Social Worker.
Thangammah, born 7th January 1925, is the daughter of Kanthar Appacuddy of Tellipalai. After her education at Ramanathan College Chunnakam, she became a First Class Trained Teacher and commenced teaching in 1945. She first taught at Batticaloa and then in Colombo. She obtained her Pundit qualification in 1952 and the Saiva Pulavar title from Madras in 1958. She taught at Union College Tellipalai from 1964, and retired after thirty one years of service as teacher, in 1976.
She is well conversant with the Hindu scriptures and has also made a special study of Periya Puranam, a Saiva sacred anthology. After 1953, she became an outstanding
exponent of Tamil language, literature, Hindu culture and Saiva Siddanda philosophy and delivered lectures and recitals. With a deep and resonant voice she was a popular speaker at most of the festivals in Jaffna. Some of her discourses have been published.
She is a devotee of the Durga Temple in her village Tellipallai and is very much involved in its management. Thanks to her valiant efforts, the temple has been vastly improved. From being a humble way-side shrine, it has become a magnificent grand temple with several shrines, Raja Gopuram, madams and mandapams. It attracts vast crowds of devotees , particularly on Tuesdays and Fridays. It is said that more devotees pay homage to Mother Durga at Tellipalai than even at the well known Kandaswamy Temple at Nallur. Thanks to Thangammah's efforts, the locality has fast become a hive of activity and a landmark in Jaffna.
Besides the above, she is also engaged in social and welfare service; a "Home' named “Durgapuram Mahalir Illam” has been set up for destitute female children. Sick and elderly persons and helpless refugees are also given assistance.
Besides being President of Sri Durga Devi Devasthanam, she is also Patron of several local and other social organisations.
Several titles and honours have been conferred on her by the Government and academic institutions, in appreciation of her services to the community.
Dr. M.J. Appasamy
...1930.... Private Practitioner & Benefactor,
Colombo.
Dr.M.J. Appasamy, a learned doctor from India, lived in Colombo in the nineteen thirties. He had a joint practice with Dr. Muttucumaru for sometime. Afterwards he set up on his own and had a lucrative private practice.
The learned Doctor was a popular personality of the time. He identified himself with the activities of the local social institutions. He was a member of the Royal Asiatic Society, the Vivekananda Society, the Tamil Union etc.

He made many charitable donations.
He is remembered because of the very useful Pilgrims' Madam, which he got erected at Kadirgamam. It served hundreds of pilgrims who sought divine solace at that sylvan shrine. To many Hindus the "Appasamy Madam' was a haven of rest at Kadirgamam..
Proctor Appathurai ...1931. Tobacco Merchant Malakam, M.LC for Valikamam North.
Appathurai was a Proctor of Malakam. He was also a merchant engaged in exporting tobacco on a large scale from Trincomalee to Travancore.The Jaffna Tobacco had a good market as chewing tobacco, in Travancore
The Valikamam North seat in the State Council fell vacant in 1930, due to the demise of Sir P.Ramanathan. He contested and won the seat defeating S.Saravanamuttu, V.Muttucumaru M.A, and Jayanathan Thiagarajah.
Arasakesari. 15th Century Royal Scholar, Court of the Jaffna Kings.
Arasakesari was a Royal Scholar who lived in Nallur Jaffna, during the reign of King Singai Pararajasekaran ( 1478 – 1519); this monarch was the most outstanding of the Tamil Kings of Jaffna who ruled at Nallur. During his regime, Art, Learning and Culture flourished in the Jaffna Kingdom.
Arasakesari, a nephew of the King, was an eminent scholar. His scholarship brought much cultural credit to the Monarch's regime. He translated Kalidasa's ancient Sanskrit classic "Raguvamsam " into Tamil. It is said that 2404 stanzas of this precious volume are still available. Encouraged by the King, eminent scholars were invited from India to hold discourses in the King's court.
The daughter of the King's second Queen Valliammai, was given in marriage to Arasakesari; thus he became the Monarch's sonin-law as well.
Today two landmarks perpetuate the memory of this celebrated 15th century Royal Scholar:
The place where he lived is even now called "Arasakesari Walawu'; it is situated near the “Yamuna. Theertham' and other ruins that are now seen at Nallur.
About a mile to the west of the 6th mile post on the Jaffna Pt. Pedro Rd, there is a Vinayakar temple known as "Arasakesari Pillaiyar Kovil'. It commemorates today the original temple at the site which once enjoyed Royal patronage.
Tamil scholarship has thus been perpetuated for posterity.
Arasakesari Regent, Jaffna Kingdom, 1615-1616.
Apart from the Royal scholar Arasakesari, there also lived another Arasakesari during the era of the Jaffna Kings. He lived much later and came into prominence as the Regent of the three year old infant son of King Ethirmanasingham of Jaffna.
Regent Arasakesari was a close relation, almost an elder brother of the King. On his death bed in 1615, the King entrusted his only son, an infant aged three years, to the care of Arasakesari. He authorised him to administer the Kingdom as "Regent', up to the time the infant became old enough to assume the reign.
The arrangement however did not last long; the
very next year the Regent Arasakesari was murdered and the Regency appropriated.
Arasa Kulla Suriya Mudaliyar Prominent 18th century Mudaliyar of Sandilippai .
Arasa Kula Mudaliyar lived in Sandilippai during the era of the Dutch regime. He is said to have been a well-to-do Nobleman. It is claimed that the Mudaliyar's progeny can be traced in Sandilippai even now.
Mudaliyar is remembered for his building of the Hindu temple “Villundi Pillaiyar Kovil' at Koddadi, near the Jaffna Fort. It was built with Mandapams, Towers etc. He also bequeathed properties, income from which was to defray the cost of maintenance and the performance of daily pujas at the temple.

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C.Arasaretnam 1884-..... District Mudaliyar, Puttalam.
Christopher Arasaretnam, born in 1884, started life as a Clerk at the Puttalam Kachcheri in 1904. In recognition of his ability, he was appointed District Mudaliyar, Kalpitiya Division, Puttalam. He held that position with distinction for a long time.
Dr. S. Arasaratnam 1930B.A (Cey), Ph.D (Lond). Professor of History, University of New England, Australia.
Sinnappah Arasaratnam had a distinguished School career at Jaffna College,Vaddukoddai. He was later a member of the staff at the same institution for a short time.
In 1947 he proceeded to the University of Ceylon. There he graduated with First Class Honours in 1951 and was appointed Assistant Lecturer.
Later, proceeding to the London University in 1954, he obtained his Doctorate in History. On his return in 1956, he was appointed Lecturer at the University of Ceylon and promoted as Senior Lecturer in 1962.
In 1968 he accepted the post of Professor of History at the University of Malaya. After holding that position for five years, he proceeded to the University of New England, Armidale N.S.W, Australia, in a similar capacity. He is also engaged on research and the preparation of publications on South Asian History.
Apart from his several valuable
contributions to learned journals, his writings include three books: Dutch Power in Ceylon, published under the auspices of the Netherlands Institute for Cultural Relations - 1958, Ceylon a Spectrum book under the Series "The Modern Books in Historical Perspective” 1964 and Indians in Malaysia and Singapore 1970.
These works show much original research and keen perspective and have been highly acclaimed. Father X.S.Thani Nayagam wrote in 1980, that "Prof. Arasaratnam is a historian whose works on Ceylon, South India
and Tamils overseas continue to stimulate further research'. They have an added value, being the publications of a one time scholar from Jaffna College.
Professor Arasaratnam married Thanalakshmi daughter of Selvathurai and has a son Niranjan and two daughters Sulochana and Ranjana.
Mudaliyar Arasaretnam Of Chillalai, 18th century.
The Mudaliyar was a descendant of Kulattunga Mudaliyar, who belonged to a leading Catholic family in Mathakal, Jaffna.
His son was Varithamby, whose son was Innasithamby. Innasithamby’s son was Anthukuddiyar, whose son was Innasithamby, a physician of great repute.
Innasithamby earned wide fame in Jaffna as specialist in treating children's diseases. His reputation made Chillalai, a widely known place in Jaffna. His progeny has continued the ancestral medical practice at Chillalai.
K.U.Ariacuddy Maniyagar.
1879- ..... Maniyagar; Valikamam West.
The ancestors of Kathiresapillai Udaiyar Ariacuddy had been Headmen for three generations.
Ariacuddy himself was Village Tribunal President, Batticaloa in 1917. He was made a Justice of Peace for the Batticaloa District and in 1928 appointed Maniyagar, Valikamam West Jaffna.
Dr.S.Ariaretnam 1902-1980 L.M.S., D.T.M & H. D.M. O. Mannar 1948-1952.
Dr.Sellathurai Ariaretnam, born 13th September 1902, was from Manipay, Jaffna.
After his school career, he chose the medical profession. On passing out as a Doctor, he entered the Medical Department as Medical Officer in 1936. He served in Kayts in 1943. At Mannar, where he was Medical Officer from 1948 to 1952, he was a very popular personality.

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He is known to have identified himself with several social and religious activities in the District. He made large donations for such causes and was highly respected.
On retirement he established a lucrative private practice in Gampaha. On his demise, his son, who also is a Doctor, took charge of Sac.
E.W.Ariyanayagam 1913-1973 Exponent of National Regeneration
through Basic Education.
Edwin Williams Ariyanayagam, earlier E.A.Williams, or "Ariyam' as he was familiarly referred to, was born on 6th October 1913, in Vaddukkoddai, Jaffna. He was the eldest son of a parson and was expected to take to a religious
CaCCI.
After his School education at Jaffna College, he went to the Seminary at Serampore for Theological studies. From there he proceeded to England on a Y.M.C.A assignment.
He imbibed lofty ideals of education as a medium for the development of national culture. In the 1920’s, Rabindranath Tagore established Shantiniketan University in India. The Institution was engaged in encouraging regeneration of Oriental Art, literature, Drama etc, through the medium of Basic Education. The intellect of the child was allowed to develop not by regimentation but by being allowed the freedom of choice.
Ariyam proceeded there and became very much involved in the educational philosophies of the movement. and decided to remain there permanently. He travelled far and wide spreading the ideals of Shantiniketan . During his travels, he visited Jaffna, when he spoke of the high ideals and the simple life at Shantiniketan.
He was there for a long time, eventually functioning as Secretary to Rabindranath Tagore. Later, he was closely associated with Mahathma Gandhi, Wardha work and the Indian National Movement.
Ariyam married Miss Usha Devi, from Bengal, who was even more devoted to these ideals. Together they worked tirelessly for the cause of "Basic Education'.
He passed away on 12 th September 1973 at Vaddukkodai, where he had arrived from India only the previous day.
F.M.Armstrong 1830-1891. Mudaliyar of the Governor's Gate,
District Engineer, Jaffna.
Francis Muttyah Armstrong, the descendant of an ancient family in Pannalai, was born at Vaddukkoddai on 16th March 1830.
His father Ethirveerasingha Nitsingha Talaivasingha Mudaliyar was Maniyagar of Valikamam West, Jaffna. He is reputed to have led a Corps of 600 men and helped the British Government in subjugating the Kandyan Kingdom. His men facilitated military operations, by clearing jungle, opening roads and carrying baggage .
Muttyah was educated at the Batticotta Seminary, where he adopted "Armstrong' as his surname. On his father's death in 1847, he sought employment at the early age of seventeen and was at first a temporary clerk in the Public Works Department at Puttalam. He rose steadily to permanent cadre and was eventually appointed Commanding Officer of the Tenth Division. The post was designated "Kamanyar' in Tamil, and he was known as "Muttu Kamanyar”.
In 1865, Muttyah Armstrong was appointed Superintending Officer; thus commenced his esteemed career of construction of the several engineering landmarks of today. Among the engineering feats to his credit are:-
Road s:(Sections of): Ha pu tale - Haldummulla Road, Badulla-Batticaloa Road, 6th mile and Kandy-Trincomalee Road.
Bridges: Chenkaladi Bridge, Alut Oya Bridge and Kal Oya Bridge.
Irrigation Tanks: Horobora Wewa, Kuda Wewa and Pulugana Wewa.
In 1877, he was cited as the most successful bridge builder and road maker in the Department, and was conferred the title of “Mudaliyar of the Governor's Gate'.
At his own request, he was transferred to Jaffna in 1878 and appointed “District Engineer and Superintending Officer'. His name is

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associated with the erection of the Landing Pier and the Rest House at Kankesanturai and the Landing Jetty and Hospital at Point Pedro. He died in 1891, while working on the Light House at Kankesanturai.
Muttyah Armstrong married Muttachipillai Kathiravelupillai in 1872 and had three sons: Talaivasingham an Advocate, Sinnadurai an Inspector in Railway Extension Work in Badulla, and Duraiswamy and two daughters: one of whom was married to T.Murugesu Broker of Messrs. Hayley and Kenny and the other to V.Thalaivasingham Irrigation Inspector.
C.Arulampalam 1885-.....
Advocate. -
Arulampalam son of Crown Proctor V.Casipillai, was educated at Jaffna Hindu College and Royal College Colombo. Like many of his relations, he also took to a legal career and became an Advocate.
He was a very active person socially. He founded schools and temples in his area and was also involved in their maintenance and administration. He took a leading interest in Hindu religious matters of the time. He was made a J.P and elected to the Jaffna Local Board and later to the Jaffna Urban Council.
Prof.K.Arulanandan 1925B.Sc, Tripos (Cantab), Ph.D, A.M.I.C.E.
Arulanandan, born 2nd August 1925, is the Son of V.Kandiah and Sivakolunthu nee Nagallingam of Achchuvelli, Jaffna.
He had his early education at the American Mission School Achchuveli and later at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai, from where he passed the London Matriculation in the First Division.
He graduated in Science from the Ceylon University and proceeding to Cambridge obtained his Tripos in Soil Mechanics. After undergoing training in U.K, on Road Research, he was engaged as Senior Materials Engineer Gold Coast 1953-57 and later worked under Prof.Roscoe, Cambridge University, 1957-58. He was Senior Materials Engineer Ghana in
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1959-63, after which he entered the U.C.Berkeley, U.S.A and obtained his Ph.D. He then joined the U.C Davis Faculty and has distinguished himself in Geotechnical Engineering doing teaching and research there and is engaged in the capacity of Engineering Professor.
While at Ghana, he is known to have assisted several Tamils who sought employment etc, there. He has also facilitated the education of many graduate students in the U.S.A.
He married Rajeswary, a Sangeetha Booshanam of Annamalai University, and daughter of PVelauthapillai and Meenambikai of Karampan, Kayts, and has three children: Dr.Chandranandan M.D., Electrical Engineer Sivanandan and Architect Mrs. Rohini Solos.
Rev. J.T.Arulanantham 1897-1964. Principal, St.John's College Jafna, 1940-1957.
John Thiagarajah Arulanantham, born 13th May. 1897, lived at Nayanmarkaddu, Nallur Jaffna, where his parents were teachers.
He had his early education at St.John's College; proceeding to University College Colombo, he passed the London University Inter Science Examination. He was selected as a Scholar by the Church Missionary Society and sent to Ridley Hall, Cambridge in England, for Theological Studies. He was ordained at St.Paul's Cathedral in 1933. He further graduated with Honours in Psychology at Kings College, London.
On his return to Ceylon, after acting as Principal of a School in Peradeniya for about a year, he was appointed Vice-Principal St. John's College Jaffna.
On the death of Rev. H. Peto, he was appointed Principal in 1940. He was the first Ceylonese to be so honoured. He held it with distinction for several years. Free Education was introduced and St.Johns opted to be an Assisted School, during his regime in 1944. The College expanded appreciably during his time and many students secured places in the University from St.John's. The 125th Anniversary of the College was celebrated in 1948. He retired at the age of 60 in 1957.

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On his retirement he served the Church, as Vicar Christ Church Galle Face. Later, he was Priest-in-Charge at St. John's Church Chundikuli, till his demise on 21st June 1964.
He married Pushpam Asirvatham and had three sons: Pararasan who is a Doctor, Vijayan, and Karunyan who is also a Doctor, and a daughter Kirupa who was married to Karunananthan. Mrs. Arulanantham survived her husband and passed away in November 1990, at the age of 85.
T.Arulanantham 1900-1988 Postmaster & Middle Class Farmer
Arulanantham has been a shining example to the youths of the country. He was a middle class person, a Postmaster, who did not hesitate to till with the plough, wield the mammoty and water his garden, all his life.
Arulanantham was the eldest son of S.Thambiayah of Kanterodai, Jaffna who retired early from the Malayan Railway Service. Afterwards he devoted his time to farming in his village home.
Young Arulanantham , born 24th September 1900, assisted his father from his boyhood days. He was a student at Kantherodai English Institute (now Skandavarodhaya College). Daily, on his return from School, he would attend to all the work in the family farm. He entered the Postal Department and worked for thirty six years, at several stations all over the Island. From 1952, he was Postmaster at Kalmunai from where he retired in 1955.
He then devoted himself wholeheartedly to the development of the Middle Class allotment called Sinnewatte Farm, near Kalmunai.
He was a good sportsman, very sociable and popular with the people.and when he was attached to the Pandattarippu Post Office, he developed the land opposite the Post Office into a well grown home garden. He was a member of several District Development Committees.
He lived true to his motto of the four "D's: - Duty, Discipline Devotion, and Dedication, which he reiterated often.
Arulanantham married Sellammah daughter of Nallathamby of Navaly and had six sons and four daughters.
K.S.Arulmandhy 1899-1972 M.Sc, Dep. Director of Education.
Arulnandhy, born in Uduvil, on 25th March 1899, was the son of Kathirgamar Sadayar. His father, a Tamil Scholar, was a descendant of Neelar Sittampalam and his mother Theivanaia descendant of Senathirajah Mudaliyar of the Dutch era.
Arulnandhy had his early education at Kantherodai English Institute (later Skanda Varothaya College), and later at Jaffna Central College. He passed his Cambridge Local Examinations with Distinctions and Honours and became a Pupil Teacher.
On completion of the Science Teachers' Course, he was appointed Science Master at Hartley College in 1920. Later, he graduated in Science in the First Division from the Ceylon University College, Colombo. He was appointed Assistant Inspector of Schools in 1923.
Proceeding to England in 1929, he obtained the London University Teacher's Diploma and M.Sc in Psychology with Distinction. On his return, he was promoted as Asst. Director and then Deputy Director of Education in 1946.
On his retirement in 1950, he was appointed a lecturer in the University of Ceylon . He was also a Member of several examining Boards and Councils.
During his later years, he translated and published Science and Mathematics Text Books in Tamil, suitable for use in the upper Forms. He passed away on 30th July 1972.
K.S. Arulinandhy married Sakuntala, daughter of Suppiramaniam J.P.U.P.M., of Pt. Pedro, in 1920 and had three sons: Mahendrarajah*, Dr. Puveendran, Thavendran Accountant and five daughters.: Maruneekiyar who was married to Thiruvathurar son of Thambipillai Inspector of Schools, Kamalasany, Satkunadevi, Mangaladevi a Teacher and Chithradevian Accountant.
A.Arulpiragasam c 1890-1975. C.C.S., Commissioner of Elections.
Arulpiragasam, son of Arumugam, a School Master from Valveddi, was educated at

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Jaffna College and entered the Government Clerical Service early in life.
Later he passed out as an Advocate and accepted the post of Settlement Officer in the Land Development Department.
In 1942, he was drafted to the Civil Service and was appointed to assist T.V.Saravanamuttu in organising and holding the Colombo Plan Exhibition in Colombo. He performed this function very efficiently and earned much praise.
He then functioned as Asst. Government Agent at Colombo, Puttalam, Kurunegala and held other positions. He was Registrar General in 1952. Later he held the post of Commissioner of Elections at a time when there were keen contests and consequent changes of Government.
Eventually he held a high position in the Lake House Group of Newspapers, before retirement.
Arulpiragasam married Sathya-baladevi, daughter of Kandiah of Udupiddy and had three sons Pulendran, Thavendran and Balendran and four daughters Saraswathi, Savitri, Thilakavathy and Punithavathy.
Sathyabaladevi survived her husband and passed away in October 1992.
Mudaliyar C.Arumugam J.P.U.P.M 1872-1938. Dist. Mudaliyar, Mullaitivu 1921-1932.
C. Arumugam, born 27th July 1872, was the son of M.Canapathipillai, Chief Clerk Mullaiti vu Kachcheri, whose ancestor Kumarasekara Mudaliyar was a descendant of the Vanni Kings.
Arumugam had his early education at St. Patrick's, Mullaitivu and later in Schools in Trincomalee. He Matriculated in 1890, from Jaffna Central College.
Entering Government Service as a clerk in 1895, he won recognition by hard work and was appointed Chief Clerk, Mullaitivu Kachcheri in 1902. Later he was promoted as Maniyagar and eventually appointed District Mudaliyar Nedunkerni in 1910 and Mullaitivu, from 1921 to 1932.
Arumugam was a very popular person, who was held in highesteem in Mullaitivu. He made several donations to charitable and religious institutions. When he retired, the title of "Mudaliyar' was conferred on him.
Muda liyar Arumugam married Ponnammah, daughter of Vidanaiyar Kannappar Murugesu and had seven children: Mudaliyar Kanagasab a pathy* (Dist. Mudaliyar), Kamalambikai (married to M.Ramalingam CCS), Sivasubramaniam (Kachcheri Shroff), Sivapackiyam (married to S. Vallipuram Secy. to SHS), Ratnasabapathy (O.A. Kachcheri), Ahilandeswary (married to V. Sabaratnam Clerk CGR), and Kanagasavundary (married to K.N.Rajanayagam (Civil Engineer).
His brothers also held distinguished positions: Chelliah, Vallipurampillai and Ambalavanar were Mudaliyars and Sivasithamparam*, an esteemed Doctor.
J.N.Arumugam 1896-.... . C.C.S., Permanent Secretary
Joseph Nalliah Arumugam, born on 23rd February 1896, was from Katkovalam Pt.Pedro, Jaffna.
He had his early education at Jaffna Central College. Entering the Ceylon Technical College, he followed a Science Course. He was then appointed Demonstrator in Chemistry there in 1917.
Passing the Inter Science Examination, he proceeded to U.K on scholarship, where he was selected for the Ceylon Civil Service, which he entered in December 1921.
As a Civil Servant, he held several positions. He was a prominent Magistrate of Colombo. Eventually he was Petrol Controller in 1941 and Commissioner of Motor Transport in 1946. Later he held the position of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport.
He retired from service and passed away in the 1960's.
J.N. Arumugam married a daughter of Muttucumaru. On her demise, he married Dr.Miss Lilly Chelliah.

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Dr.K.Arumugam 1925-1986 B.Sc (Cey)., Ph.D(Lond) Senior Lecturer; City University,
London.
Kanapathipillai Arumugam was born in 1925 at Thirunelveli, Jaffna. He had his early education at St.John's College Jaffna, where he won several prizes. He graduated in Civil Engineering with First Class Honours from the University of Ceylon.
He then proceeded on scholarship to Imperial College, London, for post graduate work, in the early 1950's. He got his Doctorate in Civil Engineering. His favourite subject was Fluid Mechanics.
Returning to Sri Lanka he was for a short time with the University of Ceylon. In 1966 he accepted a Lecturer's post in the Faculty of Civil Engineering at the City University, London. Later, he was appointed a Senior Lecturer there. Besides his work in lecturing and research, he was a Member of the Board of Studies Civil Engineering and a Member of the Senate of the University. He initiated a new course in Water Resources Engineering at the University. His work has been much appreciated and highly commended.
Dr. Arumugam was a popular member of the Tamil community in London. He was one of the prime movers in the founding of the "Standing Committee Of the Tamils', known also as "S.C.O.T." organisation, established for the welfare of the Tamils. He was its first President in 1977 and continued to function as a leading figure even afterwards, till his demise. On 9th October 1986, while walking along the corridors of the University, he collapsed from a heart attack and passed away. His sudden demise was a great loss to the Tamil community in Great Britain.
Dr. K. Arumugam married Lingeswari, daughter of Surveyor Kanagarajah, from Anaikoddai, and had a daughter.
Kanthapillai Arumugam 1822-1879 (Arumuga Navalar) Tamil Scholar; Patriot &Social
Reformer:
Arumugam, youngest of six sons of “Visaranai Kanthar” Kanthapilai and Sivakami Ammaiyar of Nallur Jaffna, was born on 18th December 1822. He had his early education under distinguished scholars Senathirajah Mudaliyar and Saravanamuttu Pulavar. They imparted to him sound ground work in Tamil, Tamil Culture, and Sanskrit. He became highly proficient in Tamil.
In recognition of his abilities as a keen scholar, he was sent to study English, as well. It was a small school (later to become the Jaffna Central College) maintained by Rev. Peter Percival. Recognising young Arumugam’s quick - mastery of English, in addition to proficiency in Tamil and Sanskrit, Rev. Percival appointed him a member of his Tutorial staff. He was also engaged by him in the preparation of a translation of the Holy Bible into Tamil, a work that won him high acclaim, even from India.
Later Arumugam set up on his own and commenced publication of simple books on ethics for children. Realising the difficulties the people had in understanding the many sacred Hindu Puranams, because they were in verse form, he commenced publishing them in simple prose. These became very popular and he matured into a Tamil prose writer of highesteem. He is remembered today as the father of Tamil prose. When he went to India to purchase a printing press, he was highly honoured there and conferred with the title of "Navalar'.
He established a Printing Press in Mint St, Madras and printed most of his works there. Also he established a school at Chidambaram, which is now a College.
He mastered the tenets of Saiva Siddanda Philosophy and acquired eloquence in speech. He employed his ability to write in clear and simple prose for the development of Tamil Language and the revival of Hindu religion. He kindled a consciousness among the Tamils about their spiritual heritage and spear headed a movement for its revival.
He was not only an eloquent speaker but was also an able debater as well. He upheld his religious convictions in his debates.
He roused the people to a sense of appreciation of their language. He also established Schools, both in Jaffna and in India,

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where the children may acquire proficiency in Tamil. No wonder, he came to be referred to as the “Champion Reformer'.
His premature demise on 5th December 1879, at the early age of 57, was a great loss for the development of Tamil language. He remained a confirmed bachelor.
He was a profuse writer. Besides Tamil Readers, countless booklets and leaflets, he has published over fifty books of Tamil Puranic literature. The Periyapurana Vacanam is a most popular work which went into several editions. Some of the others were Kanthapurana Vacanam, Thiruvillaiyadat purana Vacanam, Sethupuranam, etc. His Saiva Vina Vidai continued to be in use for a long time. His Pala Padam, devised to teach the Tamil Language, was at one time used all over the Tamil Country. The Arumuga Navalar Trust in Chidambaram maintains today a Higher Secondary School, organises Saiva Siddanda Classes and works a Printing Press.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value 5cts, on 29th October 1971.
Kathiravetpillai. Arumugam 1880-.... . Shroff National Bank Colombo.
Arumugam, son of the reputed philanthropist Shroff Cathiravetpillai, was born in 1880 and was well educated.
Like his father he chose a Mercantile career and became a Shroff in Mercantile Firms early in life. Later he held this position in the Ceylon Government Railway. Afterwards, he established a mercantile firm called the "IndoCeylon Trading Company', on his own, and managed it with great success.
He was very much involved in the social and religious activities of the day, being a member of the Vivekananda Society, the Tamil Union and other institutions.
He married Srimathi Ponnammah and had two daughters.
Karthigesu Arumugam 1883-1964. Proprietary Planter;Seremban .
Arumugam was from Jaffna. He had his education at Jaffna College Vaddukkoddai and proceeding to Malaya in 1905, entered Government Service in Port Dickson.
On retirement, he took to planting and eventually was the owner of many rubber estates. He was an active member of many organisations connected with the planting industry. He was the Founder and Director of the "Bank of Jaffna in Malaya, in 1920. He was a prominent member of the community and hosted visitors from Ceylon and India.
Returning to Jaffna, he was actively engaged in several social projects there.
His son A. P. Rajah is a distinguished
Singaporean, Barrister, Speaker of the Singapore Legislative Assembly, later High Commissioner in Great Britain, and then Chief Justice in Singapore. Another son A.D.Rajah is a Barrister in Kuala Lumpur.
S.Arumugam 1905 - B.Sc(Lond), B.Sc(Eng), F.I.C.E Irrigation Dep. Director and Author:
Arumugam, son of V.Sanmugam, was born on 31st August 1905, in Nallur, Jaffna. He had his early education at St.John's College, Jaffna and S.Thomas College Mt.Lavinia, passing the Cambridge Local Examinations with Honours. He obtained the General Science Degree (London) from the Ceylon University College in 1928 and proceeding to London, graduated in Civil Engineering from Kings College.
Gaining practical engineering experience in U.K and working with the Manchester City Corporation Water Works, he returned to Ceylon and commenced his career as an Irrigation Engineer in 1933. He worked at several stations all over Ceylon for over twenty years, eventually functioning as Deputy. Director of Irrigation for ten years and acting as Director. Many ancient historic sites and ruins of ancient temples in the interior jungles, were visited then
He contributed several technical papers: The Development of Village Irrigation Works (1957), has been reprinted many times, as booklets for training Junior Engineers, The Development of Water Resources Works in Sri

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Lanka a monumental work, was published in 1969.
He was Director of the Water Resources Board for six years and the President of the Institution of Engineers Ceylon, 1966-1967.
On retirement, he spends his time in research - study of the development of Hindu Civilisation and Tamil Culture in Sri Lanka and writing from his notes and observations made earlier.
He has published books on the history
of some of the ancient revered institutions in the Island: Some Ancient Hindu Temples of Sri Lanka (1980), Second Edition 1982. Lord of. Thiruketheeswaram (1980) Second Edition 1990. Stone Sculptures in Colombo Hindu Temple (1990), Thiru Koneswaram (1990) and in Indonesia: Lombok and its Temples (1991).
He is married and has three sons: Thiru, Sri and Sakthi and four daughters: Sushila Arichandran, Vimala Gunasingam, Praemala Ganesan Raju and Ahila Raja Rayan.
Visuvanathar Arumugam mid 19th century
Arumugam was the second son of Visuvanathar, whose ancestry is given under Canagasekara Kothanda Kuriyan*. Arumugam had two sons Cathiravetpillai and Canagaratnam*.
Cathiravetpillai became a Proctor and was a Member of the Jaffna Local Board and development Councils. In recognition of his services, he was honoured with J.P.U.P.M. Cathiravetpillai's son was the well known Civil Servant and Minister, Sittampalam. Minister Sittampalam’s son is Arjuna Sittampalam*, the eminent Investment Financier.
S.Arumugarajah 1920-1978. B.A (Lond)., Vice-Principal.
Arumugarajah, born 1st October 1920, was the son of A.Sabapathy and Annaipillai of Suthumalai and grandson of Ambihaipahar, a Pulavar of repute from Inuvil.
Arumugarajah had his early education at the Suthumalai Chinmaya Bharathi Vidyalaya, completed his Bala Pandithar Course and became
a Trained Teacher in 1940. Matriculating from Jaffna Hindu College in 1942, he became a teacher at Dharmadoodha College Badulla. He was there for 21 years, eventually functioning as its Vice-Principal. He then functioned in the same capacity at Uva College Badulla, before assuming Vice-Principalship of Mahajana College, Tellippalai, in 1966. He retired in 1978 due to ill-health and passed away soon after.
When he was at Badulla, as Secretary of the Saiva Paripalana Sangam, he had worked hard for the establishment of a Hindu School. It materialised later, with the name of Saraswathy Maha Vidyalaya, Badulla.
Arumugrajah married Saraswathy, daughter of Headmaster Kandiah of Maviddapuram (and an elder sister of K. Kandasamy of the Tamil Information Service) and had five children:-.
Sir P.Arunachalam 1853-1924. M.A., C.C.S., Scholar, Registrar General., Statesman & Patriot.
Sir. P. Arunachalam,Scholar, Statesman and Patriot, younger brother of Sir.P.Ramanathan was the third son of Gate Mudaliyar Ponnambalam and Sellachchi Ammaiyar. He was born in Colombo, on 14th September
1853.
He had his early education at the Royal Academy (the present Royal College). From his boyhood he showed his brilliance and high intellectual ability by winning several prizes and distinctions at the Academy.
He then proceeded to Christ's College,
Cambridge for higher studies, as a scholar, in 1870. There he distinguished himself in Classics and Mathematics, winning the Foundation Scholarship and obtaining the Masters degree. Later he was called to the Bar.
At the request of his uncle Sir Muttucumaraswamy, he sat for the Civil Service Examination and became one of the first Ceylonese to enter the Service in 1875. He held several positions in that service, being appointed Registrar General in 1887. He showed his eminence in all the positions he held. His scientific compilation of the National Census Report of 1901 was a masterpiece. The

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introductory report contains "the most luminous dissertation on the ethnological, social and economic conditions of the Island'.
On his retirement from the Public Service in 1913, he was Knighted in recognition of his distinguished service to the country. He was also nominated by the Governor to a seat in the Executive Council.
He was the first Ceylonese to be elected President of the Ceylon Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society. As President of the Saiva Paripalana Sabai he took much interest in Hindu cultural matters. He was the first person to start agitating for a University for Ceylon ( one of the Halls of residence at the Peradeniya University has been named Arunachalam Hall, in 1951).
His famous speech on "Our Political Needs', delivered in 1917, under the auspices of the Ceylon National Association, shows his yearning for Ceylon's political progress. The Ceylon Reform League was founded in May that year with Sir Arunachalam as Chairman. This led to the formation of the Ceylon National Congress later in 1919. However differences arose, and he withdrew from that institution, for the formation of which he worked hard. He also withdrew from all political activities by 1921.
He died at Madurai on 9th January 1924, while on a pilgrimage worshipping at the Hindu Temples in South India.
He married Svarnambal', daughter of Mudaliyar Namasivayam of Manipay and Colombo, in 1883
The eminence of this great man has been preserved for posterity, by the erection of his statue in Parliament Square in 1930. His portraits have been unveiled at Royal College and at the Offices of the Ceylon National Congress and the Ceylon Social Service League.
Among his writings are:- Sketches of Ceylon History, Studies(1906) , A Digest of the Civil Law of Ceylon, Census Report of 1901. His Philosophical and Religious contributions have been collected and published later in 1937, with the title Studies and Translations. Sir C.P.Ramaswamy Aiyar in his Foreword writes, 'The world cannot be sufficiently grateful to Sir Ponnambalam
8
Arunachalam for having in his philosophical and religious 'Studies and Translations unlocked these treasures of thought and of language to those wholly or partially unacquainted with the wonders of Tamil thought and Tamil poesy.” The volume is a veritable treasure in the home. It was out of print for a long time but has since been reprinted and is now available.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value Re. 1, on 10th March 1977.
Lady Svarnambal Arunachalam 1860-1940.
Svarnambal was the daughter of Mudaliyar Namasivayam of Manipay. Her father has a genealogy descending from the era of the Tamil Kings of Jaffna, through Ilankai Natha Mudaliyar, Muththudaya Mudaliyar and Sivagurunatha Mudaliyar. She was well educated and a pious Hindu.
Svarnambal was given in marriage to Arunachalam (later Sir P Arunachalam*) in 1883. She was an able support to her husband and his constant companion in his distinguished official, cultural and political career.
Even after his demise in 1924, she continued with the works of charity he had organised; however, the main work by which she is remembered today is the completion of the "Samathi' of Anaikuddy Swamy (a savant) and the Sivan Kovil at Mutuwal, Colombo. She took particular interest in installing a Nadarajah deity there, which is admired by every visitor to the temple.
Sir P. Arunachal am and Sri mathi Svarnambal had three sons: Padmanabha, Mahadeva and Ramanathan and five daughters: Mahes wari Segarajasingham, Manonimani Sri Pathmanathan, Sivanandam Thambyah*. Lady Pathmavathy Pararajasingam and Sunthari Nadarajah.
Mahadeva ( later Sir A.Mahadeva) distinguished himself and like his father was a leader of the Tamils.
Lady Arunachalam survived her husband and passed away in 1940, at the age of 80.

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Arunachala Thesikamani 1888-... . Tamil Scholar & School Master,
Batticaloa.
Arunachalam was the son of Casinatha Sastriyar and Sinnapillai of Batticaloa. He was well educated and taught at the “Old School” at Anaipanthi, the residence of the Swamis of the Ramakrishna Mission.
He had a good reputation as a speaker on Hindu religion and in the 1940's addressed several meetings at different places. He was an able supporter of the Swamis of the RamaKrishna Mission, working for their cause.
He had a good knowledge of the Saiva Sashtras and compiled an encyclopaedia of Saivaism, entitled Saivakalanchiyam in six volumes. Of these, one volume entitled Saiva samyar Ilajnar Pothini was published by the Batticaloa Hindu Pari Palana Sabai in 1958 and brought high reputation to the author. Another volume entitled Saiva Samaya Chinthamani was published in 1960. A further volume entitled Inthusamaya matha makathuva Manmiam, was published by the Batticaloa Hindu Mantram in 1961.
In appreciation of the valuable work he had done for the development of Tamil and religious culture in Batticaloa District, he was conferred the honorific title of Thesikamani in 1952.
The Arya Chakravarthi Kings of Jaffna c 1215-1618.
The celebrated Arya Chakravarthi Kings of Jaffna reigned in Nallur for over four centuries.
Pandi Mallavan, a high caste Vellala, son of Selvarajah of Ponpettiyur, and a well established colonist of Jaffna , went to the Pandyan Court in India and requested for a Prince to rule over Jaffna. Singai Aryan, a nephew of Singai Kethu, who was studying Statecraft at the Royal College in Madurai, was selected.
The Prince arrived in Jaffna accompanied with Royal retinue and founded the Tamil Kingdom of Jaffna, at Nallur. He and his
successors became known as Arya Chakravarthi Singai Aryan Kings of Jaffna. They adopted the epithet names of Segarajasekaran and Pararajasekaran alternatively, during their reign.
Their regime lasted 403 years from 1215. The first twelve, who succeeded their fathers, were independent monarchs of Jaffna. The last five ruled under the suzerainty of the Portuguese.
The Table of Kings shown below is based on what is found in the traditional Chronicles of Jaffna, “Yalpana Vaipava Malai” composed in 1736 and the "Kailaya Malai' written two centuries earlier. Mudaliyar C.Rasanayagam has, in his "Ancient Jaffna', allocated a period to each " according to average' basis. However unsatisfactory that may be, it is of sufficient indicative value:-
Kings of Jaffna
Vijaya Kulankai A.C, S 1215-1240 Kulasekara S.A, P 1240-1256 Kulattunga S.A, S 256-1279 Vikikrama S.A, P 1279-1302 Varothaya S.A., S 1302-1325 Marthanda S.A, P 1325-348 Kunapushana S.A., S 1348-1371 Virothaya S.A, P 1371-1380 Jayaweera S.A., S 1380-1410 Kunaweera S.A, P 140-1440 Kanagasuriya S.A., S 1440-1450 Sempaha Perumal Agent of Kotte King, later King Bhuvaneka Bahu, 1450-1467 Kanagasuriya, 2nd time 1467-1478 Pararajasekaran Si 1478- 1519 Sangili S 1519-1561 Puviraja Pandaram P 1561-1565 Periya Pulle S 1565-1582 Puviraja Pandaram, 2nd time 1582-1591 Ethirrmanasingam P 1591-1615 His Infant Son, with:
Arasakesari as Regent 1615-1617
Sangili Kumara , 1617-1618 End of Tamil regime 1618.
(Note:- S.A = Singai Aryan. Si = Singai. S = Segarajasekaran. P = Pararajasekaran)

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M.A.saipillai c1870-..... Agent - Royal Mail Transport, by Horse Coach in Jaffna.
Before the first decade of this century, there were no motor cars in Jaffna. The normal form of transport of the well to do was by horse and carriage. Muthiah of Anaipanthyadi owned several horses and coaches and was engaged in transport business. His coaches went as far as Matale.
His son Proctor Asaipillai was a well to do resident of Jaffna Town. His fleet of horse coaches carried the Royal Mail from Jaffna Town to distant places like Point Pedro and Kayts and places en route, within the Peninsula.
He had a large organisation, employing several horses . The Point Pedro coach, driven by two horses, would pick up the Mail from Jaffna Post Office. It would then travel along the Pt.Pedro Road, delivering mail bags to all the Post Offices on the route. At Achchuvely, a half-way halting place, a fresh couple of horses are substituted, and the first two are left behind to rest. On the return journey mail bags are similarly collected and delivered at Jaffna Post Office. The coaches transported passengers as well.
The organisation was so well known, that Asaipillai's residence became a land mark in the Town. The Junction of Navalar Road and Pt. Pedro Road, where his residence was, is even now referred to as "Asaipillai Veeddu Junction'. His son Sunderam Asaipillai graduated in Arts from the University College; he took to teaching and was engaged at Victoria College for a long time.
The second son Vijayam Asaipillai graduated in Science with Honours. He proceeded to England as a scholar and secured a Degree in Engineering. On his return he taught at Jaffna Hindu College, later becoming Principal. During his regime, the College achieved its peak performance. Record number of students gained entrance to the engineering and medical faculties at the University.
J.D.Aseervatham 1916-1970 B.A., LL.B., Graduate Teacher.
John Daniel Aseervatham, born 4th July 1916, was educated at St. Patrick's College Jaffna.
Proceeding to University College Colombo, he obtained the B.A (London) degree with Honours.
He became a teacher in 1938 and was at St.Joseph's College for sixteen years. He was Secretary of the All Ceylon Union of Teachers and attended several conferences abroad.
He then commenced a career in Law; obtaining the LL.B degree he practised for over ten years. He contested the Uduvil seat in Parliament, as a leader of the Harijans, but was not successful. He proceeded to U.K in 1969 and passed away a year later.
Aseervatham married Mary Swampillai and had eleven children.
A.R.Asirwatham 1923-1984 Proctor; Secretary F.P. 1959.
Annette Rajakulasingham Asir-watham, born 16th May 1923, was the son of Albert Chelliah Asirwatham whose father was a minister of the Church in Usan.
He was educated at Drieberg's College Chavakachcheri and entered Government service, where he held the post of Secretary of the Government Clerical Service Union in the early 1950's.
Relinquishing that Service, he became a Proctor and practised in Nuwara Eliya, Chavakachcheri and Colombo. He was Secretary of the Federal Party in 1959, when the Party staged a "Satyagraha movement” in Colombo. He left for U.K in 1973, where he was engaged in theological studies and lay preaching.
He married Helen and had two sons and two daughters.

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C.Balasingam 1917. B.A., Advocate, C.C.S, Dep. Secy, to the Treasury, Perm. Secy. Ministry of Health.
Balasingam, born 10th March 1917, is the son of Proctor V.Coomaraswamy, a Civil Lawyer and a Tamil Scholar from Tellippalai. he is a brother of C.Vanniyasingam. After his early education at Mahajana College Tellippalai and Jaffna Hindu College, he proceeded to University College Colombo, where he graduated in 1937.
He entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1940, and held several positions at many places, working at Puttalam, Kalutara etc. In 1958 he was appointed Controller of Supply, Cadre and Finance in the Treasury. Later he was appointed Deputy Secretary to the Treasury in 1961. He functioned as Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, from 1964 till his retirement in 1970. Later he was a member of the Salaries Review Committee and Chairman of the Committee appointed to revise the Government Financial Regulations. He left for the States in 1984.
Balasingam and a few others founded the Sathya Sai Movement now flourishing in all parts of Sri Lanka, in 1965. He was appointed as State President and a member of the World Council, by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, in 1975. Balasingam took an active interest in the educational welfare of the Tamil people. He was the President of the Sri Lankan Branch of the "International Association of Tamil Research', founded by Rev. Father Thani Nayagam'. He read papers at their conferences.
He married Sethu, daughter of Gate Mudaliyar N.Canaganayagam and sister of C. Suriyakumaran, and has two sons: Balagangeyan and Padmanabhan and a daughter:
Thillai Siva
C.Balasingam 1921-1992 Proctor, Proprietor "Blue Ribbon Hotel', Jaffna,
Cumaraswamy Balasingam, born 14th January 1921, was the only son of the veteran politician Hon. K. Balasingam of Jaffna. He had his early education at Hartley College Point Pedro and later at St.Joseph's College Colombo. Choosing the legal profession, like his distinguished father, he entered Law College. Qualifying as a Proctor in 1948, he set up in practice in Colombo. His father's death in 1952 was a severe blow. In 1959 he shifted his practice to Jaffna, where he also established the "Blue Ribbon Hotel', a successful venture.
As he was interested in politics, he contested his father's Point Pedro constituency, as an L.S.S.P candidate in 1952, but was not successful. Later, he broke off from the L.S.S.P. but continued as a popular left wing politician. He passed away in London, on 19th March 1992. Balasingam married Ganeshwari, daughter of Dr.Thiyagarajah and had a son Arjuna and two daughters: Lakshmi, who is married to N.Balakrishnan and Priyathashini, to Shepherd.
Hon. K. Balasingam 1876-1952. Advocate, Politician, Author; Member Legislative Council.
Balasingam was a son of K.Kathiravetpillai, compiler of the well known "Tamil Dictionary", published by the Madurai Tamil Sangam. His ancestors were descendants of Chandira Sekara Mappana Mudaliyar, a well to do Nobleman of Jaffna. His genealogy may be seen under his father's name. Balasingam was born on 23rd June 1876 at Udupiddy, Jaffna. He had a sister who was married to Proctor S.Kathiresu of Jaffna.
"Singam", as he was often referred to, was educated at Jaffna College and Royal College Colombo. Like his father, he was well educated and a scholar; he adopted a legal career and became an Advocate.
He commenced practising in Colombo

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and soon became a leading member of the Bar and was appointed a District Judge. He mastered Law, as an academic subject and wrote several books on it, some of which continued to serve as text-books for a longtime. He was held in highesteem in the legal world and was also a leading personality of the time.
On retirement, he was nominated to the Legislative Council in 1914 as Second Tamil Member. In 1924, he was appointed a Member of the Executive Council as well. The motions he introduced in the House were well known for the constructive ideas for improving the well being of the people. The two subjects he strongly agitated for in particular, were the College of Ayurvedic Medicine and the State Mortgage Bank. It was his untiring efforts that helped the establishment of the College and Hospital of Indigenous Medicine and the State Mortgage Bank.
He advocated a bold Agricultural policy leading to self-sufficiency. Some of his speeches, which were published separately in the “ Morning Leader,” show deep vision. He was the first person who thought of diverting the waterflowing in the Mahaweli Ganga to benefit rice cultivation in the dry zone and the North. He also envisaged converting many of the Salt Water Lagoons of the North and the East into fresh water lakes.
He was responsible for many changes in the administration. The introduction of the Judicial Services Commission, the Public Trustee's Department, and a new system of education were all due to his efforts.
He arranged for a competent institution to complete and publish the “Tamil Dictionary', which his father had long cherished. He passed away on 4th September 1952, in his 77th year.
He was married and had two children: a son Cumaraswamy who also became a lawyer and a daughter who was married to Proctor Sivagurunathan of Udupiddy.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him with the issue of a Balasingam Memorial commemorative Postal stamp, value 60 cts, on 22nd May 1984.
Among his publications are:- Balasingam's Law Reports, Civil
Procedure Code, Laws of Ceylon. Laws of Persons, Obligations etc., Balasingam's Notes of Cases, Digest of Cases, etc.
Dr.S.Balasingam 1911-1957 M.B.B.S., M.R.C.S (Eng)., L.R.C.P. Lond)., M.D (Lond)., D.C.H
Dr.S.Balasingam, born on 10th April 1911, was the son of Provincial Surgeon Dr.C.Sivasithamparam and Thilagavathy of Mullainagar.
He entered the Medical Department in 1937 and was D.M.O Mantotal. He then held several positions in the service and was appointed Resident Physician, General Hospital Colombo in 1945. He was appointed Assistant Physician in 1949 and Physician General Hospital Colombo in 1952
His early demise deprived the country of a highly qualified and very eminent Physician.
He married Pathmavathy, daughter of C.Manickavasakar and Lakshmi Amma. Their daughter Sakuntalais married to Professor Dato Dr. K. Somasunderam of the Malaysian University and has three children: Kalashini, Narendra and Priyadarshini.
P. Balasubramaniam 1923 - B.Sc., Lecturer in Agriculture,
Balasubramaniam, born 11th February 1923, is the son of Karthigesar Ponnambalam and Pathinipillai of Velanai East, Kayts and a brother of Vidvan K.P.Ratnam M.P for Kayts.
He had his early education at Jaffna Central College and graduated in Botany, with Honours, at the University of Ceylon. He was a Lecturer (Tamil medium) in the Department of Agriculture for over twenty five years and was responsible for training many students for Certificate and Diploma in Agriculture. Later he was a lecturer at the Aquinas University College, for some time.
Balasubramaniam married Kamalambikai, daughter of Dr.A.Somasundaram of Malaysia, and has three children: Accountant Balachandran, Dr.Shamini Thambirajah and Shamala B.Sc., A.I.M.L.S.

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W.Balasubramaniam 1931-1992 Successful Businessman &
Philanthropist.
V.Balasubramaniam, the successful businessman of the 1970’s, was the son of Physician Vellupillai and Thangammah Ammaiyar of Karaveddy Jaffna. He was born on 3rd September 1931 and was the brother of Maheswari wife of K.C. Nadarajah*, Sivajnanam, and Pushpavathy wife of Sabanayagam.
He had his early education at Vigneshwara Vidyalayam Karaveddy and later at Ananda College Colombo, Jaffna Hindu College and Jaffna College.
Early in life, he was associated with the petroleum oil companies, but desirous of being a self made man, he set up on his own. Very soon, he became a prosperous local representative of many overseas agencies.He was the prime mover in introducing Messrs. Lyka Labs Ltd. and was the representative of Messrs. John Brown Engineering Ltd. of Scotland.
He also embarked on establishing several local mercantile ventures among which were the Kopa Mills, the Consolidated Bearing Supplies, Santhi Vihar, Hotel Empress, etc. He was the Chairman of Messrs. Robert Hall & Co. He became a successful businessman in Colombo, engaged in the Hotel industry.and in the import of medical drugs.
He was always large hearted and generous in his contributions to charity. He was engaged in several philanthropic and beneficial activities for the development of religion, education and sports.
He made large donations towards getting built a Ther for Thiruketheeswaram Temple, building a Navagraha Shrine and obtaining the deities for Koneswaram Temple, providing pipe water supply to his old School, providing a Science Laboratory to Colombo Hindu College, and for several other cultural causes.
His greatest service to the community, for which he would be long remembered, was his effort in getting up a multi-storied building for the All Ceylon Hindu Maha Mantram, of which he was the President. He took charge of that
project and with the help of others expeditiously
brought it up to the fourth storey level.
To the great distress of many, he passed away after a brief illness on 15th July 1992, at the age of 61.
Balasubramaniam married Santhi, daughter of S.Saravanamuttu of Kotahena Colombo, in 1974 and had two sons: Uhanthan and Karthigesan.
M.Balasundaram 1903-1965. B.Sc (Hons)., B.A (Cantab),
Advocate., M.P for Kopay.
Balasundaram, eldest son of Rev. K S Murugesu (Methodist), was born on 7th April 1903. Young Balasundaram had his early education at Kilner College Jaffna and later at Royal College Colombo as a scholar. He graduated in Science from the University College Colombo.
Proceeding to Trinity Hall Cambridge on scholarship, he secured the B.A (Cantab) degree. On his return to Ceylon, after a short time in journalism, he chose a legal career and practised as an Advocate.
Balasundaram was a good debater, an able orator and a man of high intellect. He was elected as an FP candidate to the Kopay seat in the Parliament, in 1961. He failed to get reelected in 1965, when he contested as an Independent candidate. He passed away on 15.12.1965.
He married Sinnammah daughter of Sinnatham by and had four sons: Gnanasanmugan, Yogasundaram, Balakrishnan who is a Doctor in Australia and Sivajnandasundaram, and two daughters: Somasundaravalli who is married to Thillainathan and Yogeswari who is married to Natkunasingam.
V.Balasundiram 1918Asst. Comr. of Co-op. Societies. Social Worker:
Balasundram, born 22nd July 1918, is the third in a family of five children of PVaithilingamand Seethathaipillainee Krishnar

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of Chulipuram. He was educated at Victoria College, Chulipuram, where he Matriculated. He excelled in sports, at School and was a trained boxer. As a good actor, he participated in the dramas staged and acted by K.Chornalingam and won acclaim.
Joining the Co-operative Dept. in the 1940's, he was responsible for setting up several Co-operative Consumer and Credit Societies, throughout the Jaffna Peninsula. As Headquarter Inspector, he helped in the formation of MultiPurpose, Fishing and Industrial Co-operative Societies. He was a pioneer organiser of the Co-operative Toddy Sales Societies, in the 1970*s .
As Asst. Commissioner of Co-operative Development, he effected various measures to improve the earnings of the toddy tapper. A toddy bottling plant was installed at Chankanai M.P.C.S, an Arrack Distillery at Kaithady, etc.
He was the President of the Co-operative Officers Housing and Welfare Associations, and Administrator of the Alady Pillaiyar Temple, Jaffna.
Balasundram married Pathmawathy, daughter of M.K. Murugesu and has five children: Vasuki Subramaniam, Sanarthana, Sangaran, Sayanthan and Shantheepan.
D.W.Balendra 1899-1965. L.M.S., M.R. C.S., L.D.S., L.R.C.P.
Chief of the Dental Institute.,
Hindu Art critic
Balendra, born on 3rd December 1899, was the son of Wytilingam and grand son of philanthropist Shroff Mylupillai.
Qualifying as a Doctor, he entered Government Service as Medical Officer in 1925. He took special interest in the Dental service and worked very hard to become a specialist in that section. It is said that it was largely due to his repeated requests that a separate Dental Institute came to be established in Colombo in 1927. He was the first Medical Officer to be in charge of that Institute and worked there for several years till 1944. Հ. He was interested in cultural matters, particularly in the study of Hindu Art and Sculpture. He made an "in depth' study of the
bronze statues unearthed in Trincomalee in 1950. He was largely responsible for taking these bronzes in procession Island wide, for homage by the people. He even made a special journey to Spain, for research about Koneswaram, at the Archives in Lisbon. He was able to find a unique map of Koneswaram Temple, prepared by the Portuguese before it was destroyed by them in 1624 A.C.
He delivered a lecture on the subject of the "Trincomalee Bronzes", under the auspices of the Royal Asiatic Society (Ceylon Branch), with Lord Soulsbury the Governor General of Ceylon as Chairman, in 1953. It has been published as a booklet. It is even today a masterpiece on the subject. It was reproduced in Rev X.S.Thani Nayagam's Journal “Tamil Culture' in the same year. He passed away in 1965.
He married Manonmani daughter of "Meththai Veeddu" Kandiah, a wealthy resident of Main St. Jaffna and a brother of Sir Velupillai Cumaraswamy. Dr. Balendra had four daughters, one of whom is Mrs. Neilambikai Sathyalingam, an exponent of Bharatha Natiyam, in Singapore.
Dr.W. Balendra was a brother of Mrs.
Balambikai Namasivayam, Founder President of the Saiva Mangaiyar Kallakam at Wellawatte.
J.W. Barr Kumarakulasinghe 1826-1883 Interpreter Mudaliyar
A prominent citizen of his time named Kumarakulasinghe Mudaliyar, lived in Tellippalai, during the early decades of the Dutch regime. His son was Thillayampalam, whose son was Sangarapillai, whose son was Gordon Suppiramaniam and his son Appukuddi later became known as Joseph William Barr Kumarakulasinghe.
He was a clever student and had his education, along with Nevins Sithamparapillai and thirteen others, under Martin of the Batticotta Seminary. Afterwards, after functioning as a land surveyor for a short time, due to his proficiency in languages, he was appointed Interpreter Mudaliyar Mallakam Courts. Eventually he functioned as Chief Clerk

25
as well and earned much recognition.
He was an able scholar. His dramatic composition Pathivirathai Vilasam, was staged at many centres in Jaffna.
He married Sivakamipillai, a fourth descendant of Pannakam Kathirgama Chettiyar and had five sons: Kanaganayagam Charles*, Rasanayagam Richard* , Singanayagam, who was an official in Colombo, Ariyanayagam who joined the Irrigation Dept. and Selvanayagam who proceeded to Oxford University and an able daughter Mangalanayaki who composed the play Udaintha Ullam. She was married to Rev.Dr.Isaac Thambyah*.
K.C..Barr Kumarakulasinghe 1862-1903. Gate Mudaliyar and Tamil Interpreter
to the Governor.
Kanaganayagam Charles, son of J.W. Barr Kumarakulasinghe, was born in 1862 and had a promising school career in the Ceylon Academy. Like his father, he also was appointed an Interpreter in 1886 and became the Chief Tamil Interpreter in 1893. The rank of Gate Mudaliyar was conferred on him in 1893.
On his demise in 1903, the Colonial Secretary published the following in the Ceylon Government Gazette :-
"His Excellency the Governor desires that public expression may be given to the regret caused by the death of Mr. Kanaganayagam Charles Barr Kumarakulasinghe.......... (he) by his personal character and loyalty to Government did honour to the community to which he belonged, and has left behind him an example...to the younger generation of his countrymen.
Colombo
June 9th, 1903”
R.R.Barr Kumarakulasinghe
1864-....
J. P., Maniyagar Valikamam 1902
Rasanayagam Richard Barr
Kumarakulasinghe, born 1864, was son of J.W.B. Kumarakulasinghe. His father, a
descendant from an ancient distinguished family, was a well known scholar and writer in Tamil verse.
R.R. Barr was appointed Maniyagar of Valikamam in 1902, and held that post with distinction for 25 years.
HS daughter Gnanapuranam WS S.J.V.Chelvanayagam K.C.
Emily Grace married to
Rev.Father M. M. Bastian 1948-1985. Parish Priest, Vankalai. Mannar
Manuelpillai Mary Bastian was born on 11th December 1948. Deciding on a religious career, he had his education at St.Paul's Seminary at Trichy and the National Seminary at Kandy.
He was ordained a priest on 25th April 1975 and served in many centres. He was the priest in charge of St Anne's Church, at Vankalai in Mannar District in 1985. A lamentable and cruel turmoil was prevailing in the neighbourhood at that time. Many refugees sought refuge at the Church in Vankalai. The Rev Father was very sympathetic to their sufferings and administered Solace to them.
For reasons unknown, he was shot dead
by some assailants, in the church premises, on
6th January 1985.
Rev. Father J.E.Bastiampillai ...-1989 Parish Priest Manipay.
Rev. Father J.E.Bastiampillai, a humble and devoted person, served as a priest at many Churches in the Island for over 30 years. He was for sometime Administrator at the Madhu Church. He last served as Parish Priest Manipay, for four years.
By his selfless service he won the hearts of all. He was the hope and consolation to the many people who suffered during the troubles and devastations in Jaffna in the 1980's.
He died on 21st February 1989.

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William Black c 1850-1930.
William Black, who was a prominent resident of Chankanai, lived for several years as a pensioner.
Edwin Black, his eldest son became Chief Engineer, Ceylon Government Railway. Another son Dr. A. K. Black was Physician, Jaffna Hospital. One of his daughters was married to Dr. Hunt, another to Dr.Selliah. J.M.Sabaratnam Addl.G.A.Jaffna married his third daughter.
Mrs. Nageswari Bramanandha 1938 - Bhakthi-Inspiring Vocal Musician.
Nageswari, born 1938, is a daughter of T.Visuvalingam of Alaveddi, who was resident of Burma for several years. She has two sisters and two brothers.
From her early days Nageswari had shown an aptitude for music; she could render classical pieces with ease even at the age of eight. When she was thirteen, she went to India to study music under Nagerkovil S.Pathmanabhan and other able “Vidvans”, such as Maharajapuram Santhanam, D.K.Pattammal etc. She acquired high proficiency in vocal rendering of especially classical devotional music. Since then she has given public and radio recitals in Sri Lanka and abroad, and appeared on TV in Malaysia.
She excels in singing Yogar Swamikal's verses from Natchinthanai, several of which she has set to music herself. Swamikal himself had appreciated her rendering and paid high tribute on several occasions.
She was married to Brahmananda, youngest son of V.S.S.Kumaraswamy and brother of Sachithananda Head of Audit firm, and has one daughter Varathalakshmi.
V.S.S.K. Brahmananda, a philanthropist, who devoted most of his time in managing the several Trusts and the family business of his father, passed away on 4th October 1992.
C.Britto... 1879. District Judge, Scholar and Author
Christopher Britto, whose parents belong to an ancient Tamil family of Colombo Chettys,
was from Puttalam. His father was Philip Britto Pulle, Shroff Mudaliyar and Notary Public of Puttalam. Christopher lived during the latter part of the last century and was a brother of . Dr.P.S.Britto. He had his early education at the Colombo Academy and later graduated from the Calcutta University.
Choosing a legal career, he qualified as an Advocate. After practising for some years, he was appointed District Judge, in which capacity he served at Batticaloa, Jaffna and Colombo.
He was a highly respected person who had a good literary knowledge. In 1879 he prepared and published an English translation of Mailvagana Pulavar’s* Yalpana Vaipava Malai, a most valuable and the only work on the history of Jaffna then. Among his other writings Mukkuva Law published in 1876, is still available. He also wrote Jaffna History .
D.P.S.Britt0 1856-1906 Asst. Colonial Surgeon.
Philip Sebastian Britto, born in 1856, was a brother of District Judge C. Britto and was another son of Shroff Mudaliyar Philip Britto Pulle.
He was educated at the Colombo Academy. He pursued his medical studies at Aberdeen University, where he got his M.B.C.M. He distinguished himself at the University and was a Lecturer there for some time. Later he obtained further qualifications.
Returning to Ceylon, he held several posts in the Medical Department He was also a lecturer at the Medical College. Eventually he was appointed Asst. Colonial Surgeon at Puttalam.
He married Miss Savundara-nayagam.
A.L.B.Brito Mutunayagam 1916-1991 B.Sc (Lond)., Chartered Accountant
Archange Louis Benjamin Brito Mutunayagam, born 30th April 1916, was the youngest of a family of 11 children. His father and grand-father were High Court Judges of Travancore and mother was Pearl, daughter of Advocate C.Brito

27
After his education at St.Joseph's
College Colombo, he graduated in science with Honours in 1939. He successfully completed the examinations of the Corporation of Certified Secretaries London and also qualified as a Chartered Accountant in London, in 1946.
He then functioned as an accountant in the Govt. Treasury for many years and later established his own professional firm of chartered accountants. He was also managing Director of Arpico Finance Co. Ltd. He was an active member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Colombo and served in its council for many years.
A.L.B. Brito Mutunayagam married Maheswari, daughter of the city coroner J.N.C. Tiruchelvam and had five children.
Dr.M.A.B.Britto Mutunayagam
1898-..... Profof Prosthetic Dental Surgery
Michael Angelo Bonaventure Mutunayagam, born 14th July 1898, was educated at St.Joseph's College Colombo. After two years at the Ceylon Medical College, he continued his medical studies in the U.K and obtained the MRCS, LRCP qualifications and the Diploma in Tropical Medicine and Health. Later he became a Licentiate in Dental Surgery as well.
After being in private practice for a few years, he was appointed lecturer at the Dental School in Colombo and eventually Professor of Prosthetic Dental Surgery in Peradeniya.
Dr. Brito Mutunayagam was a premier Dental Surgeon of his time and a founder of the Ceylon Dental Association. He had many publications to his credit in Dental Journals in the U.K. The Fellowship of Dental Surgery of the Royal College of Surgeons of England was conferred on him in the 1950's.
Dr.E.T.Buell c1910-1980 Green Memorial Hospital Manipay.
Dr. E.T. Buell was from Sangu vely Jaffna. Dr.E.T. Buell's father, Thambu Buell, was the Principal of a School in Bombay, and was very popular there. He counted some of the
Ministers in Bombay as his one time pupils. His eldest son R.O.Buell was Secretary of the Y.M.C.A Colombo, for several years. Dr. E.T.Buell was his second son.
Dr. Buell worked in the Green Memorial Hospital at Manipay, for a long time. He strove very hard for the success of the institution. The Hospital, though a private venture, became a foremost medical institution in the North, as a result of his effort.
Later, on relinquishing this service, he set up private practice in Wellawatte, Colombo.
He married a daughter of Dr. Curtis Suppiah, also of the Green Memorial Hospital.
S.V. Buell 1827-1905 Vaddukoddai Evangelist.
Vaidyanathar was the son of
Subramaniam Son of Don Juan Kumara De vendra Singha Mudaliyar of Arali, Vaddukoddai.
He entered the Batticotta Seminary and graduated there in 1852. He was baptised and given the name of Samuel V. Buell. He was appointed a teacher in his village school and later a preacher and superintendent of American Mission Schools. He was for many years a Deacon of the Church at Vaddukkoddai, where he was an able evangelist.
Vaidyanathar married a daughter of Sittambalam , who had an illustrious genealogy in Uduvil, and had four sons and three daughters. A son Thambu, Magistrate in Bombay, was the father of Dr. E.T. Buell. Another son, Advocate Eliyathamby, was the father of E.P Buell an agricultural educationist.
Dr.V.Buvanendran 1934B. VSc (Ceylon)., Ph.D (Edin).
Buvanendran, son of Kandavanam Vannithamby of Kurumbaciddy, was born on 25th July 1934. He had his early education at Union College Tellippalai and later at the Jaffna Central College.
Entering the Ceylon University in 1953, he graduated in Veterinary Science in 1958. He commenced functioning as a Veterinary Surgeon in 1958 and was appointed Head of the Animal

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Breeding Division in Peradeniya in 1970.
In 1977 he was appointed Professor at the Ahmadu Bello University in Zaire, Nigeria. He was Associate Professor at the University of Zimbabwe from 1986-1989, after which he functions as Consultant to the Food and Agriculture Organisation. He is Scientific Information Officer - Associate Editor, Animal Breeding Abstracts, C. A. B., Wallingford.
Buvanendran married Kamalawathy, daughter of Elaiyathamby of Kurumbaciddy and has two sons: Selvakumara Chartered Engineer and Asokumar who is a Medical Doctor.
C
Gate Mudaliyar N.Canaganayagam
1892-1967 A.I.B., F.R.E.S. J.P., C.B.E.
Canaganayagam, born on 27 th May 1892, was the son of Adigar A.Naganathan, the "Laird of Kopay”. He had his early education at St.Joseph's College Colombo, where he won prizes for Latin, French and Physics, and entered the Medical College.
During his second year there, he was called to abanking career by his illustrious father and appointed Guarantee Shroff of British National Bank of India, Nuwara Eliya, in 1912. Making rapid progress he passed the Associate Examination of Institute of Banking with distinction in 1925 and made Fellow of the Royal Economic Society, London. He was also appointed member of the Board of Improvements to Nuwara Eliya town.
In 1925, he was transferred to the Kandy branch of the National Bank of India Ltd. where he commenced a distinguished and unique career in banking and politics. He was elected to the first Kandy Municipal Council as member in 1939, chosen as Deputy Mayor in 1941 and as the first Tamil Mayor of Kandy in 1942.
He was actively involved in the activities of several Social and religious organisations and
became a leading and prominent person in Kandy. He was honoured with the title of Gate Mudaliyar by the Ceylon Government and later invested with the honour of C.B.E. by the British Government.
Advocate Shanmuganayagam, Prof. Suriyakumaran* and Sankarakumaran B.A., J.P. were his sons.
Hon.A.Canagaratnam 1873-.... Lawyer, Journalist., Chairman, Jaffna Local Board, Member Legislative Council.
Canagaratnam was the son of Visuvanathan Arumugam*, whose ancestry is shown under Canagasekara Kothanda Kuriyan*; he had an elder brother Kathiravetpillai J.P.U.PM who was a Proctor.
Canagaratnam had his early education at Jaffna Central College and later at Wesley College Colombo. He then proceeded to Calcutta for higher studies.
He was in the legal profession and was highly respected. In the 1920's he was Chairman of the Rural Education Development Board and later of the Jaffna Local Board for over five years. He was the Chairman of the first Urban Council of Jaffna and strove very hard for the civic development of Jaffna.
In 1924 he contested and won the Northern Province seat in the Legislative Council. He was a very active Member there and constantly agitated for the establishment of a University in Ceylon.
He was a keen nationalist; he edited and published, at his own expense, a Journal called The Ceylon Patriot for several years.
In 1928, he built a school at his expense, in his own land, to serve the community and called it Stanley College. Subsequently the name has been changed to Canagaratnam Maha Vidyalayam. In recognition of his services, a road near his home has been named "Canagaratnam Road'.
S.O. Canagaratnam 1880-1938 Chief Mudaliyar E.P., M.S.C.
Batticaloa.

29
Canagaratnam, born 1880, was the son of Sinnakutty Udaiyar of Karaitivu, in Batticaloa Dist. He was educated at St.Andrew's English School Batticaloa, up to Cambridge Senior.
Entering Govt. Clerical Service, by his diligence and hard work, he won recognition and became Deputy Fiscal, Batticaloa Dist. and eventually Chief Mudaliyar, Eastern Province.
After retirement, he was Member of the State Council for Batticaloa South and was instrumental for the construction of the bridge across Pattipola Aru, linking the Southern sea coast villages to the Amparai area.
In 1921, he compiled a Monograph of the Batticaloa District, giving its historical background, physical features, wildlife, plant life, places of archaeological interest, and the customs and ceremonies of the people etc. This publication is of interest not only to the local people but is also highly valued by foreign visitors.
Canagaratnam married Muththamma, daughter of J. Abraham, Head Master St.Michael's College and had four daughters: Mrs. Daisy Jeganayagam, Mrs.Grace Nadarajah, Rev. Sister Carmaline A.C., Principal Holy Cross College Gampaha and Mrs.Violet Martin, English Teacher.
C.W.Camagasabai Vanniya 1898- ... . Vanniya, Eravur Batticaloa
C.Walter Canagasabai, born 1898, joined Government Service in 1919 as a clerk. In 1932 he was appointed Vanniya for Eravur and Korale Pattus of the Batticaloa District. He held that position with great satisfaction for a long time.
Gate Mudaliyar G.H. Canagasabai 1861-... . Vanniya Mudaliyar Akkarai d&. Panama
Pattu, Batticaloa
Gilbert Hannah Canagasabai, born in 1861, joined Government Service as Fiscal Officer in 1891. Later he held the posts of Sanitary Inspector and Store-Keeper Kalmunai Salterns. In 1905 he was appointed Vanniya Mudaliyar Panama Pattu Division. He was also
made a J. P. He was honoured with the title of Gate-Mudaliyar in 1923. He is known to have cleared 500 acres of jungle land in the Lahugala area E.P. and colonised it.
His cousins and uncles also held high appointments, under the Government.
Canagasekara Kothanda Kuriyan 18th Century Descendant of the Royal Kuriyans of The Tamil Kings.
The "Kuriyans" were heralds who accompanied the Tamil Royalty. They were held in high respect in the Royal court of the Tamil Kingdom at Nallur. Two descendants of these Noblemen, Vanniyasinga Kuriyan and Canagasekara Kuriyan, lived in Jaffna later during the Dutch regime.
Visuvanathan, who lived in the 20th century, was the son of Vinayakar, a descendant of Camagasekara Kothanda Kuriyan.
Visuvanathan leased large extents of Crown Lands at Ariyalai, for the manufacture of salt. He carried out this occupation on a large scale, and was known as "Lease Holder' or "Kuththakaikaran" in Tamil.
He had two sons: Casipillai, and Arumugam*, and a daughter Parvathipillai. A brilliant progeny ensued, as will be seen from the biographies of his two descendants.
R.Candiah c 1875-1960. Tea Planter & Estate Proprietor in Balangoda.
Estate Proprietor R. Candiah, well known as "Balangoda Candiah', was from Irupalai Jaffna.
He was a Supervisor in the Public Works Department and worked in Badulla in 1902 . Eventually he was at Balangoda, where he became proprietor of Upper Balangoda Estate. Candiah was a philanthropist, well known for his large donations to charity and keen support of religious institutions.
He married in Arali North and had three sons: Proctor Subramaniam, Murugesu Planter and Sivasithamparam Shroff Mercantile Bank

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and a daughter Chellamah who was married to Proctor Gnanasunderam. On the death of his wife, he married her sister and had one son Kanagasabai Planter and five daughters: Nagammah who was married to V.Kulanayagam Dep. Government Analyst, Savundaram to Headmaster Wijeyaretnam, Maheswari to Advocate Arulanandam, Puvaneswari to Dist. Engineer (C.G.R) Arulampalam, and Jegatheesvary to Dr. Sivasithamparam.
Dr. (Miss) L. Candiah 1917. L.M.S., M.B.B.S (Lond).
Leelavathy was born in Jaffna on 19th August 1917. Her father Dr.C.Candiah, a descendant of the celebrated Kothanda Kuriyans, married a sister of C.Sittampalam: the Cabinet Minister and had three daughters.
Leelavathy, one of them, had a distinguished school career. Entering the Colombo Medical College, she qualified as a Doctor in 1941.
Joining the Medical Department, as House Officer in 1941, she was Resident Surgeon in 1949, and Visiting Surgeon O.P.D Colombo in 1950. She held several important posts since then and has now retired from Government Service.
With a desire for serving the community, she was seen rendering service at a Medical Institute, even in 1989 at the age of 72 years.
V.Carthigesu 1883-..... Shroff Mercantile Bank &
Philanthropist.
Carthigesu son of Vairavanathar of Arali Jaffna, was born in 1883. He was a descendant of Theivendra Mudaliyar, a one-time distinguished personality.
Young Carthigesu was educated at the Vaddukoddai Seminary and later at Central College Colombo. Like many of his kinsmen, he adopted a Banking career and became an Assistant Shroff in the Imperial Bank of India. Due to his integrity and ability, he won recognition and was eventually appointed leading Shroff of the Mercantile Bank, Colombo.
He was a great benefactor who made large donations to charity.
He married Sellamma daughter of Sinnappah Pillai of the Indian Railways and had two sons. His daughter Rukmani was married to Sundarampillai, son of Gate Mudaliyar Karalapillai*.
Simon Casie Chetty 1807-1863 Scholar, Author, Civil Servant, & Member Legislative Council.
Simon Casie Chetty of Kalpitiya, was born on 21st March 1807, in Kalpitiya Puttalam
He was proficient in many languages even at an early age. He is said to have been conversant in Portuguese, Dutch and Latin, besides knowing Tamil and English.
He commenced his official career in the Law Courts as an interpreter and soon won recognition. He was made Mudaliyar for the Province in 1833 and later promoted to the Civil Service in 1845. He served as District Judge, at Chilaw.
He was a keen scholar. Even when he was only 27 years of age, he published the "Ceylon Gazetteer', a literary and historical Journal. It is a work referred to even today. Contributing many historical articles, he produced several publications, many of which are not available today.
Simon Casie Chetty was appointed an Unofficial Tamil Member of the Ceylon Legislative Council in 1838. He succeeded A. Kumaraswamypillai, who was the earliest Tamil Member of the Council, when it was first constituted in 1833. Casie Chetty was in turn succeeded by Edirmanasinga Mudaliyar in 1846. Among the many publications of Simon Casie Chetty were :-
Castes Customs Manners of the Tamils 1831, The Ceylon Gazetteer, 1834, On the History of Jaffna from the Earliest Period to the Dutch Conquest, The marriage customs of the Tamils, The Mukkuvas of Puttalam, The Tamil Plutarch, 1850 etc..
The last of the above was printed by Messrs. Ripley & Sons, Jaffna. It is a valuable

31
work containing a "Summary Account of the Lives of the Poets of South India and Ceylon, from the earliest to the present time (1850), with specimen of their Works'.
It won much esteem for the author. It is even today the most valuable source of information about the early Tamil writers, available in English.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value 75 cts., on 22nd May 1989.
Visuvanathan Casipillai 1849-1936 Crown Proctor & Respected Senior
Citizen of Jaffna.
Casipillai, born on 12th February 1849, was the eldest son of V.Visuvanathan, whose ancestry appears under Canagasekara Kothanda Kuriyan and Aiyampillai, daughter of another Visuvanathan. He too was a descendant of the ancient "Kuriyans'.
He had his early education at the Chundikuli Seminary and proceeded to Madras in 1867 for higher studies. Afterwards, deciding on a legal career, he was articled to C.Britto, Advocate and qualified as a Proctor, Mannar District in 1876. He practised there till 1882 and then moved to Jaffna.
Casipillai was very soon a leading figure in Jaffna. He was appointed Crown Proctor and became an outstanding personality in the Law Courts. He also functioned as Magistrate and District Judge. He was one of the Founders of Jaffna Hindu College and later its Manager and Director. One of the Houses there, called Casipillai House, is named after him. He was the Secretary of the "Saiva Paripalana Sabai' and Manager Hindu Board of Education 1895-1915 He owned several estates in his village Ariyalai. He contributed largely towards the completion of the Sithi Vinayakar Temple there, and had the Maha Kumba Abishekam ceremonies performed. He was also instrumental for the establishment of Parvathi Vidiyasalai, a School there.
He was an eminent senior citizen of Jaffna, who was consulted by many.
He married Parvathipillai daughter of Moothathamby and had a son Advocate
Arulambalam and a daughter Rasammah, who
was married to Crown Proctor S.Subramaniam.
He passed away in September 1936. .
Leonard Woolf, an eminent western
author, writing in his own Autobiography, refers
to Casipillai as "one of the leading lawyers, a respectable and respected man of Jaffna'.
A.Cathiravelu 1861-..... Crown Proctor
Cathiravelu was the eldest son of Visvanathan Arumugam a brother of V. Casipillai*. Hon. A. Canagaratnam* was his younger brother.
Cathiravelu passed out as a Proctor and was very soon appointed a Crown Proctor. He too functioned as Magistrate and District Judge and was later appointed a High Court Judge.
He was the first Editor of the Tamil Journal Inthu Sathanan and the founder of Saraswathi Library and a Literary Society for youths.
He had two sons and two daughters. The eldest son Sittampalam passed the Civil Service and became a Minister; Ponnambalam, the younger son, was an Advocate who became Mayor of Jaffna.
S.Cathiravetpillai 1824-1918. Bank Shroff & Philanthropist
Cathiravetpillai was the son of Navaly Suppiramaniyar. His ancestor Manapuli Singa Mudaliyar was a descendant of Thanabalasinga Mudaliyar, an early settler of Mallakam.
Cathiravetpillai proceeded to Colombo at the early age of sixteen and was employed in the Banks. Eventually he became Shroff of the Hong Kong Bank. It is said that he functioned as a Bank Shroff for over fifty years, before retirement.
He was a great benefactor. He performed several acts of charity. The well known "Schrapper Madam”, a Pilgrims' Rest, erected by him at Keerimalai, is a monument to his name. It is said that even after retirement, he would personally supervise the feeding of the

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poor at this madam.
He passed away at the age of ninety four, leaving behind along line of prosperous progeny. Cathiravetpillaimarried Nagammah, daughter of Kasinathar Arunasalam of Madduvil and had a son Gnanasekaram who became a Shroff in the National Bank, and a daughter Visalachipillai.
On the demise of Nagammah in 1864, he married Thangamuthupillai daughter of Arunasalam, and had a son Namasivayam, who was a prominent person of his time and Shroff in Hong Kong Bank.
On the demise of Thangamuthupillai in 1866, he married Sinnapillai daughter of Nallur Sethunathar and had three sons and three daughters.
P. Chandrasegaram 1926-1987
B.A. (Ceylon), M.A.Ed. (Lond), Professor of Education, Jaffna
University.
Chandrasegaram,born on 17th July 1926, was the son of V.Pathikudi of Mandur, Batticaloa and a brother of Engineer Sivasupiramaniam. He had his early education at Shivananda Vidyalaya, Batticaloa and Central College Jaffna.
He graduated in Arts at the Ceylon University in 1950 and obtained the Postgraduate Diploma in Education in 1953. He was a teacher at Skanda Varothaya College, Kanterodai 1956-1959.
Proceeding to U.K, he obtained the M.A. degree in Education from the London University in 1961. He was then appointed Lecturer in Education at the University of Peradeniya, 19611970 and later Senior Lecturer in Education, University of Colombo 1971-1980. He then functioned as Professor of Education, University of Jaffna in 1981, which position he held till his tragic demise in 1987.
He married Kamaladevi Swaminathan in 1966 and had a son Kirupakaran and a daughter Kalaimahal.
Professor Chandrasegaram has contributed several articles to the Press on educational subjects and published many books, among which are:- Educational Philosophy in Tamil, Education in Sri Lanka, 1984, A
Comparative study of Education in Sri Lanka and India, 1985.
J.K.Chanmukam 1863-1930 Vice-Principal, Jaffna Central College.
Joseph Kathirkamar Chanmukam was a descendant of Villi Mappana Mudaliyar of Pandattariippu, whose son was Muthalithamby whose son was export merchant Ramanathar. Ramanathar's son Kathirkamar of Puloly married Sinnapillai and had a son Chanmukam, who was babtised “Joseph'.
J.K.Chanmukam was born on 14th April 1863, at Pandattarippu. After his editication at the Central School in Jaffna, he proceeded to Calcutta and graduated in Arts.
He had a long spell at Jaffna Central College, as a teacher and later as a distinguished Vice-Principal.
Chanmukam married Annamma, a sister of Dr.S.C. Paul , and had seven sons: Dr.W.A.Nelson, E.J., W.R., O.D., P.K., J.C and S.M., and three daughters: Leela Eliyathamby, Nirmala Mather, and Karuna Gurusamy. He passed away on 12th March 1930.
W.R.Chanmugam
1896 - 1981. F.I.C., D.I.C., Govt. Analyst 1945-54.
Walter Raju Chanmugam, third son of J.K.Chanmugam, Vice-Principal Jaffna Central College, was born on 6th May 1896.
He entered the Govt. Analyst Department as a Local Assistant in 1917. By diligence, proficiency and obtaining further qualifications, he rose to higher grades in the Department. He went on study leave to U.K in 1926.
He was promoted Asst. Govt. Analyst in 1934 and Deputy in 1937. He was appointed Govt. Analyst in 1945 and held that post with great acceptance till his retirement in 1954.
He worked unceasingly for the Y.M.C.A, of which he was a member of the Board of Directors for over 25 years. He was a keen sportsman, member of the Tamil Union and actively participated in hockey and football. He passed away on 13th March 1981.
He married Roseline Rasammah

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daughter of Thuraiappah and had three sons: Jeyarajan, who holds a high position in the World Bank, Chandirapal and Devendranathan and a daughter Vidhya Shanty, who is married to Dr.W..Jayaratnam.
. Chanthira Sekara Mapanan
13th century A Pioneer Settler
Chanthira Sekara Mapanan was one of the early settlers of Jaffna, who came from Vavi Nagar in South India. He colonised the Tellippalai area.
It has not been possible to trace his descendants .
Miss K.Charavanamuttu (Satcunam) 1912-1991 B.Sc., School Principal.
Miss Kan mani Charavanamuttu
daughter of Saravanamuttu and Annammah of Ariyalai, was born in 1912. She was a sister of Dr. S. Paramanathan and sister-in-law of Mathematics Master Somasunderam of Ariyalai, Jaffna,.
She studied at Madras Christian College, Tambaram and became a graduate of the Madras University. She taught at Jaffna Hindu College. She then functioned for a time as a District Inspector of Schools. But she is most remembered for her Principalship of the Vadamarachchi Hindu Ladies College, Point Pedro.
Many of her past pupils pay tribute for the great work she did for the development of the School.
R. Chellapah 1918-1988.
B.Sc (Lond)., Barrister at Law., Branch Manager, Bank of Ceylon, Financial Consultant, World Bank.
Rajasuriyar Chellapah was the eldest son of nine children of Mudaliyar Saravanamuttu Chellapah and Nagaratnam Ammaiyar of Aiyanar-koviladi Jaffna. He was a grandson of Pulavar Ambalavanar and has a distinguished
lineage from the Tamil Kings.
After his early education, he graduated in Science in 1942 and was Science Master at Jaffna Hindu College for a short time.
However his interest was in Banking. In 1945, he joined the Bank of Ceylon as a Staff Assistant and very soon won high recognition. He organised some new divisions, notably the Credit Intelligence Department. His perseverance and dedication was well recognised. He was sent to the London Office as Branch Manager, in 1955. When he returned in 1959 he was placed in charge of the Pettah Branch of the Bank.
He earned high commendations functioning as Business Intelligence Officer, Industrial Credit Manager, Financial Consultant Etc. in the Bank and retired in 1970, after twenty five years service.
Afterwards he accepted an assignment as Consultant in the World Bank. He functioned as General Manager, Liberian Bank for Industrial Development, from 1970 to 1980. In 1983 he was Consultant to a Bank in Indonesia. He then proceeded to the National Investment Bank in Accra, in a similar capacity in 1986 but returned next year due to ill health. He died in November 1988.
Chellapah married Annalakshmi, daughter of A.Thilliampalam, Town Overseer, of Sangarathai, Vaddukoddai and had two sons Nimal and Naren and two daughters Chelvy and Shanthi.
Dr.S.F.Chellapah ОВЕ 1889-...... LRCP&S.MRCS, DPH. DTMc&H. Director of Medical and Sanitary
Services.
Seemampillai Francis Chellapah, born 26th September 1889 and his brother Arulappah, were sons of Adigar Seemampillai, a highly respected personage from a leading family of Mannar.
Chellapah had a distinguished school career at St.Patrick's College Jaffna and chose a medical career.
He entered the Medical Department in 1918 as a Sanitary Officer. In 1925 he was a Medical Officer of Health. At that time, the

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preventive (Health) and the curative (Medical) services functioned as two separate Branches of the Medical Department. Dr. Chellapah rose rapidly in the Health Services. He also acquired more special qualifications. Eventually in 1927, he became Assist. Director of Sanitary Services. In 1940 he was appointed Director of Medical and Sanitary Services, which position he held till his retirement.
He married a daughter of Virasipillai, Adigar of Mannar. Dr. Gabriel and District Judge Joseph were two sons of the Adigar.
T.Chellapahpillai....-1902
Retired Chief Justice, Travancore, Senior Citizen Jaffna.
Chellapahpillai, a brother of T. Ponnambalapillai, was from Vannarpannai Jaffna. He proceeded to India early in life and had a distinguished career there. He became well known as Chief Justice in the Courts of Travancore.
On his retirement he returned and settled down in Jaffna. He was an eminent jurist, well informed and cultured. He was also a mathematician and devoted considerable time to the study of astronomy.
He was a leading personality of Jaffna during his time. Following the ideals of Arumuga Navalar, he strove hard to revive Hinduism, his religion. He was President of the Saiva Paripalana Sabai for nine years from its inception until his demise in 1902.
He was largely responsible for founding the present Jaffna Hindu College.The project was commenced earlier. To him goes the credit of seeing it established, in 1890. His name tops the list of the first Directors of the College.
He was also the first editor of the Jaffna "Hindu Organ', a weekly journal of Hindu affairs.
When Swami Vivekananda visited
Jaffna in 1897, Chellapahpillai was chosen as President of the Reception Committee to receive him.
T.Chellathurai c1890-.... .
Mercantile Broker
Chellathurai, son of Thilliampalam was born in Anaikoddai, Jaffna.
After his school career, he chose Mercantile employment, and became a Broker. He became highly successful working in a Trading Company.
He was a great benefactor and made donations to charity freely. He was responsible for the erection of a Vithiyasalai School in his village. He made several donations to the local Anaikoddai Muthuvinayakar Hindu temple and to Muneswaram temple at Chilaw.
E.P. Chelliah c 187Q-.... . Head Clerk, Rubber Control Office.
E.PChelliah, the doyen of the Wellawatte Tamils in the 1930 decades, was the son of Ponniah Pillai, Govt. Pensioner of Kantharmadam, Jaffna.
Young Chelliah was educated in Jaffna and joined Government Service as a Clerk, early in life. By his diligent work he won recognition and promotions. He functioned with distinction in several Departments eventually functioning as Head Clerk Rubber Control Department, before retirement. During his active years he is reputed to have helped several youngsters who sought employment.
He led a long retired life at Wellawatte and was seen going regularly for a game of tennis, even after the age of eighty. He was a leading figure among the Tamil residents in Colombo South. E.P.Rasiah, was his younger brother.
His daughter Ponmani was a distinguished student of music at the Kalakshetra School of Music in Madras; she married Kulasingam, a high official
J.V.Cheliah M.A, Vice-Principal, Jaffna College.
J.V.Chelliah spent all his years at Jaffna College. He was a student there, later a teacher and afterwards Vice-Principal.
He became a teacher about the year 1910. Along with Alan Abraham and Paramasamy Hudson, the three were eminent teachers of the time.

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He was very good in English and taught English Language, Literature and Latin. Many generations of students were taught by him. Handy Perimpanayagam and “Orator” C.Subramaniam were among his distinguished pupils.
In about the year 1922 when Rev. Bicknell was Principal, on representations made by the Old Boys he was appointed Vice-Principal. When Rev. J. Bicknell went on furlough he was
Acting Principal for about a year in 1931. He
held a high position in the American Mission.
He was the first President of the Students Congress when it was organised in 1924. He was however opposed to the boycotting of the Elections to the State Council.
He was the Editor of the English Section of the Journal “Morning Star', for several years. He is the author of a valuable documentary volume on the History of Jaffna College, published in 1922. After retirement, he published a translation of the Tamil classic "Pattu Paadu", in 1936. This was a scholarly achievement. He passed away in 1947.
J. V.Chelliah married in Arali and had a son and two daughters. His son, Dr.C.T.Chelliah, worked in the Green Memorial Hospital Manipay, for a longtime. The elder daughter was married to Rev Kanagaratnam of Chavakachcheri and Lily, the younger to D.R. Gunasekaram, a brother of S.J. Gunasekaram*.
S. Chelliah Maniyagar & VT President, Delfi 1918
Maniyagar Chelliah was from Nallur Jaffna; his ancestral residence adjoins the Kandaswamy temple at Nallur.
He started life in the Agricultural Department and was later appointed Maniyagar of Delft, the furthermost island off the Jaffna Peninsula. He also held simultaneously the post of Village Tribunal President of the Rural Court. The episode of the German Frigate "Emden' occurred at that time. It was during World War I, when the Captain of the German boat ran amok, sinking allied shipping in the Indian Ocean. He landed at Delft for some urgent need. That caused a great commotion in Jaffna.
The hapless Maniyagar did not escape blame for the incident. When he retired, Pullenayagam took over the Chief Headmanship of Delft.
He had two sons: Athiretnam who joined the Railway Department and married Pushpavathy Selliah and Visakaretnam who entered the General Clerical Service, and married Miss Navaratnarajah, and five daughters: Sothiratnam Ponniah later Sothiratnam Kanagasabapathy, Pavalaratnam Pomnambalam, Annaratnam Pathmanathan, Mathiratnam Navaratnarajah and Thanishtaratnam Sri Mahendra.
V.Chelliah 1880 - ... . Maniyagar, Punakari Division. Jaffna.
Vaithilingam Chelliah, a great grand son of Rajakulasuriya Ramalinga Mudaliyar, had a distinguished genealogy. After his school career, he entered Government Clerical Service in 1900.
Winning recognition in the service, he was appointed Maniyagar of Karachchi in 1914. He was transferred to Pachchilaippali in 1918.
In 1930, he was appointed Maniyagar of the Punakari Division, which position he held for a long time with distinction.
Dr.G.Chelvadoray 1907-1978. An ardent Sportsman.
Dr.G.Chelvadoray, whose all four sons captained the Jaffna College sports teams in turn, was the son of “Sitiawan” N. Ganapathipillai*.
He was born in Ipoh Malaya, on 17th April 1907 and had his early education there. Selecting the medical profession, he entered the Singapore Medical College and was there for two years. He then proceeded to Edinburgh and completed his Medical studies.
On his return to Ceylon, he joined the Field Medical Service in Ceylon in 1937 and served for about five years.
He left that service, to join the Moolai Cooperative Hospital and to serve the community closer home. He was of great service to his people. Along with two eminent Doctors, Surgeon Chacko and Physician Sampanthar, very good work was done there at that time.

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Moolai Hospital became a well patronised institution. After functioning for nearly twenty five years, he retired in the 1970's, but remained as a Consultant of the Institution.
Chelvadoray has been described as a
painstaking, lovable and sympathetic Doctor. "Half the illness is gone when you converse with him in his clinic', the people said.
He was a keen sportsman. He devoted all his leisure time for the development of sports. He instilled this in his children and other youngsters. They became highly proficient and were Captains, in turn, at School. He passed away on 30th March 1978.
Dr.G.Chelvadoray married Rethinam daughter of Ponnudurai of Sandilipay, and had a large family.
S.J.V.Chelvanayagam K.C 1898-1977 Lawyer, Statesman, M.P., Leader, Federal Party & T.U.L.F.
Samuel James Velupillai Chelvanayagam, who by his dedication to Gandhian principles made the Tamils of Sri Lanka re-create their self-identity, was born in Jaffna on 31st March 1898.
He received his early education at St John's College Jaffna and later at S.Thomas College Mt.Lavinia. He graduated in Science and taught for a short time at St.John's College and later at Wesley College Colombo.
Choosing a legal career, he entered the Colombo Law College and passed out as an Advocate. He built up a very good practice in the Civil Courts and was made a K.C in 1947.
He commenced taking an interest in politics in 1947, on the formation of the "All Ceylon Tamil Congress Party" by G.G. Ponnambalam. "Chelva' was his first lieutenant and promoter. In the General Elections held in 1947, he contested the Kankesanturai seat in the first Parliament and won with a large majority, defeating P. Nagalingam (L.S.S.P) and S.Natesanik (U.N.P).
“Chelva" resigned from the Tamil Congress Party when it changed its policy in 1948 and, with some other Tamil Members of Parliament, formed the "Tamil Arasu Kadchi”.
This party, known in English as "Federal Party' had for its policy a federal form of government in the Island. The party suffered defeat in the General Elections held in 1952, Chelvanayagam himself was defeated by S.Natesan.
However, when there were radical changes in the policies of general administration in the Island, the Federal Party came back into prominence. Chelvanayagam defeated S.Natesan and won back the Kankesanturai Seat in Parliament at the General Elections held in 1956. He became leader of the large number of Tamil Members sitting in the Parliament, a position he held for a long time. In the ByElection of February 1975, he secured a convincing victory.
He dedicated himself to the principles of Mahathma Gandhi and advocated a policy of non-violence. He won high esteem and much respect from the Tamil community, who refer to him affectionately as "Anna', and "Thanthai'. He died at the age of 79 on 26th April 1977. A“Thanthai Chelva Memorial Trust', has been organised by the public of Jaffna, with veteran K.Nesiah* as its Chairman. They arrange "Chelvanayagam Memorial Lectures' annually and engage in other Suitable activities.
Chelvanayagam married Emily Grace Gnanapuranam (Rathinam), daughter of Maniyagar R.R.Barr Kumarakulasinghe* of Tellippalai, Jaffna. They had a daughter Susila, who is married to Prof.J.Wilson and four sons Manoharan, Vaseekaran, Ravindran and Chandrahasan. Chandrahasan, after a distinguished school career took to the Legal profession. He was a supporter of the policies of the T.U.L.F. and also published the Tamil newspaper "Suthanthiran '. He took a leading part in the discussions concerning a peace settlement in Sri Lanka in the mid 1980's. Chandrahasan married a daughter of Dr.E.M.V.Naganathan.
Chempaha Mallavan
c 13th century Early pioneer settler:
Chempaha Mallavan was a brother of Pandi Mallavan; both of them were pioneers who came from Ponpetti Ur in South India and

37
settled in Jaffna. They colonised the Thirunelveli region of the Jaffna Peninsula.
Joseph Cherubim 1868 - .... . Businessman, Jaffna.
Joseph Cherubim, born on 23rd September 1868, was the son of M.B.Cherubim, Commission Agent, Jaffna. Joseph received his education at St.Patrick's College and took on his father's business.
He held several Agencies, including that of British India Steam Navigation Co. Ltd., The Standard Life Assurance, etc.
He had a flourishing business in Jaffna. He was assisted by his two brothers N.E.M and VE Cherubim.
He married a P.S.Sandrasagra.
daughter of
Dr. J.C.Chinnappa 1923 -
B.E., D.I.C., Ph.D(Lond)., F.I.Mech.E., C.Eng. Prof. of Engineering.
J.Chandirasekaran Chinnappa is the son of C.J.Chinnappa and Dr. Lucia Navamani *. After a distinguished school career, he took up engineering as his career.
He obtained the Bachelor of Engineering Degree of the Madras University with Honours in 1945, Master of Engineering Science London, in 1948 and Ph.D later in 1961.
He was appointed Lecturer at the University of Ceylon Peradeniya, in 1950. Later he was Professor of Engineering, Head of the Department and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering there.
In 1972, he went abroad and was
Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Guyana and Papua New Guinea Universities. A few years later he proceeded to Australia and was Associate Professor in the James Cooke University of Queensland. He has since retired.
He married Ranee, daughter of Dr. and Mrs Dorai and has two children Renuka and Premala.
Dr. (Mrs.) L.N.VirasingheChinnapра, 1894-1980
Director, Maternity & Child Welfare,
Madras Presidency 1930-48.
Dr. Lucia Navamani VirasingheChinnappa was born in Ceylon on 30th December 1894. Her father, Rev. Arulambalam R.Virasinghe, a grandson of Shanmuga Udaiyar of Manipay, was the eldest son of Udaiyar Virasinghe of Neerveli Jaffna, and Indumathi, daughter of Ponnambalam and niece of Siva Sangara Pandithar. Dr. Lucia's mother was Sophia Muthamma, whose father was the Rev. D.PNiles and mother, a daughter of Rev. John Hensman.
After a brilliant school career at the St. Margaret's Anglican Convent, Colombo, she entered the Madras Medical College. There she graduated, obtaining the MBBS degree in 1916. She won the Barathi Lakshmi Gold Medal, the Raja Sir Ramasamy Mudaliyar Gold Medal awarded to the best student, and the Balfour Memorial Gold Medal, awarded for Midwifery and Children's Diseases.
She was appointed Superintendent, Maternity and Child Welfare Scheme, of the Madras Corporation. Starting from small beginnings, she soon built up a network of centres with women Medical Officers, to cover the entire city of Madras. In 1926, she was granted 2 years long leave and appointed Lady Tutor to women students at the Madras Medical College.
In 1930, she was appointed Assistant Director of Public Health, in Charge of Maternity and Child Welfare, Madras Presidency. She performed this function with great acclaim. She retired in 1948. She was awarded the KaisariHind Medal, and subsequently the bar to it, and other awards. Even after retirement, while she was residing in Ceylon, she was invited by the Tamil Nadu Government to open their Golden Jubilee Celebrations and Exhibition.
In 1921, she married her cousin James Chelvanayagam Chinnappa, who later held the post of Deputy Director of Public Instruction. He died in 1937. The couple had a son Chandirasekaran ( later Professor J.C.V.Chinnappa*) and a daughter Malati (later Dr. .Malati Rajasingham).
She passed away in 1980 at the age of

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86, at Canberra.
K.Chinnathambiapillai c 1860-..... Principal, Pachaiappa's College. Madras.
K.Chinnathambiapillai, an uncle of S.Nadarasar University Lecturer Colombo, was from Puloly, Point Pedro.
He proceeded to Madras for higher studies, on completion of which he became a teacher at Christian College Madras. Eventually he rose to be Principal of Pachiappa's College, Madras.
It is said he encouraged and helped C.N.Annadurai to continue with his studies, when he was in difficulties at College. C.N.Annadurai later became the founder of the D.M.K.Party and eventually Chief Minister, Madras.
Dr. (Miss) Siva Chinnathamby c 1930Hony. Fellow, Royal Australian College
of Obstetrics & Gynaecology.
Siva Chinnathamby, daughter of Maniyagar Chinnathamby and sister of K.C.Nadarajah, was an outstanding student at school. She passed out as a doctor from the Ceylon Medical College in 1945.
Even as a young doctor she took special interest in educating mothers and reducing infant mortality. As Director of Family Planning, she has been in the forefront, promoting Family Planning in Sri Lanka and is given great credit today for the introduction of modern contraceptives there.
Her efforts won international recognition. She has been honoured with Membership and positions in several overseas organisations. She is a Consultant of the World Health Organisation.
In recognition of her services, the Sri
Lankan Government conferred on her the honour of “Desabandu' in 1987. She received the Zonta International Woman of Achievement award in 1993.
Miss. M.R.Chinniah 1910-1975 Principal, Pt. Pedro Girls' High
School, 1950- 1966.
go Miss.Mary Roseammah Chinniah, born
25th December 1910, was the daughter of T.V. Chinniah, Head Master and Chinnapillai of Achchuvely, who were living in Udupiddy. She was the first Tamil Principal of Methodist Girls' High School, Pt.Pedro.
She had her early education at Chundikuli Girls' School Jaffna. She then proceeded to Women's Christian College Madras, from where she got her B.A degree.
After teaching at Vembadi Girls' High School Jaffna for some time, she proceeded to England for postgraduate training. On her return in 1950, she was appointed Principal of Methodist Girls' High School Pt.Pedro. During her 16 year period of tenure, she made vast improvements to the School.
Class rooms were extended, Science laboratories improved, the play ground enlarged and H.S.C Classes commenced. The institution was upgraded to a Grade 1 School, before she retired. She passed away in June 1975. She had four brothers: Thambyrajah a Postmaster, Thurairajasingham an Engineer, Rajaratnam an Engineer and Navaratnam a Headmaster, and three sisters Lucy Nesammah, Grace Gnanammah, and Liza Muthammah who was married to Ariyanayagam.
V.K..Chinniah 1884-1965 Landed Proprietor & Philanthropist, Trincomalee.
Varithamby Kandappa Chinniah was educated at St.Joseph's College Trincomalee.
After being a teacher at his School for a short time, he went to Malaya in 1917, where he became a successful businessman and planter. He was a very prominent and popular personality in Batupahat Johore Malaya
On his return to Trincomalee,
"Singapore Chinniah', as he was known, continued his business and property development. He was a social worker, philanthropist and a landed proprietor. He contributed freely to educational, social and religious organisations. He built the Samadi Pillaiyaar temple in Trincomalee and donated a bell to Verakathipillaiyar temple.

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He was a member of the Trincomalee Urban District Council, for several years, during 1930-1940. It was he who proposed the erection of a clock tower in the Town. He passed away in 1965.
Singapore Chinniah married Miss K. Gopalapillai and had six children: Kamalanesan, Kamalabaskaran, Kamalanathan*, Kamalachandran, Kamalaranjimi Muthulingam and Kamala Sabesan Dep. Solicitor General.
A.M.C. Casie Chitty 1853-.... . Proctor; Puttalan.
Aloysious Mount Carmel Casie Chitty, born 1853, was the son of Simon Casie Chetty of the Ceylon Civil Service, District Judge of Chilaw and a celebrated author.
He was educated at the Colombo Academy and S.Thomas College. Selecting a legal career, he became a Proctor in 1877 and established a lucrative practice.for himself at Puttalam.
He was a popular person and was elected a Member of the Local Board at Puttalam.
K.Chornalingam c 1900-1982 Insurance Inspector & Amateur Actor.
K. Chornalingam was a son of S.K.Lawton of Manipay, the pioneer photo artist of Jaffna h−
He was educated at St.John's College Jaffna, where he cultivated a taste for amateur dramatic performances. He maintained this interest for a very long time and was honoured with the epithet of “Kalai Arasu”.
He is well remembered for the establishment of an Amateur Dramatic Society for staging Dramas and for his performances on the stage, in Tamil plays, often Shakespeare's plays translated into Tamil. His favourite character was Shylock the Jew, in which role he excelled himself.
He was a School Master for some time. Soon however he gave that up and took up Insurance business, in which he was an Inspector.
He married Sivapakiam of Navaly and had a son: Balakrishnan a teacher and two daughters: Eye Surgeon Dr.(Mrs.) Saratha Rajasimman, and Mrs Lalitha Nadarajah.
Chelliah H.Cooke J.P 1861- 1951. Editor of the “Morning Star "
Chelliah H. Cooke, born in Sandilippai on 26th March 1861, was the eldest son of James Prince Cooke and Annamma Strong.
He received his education at the Batticotta Seminary, under R. Breckenridge. Afterwards he joined the staff of Jaffna College and taught history. Retiring in 1919, he lived in Manipay. He took over editing the weekly Newspaper "Morning Star', from his father in 1912 and continued for over 35 years, until 1947. He passed away in 1951.
Chelliah Cooke married Anna Cleveland Fitch and had six children: Muthammah who was married to Dr. Sittampalam, J.W.S.Cooke of Colombo, W.P.A.Cooke who held a high position in the Agricultural Dept., Helen, T.S. Cooke a Proctor, and R.C.S. Cooke of the Co-operative Dept.
James Prince Cooke c 1825-1910 Co-founder Jaffna College.
J.P. Cooke was a fifth generation descendant of Singa Mappana Mudaliyar, who during the Portuguese era migrated from Tanjavur in South India and settled in Vaddukoddai, Jaffna. Cooke's father was Swaminathar and his grandfather Ramanathan. His great grandfather Sithamparar (Ilam Thalaya Singa Mappanar) was appointed Mudaliyar by the Dutch.
Cooke, who was earlier known as Sabapathy, entered the Batticotta Seminary in 1841, and while there changed his name and his religion, in 1851. He took the name of Cooke from his benefactor in Boston U.S. A. He graduated from the Seminary in 1852 and was Assistant to Father Howland for about six years. He organised the Vaddukkoddai English School, along with R.Brecken-ridge, in March

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1856. He was Superintendent of Vaddukoddai Sunday School and Calendar Calculator, Jaffna Religious Tract Society. He was the first Registrar of Births and Deaths for Valikamam West and the first Secretary of the Jaffna Board of Education 1872 - 1876.
Together with T.P.Hunt, R.Breckenridge, Nicholas Gould, and Johnpillai, he founded Jaffna College and was on the Board of Management for 38 years until 1910. He was also Manager of Morning Star, the Jaffna weekly Newspaper.
Cooke married Annammah daughter of
Chittampalam Strong and had six children: Chelliah*, Muttiah, Rasiah, Emily Thangammah, Edward Thuraiayah and Tambiah*.
R.C.S.Cooke 1903-1971 Senior Asst. Commissioner for Co-operative Development.
Richard Cleveland Selvarasa Cooke, second son of Chelliah Cooke, was born on 9th July 1903, at Manipay. Being the youngest of the family, he was known as "Baby Cooke'.
After his studies at Jaffna College, he joined the Co-operative Department as one of its first Inspectors in 1927. He served in the Northern Province, until his appointment as the first Asst. Registrar of Co-operative Societies for the Eastern Province in 1943.
He was promoted as Senior Asst. Commissioner for Co-operative Development in 1959 and served in that capacity until his retirement in 1961.
He helped to take the co-operative mOVement to the doorstep of the average villager, in the North and the East. He is chiefly remembered for his pioneering efforts in setting up the Jaffna Co-operative Provincial Bank, and the Islands Motor Boat Co-operative Society, which became models for others to emulate. Throughout his career, Cooke was noted for his singular devotion to duty and high standard of rectitude.
He actively participated in the Scout movement and was a devout Christian who enthusiastically supported the YMCA.
R.C.S Cooke married a daughter of
Ariyacuddy, Maniyagar of Valikamam West.
T.S.Cooke 1873-1920 Proctor, Manager "Morning Star".
Tambiah Strong Cooke, the youngest son of James P. Cooke was born on 13th November 1873. He received his education at Jaffna College.
He assisted his grandfather with his business at Manipay, for some time. He then studied Law, became a Proctor and commenced practising in 1901.
He was Director and Secretary of several business and social interests in Jaffna and was Proctor for the Jaffna Commercial Corporation.
He was a keen member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church and was Manager of the Jaffna weekly Newspaper Morning Star.
Cooke first married Harriet, daughter of T.M. Tampoe in 1890 and had two sons: Dr.Gunaratnam Cooke, a senior Physician of Colombo who married the eldest daughter of Dr.S.C. Paul*, and T.C.S. Jayaratnam of the Indian Civil Service. On Harriet's demise in 1895, he married Ethel Thambiah in 1897 and had eight children. He passed away on 3rd February 1920.
Gate Mudaliyar A. Coomaraswamy
1784-1836 Tamil Member, First Legislative
Council of Ceylon, Ancestor of two distinguished
Families.
Coomaraswamy, son of Arumugampillai, was born in Manipay Jaffna, in 1784; he came from an aristocratic family. Early in life he established himself at Chekku St, Colombo, which was then a residential area of the well to do.
His appointment as Mudaliyar of the Governor's Gate in 1805, enabled him to be in personal contact with the Governor and senior officials. He became a personal officer to Governor Brownrigg (1812-1822). He also came in contact with Sri Vikrama Raja Singha, the last King of Kandy, who went from monarchy to exile. He served under Governor Sir Edward

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Paget (1822-1824), and Governor Sir Edward Barnes (1824-1831).
In 1831, when the first Legislative Council was formed in Ceylon, he was appointed as its first Tamil Member.
He married Visalachchi (1820-1897), and had two children, a son Muttu (who later became Sir C.Muttu Coomaraswamy.* 1834-1878), and a daughter Sellachi ( who later was the proud mother of Sir P.Ramanathan and Sir P.Arunachalam.).
He is thus the progenitor of two remarkable and distinguished Tamil family groups: one consisting of Sir Muttucoomaraswamy and his son Dr. Ananda K. Coomaraswamy, etc., and the other of Mudaliyar Ponnambalam*, Sir P.Ramanathan*, Sir P. Arunachalam* , etc.
When he died in November 1836, the Governor Sir Robert Horton paid a great tribute to him in the Legislative Council.
Dr. Ananda K.Coomaraswamy
1877-1947 Eminent Scholar and Critic, "Most Distinguished Sri Lankan of our
Tine'.
Ananda Kentish, the only child of Sir Muttu and Lady Coomaraswamy, was born in Colombo on 22nd August 1877. He lost his father when he was only two years old.
Young Ananda had his early education at Wycliffe College in Gloucestershire, England and later graduated at the University of London in Botany and Geology, with First Class Honours.
On his return to Ceylon in 1903, he was appointed Director, Mineralogical Surveys. Among his achievements as a geologist was his identification of some minerals, notably thorianite He was awarded a Doctorate in Science of the University of London.
He then went on a tour of India and while there developed an intense interest in Indian art. Very soon he gave up his career in Geology and Mineralogy and devoted his time to the study of Indian and South East Asian Art.
He commenced writing and lecturing on
Indian Art, Symbolism and Metaphysics. He also wrote on Mediaeval Sinhalese Art and on other similar subjects. He became interested in promoting a programme of national education in India and wrote a series of essays on same. He toured India extensively and sought to restore the Arts and Crafts of India.
He visited Jaffna on more than one occasion. His speech delivered at the Jaffna Hindu College in 1906 was immediately translated into Tamil and published by A.Mootootamby Pillai. He spoke highly of his Tamil ancestry.
He had a valuable collection of Indian Art and Craft works and presented them for exhibitions. Eventually in 1917, he took his valuable collection to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, U.S.A, and there accepted the position of Keeper of Indian Art.
He was not a creative artist himself. But in view of his profound knowledge of Indian Art, he functioned as India's interpreter to the world. A memorial postage stamp was issued later in India, in his honour. . −
He wrote inspiring criticisms on Art; he looked upon Art as a key to the understanding of metaphysics. The finest interpretations of Hindu and Buddhist religious Art are found in his works.
His work, he said in his last speech before his death in 1947, was "research not only in the field of Indian Art but at the same time in the wider field of the whole traditional theory of Art and of the relation of man to his work, and in the fields of comparative religion and metaphysics to which the problems of iconography are a natural introduction.”
He is said to be the most distinguished Sri Lankan of our time. With his demise on 9th September 1947, a great landmark was lost.
He married Dona Luisa Runstein and had a son Rama and two daughters.
Among the works he wrote were:- Mediaeval Sinhalese Art. Hinduism and Buddhism. The Dance of Siva. Mirror of Gesture. Arts and Crafts of India and Ceylon The Dance in India. History of Indian Art and Indonesian Art.

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The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value 5 cts, on 29th October 1971.
"Green Path', a Road in Colombo, where the National Gallery is located, has been renamed 'Ananda Coomaraswamy Road', to perpetuate his memory.
C.Coomaraswamy 1887-..... C.C.S., Govt.Agent N.P. Senator, High Commissioner:
Coomaraswamy, son of Chellapah of Aiyanarkoviladi, was born in Jaffna on 25th August 1887. He had his early education at Hindu College Jaffna. Later he studied at the Royal College Colombo. He entered the Government Clerical Service early and served till 1910, when he was appointed to the Civil Service.
As a Civil Servant, he held various judicial and other posts at several stations in the Island. He was Police Magistrate Puttalam in 1913 and District Judge at many stations later. He also functioned as Registrar General. In Jaffna, he served as District Judge in 1933 and later as Government Agent, Northern Province.
On his retirement, he was nominated as a Senator to the Upper House of the Ceylon Assembly, in 1947. Later he functioned as High Commissioner for Ceylon in India at New Delhi 949-1951.
He married Mankayatkarasi, daughter of Mudaliyar Sabapathy and Manicka Ammaiyar of Nallur, Jaffna and had three sons: Rajendra, Mahendra, and Satyendra and a daughter Sundareswari who married W. Pathmanathan C.C.S. and had three sons and a daughter,
Sir Muttu Coomaraswamy 1834-1879. Scholar, Member Ceylon Legislative Council, Honoured with Knighthood by Queen Victoria, 1874.
Muttu Coomaraswamy, son of Gate Mudaliyar Arumugampillai Coomaraswamy* M.L.C, and Visalachchi Ammaiyar, was born on
23rd January 1834. He received his early education at the Colombo Academy (now Royal College). He had a distinguished career there, winning the Turnour Prize in 1851, awarded to the best student in Greek, Latin and the English Classics.
At the age of 22 years, he was called to the Bar as an advocate; he showed his scholastic brilliance by reading a paper before the Royal Asiatic Society on Synopsis of Saiva Sidhanda in 1857 and on Hindu Philosophy, in 1860.
In 1861 when he was 27 years old, he was appointed a Member of the Ceylon Legislative Council to represent "Tamil interests'. He succeeded Mudaliyar Edirmanasingam and held this position till his demise.
In 1862 he made a grand tour of the European continent and England. While in England he was admitted a Member of Lincoln's Inn, being the first Asiatic to be admitted to the English Bar.
His translation of the Tamil play Harischandra (Martyr of Truth) was published in 1863. The play was staged in the presence of Queen Victoria, Muttu himself taking the leading part.
On his return to Ceylon, he took to the study of oriental lore. He also made an Indian tour. His valuable works Dathvamsa being a translation from the Pali text of the story of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Sutti Nipata, being discourses of Lord Buddha, were published in 1874.
When he was in England in 1878, he was invested a Knight by Her Majesty Queen Victoria. The distinguished Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli accompanied him to receive the investiture.
In 1879 when he was preparing for another tour of England, he fell ill and passed away. Within a short span of 45 years, he had achieved and accomplished so much; his premature demise was a great loss. In the galaxy of great men who shed brilliance, his name occupies a unique place
He married Elizabeth Clay Beebe, daughter of William Beebe of Kent, England, and had a son Ananda Kentish, who was later to become the world renowned art critic

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Dr.Ananda K. Coomaraswamy*.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured
him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp,
value Re. 1, on 22nd May 1991.
Mudaliyar P.Coomaraswamy 1849-1905 J.P., Advocate, Member, Legislative Council.
P.Coomaraswamy was the eldest son of Mudaliyar Ponnambalam, whose other two sons were Sir P. Ramanathan and Sir PArunachalam *.
He was born on 7th December 1849 and had his education at the Queen's Academy, (now Royal College) Colombo. He then attended Presidency College Madras.
He entered the legal profession. He was a Member of the Colombo Municipal Council for twenty years. He was a powerful debater and a fearless critic. He was a prominent personage of his time, who was held in high eSteem.
He was appointed Tamil Representative in the Legislative Council in 1893. In the Council, he was often a strong critic of the Government
He was a good Tamil scholar and published some rare Tamil works. He was President of the Jaffna Saiva Paripalana Sabai. He took great interest in founding the Jaffna Hindu College, which he inaugurated in its new building in 1895. He was also the founder of a Hindu temple at Slave Island.
He passed away at the young age of fifty seven, in 1905.
Rajendra Coomaraswamy
(Raju) 1915-1981 B.A., CCS,Asst.Sec. UNDP
Rajendra (Raju), eldest son of C.Coomaraswamy High Commissioner, was born on 18th July 1915. He had his early education at Royal College Colombo, where he was a leading scholar and a distinguished sportsman.
After a successful University career in
Colombo, he proceeded to Jesus College, Oxford. Raju was appointed to the Ceylon Civil Service in 1938. After functioning in several positions, he was appointed Asst.Secretary to the Minister for Finance in 1948.
Thereafter he became familiar with the processes of Govt. Finance, Fund raising and International Loans. He held positions with :International Monetary Fund 1951, International Bank for Reconstruction 1957, Colombo Plan Council for Technical Co-operation in S.E Asia 1958, etc.
All these required considerable travelling abroad for discussions, attending conferences, negotiating loans, aid etc. He was sometimes referred toas “Roving Raju”.
On his retirement from Government Service he accepted a position in the service of the United Nations, as Asst. Administrator U.N.D.P for Asia and Pacific. He returned to Sri Lanka in 1977 and was appointed a special adviser to the President. He passed away in 1981.
He married Wijeyamani, daughter of S.K.Wijeyaratnam Mayor of Negombo, and had a son Indrajit and a daughter Radhika, who received her studies in the States and graduated at the Yale University, obtaining Doctorate from Columbia University and LLM from Harvard. She is a specialist on Constitutional Law and functions as Dep. Director at the Centre for Ethnic Studies. She contributes valuable articles on the constitutional aspects of the political situation in Sri Lanka. Among her publications is:- "Anglo-American Constitutional Traditions in a Developing Society'.
Satyendra Coomaraswamy 1919-1988 All Ceylon Cricket Captain.
Satyendra, more well known as "Sathy', was the third son of C.Coomaraswamy C.C.S. and High Commissioner. He was born on 4th December 1919.
He had his education at Royal College Colombo, where he developed his taste for cricket and played in the College eleven in 1937.
He graduated from the Ceylon University College 1938-1942, where he was a member of

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the cricket eleven and a sprinting champion. He held a high position in the Shell Petroleum establishment.
Sathy was a stalwart of the Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club 1942-1972. He captained the Club's cricket eleven which won the much coveted P.Saravanamuttu Trophy 1950-1951. He was also the Club's Tennis Captain 1950.
He was selected several times to represent Ceylon, to play against visiting international teams and captained the Sri Lankan eleven against the Commonwealth Team in 1950 and 1951. Later he was National Cricket Selector 1957-1964 and 1968-1971 and Vice-President of T.U. C & A.C 1961-1972. He passed away on 15th January 1988.
A Stand in the PSaravanamuttu Stadium of the Tamil Union Club has been named after him, in memory of a cricket champion who upheld the fine ideals of sportsmanship.
Sathi married Padmini daughter of K. Somasuntharam C.C.S. and had three daughters: Priyadharshini, Shyamala and Anushya.
Sir Velupillai Coomaraswamy
1892-..... C.C.S., C.M.G
Coomaraswamy son of Velupillai of Vaddukoddai, was born on 25 th September 1892. After a successful school career, he passed the London Interscience Examination and was a teacher for some time. He then entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1913.
He held many positions in that service at several stations, being Police Magistrate and District Judge at Puttalam, Negombo, Kegalle etc. He was Asst.Govt. Agent at Hambantota. Later he held several important senior positions in Colombo and was Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.
Eventually he was appointed Deputy High Commissioner for Ceylon in the U.K in 1948 and later High Commissioner in Canada. He was later Minister and Envoy Extraordinary for Ceylon in Burma in 1953-54. He passed away in the 1960's.
He married Thayalnayaki daughter of
Dr.M.Sinnathamby. On her demise, he married Nesamani daughter of J.T. Bartlett, retired Surveyor. His son Arjuna was a Crown Counsel and his daughter Indranee was married to Yogasunderam of the Overseas Service.
G. Crosette-Thambyah CMG 1883-1957 District Judge.
George Crosette-Thambyah, born on 28th Nov. 1883, was the son of Robert Crosette and a brother of Vice-Principal T.H.Crosette*.
After his education in Jaffna, he proceeded to Calcutta University, where he obtained his B.A. Degree with Honours. He then entered Law College, Colombo and passed out as an Advocate in 1908.
After practising in Jaffna from 1908 to 1927, he entered the Judicial Service. He functioned as District Judge in TrincomaleeBatticaloa, Colombo, Kandy and Jaffna, from where he retired. He was honoured with CMG in 1950.
After retirement in 1943, he was a member of the Law Commission, 1943-45, member of Special Tribunal, 1945-47, member of the Local Govt. Service Commission 194548, member of Income Tax Board of Review and President Appeal Tribunal. He passed away on 27th November 1967.
Crosette-Thambyah married Lily Thangammah, daughter of Mail vaganam Ambalavanar and had eight children: Balarajah, Leela Jeyaratnam, Dr.Selvarajah, Kamala Jebasundaram, Pathma Ponnambalam, Jeyadeva, Wijedeva, and Yogarani Devadasan.
R.R.Crossette-Thambiah 1897-, . Crown Counsel, Solicitor General.
Robert Rasiah Crossette-Thambiah, born 2nd February 1897, was the son of T.H.Crossette*, Headmaster of St.John's College
The Crossettes have always been associated with St.John's College Chundikuli, Jaffna. “R. R' was also a teacher there for a few years in the 1920's. Choosing a legal career,

45
he was called to the Bar on 5th October 1925.
He joined the Attorney General's Department as an Additional Crown Counsel in 1926. Very soon he achieved higher positions in the service. He was Crown Counsel, Senior Crown Counsel, District Judge, then Public Trustee in 1945 and later Commissioner of Assize for four years.
He then functioned as Solicitor-General, which was a very high achievement at that time.
He married Amy Ranita daughter of Dr.S.C.Paul.
T.H.Crossette c 1865-..... M.A (Calcutta)., F.R.H.S, Vice-Principal.
Thambiah Henry Crossette was a leading educationist of his time. He was from Nallur Jaffna. His brother George Crossette-Thambyah was a District Judge.
Like the other members of the family, T.H.Crossette also was closely associated with St.John's College Jaffna
After his Master's degree in India, in which he did very well, he was Headmaster of the Canadian Mission College at Indore India, for a few years.
Returning to Ceylon, he was appointed Headmaster of Trinity College Kandy in 1907, during the days of Rev.A.G.Fraser. He was Headmaster of St.John's and as Vice-Principal, he acted for the Principal. He managed the institution very successfully. He was Principal of Manipay Hindu College for about five years. He was in charge of St.John's College for about seven years between the demise of Rev. Jacob Thomson and the arrival of Rev. H. Peto in 1922. He had a good personality and a good band of teachers. He visited Malaya, once in 1914 and later in 1923, and enlisted the support of the old boys for the School extension programme. He lived long after his retirement and passed away when he was over eighty years old.
He married Harriet Pakkiam, daughter of Ambalavanar, whose son was Maniyagar Ariyacuddy of Nallur.
His brother G.C..Thambiah married a daughter of Ariyacuddy Maniyagar.
His son Robert Rasiah Crossette*, a
lawyer was Solicitor General. Dr.R.William Crossette, another son, was Asst. Director of Medical and Sanitary Services.
Rev. Fr. A.E.A.Crowther S. J,
1897-1990. Principal, St. Michael's College Batticaloa.
Rev. Father Alfred Emmanuel
Arasaretnam Crowther, third son of Samuel Alfred and Emily Crowther, was born in Uppodai Batticaloa on 4th June 1897. The Crowthers were originally from Point Pedro, Jaffna, but had later settled in Batticaloa, where they had several coconut estates.
A.E.A.Crowther was educated at the Anglican Missionary School Batticaloa and later at S.Thomas College, Colombo. He was a capable student, who distinguished himself both in studies and in sports. He was the Captain of the College Cricket Eleven and won a Cup for his brilliant performance in batting.
On leaving College, he declined to go to Oxford but decided to enter the Jesuit seminary in India, as novitiate.He was ordained a Jesuit priest, after 14 years of training.
On his return, he was appointed a teacher at St.Michael's Batticaloa. Subsequently he was appointed Principal of St.Joseph's College Trincomalee in 1933. After functioning there for four years, he commenced his career as Principal of St.Michael's Batticaloa, which lasted nearly twenty years.
During that period the School improved vastly. New teachers were recruited, laboratory facilities were provided for teaching Science subjects and sports activities also improved.
On his retirement he was appointed General Manager of the Catholic Schools of the Trincomalee Diocese. After holding other posts in the Jesuit Mission, he was eventually parish priest of St.Sebastian Church Batticaloa, when he fell ill and passed away in 1990, at the age of 93.
S.J.K.Crowther 1888-1971 B.A (Oxon), Editor "Ceylon Daily
News.'

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S.J.Kirubaratnam Crowther was the eldest son of Veeravagu and Emily Crowther of Batticaloa. The Crowthers were originally from Pt.Pedro Jaffna. They had settled in Batticaloa where Veeravagu Crowther owned several COCOlut eStateCS.
Young Kirubaratam was born on 12th February 1888. He was educated at the Anglican Missionary School Batticaloa and S.Thomas College Colombo. He then proceeded to U.K., where he graduated from Oxford University.
Returning to Ceylon he took to Journalism as his career. He was the first fulltime Editor of the "Ceylon Daily News', a post which he held with great success, during 19191931. He was a prodigious writer and contributed special feature articles as well. He then joined the staff of the “The Times of Ceylon" as Assistant Editor 1933 - 1946 and contributed a regular political column. On leaving this post, he worked for the "Catholic Messenger'.
He also wrote a novel “ Knight Errant' and a play "The Dowry Hunter', which were well received.
In the 1950's he made a tour of Europe visiting Rome, Austria, Germany, the U.K and wrote his impressions. He passed away on 28th April 1971.
His wife and two brothers Rev.A.E.A. Crowther* and I.T.S „Crowther, a planter, survived him.
A.Cumaraswamy....-1952 Principal, Jaffna Hindu College
Cumaraswamy was from Chetty St, Nallur Jaffna. He was a diligent and keen student who gained high proficiency at the Jaffna Hindu College. He was sent to Calcutta University for higher studies, where he graduated.
On his return he was appointed a graduate teacher at his College. After a few years he proceeded to U.K in 1928, and obtained the Master's degree in Education. On his return he resumed his teaching career and was eventually appointed Principal of his School.
He set about his work systematically organising it and sustaining it to a high degree of acclaim. Vast changes were made and Jaffna Hindu College enjoyed its golden era, all of
which entailed hard work.
One day while walking along the corridors of the School, he collapsed and passed away, in 1952. He had been Principal of Jaffna Hindu College for over fifteen years.
The spacious upper floor of the administrative block has been named the “Cumaraswamy Hall'.
He married a daughter of Ponnambalam, Head Clerk in the P.W.D and had four daughters, the eldest of whom was married to Dr. Kumaran Ratnam, and the second to Chelvanayagam Professor of Engineering at the Peradeniya University. 4.
A.M.K. Cumarasvamy 1894-1959 B.Sc (Lond)., Registrar, Ceylon University College
Andrew Marimuthu Kandiah .Cumaraswamy was the son of M.Marimuthu of Chavakachcheri.
Cumaraswamy passed the London B.Sc degree with First Class Honours, when the examination was held for the first time in Ceylon. He was a teacher at St. John's College Jaffna, for a short period. He then proceeded to Kandy and was engaged at Trinity College as VicePrincipal, at times acting for the Principal.
For a time, he served the Church as Secretary of the Colombo Diocese. He was Secretary of the World Students Christian Federation and attended International Conferences abroad. Later he reverted back to St. John's College and functioned as VicePrincipal.
He was then appointed Registrar, University College, Colombo and later of the the University of Ceylon, Peradeniya.
On retirement, after a short time at Jaffna College, his final years were spent in residence at the Christa Seva Ashram Inuvil; while there, he translated Theological texts and Christian Hymns into Tamil and passed away on 21st December 1959.
.Cumaraswamy married Gertrude, daughter of Dr.Rasiah in 1921. His two sons: Manohara Superintendent of Surveys married Sarogini Coomaraswamy and Doctor Mohan married Miss R. Carmini. His daughter

47
Amirtham was married to B.R.Devarajan C.C.S, and Chandra to D.N.Selvaratnam of Messrs. Shell Co.
S.Cumaraswamy “ʻIyerʼ. 1879-1947. Tamil Scholar & Physician, from Kottaimunai, Batticaloa.
Cumaraswamy, born in 1879, was the son of Sinnathamby and Sinnammah of Aaraipattu, Batticaloa.
From his early days Cumaraswamy was known to be a religious person and a careful student. He received tuition in classical Tamil studies from T.Kailasapillay of Nallur Jaffna. He was appointed a lecturer in Tamil at the Teachers' Training College. Several youths flocked to him for tuition, among whom was the celebrated Mailvaganam, who later qualified as a Pundit and became Swami Vipulananda.
In later life, he took to the study of Ayurvedic Medicine and became well known as an able physician. Using his literary talent, he wrote many publications on the Ayurvedic system of treating ailments, including malaria.
As he was a religious person and looked after the Veerakathy Pillaiyar temple at Kottaimunai, he became known as Cumaraswamy "Iyer', although he was not a Brahmin by birth.
T.K.K.Curtis c 1910 - ..... Advocate, Crown Counsel.
Tellippalai Kanakathandikai Mudaliyar Kanagaratnam Curtis was the son of Dr. Kanagaratnam, a direct descendant of Kanakathandikai Kanagarajah Mudaliyar of Tellippalai.
After graduating from the Ceylon University College, he entered the Law College and passed out as an Advocate.
He practised for some time in Colombo and later was appointed a Crown Counsel. When he retired, he reverted to the Colombo Bar.
Curtis married the eldest daughter of
Dr.J.M.Somasunderam, J.M.O, Jaffna.
D
Rev. Dr. H.S.David 1907-1981. B.A (Hons)., Ph.D (Lond)
Hyacinth Singarayar David was born on 28th June 1907, at Pt.Pedro Jaffna.
After a brilliant school career he entered the Colombo University College and while there won the Khan Pestonjee Medal in Economics, in 1936.
He graduated in History with First Class Honours in 1936, and got his Masters Degree in Sanskrit, Pali and Prakrit. He got his Doctorate Ph.D (Lond) in 1952.
He was lecturer in the Faculty of Arts at St Patrick's College, Jaffna 1966 - 1981. The shock of the Jaffna Public Library being burnt had its toll, he passed away the very same day
He has contributed several valuable research articles to the Journal" Tamil Culture', for over four years.
S.A.David 1916B. Arch ( Melbourne)., A.R.I.B.A., A.R.A.I.A., Architect, President Gandhiyam Movement Vavuniya, 1977.
Solomon Arulanandan David was born on 6th November 1916. After his school education he chose an Architectural career.
He was Probationer in Training in Architecture in 1953 and proceeded to Australia, on scholarship, for qualifying in architecture. On his return he was appointed Asst. Architect and worked in Sri Lanka for a few years.
He then proceeded overseas and after working abroad for over ten years, returned in 1972, to "devote himself, heart and soul, to alleviate the sufferings' of his countrymen and show them that the Gandhiyam way of life was most suited to their traditions and their way of life.

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In an article in the London “Tamil Times' of November 1982, he wrote about what had been achieved:- "Gandhiyam Society Vavuniya Sri Lanka was founded in 1977 and in these five years Gandhiyam has progressed steadily and has established District Centres in Vavuniya, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Killinochchi, Jaffna, Mannar and Mullaitivu. Over 10,000 children are taught the rudiments of the Gandhiyam way of life'.The 1983 upheavals in the country affected further progress in his work.
David, to quote his own words, " by dint of sheer honesty, intelligence and hard work rose from humble village conditions to work as an Architect and Town Planner in Sri Lanka, Australia, the United Kingdom, Nigeria and Kenya'.
Rt.Rev. Dr. B. Deogupillai 1917Roman Catholic Bishop of Jaffna
Rt. Rev.B. Deogupillai, Catholic Bishop of Jaffna, was born on 9th April. 1917, in Jaffna. He was ordained in Rome in 1941.
On his arrival in Ceylon, he was engaged in teaching Christianity etc., in Jaffna for some time.
He then became Rector of St.Joseph's College, Anuradhapura, afterwards of Sacred Heart College Karaveddi, and later of St.Henry's College Illavalai. He was also the Rector of the Teachers Training College at Columbuthurai.
He was then appointed Bishop of the Trincomalee- Batticaloa Diocese in 1967. On the demise of Rev Dr. J.Emilianuspillai, he succeeded him as Bishop of Jaffna in January 1973.
He held this position with great strength and timely solace during the period of strife and turmoil in the country. After retirement in 1991, he lives at St.Martin's Seminary, Jaffna.
S.Dharmapalan
c1930S.L.A.S.,Govt.Agent Jafna 1989
S. Dharmapalan is the son of Subramaniam of Jaffna, who was for a long time employed in the Tea Industry in the Galagedera
District. Dharmapalan had his education at the Jaffna Central College and graduated from the Ceylon University.
He was then a member of the staff of St. Sylvester College Kandy for a few years. Entering the Sri Lanka Administrative Service, he held an administrative position in the Agricultural Department for some time. Afterwards he held several other posts at various stations, in that service. He was Additional Government Agent in Jaffna, then Government Agent at Mannar. Later, he was Government Agent Jaffna before retirement. Most of these periods, he had to work under severe stress, tension and restrictions, due to unrest and strife in the regions at that time. He was Registrar of the University of Jaffna, for some time.
After retirement, he had an assignment with the UNESCO.
Dharmapalan married a daughter of S.Sabaratnam of Sangarathai, who was a Surveyor in Malaya and has two sons.
R.Doresamy J.P., M.B.E., Deputy Mayor Colombo
1948
R. Dores amy was the son of N.Ratnasabapathy, a wealthy resident of "Jaffna House', Colombo. He chose Banking as his career, early in life, and for over thirty years, held the position of Guarantee Shroff in the Eastern Bank, a leading bank of the time, which later became known as the Commercial Bank of Ceylon.
Becoming interested in Municipal politics, he represented the Fort Ward of the Colombo Municipality for a long period, from about 1940. He was elected Deputy Mayor in 1948, and was an enthusiastic Chairman of the Housing and Town improvement Committee. He was a Member of the Coconut Board.
He was also the Managing Trustee of the Sri Muthu Vinayakar Swami Temple in Sea St Colombo, and the Sri Mootha Nainar Temple at Anaicottai, Jaffna.
Dr.C.Durai Raja Singam 1904-1994 Teacher, Historian., Collector & Author of Books on

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Dr. Ananda K Coomaraswamy
C. Durai Raja Singam is from Vaddukkoddai, Jaffna. His parents went to Malaya and settled at Port Weld, where his father was a Station Master. He was born in 1904 and received his early education in Malaya.
He continued his studies later at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai. In 1920...while he was there, the "Student Congress' movement (later to become the “Youth Congress') was originated. Durai Raja Singam took an active part; he and M.Balasundaram were the first Joint Secretaries and J.V.Chelliah*, the Vice-Principal, was the President. Writing about him later, Handy Perinpanayagam says, “he was the finest product of Jaffna in our time' who lit the flame of national pride in the students.
Passing the London Matriculation Examination, he took to teaching and joined the Malayan Education Service as a School Master, in 1925. He spent the next 45 years teaching at Schools in Kuantan, Pekan, ending finally at Kuala Lumpur, all in Malaya.
He started being an author at the age of 19 and has since published over 35 books. He has also contributed articles to the Newspapers. He is an untiring devotee in his worship of Dr. Ananda K Coomaraswamy *, the celebrated art critic. He collected everything said of him by persons of worth and has built up a good collection of books and papers by and about him. He became an authority on the subject.
On the passing away of this famous artcritic, Durai Raja Singam published all what had been said of him as “Homage to Ananda K Coomaraswamy'. Another volume of Remembrance followed in 1952. Still again, a third volume Remembering and Remembering again and again, was published in 1977 to observe his centenary. The publications include also a Bibliography of Ananda Coomaraswamy's Works.
In 1968, Durai Raja Singam published a monumental well documented volume, entitled “Hundred Years of Ceylonese in Malaya and Singapore".
In honour of his valuable contributions, the Jaffna University conferred on him the degree
of Doctorate of Letters, at their third Convocation held in 1982. His collection of valuable books gifted to the Cambridge University library, form a special "Durai Raja Sigam Collection”, there.
Durai Raja Singam married Parameswari and has two sons Gandhijai Singam and Jawaharlaljai Singam, and two daughters Chandramani and Selvamani. He passed away in December 1994.
Mrs. Sivanandini Duraiswamy Social Worker & Artist.
Sivanandini, daughter of Dr.T.Nallainathan and Mrs. Sornambikai Nallainathan, was born on 24th December 1936. She was educated at Ladies College, Colombo and afterwards obtained the London Degree in English and Tamil. Like her sister Rudrani Balakrishnan, she also acquired proficiency in both Western and Eastern music. She married Yogendra, son of Sir W. Duraiswamy Speaker, who was in the Overseas Service. They have a son, who is a student in the States.
She is a keen student of art and painting. When they were in China, she had become familiar with the Chinese type of brushwork. She had been holding two exhibitions of her works of art and painting, one in China and another in Sri Lanka.
In the countries, where her husband had assignments, she involved herself socially and worked for the welfare of women. When her husband was Government Agent of Jaffna, she had organised Women's Conferences for the upliftment of the rural womenfolk.
She was a Joint Secretary, and later its President, of the Colombo Hindu Women's Society, the objectives of which include finding employment opportunities for school leavers and hostel facilities for working women.
She has broadcast over fifty talks on Hinduism, and delivered lectures at several International Conferences. In April 1990, she delivered a public lecture on “ The Grandeur that is Hindu Art” under the auspices of the Ministry of Hindu Cultural Affairs, which was highly appreciated by the select large audience

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present.
Sir Waithilingam Duraiswamy 1875-1966 Advocate, M.L.C., M.S.C., Speaker State Council 1936-47.
Sir Waithilingam had a distinguished lineage, descending from Sey atungar Ambalavanar, a famous Pundit and scholar, whose son was Iyampillai, whose son was Ford Waithilingam. Waithilingam was from Velanai East and studied at Jaffna College. He was Roads Engineering Assistant in Singapore in the 1880's and earned high recognition there. He married a daughter of the Velanai Maniyagar and had five sons: Wijayaratnam, Duraiswamy, Ponnudurai, Rajagopal and Ratnagopal.
Duraiswamy, the second son born in 1875, had a distinguished school career and became an Advocate. Becoming interested in politics, he contested and won the Northern Province seat in the Legislative Council and retained it from 1924 to 1930. He was a very popular public personality of the time. He was one of the Founders of the Hindu Board of Education and was its President in 1923. He introduced the Ordinance incorporating it, in 1926. He was returned unopposed to the Kayts seat in the State Council in 1936.
He advocated Sinhalese - Tamil cooperation for national progress. In the State Council he was elected "Speaker in 1936 and held that position "with dignity, skill and impartiality', for a long period of 11 years.
After the passing away of Sir P. Ramanathan, Sir Waithilingam was the leader of the Tamils, and the patron of many Hindu Institutions. He was one of the founders of the Tamil Union and President; he was also President of the Vivekananda Society etc. He was Knighted in 1953.
On retirement in later life, he withdrew himself from most of the activities and preferred a quiet life as a devout follower of Yoga Swamigal. He passed away on 15th April 1966. One of his sons was in the Bank of Ceylon. Yogendra*, another son, entered the Overseas Service in 1950 and held several
positions abroad. Another son Rajendra, was Commissioner of Local Government, and Permanent Secretary, who was killed during the I.P.K.F presence in Jaffna.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him with the issue of a commemorative postage stamp of value 50cts, on 14th June 1982.
Yogendra Duraiswamy, 1926Sri Lanka Foreign Service.
Yogendra, son of Sir Waithilingam Duraiswamy.*, was born on 14th October 1925. After his general education, he entered the Ceylon University, where he was the General Secretary of the Union Society; he graduated with Honours in Economics, specialising in Political Science in 1949.
He then joined the Foreign Service of Sri Lanka in 1950 and worked his way up, serving at several places abroad. Among the positions he held were : Charge' d'affairs of Sri Lanka to Iraq 1962-65, to Italy 1965-67, to the Philippines 1972-74, etc. He was Government Agent Jaffna, during the years 1979-1981.
He has attended several International Conferences, often functioning as Chairman, and is the President of the Council of Hindu Organisations of Sri Lanka.
Yogendra married Sivanandini, daughter of Dr.T.Nallainathan and has one son.
Alfred T.Durayappah 1926-1975. Mayor of Jaffina 1961 & 1966.
Alfred Thangarajah Durayappah, born on 15th July 1926, was the son of Durayappah, who pioneered the ice and aerated water manufacturing industry in Vannarpannai, Jaffna. Alfred had his education at St.John's College, and became a Proctor S.C at the age of 22.
He entered Local Government politics and was elected Deputy Mayor of the Jaffna Municipal Council at 23. Later he was chosen as Mayor and held office during 1961-1962 and again in 1966.
During his regime, several improvement works were added to Jaffna Town. The Public Library, Jaffna Water Supply, model Market, all

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received attention and the Durayappah Stadium was also erected then.
Known as the "Peoples' Mayor', he was an active politician. and founded the "Suthanthiram' party in Jaffna.
However his political views were not acceptable to many in Jaffna. He was assassinated near the Punnalai Perumal Temple, when he went to worship on 27th July 1975. He was given a State funeral.
Durayappah married Dr. Parames (daughter of Engineer Cumaraswamy) who after holding a high position in the Public Health Service of the Brunei Government, passed away in 1989. Their daughter Rochana is a graduate teacher.
Hon.V.Edirmanasingha Mudaliyar ... 1846. Tamil Member; Ceylon Legislative
Council
Mudaliyar was the son of Manapillai Visuvasinga Mudaliyar, a veteran from Inuvil. He was a well to do personage who performed several acts of charity.
He was appointed Tamil Member in the First Legislative Council of Ceylon, in 1846; before him the position was held by Simon Casie Chetty* 1838 and before him by A. Kumarapillai, who was the first to be so appointed in 1833.
It has not been possible to trace his descendants.
M.K.Eelaventhan 1932Tamil Political Activist
M.K.Eelaventhan, known earlier as Kanagentran, is the son of Station Master Kanagasabapathy of Kolumbutturai and Nallur. He was born on 14th September 1932 and had
his education at St.John's College Jaffna and Wesley College Colombo.
He entered the services of the Central Bank early. There he eventually became the Head of the Tamil Translation Section of the Economic Research Department, and retired in 1980.
In politics, M.K.Eelaventhan had been closely associated with the Federal Party, in which he held office. But in 1980, he along with others broke away and formed a new Group named Tamil Eelam Liberation Front, of which he was the Founder-Secretary. He is the author of several booklets on current topics.
Since then he has travelled widely, attending conferences and addressing meetings. He married a daughter of Kailasapillay of Mandaitivu.
A.S.Elaiyatamby J.P.U.P.M
1883
Batticaloa.
A.S.Elaiyatamby, born 11th of May 1883, was the son of Gate Mudaliyar Elaiyatamby of Batticaloa.
He had his education at S.Thomas College Colombo and joined the Police force, as a Sub-Inspector.
He was an able officer who distinguished himself. He was responsible for several important prosecutions and achieved rapid promotions. He was functioning as Superintendent of Police when he retired.
Elaiyatamby was also a good cricketer.
M.S.Elaiyathamby c1880-.... . Advocate & Journalist.
M.S. Elaiyathamby was the son of Engineer Sanmugam, whose father was Marimuthu of Neerveli a descendant of Kanagaraya Mudaliyar of Myliddy. Pursuing a legal career, he passed out as an Advocate.
He was the Editor of the Newspaper "Hindu Organ", during the early decades. He was associated with the temperance movement in the country and worked very hard for it, addressing several meetings.

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He worked hard for the revival of the Hindu religion. He was chiefly responsible for arranging regular Annual Conferences at Keerimalai in the month of December. These were attended by members of the Young Mens' Hindu Associations in the Island. Eminent persons addressed the conferences.
Dr.C.J.Eliezer 1918M.A, Ph.D, D.Sc, Barrister; Professor of Mathematics, Ceylon, Malaysia & Australia.
Christie Jayaratnam Eliezer, born on 12th June 1918 at Navatkuli Jaffna, is the son of Jacob Richard Eliezer and Elizabeth Ponnammah Eliezer, mee Vairakiam.
He had his early education at the Wesleyan Mission School Puloly. He was at Hartley College Point Pedro from 1926 to 1933, from where, he passed the Cambridge Local Examinations with Honours and Distinctions.
After a year at St.Joseph's College Colombo, he proceeded to the University College as a Scholar, in 1935. From there he obtained the London degree in Science with First Class Honours and also the B.Sc Special (Mathematics) with First Class Honours. He was a visiting lecturer at the University College 1938.
Proceeding to Cambridge, on scholarship, he was at Christ's College from 1939 to 1943. There he won several coveted prizes and distinctions. In 1941, he got his Mathematics Tripos and the Ph.D, later.
Returning to Ceylon, he was a Lecturer at the University of Ceylon for a short time. He then went back to Cambridge and was a Fellow at Christ's College, where he obtained his D.Sc in 1949.
He was appointed Professor of Mathematics at the University of Ceylon in 1949. He held this position for ten years. During this time he was Dean of the Faculty of Science for two years; he was also Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor in 1955.
He then proceeded to Kuala Lumpur, where he held the position of foundation Professor of Mathematics at the University of Malaysia for nine years from 1959. While there,
he was Dean of Science for three years and Deputy Principal and Vice Chancellor for another three years.
In 1968 he proceeded to Australia. He was appointed the first Professor of Applied Mathematics at LaTrobe University. During his fifteen years of stay there, he served in addition as Dean of Physical Sciences and Deputy Vice Chancellor for a few years. He retired in 1983 when the title of Emeritus Professor was conferred on him.
Besides his academic occupations, Dr. Eliezer has been identifying himself with many social interests. He was Vice President of the Colombo Y.M.C.A and the Jaffna College Board. He is a versatile public speaker, broadcaster and community leader. He took a leading interest in the Ceylon Tamil Association of Victoria, of which he was President and later Patron. He was alo Chairman of the Australian Federation of Tamil Associations
He married Ranee daughter of Rev. John and Rose Handy and has five children: Dhamayanthi, Ratna, Anandhi Renuka, and Tamara.
He has contributed several articles on Mathematics and Mathematical Physics to journals. He has also published a book on Vector Analysis 1963, a book on Statistics 1964, and another book on Mechanics for Year Eleven (with J.G. Barton) 1988.
The Sri Lankan Tamils are proud of his achievements and so is his old School Hartley College, Pt.Pedro.
M.Esurupadham 1899-1989 J.P.U.M Crown Proctor
Esurupadham, son of V.Murugappar, was born on 27th March 1899, in an orthodox Hindu family in Puloly, Pt. Pedro. He was the youngest of three sons.
He was educated at Hartley College Pt. Pedro and entered Law College from where he passed out as a Proctor in 1925.
He rapidly became a prominent lawyer, both in the Civil and the Criminal Courts, and was Crown Proctor 1940-1960. He acted as Judge, in both the Magistrate's and the District

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Court, on several occasions. He retired from active work in 1986 at the age of 87.
It has been said that he was truly a giant among lawyers, both physically and intellectually. Besides being a great lawyer, he was also a great Hindu philanthropist. He, along with others, founded and managed the Vadamaradchy Hindu Ladies College ably for a decade. He managed other Hindu Schools and was also a benefactor to Hindu temples
Esurapadham married Sakuntalai,
daughter of Advocate N.Ponniah, in 1927 and had two sons: Mahesan, Chartered Accountant and Devadas Chief Officer in the Shipping Field and four daughters: Maheswari who is married to M.Kanagasegaram Registrar Point Pedro Courts, Kamala who died early, Leela Principal Methodist Girls' High School Point Pedro and is married to T.Sandrasegaram A.G.A, and Soundram, a teacher who is married to V. Kumaraswamy Asst. Commissioner of Examinations.
Periya Pillai Ethirmanasingham, King of Jaffna 1591-1615 Pararajasekaran VII.
King Ethirmanasingham occupied the throne of the Jaffna Kingdom, with the epithet title of Pararajasekaran VII, during the years 1591-1615, under the aegis of the Portuguese power in Jaffna. He was the son of Periya Pillai. After years of internal dissension, peace was restored in the Tamil Kingdom by the Portuguese; they also placed Ethirmanasingham on the throne. He was given Portuguese troops for his protection.
So the King experienced a quieter period of regime than his predecessors. He maintained cordial relationship with the Portuguese, supporting them, at least outwardly.
His sister was named Princess Dona Maria and his two Queens, as Dona Clara and Dona Antonia. His three children were named Princess Dona Isabel, Princess Dona Maria and Prince Don Constantino.
"Kailaya Malai' the ancient Chronicle of Jaffna, was written by Mutturaser during this regime. It is the earliest work on Jaffna history. When he died, his young son the Crown
Prince, was only three years old. So his relative Arasakesari was appointed Regent.
S.U.Ethirmanasingham M.P for Paddiruppu, Batticaloa
1947 ፌ 1956.
S.U.Ethirmanasingham was a resident of Paddiruppu, Batticaloa District South. He was educated at St. Mary's College and Lee High School, Kalmunai.
He held several posts even at an early age. He was an Inspector of milk feeding centres for sometime. After other occupations, Ethirmanasingham took to commerce and became a very successful businessman.
He first entered Parliament, when he contested the Paddiruppu seat as an Independent candidate in the 1947 General Elections. He however lost his seat in the next General Elections held in 1952, when he contested as an U.N.P candidate. He regained the seat in 1956, when he contested as an Independent candidate.
G
Sri B. Ganapathy Iyer 1709-1784. Tamil Scholar:
Ganapathy Iyer lived in Vaddukkoddai, Jaffna. His father Balakrishna Iyer migrated from Kanjepuram India and settled down in Vaddukkoddai.
Ganapathy Iyer was a learned person. He was well conversant in composing dramatic works. Among his works are Sundari or Vaalapiman Drama, Waitilinga Kuravanji etc. He also composed verses in praise of the Ambal installed in Meddu Pathirakali Amman Temple at Vaddukoddai. His verses are recited there,
cVe OW.
He remained a bachelor and lived to a ripe old age.

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Brahma Sri C.Ganesa Iyer 1878-1958 Vidvan., Vidvasironmani . Eminent Tamil Scholar.
Ganesa Iyer, son of Chinniah Iyer, was born on 28th June 1878 in Punnalai Kadduvan, Jaffna. He received his early education at the Saiva Vidyalayam in Punnalai Kadduvan.
In order to pursue higher studies in Tamil and Sanskrit, he proceeded to Vannarpannai and obtained tuition from Vidvasironmani Ponnambalam Pillai. He was also fortunate to receive guidance from A.Kumaraswamy Pulavar of Chunnakam and other eminent scholars.
On completion of his studies, he accepted the post of Headmaster of the Saiva School at Nainativu. Later he was Headmaster of the Saiva School at Malakam, for about five years.
He was then appointed Manager of the Tamil Schools organised by the Arya-Dravida Languages Society under the General Management of T.Sathasiva lyer*, for eight years from 1921.
In 1938 his well wishers observed his 60th birthday with great celebrations in Jaffna, when he was the recipient of several valuable presentations .
On retirement he spent his years in writing books, which are valuable contributions to Tamil literature. In 1952, he was honoured with the title of “Vidvasironmani'. He passed away in 1958.
Among his works (all in Tamil) are:- “Ee la naddu Pulayar Sari thiram ”. “Kumaraswamy Pulawar Sarithiram”, “Raguvamsam urai”, “Tholkapiyam urai”.
Sir Chittampalam.A.Gardiner Papal Knight., Business Magnate., Senator 1947.
The Gardiners were originally from Achchuvely and Manipay in Jaffna, later, they lived in Colombo.
Chevalier Chittampalam Abraham Gardiner was a Law student when he became interested in business ventures. Eventually he became an outstanding business man of Colombo. He was in control of several prominent
business establishments in the Island. Besides being the pioneer Cinema promoter in the country, he held interests in other undertakings including Cargills and Millers. His most successful venture was The Ceylon Theatres Ltd., by which he is remembered today. The concern holds interests all over Ceylon.
He was a keen Rotarian and helped many and also made generous endowments to charitable organisations.
In recognition of his valuable services to the Roman Catholic Church, he was made a Knight of St. Sylvester by the Pope in 1947. He was appointed to the Senate, the Upper House of the Parliament, in 1947.
He was also a keen race-horse owner and his horse won the much coveted Governor's Cup in 1947.
He continued to be a prominent Business Magnate in the Island until his demise.
An important road in the city of Colombo, has been named "Sir C.A.Gardiner Mawata', in his honour.
A.Y.S.Gnanam 1922
Desamanya Colombo Businessman.
Arulanandam Yesu vadian Samuel Gnanam, born on 5th May 1922, is the son of Arulanandam Yesuvadian and Coilpillai Ammal of Thirunelveli, S.India. He came to Sri Lanka early in life. After his elementary education, he commenced his business career employed in a shop and then in grocery shops owned by his father. -
He then started his own business of second hand hardware items. The business flourished and very soon he was able to establish a Hardware Stores. The business expanded further when he commenced importing building materials. He then launched into production.
Today he is the Governing Director of: St.Anthony's Industries Group, St. Anthony's Consolidated Ltd., Sascon Knitting Co, Chairman of: Tokyo Cement Co (Lanka), and Chairman/Managing Director of six other industrial undertakings, employing over eight thousand personnel.
Gnanam married Emy, daughter of

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S.Ponniah of India in 1948 and has three sons: A.S.G.Gnanam, S.P.Gnanam, and E.J.Gnanam
and three daughters: Mrs. Sarogini Chandrakumar, Mrs. Jansi Boaz and Mrs.Christine Anand.
Among his many contributions to charity and the welfare of the community are scholarships for underprivileged students and the housing project at Yatinuwara. He was the first Tamil to be awarded the Desabandu in 1986 and the first person to be appointed to the GCEC, now BOI.
Rev. Father S.Gnanapiragasar 1875-1947 O.M.I., Missionary, Research Scholar
& Historian
Rev. Father S.Gnanapiragasar, was born on 30th August 1875, in Manipay, Jaffna. His father Rajasingham Swaminathan, a Hindu, was the fifth descendant of Puvirajasingam of Manipay and was Manager of the Velakkai Pillaiyar Temple. His mother Thangamuthu was the eldest daughter of Gardiner Sittampalam, son of Vairamuthu Vidanayar.
Known as Vaithilingam in his early days, he lost his father when he was young; his mother then married Thambimuttu Pillai, a Roman Catholic from Achchuvely. In the changes that ensued, Vaithilingam adopted the Roman Catholic faith and the name of “Gnanapiragasar”.
Gnanapiragasar, the youth, studied Bookkeeping and joined the Railway Telegraph Service. Whilst there, he met Rev. Father Charles, who impressed him so much that he resigned the Railway Service in 1895 and dedicated himself to the service of the Church. He was ordained a Priest on 1st December 1901. and commenced a new chapter in his life.
He went to Nallur in 1904, where he embarked on his new missionary activity, with Zealand enthusiasm. Many persons, estimated at about three thousand, were reported to have been converted. In the course of his activity he fell out with the stalwarts of other faiths and long controversies ensued. There were several publications from both sides.
He was a great scholar. His knowledge
of Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy were his assets.The study of Jaffna History was one of his special subjects.
The valuable work he did was research regarding the antiquity of the Tamil language. He held the view that Tamil was the earliest human speech and that all other languages were derived from the Tamil language. Philology and Linguistics were his forte. Through these he argued that Indo-European languages were offspring of the Dravidian family, the parent of which is Tamil. Unfortunately, the "Etymological and Comparative Lexicon of the Tamil language', over which he was labouring hard, was never completed.
He collected valuable manuscripts and old coins from many sources and became an authority on these. He contributed several articles on his favourite subjects History and Ethnology, to learned Societies and select Journals.
He produced several publications, some of which are of great historical value. Among his writings, some of them in Tamil, are:- Sources of the Yalpana Vaipava Malai., 1935, Forgotten coinage of the Jaffna Kings, The Kings of Jaffna during the Portuguese period, Yalpana Vaipava Vimosanam (Tamil), Tamils and Ceylon, History of the Catholic Church in Ceylon, Sources for the study of the History of Jaffna, Tamil Culture.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value 50cts., on 22nd May 1981.
Gnanapragasaswamy
... 1616.
Muni var
Gnanapragasam was a well to do person of high culture who lived in Thirunelveli Jaffna in about the year 1616. He was a descendant of the ancient Mudaliyars and was held in high respect by the people.
During those days, it was obligatory for well to do residents in Jaffna to offer, in turn, cattle for slaughter to the Portuguese Officials. As this act was repugnant to his conscience and as he resented this inquisitional exaction, he preferred to give away all his establishments in

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Jaffna, leave the country and settle down in Chidambaram, a foremost pilgrim centre in South India.
There he spent his time in the study of the sacred books and shastras of the Hindus. He was invested with the robes of a sannyasin and eventually became the head of a religious "Atheenam' (Institution).
He published translations of some of the sacred books found only in Sanskrit and wrote on Saiva Siddhantha philosophy, etc.
Even today a sacred "Theertham' tank in Chidambaram bears his name as a tribute to the contributions he made to religious literature.
C.Gnanasekaram 1861-..... Chief Shroff, National Bank
Gnanasekaram son of esteemed "Shrapper" Chief Shroff Cathiravetpillai', was born in 1861.
He had his education at S.Thomas College, Colombo and like his father took to Banking. In 1879 he worked in the Oriental Bank, Kandy. He then assisted his father for some years in Colombo; afterwards he joined the National Bank of India where he was eventually the Chief Shroff.
He was a popular person and a keen member of the Turf Club.
S.Gopalapillai 1898-1975 Leading Textile Businessman, Bandarawela - “SG VNT'”.
Gopalapillai, born 29th December 1898, was the son of Sithamparapillai Suppiah and Ponnammah. He received his education at Jaffna Hindu College and early in life, in 1919, ventured on textile business at Bandarawela.
As business flourished, wholesale distribution, and chain retail outlets in Bandarawela, Namunukala, and Kayts were undertaken. In addition, he also ventured into a partnership business in Colombo and Madurai in South India, under the name of KRRMG. Ramasamypillai & Co. Diversifying his activities to plantation, he became the owner of the Waradola Tea & Rubber Estate at Passara.
He was an uncontested member of the Bandarawela Urban Council 1940-1952, and founder member and Trustee of the Subramaniya Swamy Kovil at Bandarawela. He passed away on 22nd March 1975, at the age of 77.
Gopalapillai married Rasammah, daughter of V.Eliyathamby of Kottiyagala and had four children: Kulasegaram who died in 1990, Nadarajah alias Thambiaiyah, Mrs.Maragatham Gnaneswaran, and Mahendran alias Sivalingam.
Dr.Samuel F. Green 1822-..... "Medical Evangelist to the Tamils'.
Samuel Fiske Green, born on 10th October 1822, was the son of William E. Green of “Green Hill' in America. He completed his course of medical studies at the New York College of Physicians and Surgeons, and decided to come to Jaffna as a medical missionary.
After taking leave from his parents and friends, he set sail from Boston in 1847 and reached Madras after sailing for over four months. From there he reached Point Pedro in Jaffna, in October 1847.
After spending a few months at the Batticotta Seminary at Vaddukoddai, he settled down at Manipay and commenced his medical missionary work. Besides treating patients, he was very keen on imparting medical training and producing a physician for every ten thousand persons in Jaffna. Carefully selecting persons who would serve the community after their training, he proceeded to give them medical training at his Tamil Medium Medical College at Manipay. He studied Tamil and with the help of the students translated and published more than fifteen volumes of medical text books. Among those who completed their training were Dr. Daniel, Dr. W.Chapman., Dr.J.A.Evarts and a few others. Eventually, he retired and returned to America to spend his last years.
His Tamil Medical College at Manipay had to close down when Government commenced a Medical College with tuition in English in Colombo, in 1870.
His medical establishment however remains today in Manipay as a leading medical

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institution in the North, known as the “Green Memorial Hospital'.
He gave his best to the Jaffna folks and all that he desired was to be remembered as "Medical evangelist to the Tamils".
S.Guhaprakasam 1915-1984 Deputy Superintendent of Stores
Guhaprakasam, born on 5th October 1915, was the son of Saravana muttu of Varuttalaivilan, Tellipallai Jaffna.
He entered the Govt. Clerical Service in 1935. By his diligence and attainments, he rose rapidly to higher positions in the Department of Govt.Stores .
Eventually he functioned as Deputy Superintendent of Stores in 1957. In 1961, he was appointed Asst. Controller of Finance in the Treasury.
After his retirement, he had assignments with the U.N.I.C.E.F from 1963 to 1979, in Madras and New Delhi. He passed away in 1984. Guhaprakasam married Miss Sellathurai.
F.H.V Gulaseharam 1888 - ..... M.A (Madras) Maths Professor & Registrar Ceylon University College.
Francis Henry Vinasithamby Gulaseharam, born 8th December 1888, was from Kodikamam Jaffna...
After his School education, he obtained the Master's Degree in Mathematics at the Madras University. He was then a teacher at St.John's College Jaffna.
In 1919, he was appointed to the tutorial staff of Royal College Colombo. After functioning there for three years, he was appointed Lecturer in Mathematics at the newly commenced Ceylon University College in Colombo in 1922.
He functioned as Registrar in addition to his duties, from 1927. Later he functioned as Professor of Mathematics.
He married Meignanam Hensman and had a large family of seven sons and four daughters. His eldest son Charles, was an Asst. Commissioner of Income Tax and popular Secretary of the Tamil Union. Another son, Dr.Jayam was an excellent jazz pianist.
He published a book on Mathematics, suitable for use by University students.
A.Gunanayagam 1912Sr. Dep. Auditor General., President Ealaththu Thiruneri Thamil Manram
Gunanayagam, born 19th April 1912, is the son of Head Master K. Arumugam B.A, of Araly Vaddukkoddai. He was educated at Jaffna College, from where he passed the London Inter Arts.
After a short spell as teacher, he entered the Postal service in 1935. In 1951 he was appointed an Examiner in the Audit Department, and was promoted to the grade of Superintending Audit in 1958. He was Senior Deputy Auditor General, when he retired in 1972. After retirement, he was Chief Internal Auditor in two State Corporations. While in the Audit Dept. he was responsible for publishing their Annual Report in Tamil and also in establishing a Tamil Literary Association.
Since retirement, he has been actively engaged in many cultural and religious activities. He is the founder President of the Ealaththu Thiruneri Thamil Manram, a body engaged in upholding the tenets of the Hindu Saiva scriptures and Vice President of several leading religious organisations in Colombo.
Besides the above, he has delivered several lectures and Radio talks on religious subjects and on Hinduism in particular. In 1992, the Ministry of Hindu Affairs conferred on him the honour of 'Jnana Sironmani' and draped him with the traditional "Golden Shawl'.
Gunanayagam married Annaranchitham, daughter of Dr.M.Seenivasagam of Uduvil and has four children: Vimalanayagi M.Phil., M.Sc, Research Officer, married to (late) Shanmuganathan Accountant, Thillainayagi, Translator, married to Civil Engineer V. Kengatharan, Siddharthan Gunanayagam an Accountant, and Yoganayagi

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married to A.Chandra Kumar of Canada.
K.Gunaratnam 1917-1989 Pioneer Film Producer & Prominent Businessman
Kanagasabai Gunaratnam, Pioneer Film Producer and Chairman of several Companies, was born on 30th July 1917 in Athiyadi. His ancestors were from Nallur, Jaffna.
Starting from humble beginnings in the Cinema industry, he rapidly achieved a leading position. When the production of Sinhala Films ceased in India, he boldly pioneered a Film Production studio in Ceylon and made a success of the venture. He is said to have produced over twenty five Sinhala films during the first few years of operation. What is more, Cinemas were organised all over the Island for showing the films. With all these activities he became popularly known as "Cinemas Gunaratnam'.
He did not stop with the film industry, but rapidly embarked on a variety of ventures . He diversified into other industries. He pioneered the corrugated carton industry and the manufacture of the ball point pen. The'K.G' fountain pens produced in his factory soon became popular with students all over the country. The plastic wares industry was a field in which he excelled. The production of asbestos cement corrugated sheets was another of his lucrative undertakings.
Eventually he was associated with the following:- As Chairman:. Cinemas Ltd., K.G Group of Companies, Fuji Graphics Ceylon Ltd. and Photo Kina Ltd.
As Managing Director: Cine Sounds Sales and Services Ltd., Union Carbide Ceylon Ltd., Asbestos Cement Industries Ltd., Alhambra Hotels Ltd. and United Spinning and Weaving Mills.
Besides the above, he was a Director of several others. He passed away under tragic circumstances on 9th August 1989.
R.J.Gunaratnam, 1924 - Partner "Saree Emporium ", Chairman "Ceyma Silk Industries
Ltd.',
Partner "Silver Star Industries'.
Ramanathan Jesuthasan Guna- ratnam, born on 20th March 1924, is the son of Murugesu Richard Ramanathan, a veteran School Master of Punguduthivu.
Young "Gunam', as he is familiarly
called, was educated at Jaffna College, where he passed the S.S.C. in 1942. Entering the Postal Service, he functioned as Postmaster and Signaller for eight years, working in Colombo, Bandarawela and Beliatta. He was a keen member of his Trade Union.
Relinquishing that post in 1951, he succeeded his brother-in-law and became Chairman of textile business R.Vythialingam Ltd. of Badulla. The “Saree Emporium', a textile business in Jaffna, was established in 1958. Commencing the manufacture of silk sarees, a silk saree handloom weaving unit was set up in Thirunelveli. In 1965, he pioneered the first power loom Textile Mill in the North under the name of Ceyma Silk Industries Ltd. and worked to optimum production. "Silver Star Industries', the first Stainless Steel industry, manufacturing domestic utensils, was established at Kokkuvil by Gunam and two of his friends, in 1977.
He was President of the North Ceylon
Chamber of Industries. He was a member of the Jaffna Rotary Club for over 25 years, its President for 1977 and 1985, and the recipient of special honours.
Gunaratnam married Thangaranee daughter of Rev.N.Kathiravelu and has two sons: Roshan who is an Accountant and Niranjan M.B.A working in U.K., and a daughter Chrishanthy, who is married to Dr. Paramanathan.
S.J.Gunasekaram
1901-.... 8. B.A(Hons)., M.A Philosophy (Lond), Education Officer.
Samuel Jayanayagam Gunasekaram , born on 21st March 1901, was from Nallur Jaffna. His father and K.Nesiah's father were brothers.
Gunasekaram studied at St. John's College Jaffna and afterwards graduated with

59.
Honours in Philosophy. He was a lecturer at his old College for some time and was later appointed Principal of St.Thomas College, Matara.
He however joined Govt. service soon after and functioned as Inspector of Schools in 1936. Rising higher in the service he was Divisional Inspector of Schools and later Education Officer in 1941. On his retirement from Govt. service, he taught at S.Thomas College, Mt.Lavinia.
S.J.Gunasekaram had, during his active days, identified himself with activities related to the well being of the Tamils and the development of their language. He was a scholar who had published articles on Tamil Civilisation in South East Asia and other subjects in Ceylon History. His contribution on 'Early Tamil Cultural Influences in South East Asia”, appeared in Rev. X.S.Thani Nayagam's Journal "Tamil Culture' in 1957.
He married Malar Arulpiragasam and had an only daughter Vijeyadevi, who was married to Prof.George Thambyahpillay of the University of Ceylon and later of University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.
H
Dr.S.Hallock ....-1912.
Popular Medical Doctor.
Dr.Saravanamuttu Hallock was from a leading family in Manipay.
Entering Government Service, he worked at several stations. He was always a popular personality, who interested himself in the social welfare of his patients. He is also said to have contributed largely to religious and charitable undertakings.
He passed away on 27th July 1912. Dr.S. Hallock married Annapoorani Ammal, daughter of Overseer Chellapah from Sandilippai. Mrs. Hallock continued the good
work of her husband and won the praise of many. She passed away in 1920.
Rev.C.C.Handy.... - 1908. B.A Calcutta.
Rev. Charles Chelliah Handy was a son of Rev.J.P. Handy of Nallur Jaffna.
He was ordained in May 1891, the year when the “Chundikuli Seminary” was given the present name of St.John's College.
He served the new College as Headmaster for nineteen years. During that time, he was responsible for building up St.John's in its early stages. He is said to have worked very hard for the growth and development of the institution. The welfare of the people and that of the students was always his foremost concern. He passed away in 1908.
As a tribute to his memory, the School Library was named after him.
His eldest son Rev. J.T.N. Handy held legal and Civil Service appointments in Malaya. Returning to Ceylon on retirement, he was Secretary of the Colombo Diocese and acted as the Vicar of Christ Church Jaffna.
Dr.G.R.Handy O.B.E 1902- .... . L.M.S., M.D., M.R.C.P (Lond)
George Rajanayagam Handy was born
in Jaffna on 29th October 1902.
After a very successful school career, he joined the Ceylon Medical College and passed out as a Doctor, winning several distinctions and medals.
He entered the Govt. Medical Department and was House Surgeon at Kandy Hospital in 1928. Thereafter he was Medical Officer at se veral stations and became Asst. Senior Physician at the General Hospital Colombo in 1948. He functioned as Visiting Physician in 1952
Dr. Handy fast built up a reputation as an outstanding Physician, specialising in heart ailments.
He married Kanmani, daughter of Crown Proctor Strong of Puttalam and had two sons: Dr. John and Prof. Arjuna and a daughter Sri

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kanthie.
J.M.Hensman 1849-.... . B.A., Fellow of Madras University, Principal, Kumbakonam College.
James Muthiah Hensman, born on 24th November 1849 in Jaffna, was the fifth of eight sons of Rev. John and Hannah Hensman of the C.M.S., Kopay.
He was educated at the Chundi kuli Seminary Jaffna and later in Madras. He graduated from the Madras University.
Entering the Madras Presidency Service as an Educational Assistant in 1870, he rose to be Headmaster of several Schools in India and later Principal of Kumbakonam College.
When he retired and came to Jaffna in 1904, he was chosen as the first President of the Jaffna Association.
He married a daughter of Mudaliyar E.R.Arasaretnam and had three sons and two daughters.
Srinivasa Sastri and Swaminatha Iyer, who were later men of eminence in India, were among his pupils, when J.M. Hensman was Professor of English and Principal of Kumbakonam College. Sastri's powers of oratory brought him fame and he was later a Privy Councillor. On his way to Australia in about the year 1934, Srinivasa Sastri broke journey in Colombo and travelled all the way to Jaffna to pay homage to his one-time "Guru', at Sandilippai, who was then in his 80's.
Rev.-John Hensman 1818-1884. First Tamil Anglican Clergyman Ordained in Ceylon.
Rev. Murugesar John Hensman, son of Naganathan and Chinnachie, was from Irupalai, Jaffna.
Early in his life, he was able to get a post in Colombo, under Rev.J.Marsh, Principal of the Colombo Academy (now Royal College). Later, he went to Jaffna as Head Teacher of the Nallur Seminary, in 1838.
In 1842, he was appointed Catechist in Chundikuli. He moved to Kopay in 1844 and assisted in building a Church there.The Kopay Church was completed and dedicated in 1851. He carried on his work as Catechist till 1863. He was made a Deacon in 1863. In 1865, he was ordained at the Nallur Church, becoming the first Anglican Tamil Clergyman, after forty five years of devoted service.
As the first Tamil Minister, he carried out very active evangelical, educational and social work, visiting the neighbouring villages Urumpirai, Urelu, etc. He passed away in 1884. Rev. J. Hensman married Hannah, daughter of Mathew Phillips and one of the earliest students of Uduvil Girls School. She was the second daughter of M.Phillips, the first Catechist of the C.M.S in Jaffna, and had eight sons and four daughters. The four sons Charles, Samuel, James and Edward proceeded to South India, one after another, graduated at the Madras University and received employment.
Of the four daughters, Elizabeth was
married to Rev. D. P. Niles, Pakkiam to Rev. W. P.S. Nathaniel, Gnanammah to R. Vethawanam and Paripooranam ίΟ
Chinnappah.
S.Illayathamby 1897-1988 Proctor, J.P.U.M.
Illayathamby, born on 17th December 1897, was the son of N.Seenivasagam and Kathirasipillai of Alaveddi. He had his education at Jaffna Hindu and Ananda College Colombo, and commenced teaching in 1918.
He then entered Law College, and passed out as a Proctor in 1925. He had wide practice, eventually stuck to civil cases and appeared in the Jaffna and Mallakam Courts. He was hardworking and thorough with a firm sense of duty to his clients. He led a well

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disciplined life in all his activities.
He was one of the original members of the All Ceylon Tamil Congress and continued being their spokesman for the welfare of the Tamils. He was honoured by being appointed Justice of the Peace and Unofficial Magistrate in 1954. He celebrated his 50 years of practice in 1975. Ten years later, the Bar at Mallakam celebrated his 60 years of practice, on which occasion, he donated many law books to the Bar library. He passed away in 1988, at the age of 91.
Illayathamby married Kanageswary, daughter of A.Rasiah of Sandilipai, who was Chief Clerk in F.M.S., and had eleven children: Kamalambikai who died young, Mankayatkarasi Thuraisingam B.A. Dr. Mahendran, Thilagavathy Yogaretnam, Savithiri Nadesan, Srinivasan Solicitor London, Rajeswari Sithamparanathan, Jeyaledchumy Thillainathan, Ravikulan, Kaumathi Baskaran and Ilankovan B.Sc (Double Hons).
Dr. K. Indrapala 1938 - B.A (Hons)., Ph.D (Lond).
Dr.K.Indrapala, Historian,
Archaeologist and Epigraphist, born 22nd October 1938, is the son of K.Karthigesu Malayan Pensioner and Kanakambikai Ambal, from Vaddukoddai.
After completing his school education at Jaffna College, he entered the University of Ceylon Peradeniya in 1956 and graduated in Ancient History with First Class Honours. Developing an interest in Epigraphy, he studied Tamil and other inscriptions and was trained in archaeological excavations.
In 1960, he was appointed to the staff of the Dept. of History at the University and commenced his research on the History of the Tamils in Sri Lanka, especially Tamil Inscriptions. Proceeding to London, as a scholar, he obtained his doctorate with a thesis on "Dravidian Settlements in Ceylon and the beginnings of the Jaffna Kingdom”. Returning to Peradeniya in 1966, he continued his research in Tamil Epigraphy and went for further training in epigraphy at Mysore, in India.
During 1966-1974, he explored the
jungles of N.P. N.C.P and E.P. and brought to light many new Tamil inscriptions, which yielded valuable information about lost Hindu temples, in these areas. The Jaffna Archaeological Society was founded in 1970 and the first part of Epigraphia Tamilica was also published.
In 1974, he accepted the post of Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, at the newly commenced Jaffna Campus and later the post of Foundation Professor of History, when a University was established there. In 1976, he spent a year at the Tokyo University in Japan, as a visiting Professor, on a Foundation Fellowship. He was responsible for setting up undergraduate courses in archaeology and epigraphy and an Archaeological Museum at the Jaffna University . Archaeological exploration of the Jaffna Peninsula was also commenced then. In 1980, a very valuable pre-Christian burial site was discovered at Anaikoddai, in which was found a steatite seal with an inscription in Brahmi and in characters akin to the Indus symbols. He was then functioning as Dean of the Faculty of Arts. In 1984, he left Jaffna and proceeded to the new Tamil University in Thanjavur, from where he migrated to Sydney, Australia.
Dr. Indrapala married Priyadarshani, daughter of C.Somasunderam of Navaly in 1967 and has two daughters, Harini and Dharini, both University students.
Professor Indrapala has contributed valuable articles of historical research, some of which are:
"An inscription of the 10th year of Cola Lankeswara Deva from Kantalai”, “A Tamil Inscription from Nilaveli Trincomalee District", and "Dravidian Architecture in Ceylon' 1970.
Iyampilai Udaiyar c.18th century. Ancestor of the Hensmans.
Iyampillai was Udaiyar (Headman) of Velanai. His son Sethu Maha Devar held the post of Udaiyar later. Devar's son was Naga Maniyar, and Maniyar’s son Murugesu was a Minister of the Anglican Church at Kopay; he was the first to adopt the name of Hensman.
His sons distinguished themselves in various fields of activity and professions.

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Charles Hensman B. A was a Proctor in Chavakachcheri; he married the elder daughter of Rev.TPonniah Hunt.
Alfred Hensman was a well known lawyer.
Samuel Hensman was a longtime school master at Jaffna College.
James Hensman was Principal of Kumbakonam. College.
Edward Hensman was a High Official in Madras.
Ponniah Hensman also held a similar position.
Raja Hensman functioned in the G.P.O., Colombo.
It would be of interest to trace the progress of their progeny.
T.T.Jayaratnam J.P 1913-1976. School Principal
Jayaratnam, born on 13th October 1913, was the son of Pavalar T.A.Thuraiappa Pillai*. He was educated at the Tellippalai Mahajana English High School, founded by his father. He then continued at Jaffna Hindu College, from where he Matriculated in 1930.
He commenced his teaching career at his father's School in 1932. He passed the London B.A. Examination in 1942.
He was appointed Principal of the School in 1945 and worked very hard for its progress. The School was named Mahajana College and was upgraded to Grade I in 1949 and to Supra Grade in 1960. The number of students on the roll increased steadily from 180 in 1932 to 1800 in 1970, when he retired.
Jayaratnam was Secretary of the Northern Province Teachers Association in 1946, and its President in 1949; he was President of the Tellippalai Co-operative Hospitals 1953-55, President of the Jaffna School Sports Association
1962, President of the Durga Devi Temple Management Committee 1966-76, and Secretary of the All Ceylon Head Masters Conference 1964. He passed away on 29th October 1976.
He married Raniratnam in 1945 and had a Son Jayakumaran, and two daughters: Jayabavani and Jayavarni.
Jayaweera Singai Aryan King of Jaffna 1380-1410 Segarajasekaran V.
Jayaweera Singai Aryan assumed the throne at Nallur as King of the Jaffna Kingdom at a young age, on the demise of his father Virothaya Singai Aryan. At that time the Jaffna Kingdom was very powerful, stretching as far as Puttalam in the West, Trincomalee in the East and including the seven Vanni Districts inland. He protected his Kingdom from enemies and achieved great fame. It is said that he defeated the Kandyan King who went to war with him because of the pearl fisheries.
Rt.Rev.Dr.S.Jebanesan 1940 - BA(Cey) MAs Madurai), M.Phil(Peradeniya), BD(Ser), Ph.D(Jaffna), Dip in Ed. Bishop, Jaffna Diocese C.S.I.
Jebanesan, born 1940, is the son of N. Subramaniam and Kanagammah. of Chavakachcheri. He had his early education at Drieberg College Chavakachcheri and at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai.
After his educational career he commenced teaching at St.Anthony's College, Kandy in 1962. He then became a school master at Jaffna College, Vaddukoddai, where, he later functioned as Co-Vice Principal and was then appointed Principal in 1988.
He has been appointed Bishop of the Jaffna Diocese, Church of South India, from 1993.
Rt.Rev.Dr.S.Jebanesan is a Member of the Jaffna University Council and has been honoured with the title of "Arul Kalaignar', by

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the World Christian Tamil Conference held in Madras.
He married Vimala, daughter of Rajakulendran, former M.P for Nawalapitiya and has two daughters: Nirmalene and Seethanjalie.
Prof.W.L.Jeyasingham 1916-1989. B.Sc (Lond)., M.A, Ph.D (Mass). Professor of Geography.
William Luther Jeyasingham was born on 7th January 1916. His father belonged to the Luther family of Nallur and mother to the Emmersons of Erlalai.
He was educated at St.Patrick's College, Jaffna and at St.Joseph's Colombo. He passed the Cambridge Junior Examination with Honours and Matriculated in 1933. He graduated in Mathematics and Geography in 1939, from the University of Ceylon, Colombo.
He was a teacher at Jaffna College from 1940. He was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to Clark University Mass. He obtained his Doctorate in Geography in 1958, with a thesis on Urban Geography of Jaffna.
He continued at Jaffna College as Head of the Social Sciences Department and was President of the College 1965-1974. Later, he functioned as Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Geography and Dean of the Faculty of Arts, at the Jaffna University foreight years.
Professor Jeyasingham held a leading position in many religious and social institutions in Sri Lanka. He commenced living in the States from 1984, till his demise in December 1989.
He married Sarah Pushpam Mills and had four sons: L.J.Jeyasingham of Melbourne, W.K.L of London, B.I.L of Toronto and Dr.S.T.L of Newark and a daughter Chandra Amarasingam.
Daniel M.Joseph J.P. 1850-..... Commission Agent & Proprietary Planter, Matale.
Daniel Moothathamby Joseph, born in Jaffna in 1850, was the son of Moothathamby
Joseph and grandson of Maniyagar Mudaliyar Suppiramaniam.
He was educated at St.John's College and was in Government service, serving at Batticaloa from 1869. In 1884, he moved on to Matale. Commencing as Commission Agent, he took to planting cocoa and coconuts in Matale and very soon became the proprietor of two estates.
As a successful planter, he was a Life Member of the Matale District Planters Association, Member of the Matale Local Board 1887-1915, and member of the Planters Association of Ceylon. He was appointed a J.P by the Government in 1903.
Joseph married Thangammah, daughter of Mudaliyar R.Arasaretnam of Sandilippai in 1880 and on her demise married her sister Ponnammah in 1904. He had six sons and two daughters.
James Joseph c 1880-..... Advocate, Dist.Judge
Advocate James Joseph, an esteemed lawyer, was from Suthumalai in Jaffna.
He had a lucrative practice at the Colombo Bar and won highesteem. He was then appointed a District Judge.
He married Lydia, daughter of Proctor Saturukulasinghe. His son Andrew Joseph, held high positions in the Ceylon Civil Service and later had assignments with the United Nations Organisation.
J.H.Rasiah Joseph 1878-1932. Proctor, Colombo.
John Houland Rasiah Joseph, born in 1878, was the son of H.Joseph who was earlier known as Vengadachalam Narayanaswamy of Punguduthivu.
He had his education at Jaffna College. He then qualified as a Proctor. and practised in Colombo.
J.H.Rasiah Joseph was an active Anglican layman and was highly respected.
He married Dorothy Sinnammah

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Williams, daughter of M. Williams, Town Overseer Jaffna and had three sons: Sam Joseph who was a Proctor, Paul Joseph, Vice Principal Christian College Kotte and David Joseph, a School Master and Lawyer. He also had five daughters: Rajadevi who was married to K. G. Canagaratnam Vice Principal Central College Kotahena, Pushpadevi who is an Attorney at Law, Mahadevi who was married to Arulvasakan, Pathmadevian Asst.Commissioner of Social Services who was married to Arumugampillai School Master, and Athipadadevi who was married to Moomin
K
S.Kadirkamanathan 1930-1986 B.Sc (Ceylon)., C.C.S
S.Kadirkamanathan, brother of S. Sittampalam Commissioner of Inland Revenue, was the son of Sangarapillai of Mallakam, who was working in Burma at one time. He was born on 13th January 1930 and had his early education at Skanda Varothaya College Jaffna and later at S.Thomas' College Mt. Lavinia.
Entering the Colombo University, he graduated in Mathematics and worked in the Department of Inland Revenue for a short time. In 1953, he entered the Ceylon Civil Service and worked at many stations, holding several positions. He was A.G.A at Hambantota, at Batticaloa in 1958 and at Mannar for some time. Eventually he was appointed to higher posts in the General Treasury, Colombo. He passed away after a brief illness, on 6th September 1986.
He married Vethiyapathi, daughter of District Judge C.Thanabalasingam, and had four sons: Siriharan who is a Doctor, Mahapathy, Visakan, and Jananathan who are Computer Engineers, and two daughters, Aparana an Accountant and Vasulka an Engineer.
M.Kadirgamar c 1930-1986 Banker
Manoharan Kadirgamar, son of Gordon Kadirgamar was a nephew of S.J.Kadirgamar. He was educated at Jaffna College where he distinguished himself in sports, particularly football and tennis.
He commenced his banking career with the Bank of Ceylon. He was later with Lloyds Bank in the U.K., where he held the post of Manager in the Exports Credit Department.
He was a popular member of the Tamil community in Harrow and was of great assistance to many. He was a member of the executive committee of the Standing Committee of the Tamils. He continued with his enthusiasm for Tennis, until he suffered from a heart attack in 1986. He passed away shortly after.
Kadirgamar married Ranee, a teacher and had a son Ajit, and a daughter Nina, who was married to Harry, a grandson of I.P..Thurairatnam.
S.J.Kadirgamar 1917-1990. Advocate, Q.C.
Samuel Jothinathan Kadirgamar Q.C., born on 9th August 1917, was the eldest son of S.J.C.Kadirgamar Advocate.
He was educated at Royal College Colombo, and following his father's footsteps qualified as an Advocate. He made a name in his profession very soon and was duly made a Queen's Counsel. He passed away on 13th February 1990.
S.J. Kadirgamar married the second daughter of Dr.S.L.Navaratnam and had a son Arjuna and a daughter Sakuntala who was married to II Rajasingam.,
Brahma Sri I.Kailasanatha Kurukkal , c1910-... . Chief High Priest, Nainativu Temple, Head of the Society of Saiva High
Priests.
Sri Kailasanatha Kurukkal was the resident Chief High Priest of the Nagapooshani

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Ambal Temple at Nainativu.
He was a learned person who had a great reputation for being well versed in Hindu Saiva Agamic Sashtras. He was considered an authority on Hindu temple rituals. His services were requested by Temple Trustees for inaugural "Kumba-Abishekam" ceremonies at temples, all over the Island.
He was very popular with the worshippers. His popularity was due to his habit of explaining in simple language the meaning and significance of rituals; he never hesitated to do this whilst performing ceremonies at the temples.
Among the honours conferred on him was “Siva Agama Jnana panu Prathishda Pooshanam". He published books on the ritual practices to be observed in temples and their significance.
His demise in the 1980's was a great loss.
Prof. K. Kailasanatha Kurukkal 1921M.A (Ceylon)., Ph.D (Poona). Emeritus Professor, University of
Jafna.
Prof.K.Kailasanatha Kurukkal, who was Professor of Hindu Civilisation, Jaffna University, is the son of Sri Karthikeya Kurukkal and Sunarambikai of Nallur Jaffna. He was born on 21st August 1921. His father, who is often referred to as Sri Thambiah Kurukkal, was a highly proficient Tamil Scholar, who enjoyed great respect in Nallur.
He had his early education at Parameshwara College Jaffna and proceeding to Colombo obtained his Master of Arts degree from the Ceylon University in 1947. He obtained his Ph.D in 1960; his thesis was on “A study of Agamic Ritual Traditions prevalent in the Saiva Temples of South India".
Kailasanatha Kurukkal was a Lecturer in Sanskritat Peradeniya University 1956-1975. Later he functioned as Professor of Hindu Civilisation and Head of the Department of Hindu Culture 1976-1984, at the Jaffna University.
He has since retired and resides in
Colombo, where he is the Director of Sri Muthuvinayakar Research Institute in Sea St. He is also involved in the management of a “Guru-Kulan', where Vedam and Saiva Traditions are taught to Brahmin children.
Kurukkal married Thiripurasundari, daughter of Sambasiva Iyer of Muneswaram Temple and has a son Sridharan and a daughter Gowri.
K.Kailasapathy 1933-1982. B.A., Ph.D., Tamil Scholar Professor of Tamil, Jaffna University.
K.Kailasapathy or "Kailas', as he was familiarly referred to, was born on 5th April 1933, in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. In his early days he came under the guiding influence of his maternal uncle N.Manicka Idaikkadar, a Tamil scholar and administrator. Kailas developed a firm affection for his mother-tongue in this environment.
Early in 1953, he showed his flair for Tamil language, in his contributions to the quarterly journal "Tamil Osai'. Later as an undergraduate at Peradeniya University, he became proficient as a Tamil scholar under the able guidance of Professors K.Kanapathipillai and V.Chelvanayagam. Professor Vithiananthan, then a young lecturer, guided Kailas in Tamil research.
After graduating, Kailas took to Tamil Journalism and joined Lake House. There he eventually became the Editor-in-Chief of the Tamil Newspaper “Thinakaran" . He was a voracious reader and wrote freely on contemporary subjects. He was there till 1961.
He then commenced his eventful academic career as first President of the Jaffna Campus of the University of Ceylon. He obtained Doctorate from the Birmingham University for his research thesis "Tamil Heroic Poetry" (this was later published by the Oxford Clarendon Press in 1968).
He had a very successful period as Professor of Tamil at the Jaffna University. He made many contributions to select journals, bringing Tamil prose writing very much to the forefront. He edited the Navalar Centenary Volume of 1979. He was an accomplished scholar

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and a versatile speaker. Had he lived long enough, he would eventually have been the ViceChancellor. -
His early death on 6.12.1982, at the age of 49, deprived the Tamil community of a scholar and champion of the Tamil Language.
Father X. S. Thani Nayagam*, the eminent Tamil Scholar, wrote "K. Kailasapathy in his Tamil Heroic Poetry followed earlier suggestions by scholars like G.U.Pope and studied the Puram Cankam poems as reflecting the Tamil heroic age, like the Homeric Poems'. Prof. Kailasapathy married Sarva - mangalam, the eldest daughter of N. Manicka Idaikaddar C.C.S, and had two daughters.
Among his research contributions to various Journals were:- The Tamil Purist movement. A re - evaluation, 1979., Arumuga Navalar; the Central years 1834-1848, 1979, The Impact of the visit of Swami Vivekananda on Hinduism in Sri Lanka, 1980., Arnold Sathasivam Pillai and Tamil Renaissance 1981. He delivered the Punithavathy Tiruchelvam Memorial Lecture, before the Tamil Women's Union at the Kalalya, on The Cultural and Linguistic Consciousness of the Tamil Community in Sri Lanka, in 1982. It has been reprinted as a booklet and is a masterpiece which should be read by every Tamil . Events and processes that have shaped the present cultugal trends of the Tamils are ably analysed.
T. Kailasapillai 1852-1939. Tamil Scholar
Kailasapillai was the son of Thampoo, a brother of Arumuga Navalar, of Nallur Jaffna. He had his early education under Senthinatha Iyer, at the Saiva Pragasa Vidyasalai, Vannarpannai, which was founded by Arumuga Navalar.
He was instrumental in founding the “Saiva Pari Palana Sabai” in 1888, which to this day sponsors the interests of Saiva Hindus. He published several small booklets of educational value for the purpose. He was the Editor of the weekly journal "Inthu Sathanam", for some time.
He ably shouldered the mantle of Navalar, the "Champion Reformer' and continued
Navalar's cultural activities .
Societies were formed for the protection of the Tamil language. Supported by other Tamil scholars A. Mootootamby Pillai* , Kumaraswamy Pulavar and others, a Tamil Academy was established in 1898.
For several years he was the Manager of Kailaya Pillaiyar Temple at Nallur.
T.Kailasapillai 1857-1916. Vidvan., Interpreter Mudaliyar.
Kailasapillai, born in 1857, was the
son of Thiruchittampalam of Nallup, Jaffna. He was educated in both Tamil and English, during his early years.
After working in Government Service for a short time, he proceeded to India and devoted himself to religious studies and Tamil research under eminent scholars. After earning the title of “Vidvan”, he returned to Ceylon, and functioned as Interpreter Mudaliyar in Batticaloa, for some time.
He spent his later years in the study of Sanskrit literature. He is said to have assisted Sir PRamanathan*, and Sir PArunachalam*, in their Sanskrit and Tamil research studies.
V.Kailasapillai 1934B.Sc., F.C.A., J.P Deputy Chairman, John Keells
Holdings.
Kailasapillai, born 4th May 1934, Deputy Chairman John Keells Holdings Ltd., is the son of Kanapathipillai Viswanathar and Parupathiyar of Araly South, Vaddukoddai, Jaffna. He had his early education at Saraswathi Maha Vidyalayam Araly and later at Jaffna Hindu College.
Entering the University of Ceylon, Colombo, he obtained Special Degree in Mathematics with Honours. He chose the accounting profession and fast became a leading Accountant in Management and an entrepreneur.
Early in his career, he joined Colombo Commercial Co., a Sterling Company. In 1973, he joined John Keells Group as Chief Accountant and was appointed Finance Director of John Keells Ltd., in 1974. He then rose to become Deputy Chairman, John Keells Group.

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He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka and has been holding prestigious positions, as VicePresident Institute of Chartered Accountants Sri Lanka, Chairman Colombo Stock Exchange, Member Executive Committee Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, etc.
He has rendered service in the field of education from time to time, as Member of the Council of the Vidyodhaya University, Member of the Kelaniya University, Member of the PostGraduate Institute of Management, etc.
Kailasapillai is now Chairman , Foundation for Skills Development Fund, Member of the Industrialisation Commission, Member of the Industrialisation Council and a member of the Examination Committee of the Institute of Accountants Sri Lanka.
Besides his professional interests, Kailasapillai holds a leading and responsible position in the social and religious organisations of the Tamil Community. He is the President of the All Ceylon Hindu Congress, Chairman, Board of Trustees and a prominent VicePresident of the Thiruketheeswaram Temple Restoration Society, etc.
Kailasapillai married Abiramipillai, daughter of Kailayar Subramaniam . She, herself, is a social worker, involved in social activities, being Committee Member of the Hindu Women's Association, Treasurer Crippled Children's Aid Association, etc. Their son Aravinthan resides with his family in Boston and their daughter Arun thathi is married to Dr.S.Selliah, son of Siva Selliah, Judge of the Appellate Court.
Kalinga Rajan c.15th century Pioneer
Kalinga Rajan was one of the early settlers of Jaffna. He came from Kanjepuram, in India, and colonised the Kaddudai region, in about the 15th century.
K.C.Kamalanathan 1923-1986 Bar at Law - Advocate.
K.C. Kamalanathan, Barrister, was a son
of V. K. Chinniah* landed proprietor and philanthropist of Trincomalee.
After his early education at the local
Hindu College, he was the first student from Trincomalee to enter S.Thomas College Colombo. There he excelled in athletics and sports, captaining the College Soccer Team. Later, he was captain of the Soccer team at the University College Colombo.
In 1945 he proceeded to the U.K to study Law, being the second person to do so from Trincomalee. After being called to the Bar in 1948, he returned to Sri Lanka and was a very successful advocate, appearing in some famous
C8|SCS.
In 1972 he proceeded to the Republic of Zambia on a contract as State Counsel and was promoted as Principal State Counsel in 1978. He then proceeded to Lesotho in 1980, as Senior Crown Counsel and was appointed Principal Crown Prosecutor in 1984. Unfortunately he passed away there in June 1986.
Kamalanathan married Yogeswari, daughter of V.Allirajah a prominent citizen of Trincomalee in 1957, and had four children: Dharshini, Suvendrini, Lokini and Umesh.
S.R.Kanaganayagam 1904-1989 B.A., Advocate., Politician., Senator 1949 & 1951.
Suppiah Ratnasingham Kanaganayagam, born 16th May 1904, was from Sangarathai, Jaffna. He had his early education at the Hindu English School Vaddukoddai and at Victoria College Chulipuram. Later he studied at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai, from where he passed the London Inter Arts Examination. He was an outstanding member of the College Football team.
He then proceeded to the Ceylon University College and obtained the Arts Degree. Choosing the legal profession, he entered the Law College and passed out as an advocate. He commenced practice at the Jaffna Bar and in a short time built up a lucrative practice. Ready wit and lively humour were his assets. He soon became one of the leading lawyers of Jaffna.
He was associated with the Youth

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Congress movement during 1925-1930, and with the Jaffna Association 1933-1937. He was elected President of the Nationalists' Tamil Association. In 1947 he became a working Member of the United National Party. He was appointed to the Senate, first in 1949 and again re-appointed in 1951. He however resigned from the U.N.P later, on the much disputed "language issue'. He joined the Tamil Congress Party and was the President of the Jaffna Branch till his demise.
He made a tour of the U.S.A in 1957, under the exchange of leaders programme of the United States Government.
He was an ardent supporter of the Hindu Board of Education of which he was VicePresident and Director for several years. During his later years, he devoted his time and resources to the organisation and management of the Hindu Orphanage at Thirunelveli.
In recognition of his eminence and services, the University of Jaffna made him a Member of its Senate. Even at eighty, he was active and alert.
In 1984, due to hostilities in Jaffna Town, he shifted his long time First Cross St residence in Jaffna Town, to his birthplace at Sangarathai. Eventually he proceeded to live with his daughter in Australia, from where he passed away in 1989, at the of 85.
He married Satiammah, daughter of his maternal uncle Selvadurai and had a daughter and two sons. His daughter Savitri Devi is married to Dr. A. Balasubramaniam who has established himself well in Australia. Kanaga Iswaran, the elder son, is a leading member of the Colombo Bar and Maheswaran the younger son is engaged in Mercantile Establishment.
K.Kanagarajah 1927J.P., Proprietor: Milk White
Industries Jaffna.
Kanagarajah, born 2nd November 1927, is the son of M.V. Kandiah, who was a pioneer of the soap industry (at cottage level), in Jaffna. He had his education at Kilner College and soon took up his father's industry.
Kanagarajah at first intended to manufacture only a soap cheaper than other
soaps in the market. However, the business flourished and soon became a large manufacturing establishment. Later, the manufacture of other popular items were also undertaken.
The Milk White Industries Factory is situated on KKS Road, Jaffna. The factory staff and workers enjoy exemplary management and social facilities. A monthly journal is published by the management for the educational upliftment of the workers
Besides his preoccupation with the management of the factory, Kanagarajah is a philanthropist and an enthusiastic social worker. He derives immense pleasure in undertaking measures for the conservation of the environment and the wellbeing of the community.
Very extensive and elaborate activities are organised by him to arrest the denudation of the scanty flora in the Jaffna Peninsula. Seeds of popular variety of trees are collected and distributed free, with suitable literature, for planting, in order to encourage growing of shade trees.
Besides the above, nurseries have been established for obtaining seedlings. Young plants of trees of economic value are distributed free to the people for planting.
His great effort deserves grateful appreciation by the community. In recognition of his services, he has been made a Justice of the Peace.
He is a Director of the Hindu Board of Education, and a member of the Palmyrah Development Board and the Governing Body of the Association for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled.
Kanaka Thandikai Kanagarajah Mudaliyar Very Early Settler in Jaffna
Kanagarajah Mudaliyar is reputed to have been one of the eighteen noblemen who settled in the Tellippalai area, during the Pandyan era of Jaffna history.
Swaminathan B.A (Calcutta) of Myliddy has been traced as one of his descendants.
A.Kanagaratnam 1898-1994.

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Ayurvedic Doctor.
Arumugam Kanagaratnam was born in Urelu Jaffna, on 8th March 1898. After his early education, he was one of the few who took to a career in Ayurvedic medicine.
He underwent a course of training at the Madras Ayurvedic College and qualified as a Doctor in Ayurvedic Medicine. He held a leading position as Lecturer in the Ayurvedic Medical College, Colombo, of which he was a great advocate.
Even after his retirement, he was a Consulting Medical Practitioner and an External Examiner in Siddha Medicine, Government College of Ayurveda. He published a very useful book in his field, entitled Siddha Manthuman in 1949.
He was a brother of Dr.A.Visuvalingam, Eye Surgeon, Colombo.
Dr.K.Kanagaratnam 1898-1980 L.M.S., L.R.C.P & S., L.R.F.P & S. D.T.M & H., Medical Superintendent, Colombo Group of Hospitals.
Dr. K. Kanagaratnam of Palam Road Kandarmadam Jaffna was the son of Kathiravelu and Asaipillai. He was born in Jaffna, on 2nd August 1898 and was a brother of Sivasubramaniam and Sabaratnam. He had his early education at the Jaffna Central College, where he was a brilliant student and sportsman, excelling in football. While there, he saved a fellow student from drowning off the Pannai coast. He proceeded to the Medical College Colombo, where he passed out as a Doctor with first class Honours in 1925.
Entering Government service as House Officer in 1925, he held several positions at many stations. He was School Medical Officer Jaffna in 1936, District Medical Officer Pt. Pedro in 1947, Medical Officer Head Quarters in 1949, Etc. He worked hard and for long hours. He was a very capable administrator. In 1952 he was Acting D.M.S Colombo and in 1954 Superintendent Health Services Colombo.
Even after retirement, Dr. Kanagaratnam was ever so solicitous about the health of all around him. He gave free medical treatment and
advice to many and constantly visited their residences and hospitals to inquire about the progress of the sick and needy.
He is well remembered today for his interest in the Northern Province Cancer Society and for the organisation of monthly stipend payments to destitute cancer patients. He is said to have often assisted even in feeding those who were unable to feed themselves.He agitated hard for the establishment of a Cancer and Radiotherapy Unit in the Northern Province. It was eventually installed, though after his demise. He was the Chairman of the Northern Province Cancer Society for a long time.
Dr. Kanagaratnam held a leading position in the Jaffna Co-operative Stores Society Ltd. and the Jaffna Hospitals Committee. He was a Member of the Local Govt.Service Commission of Sri Lanka.
He was a devout Hindu and a devoted disciple of the well known mystic Yoga Swamykal of Jaffna. He had a strong sense of a widely knit family circle, which extended well beyond that of his wife and children
He passed away on 31st October 1980, at his residence in Palamthoddam. Mrs K.Kanagaratnam survived her husband and passed away in 1991.
Dr. K.Kanagaratnam married Kanmani Ammal eldest daughter of the philanthropist V.S.S.Kumaraswamy and Rasamma, and had four sons: Dr.Ganesan, Sriskandan Engineer U.K., Arichandran of the World Bank & Dr. Sivathondan, and three daughters: Mrs. Meenambikai Selvarajah, Mrs. Sivancheyal Yoganandan, and Dr.(Mrs.) Mankayatkarasi Williams.
K.Kanagaratnam 1892-1952 Deputy Auditor General, M.P for Vaddukoddai 1947, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education 1948.
K.Kanagaratnam, born on the 28th of July 1892, was the son of Kandiah of Vaddukoddai Jaffna. After his School education, he joined the Government Clerical Service in 1911.
By his diligence and hard work he rose in the service and was appointed Chief Audit

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Examiner in 1925. Twenty years later, he was Deputy Auditor General and later Acting Auditor General, which was then the highest position held by a Tamil in the Department.
On his retirement, he took great interest in the social, cultural and political life of the Tamil community. In the General Elections held in 1947, he was elected, by a large majority, to the Vaddukoddai seat of the Parliament, as a Tamil Congress candidate. In Parliament he was chosen as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education in 1948.
He took great interest in the restoration of the ancient Hindu Temple at Thiruketheeswaram. He was founder "Chairman of Committee' of the Thiruketheeswaram Temple Restoration Society, till his demise.
His eldest daughter Vijyalakshmi was married tO R.Namasivayam*. Dr. Balasubramaniam, one of his sons, has established a well-patronised Nursing Home at Anaipanthy, in Jaffna
S.Kanagaratnam 1914-1989. B.Sc(Lond)., B.Ag (Poona) Dep. Director of Agriculture.
Sivaguru Kanagaratnam was born on 10th October 1914. After his School education he graduated in Science. Later he obtained a degree in Agriculture of the Poona University.
He joined the Agricultural Department in 1937 and was appointed Agricultural Officer Horana in 1940, and Sub Divisional Agricultural Officer Vavuniya in 1945. He was Agricultural Officer Eastern Division in 1949 and District Agricultural Extension Officer Jaffna in 1957. Later, after serving at Anuradhapura and Trincomalee, he was appointed Deputy Director of Agriculture.
Kanagaratnam was a popular officer with the farmers, who highly respected his advice on farming matters. He passed away on 24th December 1989.
His eldest son Sivalingam is a doctor.
Sir Ambalavanar Kanagasabai 1856-1927. Advocate & Member, Legislative
Council 1906-1917.
Ambalavanar Kanagasabai, born in 1856, was the son of Suppiramaniam Ambalavanar of Tellippalai. His grand parents, from Myliddy, were descendants of Ilankai Nayaga Mudaliyar, a pioneer from Karaikadu.
He studied privately at first and later went to Madras, where he graduated in Arts. He then opted for a legal career and eventually commenced practising as an advocate, at the Jaffna Bar in 1882.
Sir Ambalavanar contributed valuable service to the Tamil community during his time. He was a person with sound common sense . By 1907, he was the leader of the Jaffna Bar.
In 1906, the Secretary of State appointed him Member of the Ceylon Legislative Council, succeeding Dr.Rockwood. He served in the Council for eleven years and did useful work for the betterment of the community. He was one of the chief persons who agitated for the construction of the Railway to the North.
In 1922, he delivered his presidential address at a major cultural conference held in Ridgeway Hall, Jaffna, when eminent scholars from India were present.
He took active part in serving the Hindu religion. He was the President of the Saiva Pari Palana Sabai, a leading Hindu institution, for three years; he was a Founder of the Jaffna Hindu College.
He married Kamachi Ambal, daughter of Sangarapillai Kanagasabai and resided mostly at Tellippalai
In recognition of his services to the people, a Knighthood was conferred on him, by the Government.
He, along with others, built up the high esteem the Tamils achieved in the early decades.
M.Kanagasabai ОВЕ, 1898-1985 M.V.O., M. Inst.T., General Manager; Ceylon Government Railway.
M.Kanagasabai, the first Ceylonese General Manager of the Ceylon Railway, was the son of Markandu of Madduvil, Jaffna. He was born on 10th June 1898.

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Soon after his successful school career, Kanagasabai joined the Ceylon Government Railway Department in 1917 in a junior post. By his diligence and hard work, he gained recognition and on passing Departmental Examinations, was promoted to the administrative service of the Railway.
Showing much promise, he was selected for further training in the Railways of the U.K., and on his return placed in higher positions of the service. He was Assistant Divisional Transportation Superintendent in 1929, and permanent D.T.S in 1935. He became Asst.General Manager of Railways in 1937 and in 1948, became the first Ceylonese General Manager of Railways. He held that post with great distinction till his retirement in the late 1950s
On his retirement, he had an International assignment with the Bangkok Railways system, for some time.
He was also Director of the Cement Corporation. He spent his last years in Jaffna, where he took an interest in the administration of the Jaffna Co-operative Stores, and passed away in July 1985.
Kanagasabai married in Nallur Jaffna, where he lived close to the well known Kandaswamy temple, and had a daughter and five sons. The daughter was married to a member of the Overseas Service. One of his sons is a Doctor.
V.Kanagasabai Pilai 1855-1906. Postmaster General, Madras, Tamil Research Scholar:
Kanagasabai Pillai, a pioneer in Tamil research was the son of Visvanathapillai of Mallakam, Jaffna.
Visvanathapillai was sent to Madras for higher studies in Tamil. He became very proficient and was honoured with the title of “Kalai Vani' by the Madras University. He was selected for service in India by the Madras Government and settled down there. Kanagasabai Pillai, his son, was born in Madras on 25th May 1855. He attained high proficiency in Tamil at a very early age and got his B.A., B.L. degrees when young, gaining the
name of “Boy Graduate". The "Boy Graduate'qualified as an Advocate, but giving up the legal profession joined the Postal Service of the Madras Presidency and functioned as Superintendent of Post Offices for a long time. Eventually he achieved the high position of Post Master General.
He, however, maintained his interest in Tamil research. History of the Tamils, about which there were not many satisfactory books in English, was his special subject of research. He endeavoured to collect as much information as possible on this. The results of his work are found in his well known and oft quoted book, The Tamils Eighteen Hundred Years Ago, published in English, in 1904. The work is considered a masterpiece of Tamil research even today. A second edition and a Tamil translation of the work was published in 1956.
He was a member of the Board of Examiners of the Madurai Tamil Sangam. He has also published several other research works and English translations of well known Tamil classics.
He passed away on 12th February 1906. His name is honoured today as the Father of Tamil Research.
Mudaliyar A.Kanagasabapathy 1896-1977. J.P., U.P.M., District Mudaliyar, Mullaitivu 1933 - 1947.
Mudaliyar A.Kanagasabapathy, born in 1896, was the son of Mudaliyar C. Arumugam* and Ponnammah of Mullaitivu. He was a direct descendant of Kumarasekara Mudaliyar, of the era of the Vanni Kings. He had his early education at the Hindu School at Mullaitivu and later at St.Patrick's College, Jaffna.
He joined Government service as a clerk, at the Mullaitivu Kachcheri in 1920 and rose up achieving the position of District Mudaliyar, Mullaitivu, in 1933. He held that post with great distinction and satisfaction to many. He was appointed J.P., U.P.M in 1939. On the introduction of the Divisional Revenue Officer system of District administration, he retired from Government service in 1947.
He was a great social worker and helped

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the people in obtaining their needs. He was President of the Co-operative Movement and started the Cooperative Stores Union. He was President of the Co-operative Transport Society and other institutions in his Division. He passed away on 15th June 1977. The title of “Mudaliyar' was conferred on him by the Government in 1949.
He is remembered today for the many improvements he did to the Mullaitivu Pillaiyar temple and the Vaththapalai Amman temple.
He married Visalachchi Ammah, daughter of S.Eliathamby and granddaughter of Vanniyasingam Mudaliyar. His son Ratnarajah is a Doctor, Suntharalingam an Accountant, Anandarajah a Civil Engineer, Amirthalingam also a Civil Engineer, Anandas othy an Asst. Professor, Vignarajah an Accountant, Arumugarajah a Doctor, Kumaralingam a Chemist, and Arunachalama Civil Engineer. His daughter Maragatham, a teacher, is married to Divisional Fisheries Officer Nadarajah, Mankayarkarasi, a Science graduate, is married to Research Officer Srinivasan, and Anandasothy, an Asst.Professor, is married to Lecturer Vignarajah.
K.Kanagasabapathy 1923 -
B.Sc., Dep. Governor, Central Bank of Ceylon.
Kanagasabapathy, born 7th March 1923, is the son of Muthu Sabapathy Kandasamy, of Puloly Point Pedro and Sinnammal, daughter of Kathirithamby of Varuthalai Vilan Tellipallai. He was educated at Royal College Colombo; he passed the London Inter Science and graduated from the University of Ceylon.
After a short spell as Asst. Food Controller, he joined the Central Bank of Ceylon, as Staff Officer. By diligence and hard work, he rose rapidly to higher postions in the Bank. He was Controller of Exchange, then Senior Asst. to the Governor, afterwards Secretary, Monetary Board and eventually Deputy Governor.
He was later appointed Director Development Finance Corporation of Sri Lanka , and Director Air Ceylon Limited. He then held an overseas assignment as Senior Director of Operations : East Caribbean Central Bank.
Returning to Sri Lanka, he was Chairman & Managing Director, Housing Development Finance Corporation Sri Lanka .
Kanagasabapathy is a Colombo Plan Scholar and an International Monetary Fund Expert.
While at the Central Bank, he functioned as Secretary and Treasurer of the Staff Association of the Bank.
P.Kanagasabapathy 1923-1977 Prof. of Mathematics, Universities of Peradeniya & Jeffna.
Kanagasabapathy was the son of Iyampillai Perampalam of Elalai.
After his early education at Jaffna Hindu College, he graduated at the University of Ceylon. He did his post-graduate studies in Mathematics at Cambridge University where he obtained the Master's degree.
From 1950 to 1974, he was at the University of Ceylon Peradeniya, first as Lecturer, then as Senior Lecturer and eventually as Professor of Mathematics.
From October 1974 till his death in January 1977, he was Professor of Mathematics, Head of Science Dept. and Dean of the Science Faculty, University of Jaffna.
He was the first Tamil Professor of Mathematics of the University of Peradeniya. As Patron of the Hindu Society of the campus 1965-1974, he was instrumental in building a Hindu temple in the campus hill.
Prof. Kanagasabapathy married Meenambikai in 1949 and had three children: Pathmini, Mythili and Nanda Kumaran, who is an Accountant.
K.Kanagasundaram 1912-1963 B.A., Barrister, C.C.S., O.B.E., Chairman G.O.D.B., Ambassador.
Kanagasundaram, born on 6th January 1912, was the son of P. Kathiravelu of Arally Jaffna. He had his early education at Victoria College Jaffna and Trinity College Kandy. After a short spell at the Ceylon University, he graduated with First Class Honours in History,

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from King's College, London.
Securing first place in the Ceylon Civil Service Examination, he held several positions in the service at Galle, Badulla, Ratnapura etc. He functioned as Asst. Commissioner of Food Supplies, when supplies were short due to War conditions, and in 1952, was appointed Land Commissioner
On his retirement from the Civil Service, he was appointed first Chairman of the Gal Oya Development Board and functioned with great acceptance, during a difficult period.
On relinquishing that post, he was appointed Ceylon's Deputy High Commissioner in the U.K., in 1958 and later as Ambassador for Ceylon in Indonesia, in 1961. While functioning there, he died of a heart attack after a game of tennis, on 22nd October 1963, at the young age of 51. He was an outstanding administrator and a very popular person,who made many friends.He is remembered today for his pioneering efforts in setting up the Gal Oya Project.
Kanagasundaram married Sybil, elder daughter of the eminent obstetrician Dr. S.L. Navaratnam* and had a son Ajit K. Kanagasundaram. and a daughter Dr.P. Chanmugam.
T.T.Kanagasuntherampillai 1863-1922. Tamil Scholar from Trincomalee.
Trinco malee Thambi muttupillai Kanagasuntherampillai was born in 1863. His parents, who had settled in Trincomalee, were originally from Mallakam. He received his early education under able Tamil scholars. He then proceeded to Madras, with his younger brother Saravanamuttu Pillai, for higher studies in Tamil. After graduation he was Tamil Lecturer, Madras Christian College for a few years and later Translator to the Govt. of Madras.
He however reverted to academic scholarship at the University of Madras, where he was appointed an examiner. He functioned also as an examiner of the Madurai Tamil Sangam; he published their journal "Senthamil.
He has published several Tamil literary works of which "Mohananbal' is of historical
importance.
He married Sundarambal and had four sons and a daughter. His first som Rajarajan took to medical studies, second son T. K.Rajasekaran became a Vice-Principal, of a College, third son T.K.Rajeswaran was in charge of the Navalar Trust at Chidambaram and the fourth som T.K. Rajamarthandan married a daughter of C.N.Devarajan of Manipay and was attached to the Madras University Library.
Dr.R.Kanagasuntheram 1919
M.B.B.S., Ph.D(Cantab)., D.Sc
(Jafna).
Professor of Anatomy.
Kanagasuntheram, born on 13th October 1919, is the son of Ragunathar of Karainagar, Jaffna. He had his early education at Karainagar Hindu College and later at Jaffna Hindu College from where he Matriculated.
He entered the Ceylon University College in 1938. He won a bursary. during his medical studies. Qualifying as a doctor, he passed the Primary F.R.C.S in 1947 and was a lecturer in Anatomy at the Ceylon Medical College. He proceeded to U.K and got his Ph.D from Cambridge in 1952.
He was Senior Lecturer and later Reader in Anatomy at the University of Khartoum from 1958 to 1962. He was then appointed Professor of Anatomy at Singapore University in 1962, which post he held with great distinction and was awarded the title of Emeritus Professor, when he retired in 1981.
After a while, he accepted the position of Professor of Anatomy and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Jaffna, for a few years. He then returned to Singapore.
Dr.R.Kanagasuntheram married the second daughter of Contractor A.Sangarapillai and has two sons and three daughters. Both his sons Narendran and Rajendran are Medical Doctors working in Singapore. His daughters Path mini and Bhavan are in Australia and Pangajavalli is a Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry, University of Singapore.
He has published a book on " A New Approach to Dissection of the Human Body", in 1976 and another on “Anatomy-Regional,

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Functional and Clinical' in 1987.
Kanagasuria Singai Aryan King of Jaffna 1440-1450&1467-1478 Segarajasekaran VI
Kanagasuria Singai Aryan came to the
throne of the Jaffna Kingdom, on the death of his father Kunaveera Singai Aryan. He ruled at Nallur as King, with the epithet title of Segarajasekaran VI, during two periods.
Kanagasuria was a brave monarch. During the early part of his rule, relationship between him and Parakrama Bahu VI of Kotte became strained. The King of Kotte eventually sent an expedition against him which was strongly resisted. A second attempt was then made. This time the monarch, in order to save his subjects from the ravages of a protracted war, and also due to weakening support from his allies, prudently withdrew.
Thus free from the burden of reigning, he embarked on a long pilgrimage with his family, fulfilling many vows. He took his two sons Pararajasekaran and Segarajasekaran to India and entrusted them to be trained in Royal Arts and Statecraft at the Royal Court, Thirukovil,
(The events that happened next may be read under "Sempaha Perumal')
King Kanagasuria regained the Kingdom of Jaffna once more in 1467. On resumption the monarch's first resolve was to relieve his subjects from ravages of the war.
The city of Nallur was planned anew for restoration. Separate divisions were marked out to house priests, merchants, artisans, Soldiers, seamen, etc. After a few years, he handed over the administration of the Kingdom to his eldest son Pararajasekaran and lived in retirement till his demise.
Kanaga Suriyan 13th century Pioneer
A "Vellalan' by the name of Kanaga Suriyan came from Manalur in South India and settled in the Mallakam region of Jaffna, as pioneer.
Kanaka Mallavan 13th century Pioneer
A "Vellalan' from Chikkiri Mannakar in South India came with his four brothers and settled in Puloly, as Pioneers, in Jaffna.
They were reputed to have been intelligent, industrious, resourceful and of commanding appearance.
Kanagarayan Chetty c13th century Pioneer
Kanagarayan Chetty was an early colonist. He came from Vaavi Nagar in South India and settled in the Tellippalai region of Jaffna.
C.Kanapathipillai c1900School Head Master Antiquarian:- Olas de Manuscripts, Compiler of Batticaloa Lore.
Chinnathamby Kanapathipillai, the veteran Headmaster whose hobby was collection of ola manuscripts on Batticaloa lore, was born early this century in Karaitivu, Batticaloa. He however lived mostly in Addaipalam, where he married.
. After his school education, he underwent a Teacher's Training course in the Teachers Training College in Jaffna. Then he commenced his teaching career and functioned as Headmaster at several Schools, for nearly forty years.
He was interested in folklore and old writings. He was also a keen devotee of Sakthi Ambal Devi. So, he fast became a collector of old writings, ola manuscripts, Amman Thaladdus, Unjal Padals and other publications . These were mostly on Pathini Kannakai, Kamachchi Ambal, Kaththavarayan, Veerapathirar and other deities of the village folks.
On retirement, he sorted out all the folklore he had collected and commenced publishing compilations. A very useful publication is his “Maha Mari Devi Thiviya Karunai', 1971, a volume of 245 pages. It

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contains a collection of most of what has been mentioned above.
His other publications include: Eeswara Ahaval, Kanthaswamy Kaviyan, Mari Amman Valipadu, Pathini Valipadu, and Purathana Saptha Sthalankal (1979).
He has done a great service to the community in preserving the traditional folklore. Kanapathipillai married Parpathipillai (1912 - 1970), from Addaipalam.
K.Kanapathipillai 1909B.A., F.R.G.S., Dip. Geo. (Lond). Batticaloa School Principal
K.Kanapathipillai, born on 24th May 1905, is the son of Kailayapillai, a farmer from Karaitivu, Batticaloa. He had his early education at the Rama Krishna Mission Tamil Vidyalayam, Karaitivu and later at St.Mary's English School Kalmunai and St.Michael's College, Batticaloa.
Afterwards he underwent a course at the Government Training College for Teachers in Colombo. Later, he was at the Calcutta University for a time. He secured the London Diploma in Geography.
He has been in the academic profession for a long time, and was appointed Principal (Supra Grade) of the Ramakrishna Mission Shivananda Vidyalaya, from where he retired.
Kanapathipillai is the author of over ten publications both in Tamil and in English. His work on Vipulananda, a Literary Biography, was published by the Government Ministry of Hindu Affairs, Colombo. All his publications are available at the Ramakrishna Mission, Rama Krishnapuram, Batticaloa.
. Kanapathipillai married Kanmani,
daughter of Mudaliyar Subramaniam and has two daughters: Chithra the elder is a Doctor and is married to Dr. Bastiampilai and Uma, the younger is a Graduate Teacher and is married to Justin Rajendram.
Dr. K.Kanapathipillai 1903-1968 B.A., Ph.D (Lond), Vidvan(Annamalai), Professor of Tamil, Ceylon University,
Peradeniya.
Kanapathipillai, born on 2nd July 1902,
was from Puloly East Point Pedro. He had his early education in Velauthar's School and later at Hartley College. Even during his early days, he was specially coached in Sanskrit by Vaithianatha Kurukkal. Entering the Ceylon University, he graduated with First Class Honours in Sanskrit. He then proceeded to India for a course in Tamil at the Annamalai University and obtained the Vidvan title in Tamil. His subject for the London University Ph.D was on Chola inscriptions.
On his return, he was appointed Lecturer in Tamil at the University of Ceylon, and later in 1948, was appointed Professor, which position he held at Peradeniya for a long time, till his demise.
He has written many literary works and dramatic compositions. In his early works he depicted life in the Point Pedro region. His dramas were staged by the students. Among his works are (all in Tamil):-
Ilankai Val Thanilar Varalaru 1956, Kathali Atru Padal,. Manicka Malai,. Nanadakam, Iru Nadakam., Pooncholai., Valkaiyin Vinothankal., and Sangili- a drama.
"Sangili", which is a historical drama, has a long research preface of over 35 pages on the “History of Tamils in Sri Lanka".
M.Kanapathipillai 1910-1993. School Master & Proprietor, Sri
Kantha and Kanthalakam Printing Press.
Kanapathipillai of Maravanpulavu, Chavakachcheri, born in 1910, had a long teaching career, commencing from 1929. He functioned as Dep. Headmaster of the Jaffna Hindu College Tamil Primary School for several years, till his retirement in 1964.
In 1952, he established the Sri Kantha Printing Press in Jaffna, which continued publication of useful School text books etc., until its closure, due to disturbances in the country, in 1990. Further publication centres, known as Kanthallakam, were established in Jaffna in 1977 and in Madras in 1980.
Kanapathipillai took an active interest in social and religious matters. He was elected Member of the Kaithady Village Committee and

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honoured by being made a J.P. He passed away on 18th November 1993.
He married Thangammah and had a son Satchithanandan, who was with the F.A.O and two daughters: Sarojinidevi Sivasubramaniam and Santhadevi Ragunathar,
Sitiawan N.Kanapathipillai 1876-1938. Proprietary Planter & Philanthropist.
Nagamuthu Kanapathipillai, well known as “Sitiawan”, was born in 1876, at Sithankerni, Jaffna. At an early age he proceeded to Malaya, where he eventually became a pioneer planter. He settled in Sitiawan, in Perak State, where he was a contractor and rubber estate proprietor. He was often referred to as the "Millionaire Planter', no doubt due to his wealth. He was a member of the Sanitary Board, the Licensing Board of Sitiawan and a member of the Hospitals Visiting Committee.
He was very popular with the multinationals of the State and was known to be a great philanthropist. He received the thanks of the Perak Government and was honoured by being made a J.P.
During his later years, leaving Malaya, he returned to Ceylon and settled down in Sangarathai, his wife's village in Jaffna. He established and maintained "Sinnammah Vidyasalai', a school named after his wife. He is also known to have made donations to many charitable organisations.
He passed away at the age of 63, in 1938; his wife predeceased him in 1934.
He married Sinnammah, daughter of Somanathar of Sangarathai in 1905, and had one son Dr.Chelvadoray and two daughters.
Pundithamani S.Kanapathipillai 1899-1986. Venerable Tamil Scholar.
Pundithamani, born in 1899, was the son of Sinnathamby Pillai of Madduvil, Jaffna. After his early education, he became a student at the Nuvalar Kaviya Padasalai, under KumarasWamy Pulavar" of Chunnakam, for higher studies in classical Tamil and literature. He also came
under the guidance of Pundit Mailvaganam (later Swami Vipulananda).
He continued his studies, even after Kumaraswamy Pulavar's demise in 1922 and qualified as "Pandithar' of the Mathurai Tamil Sangam in 1925. At that time there were only four persons in Jaffna who had achieved this qualification of the Madurai Sangam. He was a Trained Teacher and a Sanskrit Scholar.
In 1929, he was appointed in charge of the Saiva Teachers Training School at Thirunelveli, and continued to function there till his retirement.
He was an authority on Saiva Siddhanta Sakaram and is a venerable Tamil scholar of high repute, respected by many. He has been honoured with the title of "Pundithamani'.
He spent his later years at his residence in “Kalasalai Veedi' in Thirunelveli Jaffna, maintaining the traditions of Arumuga Navalar. He passed away in 1986.
A.P.Kandasamy 1900 - 1973 P B.Sc (Lond).,
Director, Dept. of Meteorology.
Kandasamy, born in Valvettiturai on 19th June 1900, was the eldest son of Alvapillai Ponnusamy. He had his early education at Chidhambara Vidyalaya and later at Hartley, St.John's, and Trinity Colleges.
After his school career he was a teacher for some time. He then proceeded to the Ceylon University College and graduated in Science.
He entered the service of the Colombo Observatory as a Junior Technical Assistant in 1925. By his diligence and hard work he rose to higher positions in the service. He was Asst. Astronomer in 1933 and Asst. Superintendent in 1939. Eventually when a separate Department of Meteorology was established in 1948, he was appointed Asst. Director. Later he was appointed to the top position of Director in 1958, which position he held till his retirement in 1960. During his career, he attended International Meteorological Conferences and meeting of the WMO Congress in Geneva.
He was a keen sportsman and was well known for officiating as Chief Time Keeper for events organised by the Amateur Athletic

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Association. He passed away in December 1973.
Kandasamy married Sothimathi Sivapragasam, an amateur astrologer and had five children. His son Sothisrihari, was trained as an engineer and served in the Tea Research Institute before proceeding to U.K. Anotherson was lost early in an accident. His eldest daughter Pathmasothi Amirthanandan B.Sc (Special), M.Sc in Physics was a Lecturer in the University in Ceylon and U.K., second daughter Kamalasothi Alagesan B.A. was a teacher in Ceylon and in Zambia, and the youngest Parimalasothi Doraisamy M.B.B.S is in the Medical Service.
V.Kandhapillai 1918Asst. Government Agent.
Vairamuthu Kandhapillai was born on 12th July 1918.
He entered Government Service as Divisional Revenue Officer in 1943. He was in charge of Vavuniya North in 1945 and Mantai in 1947. He then worked in Thunukai and later in Valikamam North, Jaffna.
He was then appointed Government Agent
Kandhapillai was a great social worker and embarked on several social and religious activities for the betterment of the community in the areas he worked.
Asst.
Prof. A Kandiah 1897- .... . A.R.C.S., D.I.C., Ph.D., D.Sc. Professor of Chemistry, Ceylon
University.
Aruppillai Kandiah , born 13th of February 1897, was from Kaladdi Vannarpannai. After his general education, he was a teacher. He then graduated and was engaged in the Faculty of Chemistry of the University College. In 1933 he was appointed an Asst. Lecturer in Chemistry and made Lecturer in 1934.
Later, on gaining experience, further qualifications and Doctorate, he was appointed Professor of Chemistry at the University and held that position for a longtime with eminence. Prof. Kandiah married a daughter of
P.S. Aiyathurai, a prominent merchant and a relation of Notary Veeravagu, father of Justice Siva Subramaniam*.
A.Kandiah c1920Asst. Government Agent, Jaffna
Arumugam Kandiah is from Chavakachcheri. He entered Government Service as Divisional Revenue Officer in 1945. He was in charge of the Vavuniya South Division in 1947 and afterwards of Mantai Division, in Mannar. He worked in the Islands Division in 1957 and then was appointed Asst. Government Agent at Jaffna.
Kandiah was a great social worker and is known to have embarked on Several Social activities in the areas he was in charge.
K.Kandiah 1916B.Sc (Lond)., Maths Tripos (Cantab). Specialist in Electronics.
Kandiah, born on 20th August 1916, is the only son of Ramalingam Kathirkamathamby, Udaiyar of Udupididy, Jaffna.
He had his early education at Udupiddy School, Hartley College Pt. Pedro and continued at Jaffna College, from where he passed the London Inter-Science Examination. He also spent a year at St.Joseph's College Colombo, before entering the Ceylon University College for graduation.
He then proceeded, as a scholar, to Queen's College Cambridge, where he obtained his Tripos in Mathematics. Soon he became involved in the study of Electronics. He functioned as a lecturer in Electronics at the Cavendish Laboratory Cambridge for four years from 1942.
He was then engaged in the Instrument Division of the Atomic Energy Research Establishment in Harwell, from 1946. There he was leading a team engaged in the design and construction of special Instruments. He has published over forty papers on the subject.
He married Phyllis Turner in 1940 and has a som Peter, who is a Barrister, and a daughter Pavalam, who is a Computer Programmer.

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PKandiah 1914-1959. MA (Cantab). M.P for Pt.Pedro 1956.
PKandiah, born on 1st July 1914, was the son of Ponnambalam of Puloly, Pt. Pedro Jaffna.
He had a distinguished school career at the Jaffna Hindu College. He then graduated from the Ceylon University College and on securing a scholarship proceeded to Cambridge University. He was there for two years and got his Master's Degree. He then spent another two years at the Oxford University. During these periods he imbibed the doctrines of the Communist Party.
Returning to Ceylon he was appointed Lecturer at the Ceylon University College. He functioned as Deputy Librarian at the University of Ceylon Peradeniya for some time. Later, he joined the staff of the Manipay Hindu College.
He was a keen member of the Ceylon Communist Party. He contested the Pt.Pedro
seat in Parliament, as a Communist Party candidate, but was unsuccessful in 1947 and in 1952 .
He however won the seat in 1956 and was an outstanding Member of the House, consistently supporting the cause of the Harijans. His early death in 1959, at the age of 45, deprived the community of an able Parliamentarian. His loss was deeply lamented by many.
He married Parameswari from Nelliadi and had a daughter Radha. She qualified in Medical Acupuncture in China
S.Kandiah 1899-1981. Soil Chemist., Lecturer,Agricultural
Chemistry.
Kandiah, born on 8th July 1899, was the son of S.Sinnathamby and Poothapillai of Kollankalladdi, Tellippalai, Jaffna. Sangarapillai, landed proprietor, and Saravanamuttu, Veterinary Doctor, were his brothers.
He had his early education at Tellippalai and afterwards at Victoria College. He Matriculated. from Jaffna Hindu College, in 1920. He proceeded to the College of
Agriculture, Poona, and after following a course in Agriculture obtained a Diploma in Agricultural Chemistry in 1923.
Returning to Ceylon he entered the Agricultural Service in 1925 and worked as a Chemist, for over thirty years. After retirement, he was a Lecturer in Soil Science at the Hardy Technical Institute Amparai and Consultant Soil Chemist to the Ceylon Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research. From 1964 he was Lecturer in Agricultural Chemistry in the Aquinas University College Colombo for about nine years.
S.Kandiah has made over thirty five contributions to Journals on the subject of soil science and was one of the first persons to classify Ceylon Soils. He has published a book on Soils, Manures and Fertilisers.
Kandiah was an active person who was a member of many technical, Social and religious societies. He was President of Section B of the Ceylon Association for Advancement of Science, Secretary and later President of the Kandy Tamils Association, General Secretary of the Thiruketheeswaram Temple Restoration Society, etc. He passed away in 1981.
He had a daughter and a son. The daughter Rajeswari was married to C. Kalyanasundarm of the P.W. D. His son Dr. Sivakumar, a Consultant Psychiatrist, was President of the S.C.O.T movement in London 1993.
W.A.Kandiah 1891-1963. B.A (Lond). Advocate, M.P for Kayts
1956.
Kandiah, born 3rd September 1891, was from Velanai, Jaffna. He had his education at the Jaffna Hindu College and later at St.Joseph's College, Colombo.
He graduated in Science of the London University and was engaged as a Science Master at St.Joseph's College for about eight years. He then entered the legal profession. As an Advocate, he built up a good practice at the Colombo Bar.
He contested the Colombo Central multiple Member constituency in Parliament in 1947, but was not successful. Later however, he

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won the Kayts seat in 1956, as a member of the Federal Party, of which he had become an active member.
His passing away on 4th June 1963, was a severe loss to the party.
Kandiah had two soms and three daughters; the elder daughter, who passed away in 1993, was married to Dr.N.J. Walooppillai, the eminent Heart Specialist of Colombo.
Pandithar V.S.Kandiah 1920-1990
Pandit (Mathurai), Vidvan (Ceylon),
Tamil Scholarck Author of Batticaloa
lore.
Pandithar Vidvan V.S.Kandiah, born 29th July 1920, was the son of poet Vinasithamby of Mandur, Batticaloa. He was well tutored, early in life, by his father and his close relative Pulavarmani A. Periyathambipillai. Later he received higher education in Tamil classics, and English under Swami Vipulananda.
He commenced teaching at the young age of 18 years, but diligently continued further studies. After passing local examinations, he obtained the Pundit Diploma of the Mathurai Tamil Sangam in 1944 and the Vidvan Diploma of the Ceylon University in 1952. Later he also obtained the B.O.L. degree of the Annamalai University in 1962.
He functioned as Tamil Lecturer at the Sivananda Vidyalayam of the R.K.Mission for over 25 years from 1940.During this period he won recognition as a writer, lecturer and social worker. He did great service in fostering the development of Tamil culture and Batticaloa lore.
He contributed several valuable papers at Annual Conferences of scholars and delivered talks over the Radio. In recognition of his achievements and services to the community, he was honoured with the traditional "Pon Aadai" -golden shawl .
He was a well known author of several works in Tamil, among which the Maddaikalappu Thamilakam, 1965, is his masterpiece. Written after much research, it is a fountain of Batticaloalore. Another informative work is Kannaki Vallakurai 1968, which relates to the traditions and customary practices
prevalent in Batticaloa District. His work on the Hindu temples of Batticaloa Book 1, describing the more popular temples, was published in 1983. Book 2 concerning the less known temples, written during the latter part of his life, was published by his widow and children in 1991. He passed away in 1990.
Pandithar V. S. Kandiah married Kangeswari (1917), daughter of Nagalingam of Puliyantivu Batticaloa, in 1946. She was highly educated in Tamil, and Tamil music and was a qualified Tamil teacher, a Tamil scholar and an able speaker. She had good teaching experience and was a lecturer at the Teachers' Training College. She functioned as the Secretary of the Batticaloa Hindu Women's Society for several years. She had often been invited to speak at conferences and meetings. Like her husband, she too won recognitions, being presented with the traditional golden shawl. She is the author of Arasan Aanai, a dramatic work consisting of two plays, which has been highly commended.She passed away in December 1993.
The couple Pandithar V.S.Kandiah and Pundithamani Kangeswari are blessed with four sons:-Sivakumaran M.Sc (Mechanical Engineering), Ilankovan B.Sc (Mechanical Engineering), Manivannan M.Sc, Ph.D in Physics, and Arulmoli M.Sc, Ph.D in Civil Engineering.
PKanthapillai 1766-1842. " Visaranai" Officer Father of K.Arumuga Navalar
Kanthapillai, father of the distinguished scholar Arumuga Navalar, was born in 1766, in Nallur. His father Paramananthar was the son of Ilankai Kavala Muda liyar who was a descendant of Pandi Mallavan a pioneer settler of Jaffna.
Kanthapillai lived during the Dutch and the British regimes in the Island. He had his early education in Tamil under Sanmugam Chaddampiyar. Later, he received tuition from the reputed veteran scholar Kulankai Thambiran*.
He also became proficient in English, Dutch and Portuguese, under Rev. Philip De Mello. He had acquired some medical

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knowledge from his father, who was a reputed Physician. Being so versatile, he became a very useful person to the community and to the Government.
He was given a special appointment by the Government and named “Visaranai'. His function was to inquire and report on events. With his medical knowledge, he was always welcome at any household. He made himself very helpful and became popular. He held this appointment with esteem for eighteen years. Even today, the term "Visaranai Kanthar' refers to any person making inquiries.
On retirement, he spent his time in composing dramatic works. He is said to have had over twenty dramatic works to his credit. Some of which are :- Rama Vilasam, Kandy Nadakam, Nicholas Nadakam, Erothi Nadakam, Nallai Nayagar Kuravanchi, etc. Even prior to his demise he is said to have been composing a work entitled "Retna Valli, which his son, Arumuga Navalar, later made it his duty to complete and publish.
He married Sivakamy Ammai, daughter of Vethavanam and had six sons and six daughters. The sons were :- Thiyakar who became a Notary, Sinnathamby who became an Udaiyar, Poothathamby died at a young age, Paramanathar who was a Notary and a reputed Tamil Pulavar, Thampu who succeeded his father in office, and the last was the well known Tamil Scholar Arumugam who earned the name of Navalar .
S.K.Kanthappu .1749. Chaddampiyar (Tutor).
Santhira Kulathunga Kanthappu lived in about mid 18th century, in Pasai Ur, Jaffna Town. His brother was Pandithar Sinnathamby.
Kanthappu was an able scholar and also a poet of his day. Because he gave tuition to their children, the community referred to him as the "Chaddampiyar', meaning Tutor.
Among the works composed by him were:- Alesu Nadakam, Jnanarupa Nadakam, Panchavarana Thoothu, Jnanakkummi etc.
Dr.A.S.Kantharajah 1950M.Sc., Ph.D (W. Berlin)., MAIAS.
Kantharajah was born in Kaithady, Jaffna, on 25th January 1950. He was a Research Assistant in the Dept. of Biochemistry, University of Sri Lanka, Colombo in 1974.
He functioned as Research Collaborator and Research Fellow / Tutor (1980-1986), at the Faculty of Agriculture, Technical University Berlin (W) Germany. He was then Lecturer/Post Doctoral Fellow in the Dept. of Biology, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 1987-1990, before becoming Lecturer in Horticulture at the University of Western Sydney. He has contributed many research publications to Technical Journals and participated in several conferences. He functions as Supervisor for M.Sc and Ph.D students and is an External Examiner for Universities. In his social activities, he is the Principal of Sydney Tamil Ethnic School and Radio Announcer and Chief Producer - Radio 2000.
Dr. A.S. Kantharajah married Sathiyabama, daughter of S.C.Elankayar and has three children: Aravinthan, Iynkaran and Myuri.
K.Kanthasamy 1930-1988 B.Sc., LL.B., Human Rights Activist., Founder: Tamil Refugee Rehabilitation Organisation in Colombo, Founder Tamil Information Centres in London, Madras. & Madurai.
Kandiah Kanthasamy was born in Maviddapuram Jaffna on 6th April 1930. His father Suppiah Kandiah was Headmaster of Kollan Kaladdi Senior Secondary School, Maviddapuram. He had a brother and five sisters. He had his early education at the Tellippalai Mahajana College. Later he went to Jaffna Hindu in 1946 and to St.John's College in 1949. Entering the Ceylon University, he graduated in Mathematics and Science in 1954. After being a teacher for a short time at Kurunegala, he entered Law College and passing out, took his oaths as an Advocate in 1959. He obtained his Bachelor of Laws Degree in 1962.
As a lawyer he was keen on Commercial and Company Law and worked in the Chambers of Advocate N.Nadarasa and built up a good

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practice.
He came in contact with many of the victims of the communal violence and civil disturbances of the 1960's and 1970's. He became an enthusiastic Human Rights activist, for which he devoted much of his time afterwards. He also became an active member of Amnesty International.
Since then he became the prime mover of several outstanding ventures. He was primarily responsible for setting up the Tamil Refugee Rehabilitation Organisation in Colombo, the "Theepam Research Institute' in Jaffna in 1980, and the “Saturday Review” in 1982. The “Tamil Information Centre' in London and in Madras in 1983, and in Madurai in 1984 were also initiated by him. Further, he also set up the Central British Fund, for the Tamil Refugee Organisation in London. He is said to have successfully negotiated large funds for the
CUSC.
The Tamil Information Centres, for which he strove hard, served the public with information about events in Sri Lanka.
For twenty four years, he was a selfeffacing and dedicated worker for the cause of rehabilitation. He is said to have shunned office and publicity. He preferred to keep a low profile. His integrity and honesty were admired and praised by all.
Taking upon himself so much work had its consequences. He had a massive heart attack in 1983. On recovery, he resumed his activities. In 1988, he returned to Sri Lanka. He was on a project promoting a consortium of nonGovernmental organisations which would undertake a refugee rehabilitation programme. He is said to have visited the Trincomalee area in this connection. When he was back in Jaffna, he was forcibly taken in a van on 19 th June 1988, and has never been heard of afterwards.
That was the lamentable end of a selfless and untiring man who strove for the good of others.
Dr. J.B. Karalapillai 1936-1992. F.R.C.S., F.R.A.C.S., E.N.T. Surgeon.
Joseph Balachandran Karalapillai, born 28th September 1936, was the son of
S.C.Karalapillailand Mathuram nee Thambiayah, of Chundikuli Jaffna.
He was educated at St.Joseph's College Colombo, where he won several prizes. He then entered the University of Ceylon for Medical studies in 1954 and passed out with Honours in 1960.
He joined the Government Medical Service in Ceylon and was a popular figure. He was the General Secretary of the Government Medical Officers Association in 1964. He proceeded to England for specialised qualifications. There he obtained his F.R.C.S and Diploma in Laryngology and Otology.
Returning to Ceylon, he worked for some time and emigrated to Australia in 1972. There he set up private practice and was a very successful ENT Surgeon.
He was a prominent personality of the Sri Lankan Tamil Community in Australia. He was President of the Ceylon Tamil Association of Victoria in 1983 and Founder Treasurer of the Australian Federation of Tamil Associations. He was a devoted Christian and very much interested in the well being of the Christian community.
His premature passing away on 6th October 1992 in Melbourne at the age of 56 due to a heart attack, is a great loss to the community.
Dr.J. B. Karalapillai married Dhamayanthi, eldest daughter of Professor and Mrs C.J.Eliezer in 1969 and had three sons: Sumanthiran, Sudharshan and Arjunan.
Gate Mudaliyar T.Karalapillai
1874 - .... . Broker and Philanthropist of Manipay.
Karalapillai, born on 20th September 1874 in Manipay Jaffna, was the son of Thambipillai, a wealthy descendant of Mathiaparanam Mudaliyar, Ganga Kularetna Mudaliyar, Karalapillai Udaiyar, well to do residents of Manipay.
Karalapillai had his early education in Jaffna and later at Wesley and S.Thomas Colleges, in Colombo.
Like several others from Manipay, he too selected a Mercantile career and became a

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Broker. His name had been associated with Messrs. James Finlay & Sons, for a long time. He had political interests too and was in this field for a short time.
But what the Gate Mudaliyar is well remembered for, are his charitable deeds. He always donated lavishly to deserving causes. In his time, his name became a byword for philanthropy.
When there was a food shortage , he distributed rice free to the poor; he even gave them clothes to wear. He built Pilgrims Rests at important pilgrim centres. Schools, madams and temples, all benefited from his bounty. His deeds were well appreciated by the people. The title of “Gate Mudaliyar" was conferred on him by the Government.
He was a Member of the Railway Advisory Board, the Association of Brokers, a trustee of Manipay Hindu College, etc.
He married Sinnathangam Ammai, daughter of Naganathar a descendant of Maana Mudaliyar of Vaddukoddai and had six children:- Sellamma, Sundarampillai who graduated in Science at the Ceylon University College and took to his father's profession, Sanmugam who after graduating, became a Barrister and joined the Local Government Service, Thaiyalnayaki, Kanagasabai and Saraswathi, all of whom are known to have carried on with the philanthropic traditions of their parents.
M.Karthigesan 1919-1977 B.A (Lond)., Dip, in Education. School Principal.
Karthigesan was the son of T.Murugapillai ( Malayan Medical Service, Taiping) and Thangaratnam of Vaddukoddai, Jaffna. He was born on 25th June 1919, in Perak, Malaya and was educated at the Victoria Institute in Kuala Lumpur. Arriving in Ceylon in 1936, he entered the Ceylon University College, where he was the Editor of the Journal Varsity News. He graduated in English, with Honours, in 1941.
Accepting a teaching post, he was at the Jaffna Hindu College for several years, from 1946. He obtained the post-graduate Diploma in Education in 1951 and functioned as Principal
in 1971. After a short time at Kopay Hindu College, he was Principal of Pandattarippu Hindu College, from 1972 to 1975, when he retired.
He was a sincere person, who lived true to communist principles of living for the good of others. He made himself acceptable to every one and was a very popular School Master. He was a dignified politician and social worker who struggled to eradicate the caste system and elevate the oppressed working class in Jaffna.
He was a gifted English speech writer and orator with a flair for humour. His forceful writings appeared in the Journals: Tribune, Forward and Thollilali, which he edited. He was a member of the Jaffna Municipal Council 1959–61 and passed away in September 1977. Karthigesan married Valambigai of Vaddukoddai and had a son, who died early, and five daughters: Raniratnadevi Sinnathamby and Manoranjitham Raveendran who are teachers, Dr. Jeevajothy a research scholar in the States, Jnanaki Balakrishnan an electrical engineer and Sumathi Kugathasan, who also is a teacher.
A.Karunanandan 1919
Education Consultant
Karunanandan, son of Proctor K.Aiyadurai of Neeraviady, Jaffna, was born on 23rd October 1919. He had his early education at the Jaffna Central College and graduated in Botany from the Madras Christian College Tambram, in 1946.
He taught at Jaffna Central, Yarlton and Trinity Colleges, before becoming a lecturer in Education at the University at Peradeniya in 1952.
He did a Master's course at the Ohio University, and in 1968 was at King's College Cambridge for research work. On being appointed Consultant in Audio Visual Aids with the South Pacific Commission, he conducted Teachers' Training Courses at several centres in that region.
In 1970 he was an Education Consultant, and later in 1974 was engaged by the Colombo and later the Jaffna Universities in the Faculty of Education.
Karunanandan married a daughter of

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P.Thampoo, School Master at Jaffna Hindu College and has an accountancy student son and a daughter living in the States.
In 1981, he published a book entitled, Simulation as a Medium of Education, and in 1983 Control of Genetic Engineering, in Tamil.
Miss N.Kasipillai 1915B.A., School Principal.
Nahammal, daughter of N. Kasipillai son of Naganathar Manager Kandasamy Kovil Punguduthivu, was born on 15th January 1915. She was educated at Vembadi Girls' High School, Jaffna.
She proceeded to Madras and graduated from Women's Christian College in 1936. Later, she obtained the Diploma in Education of the University of Ceylon. She was appointed Principal of Hindu Ladies' College Wellawatte, then known as Saiva Mangaiyar Kalagam in 1937.
She held this position with great
acceptance for a long period till 1969. During her tenure the School improved vastly and the number of students on the roll increased by a large number. She was President of the Colombo Teachers' Association in 1965.
After retirement she is actively engaged in religious, cultural, educational and social activities. She is a life member of the Sri Ramakrishna Mission, Sri Ramakrishna Sarada Samithi, Hindu Women's Society and the Colombo Young Women's Hindu Association. She is a qualified teacher of Transcendental meditation from 1975.
She has been conferred the National Honour of "Desabandu', in 1993.
She is not married; she enjoys single blessedness and radiates cheerfulness. Proctor K.Kanaharatnam of Wellawatte, Accountant K. Navaratnam of the Railway and K.Subramaniam of the Postal Services are her brothers.
K.Kathiravetpillai 1829-1904. Tamil Scholar, Lawyer, Journalist, Police Magistrate & Judge.
Kathiravetpillai was from a family of reputed scholars in Udupiddy, Jaffna. His father was Kumaraswamy Mudaliyar (1791-1874), whose father was Kathirkama Poopathi Mudaliyar, whose father was the celebrated Sekara Mappana Mudaliyar, a distinguished pioneer of Jaffna.
Kumaraswamy Mudaliyar was an eminent scholar and poet. He had two sons Sabapathy Mudaliyar and Kathiravetpillai. Young Kathiravetpillai was educated at the Vaddukoddai Seminary from 1841 to 1848. He distinguished himself as an able scholar even at the age of fifteen.
He was a teacher at the Seminary for some time. He then assisted Rev. Percival in translating the Holy Bible. -
In 1855, he decided to become a lawyer. Becoming an advocate three years later, he practised at the Bar for about fifteen years.
Kathiravetpillai was a Tamil scholar, writer and a lawyer. He was well versed in Tamil, Sanskrit and English.
Desirous of publishing a newspaper in Jaffna, as in other countries, he took steps to publish at his own expense a weekly journal titled Ilankai Thesapimani.
Recognising his abilities, Sir William Gregory the then Governor of Ceylon, appointed him a Judge, to function at Kayts, in 1872. In 1884 he was absorbed into the Civil Service. He then functioned as Police Magistrate at Pt. Pedro, Mallakam, Chavakachcheri and eventually as Judge of the Higher Court, at Jaffna.
It was a great desire of Kathiravetpillai to compile a Tamil Dictionary. So, when he retired he worked hard on his pet project. He was largely assisted by Kumaraswamy Pulavar and other prominent scholars of the day. As the work was unfinished, at the time of his demise in 1904, his son Hon.K.Balasingam, had it completed and published by the Madurai Tamil Sangam afterwards.
S.Kathiresu 1876-1950. Lawyer and Author.
S.Kathiresu was a lawyer and eminent author. He was a brother of Hon.S.Rajaratnam, a well known personality of the time.

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He married a sister of Hon. K. ..Balasingam.
Among the works published by him are:- Notary's Manual, A Handbook of Thesavalamai, A Handbook of Saivaism, A Handbook of the Jaffna Peninsula 1905, and Chettiyar's Code of Transactions.
Kathirkamasekara Mudaliyar c.18th century Ancestor of the Saravanamuttus
Kathirkamasekara Mudaliyar lived in Pannalai, in the Valikamam North Division of the Jaffna District. His grandson was Muthuthamby (Muthar), whose son was Vetharniar of Uduvil. Vetharniar's son was Dr. M.Vetharnier Saravanamuttu*, whose son was the well known Colombo Dr. Sir Ratnajothi Saravanamuttu. The biographies of the Saravanamuttu brothers appear elsewhere.
Kavirasar 15th Century Poet from Trincomalee.
Kavirasar, also known as Kavi Raja Varothayam, was a distinguished poet of Koneswaram in Trincomalee.
Konesar Kal Veddu, an ancient work of great historical importance, was composed by him. There is no ambiguity about the authorship. It is well established by the author himself, in the first verse of the work.
The work depicts in detail the achievements of King Kulakoddan at Koneswaram. Britto (1879) explains in his English translation of the work, “It relates how Ram Deva, the son of Manu Neethi Kanda Cholan of the Solar race visited Trincomalee, and after him, his son Kulakoddan came and repaired the temple and its towers, built the terraced halls and made the Sin Dispelling Well'. It is believed that Kavirasar lived probably in the fourteenth or the fifteenth century, during the Golden Era of Tamil Culture.
Rev. Francis Kingsbury 1873-1941. Tamil Scholar; Lecturer Ceylon University College.
Alagasuntharam, later known as Francis Kingsbury, was the third son of the distinguished Tamil scholar Rao Bahadur C.W.Thamotharampillai.
He was born on 8th August 1873 and had the fortune of studying under eminent Tamil scholars even at a young age. He acquired a good knowledge of the language and literature of both Tamil and English.
Changing his faith and adopting the name of Francis Kingsbury, he functioned as an Assistant in the Church at Pasumalai in South India. He was later ordained there in 1899. He then visited many places as a member of Christian organisations .
He was engaged as a lecturer in Tamil and Sanskrit in Bangalore, for about ten years from 1910. Later after functioning at other places, he arrived in Ceylon and was appointed lecturer in the University College Colombo in 1926.
He held that position for over ten years, before retirement. He participated in several cultural activities organised by religious institutions in Ceylon and passed away on 12th April 1941, in Colombo.
Rev Francis Kingsbury married M.R.Samathanam, daughter of Dr.T.Sitham - parapillai of Tellippalai and had four children.
Among his several publications are:- In Tamil : — Raman Kathai, Panda var Kathai, Ahat porut Kural, Yam Aivuam, etc. In English:- Life of Jesus, History of Tamil Literature, Hymns of the Tamil Saiva Saints, etc.
S.Kodeeswaran ... 1969. B.A., Attorney at Law, Pres. Arasanka Eelathu Vinaignar Sangam
1969.
S.Kodeeswaran, who was then a member of the Ceylon Clerical Service, became an important figure in the political legal history of the Island. It was as a result of the controversial "Kodeeswaran Case" of 1969, which attracted much attention. Act No.33 of 1956 requires all Government employees to be proficient in Sinhala. The validity of this Act was considered questionable under Section 29 of the Soulbury Constitution.

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The validity of the Act was challenged
in Court, citing Kodeeswaran's instance as a test case. The District Court decided that the Act was invalid. The Crown appealed to the Supreme Court which set aside the District Court's decision, on a preliminary point, that a Government employee cannot institute a case against the Crown.
Kodeeswaran appealed to the Privy Council in the U.K. They decided that the Supreme Court should hear the case in full.
The matter however ended, as appeals to the Privy Council were soon abolished.
He also changed his career and became a lawyer.
N.Krishnadasan 1902 - District Judge & Commissioner Of Assize
N.Krishnadasan, born 8th March 1902, is the son of Nagaratnampillai of Trincomalee, and an elder brother of Satchithananda Mathajee* of the Thapovanam, Trincomalee.
He graduated from the Ceylon University College Colombo. He then decided on a legal career and became an Advocate. He was admitted to the Colombo Bar in 1929.
After practising for a few years, he entered the Judicial Service and was appointed Municipal Magistrate Colombo in 1939. He then held several positions in the service at many stations. He was Magistrate in Negombo in 1942, District Judge in Anuradhapura in 1946, District Judge, Galle, in 1957 and later he was at Ratnapura. When he was at Tangalla, he was President of the Society managing the Kadirkamam Pilgrims Rest at Matara.
Since retiring, he participates in many social and religious activities. One of his endeavours has been the establishment of a University in Trincomalee. He was the Manager of Sri Sanmuga Vidyalayam and an Orphanage, in Trincomalee.
Krishnadasan married a daughter of Chief Shroff Arumugam and has a son, Visahan.
Sathasivam Krishnakumar 1960
1993
( Kittu)
Senior Central Committee Member &
Commander; LTTE.
Krishnakumar (alias Kittu), born on 2nd January 1960, was one of four children, two sons and two daughters, of Sathasivampillai and Seethalakshmi of Valvetithurai. His father was the proprietor of "Kumar Achchakam', a printing press in Point Pedro.
He had his early education at Sithampara College Valvetithurai and continued to G.C.E Advanced Level, at Velautham Mathiya Maha Vidyalayam in Point Pedro.
In 1977 he was actively involved in looking after the Tamil refugees, who were fleeing to Jaffna, from other parts of the Island, due to communal riots there. Their sufferings made a profound influence on him. He became a full time worker of the "Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam“ movement in 1978.
He took a prominent part in the military operations of the LTTE in the Jaffna Peninsula in the early 1980's. He lost a leg when a hand grenade was thrown into his jeep, while in action in 1987. Later, he was engaged in setting up a successful administrative organisation in Jaffna.
In 1989, he travelled to the United Kingdom for medical treatment. While there he helped in the formation and working of Refugee and Research Organisations of the Tamils. During his return journey, he died by Swallowing cyanide, preferring death to surrender to Indian Naval Forces that gathered around his ship. His short life terminated thus, on 16th January 1993, at the age of 33.
Krishnakumar married Ann Cynthia in 1989.
S.Krishnasingam 1912Teacher de Social Worker:
Krishnasingam is the son of Murugappa Sethappa of Thumpalai and Ponnachy (nee Supper) of Puloly. He had his education at Hartley College and passed the General Arts Qualification (London University) in Mathematics, Sanskrit and Tamil.
After being a clerk in the Marketing Dept. for a short time, he became a teacher in Gnanasaria College, Karaveddy, Point Pedro. He

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was involved in Local Govt. and national politics and was an active member of the Working Committee of the Federal Party and the T.U.L.F. later.
He was responsible for organising Family Planning Campaign in the Vadamarachi region, in the 1960's. He was the chief organiser in building and setting up of Vallai Co-operative Hospital/Nursing Home. He is a Trustee of the Sivan Temple Thumpalai, Secretary of the Saiva Manram of Point Pedro and is involved in holding classes in Sanskrit.
He married Luxmypillai and has two daughters: Satyaradha Sabapathipillai and Setharanee Jeyaram.
Kulankai Thambiran
1699-1795 Outstanding Tamil Scholar and Tutor.
Thambiran, who was to play an important role in the upbringing of several prominent persons in Jaffna, was born in 1699 at Kanjeepuram in India. He was very proficient in Tamil and Sanskrit and became an able scholar early in life.
He held a position as a "Thambiran' in a seat of learning at Thirupananthal, in India. Due to a misunderstanding among the residents there, he left the institution and came to Jaffna where he was well sponsored by Vaithilingam Chettiyar. The Chettiyar was then a leading resident of Jaffna.
Hearing of Thambiran's scholarship and ability as tutor, several persons flocked to his presence for higher studies in classical Tamil and Sanskrit and improved their knowledge. He enjoyed a prestige as an able tutor for higher studies.
It has been said that he cultivated a great friendship with Rev. Philip de Mello, who himself was a keen student of the Tamil language. Thambiran remained in Jaffna till his death in 1795.
He has published a few works in Tamil.
Vijaya Kullankai Singai Aryan, Ariya Chakravarthi First King of Jaffna,
c.1215-1240. Segarajasekaran -
Vijaya Kulankai was the first of a long line of Kings who ruled in Nallur as Tamil Kings of Jaffna. How he happened to come to Jaffna is discussed under “Arya Chakravarthi Kings of Jaffnaʼ. Pandi Mallavan, a settler from Ponpettiyur, who was resident in Jaffna, made a request to the Pandyan Court for a Prince to rule over Jaffna. In response to this, Singai Aryan, a nephew of Singai Kethu son of Thissai Ukkira Cholan was selected.
He arrived in Jaffna accompanied by Bhuvenaka Bahu as his Minister, Sri Kangathara Iyer as his Guru and a suitable retinue, selected from the Pandyan Court.
The new King soon commenced the task of building a capital city for his regime. It was comprehensive with palaces for royalty, mansions for the ministers, dwellings for warriors and others, stalls for elephants and horses, flower gardens, etc. Temples were built in the four directions around, for divine protection. He named his new city "Nallur', and a "good place' it was.
He made a triumphant ceremonial entry into his new city , with his Queen Thilakavathiyar, at an auspicious hour. He adopted “Segarajasekaran” as his throne epithet He then made a request for pioneer settlers from Tamil lands. As each chief arrived with his retinue and dependents, he settled them in various regions around, thus building up his new Kingdom of Jaffna.
He then embarked on his much cherished desire of having a superb temple for Lord Parameshwara and the Divine Consort Parvathi Ambal. The inaugural Kumba-Abishekam ceremony at the new "Kailasa Nathar Temple' is most beautifully described in "Kailaya Malai ”, a translation of which was published by A.Mootootamby in the National Review of 1907. Vijaya Kulankai ruled for twenty five years. On his demise his son Kulasekara Singai Aryan was crowned King of Jaffna.
Prof. K.Kularetnam 1911-... . B.Sc., M.A (Lond)., Ph.D. (Lond), Dip. in Geography (Madras).

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Professor of Geography & Geology,
University of Ceylon.
Kularetnam, born 28th May 1911, was the son of Karthikesapillai of Manipay Jaffna. He was a brother of Dr.C Sivaretnam.
He graduated in Science at Delhi, and obtained a Diploma in Geography from Madras in 1938. He functioned as a Field Assistant Geologist, in the Department of Mineralogy from 1939. Later he was appointed Assistant Geologist in 1943.
He obtained his Diploma in Gemmology in 1944. He also underwent a course in Petrology at the Mysore University. He obtained his Master's degree of the London University in 1944 and secured his Doctorate, Ph.D (Lond), in 1951.
He was a lecturer at the University of Ceylon, Peradeniya, for some time, then Professor of Geography and Geology and the Head of the Department. Later he was at the Colombo University in the same capacity.
He functioned as a Member of the Water Resources Board in later years.
Professor Kularetnam married Pushpadevi, daughter of Accountant Kasipillai. Mrs. Pushpadevi Kularetnam was a distinguished Librarian. She first held a position with the U.S.I.S in Colombo. Later she was appointed Chief Librarian of the Colombo Public Library. Afterwards she was Librarian at the Ceylon University. Eventually she held the position of Director of Library Studies in the University of Ceylon. She survived her husband and passed away in 1990.
M.M.Kulasekaram 1895-1970 Vice-Principal, Royal College.
Mudalithamby Mappanar Kulasekaram was born on 5th October 1895 in Kodikamam. He had his early education at Kanterodai and at Jaffna Hindu College. Later he was at Trinity College Kandy and at Jaffna College from where he passed the Inter Science Examination.
Obtaining the B.Sc (Lond) degree, he commenced teaching at Central College Jaffna. He was appointed mathematics master Royal College in 1922 where he functioned for a long
time. He was eventually appointed VicePrincipal and acted for the Principal in 1950. He was a strict disciplinarian and was held in high respect.
Kulasekaram married Rasa -Muthammah from Vaddukkoddai and had five sons: Dr. Gangadaran Prof. of Mathematics who married a daughter of Dr. W. Balendra, Ganesan a Chemical Engineer, Dr. Balaku maran Cardiologist, Nadesan Valuer and Sahadevan Local Govt. Officer.
Kulasekara Singai Aryan c1240
1256 King of Jaffna Pararajasekaran I
Kulasekara Singai Aryan was crowned King of Jaffna on the demise of his father the celebrated Vijaya Kulankai Singai Aryan., in about the year 1240. He adopted the epithet name of Pararajasekaran 1.
Traditional records refer to his active engagement in colonisation, opening up of lands for cultivation etc.. It is also said that a blind poet by the name of Andaka Kavi Vera Raghava Mudaliyar visited the court of Pararajasekaran at that time and received valuable gifts.
A.V.Kulasingham 1890-1978. Journalist & Crown Advocate.
Aiyathurai Varnakulasingham Kulasingham was born in Karainagar on 11th October 1890. He had his elementary education in Karainagar, continued in Malaya and eventually completed the Cambridge Senior Examination in Jaffna College, Vaddukoddai.
While engaged in law studies, he took to journalism and was contributing articles to the Morning Star and the Times of Ceylon. He later functioned as editor of the Ceylon Daily News 1925, the Hindu Organ and was a special correspondent to the Manchester Guardian.
He established his legal practice in Jaffna and fast made a name as a leading advocate. He practised for over fifty years. He also functioned as Crown Advocate for some time. His command of the language and the mastery

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of the briefs were highly commended.
He took a great interest in farming in the Kilinochchi area, using modern technology. He encouraged the youths of Jaffna to take to this venture. He was a founder member of the Tamil Congress Party and contested the Kayts seat in Parliament in 1947, but lost by a narrow margin. He passed away on the 16th of January 1978.
Kulasingam married Rasammah daughter of Proctor Thambu in 1910 and had three sons: Rudrasingam a Proctor, Karalasingam Landed Proprietor and Jeganathan Landed Proprietor and five daughters: Manonmani Kandiah, Annapillai Sinnadurai, Thilagam Paramanathan, Pathmaranee Kandasamy and Jeyamani Subramaniam.
Kulattunga Singai Aryan c.1256-1279 King of Jaffna Segarajasekaran II
Kulattunga Singai Aryan was crowned King of Jaffna on the death of his father King Kulasekara Singai Aryan. He reigned under the name of Segarajasekaran II.
According to tradition, he has been described as a bold and brilliant warrior who waged wars with his neighbours with great success. His first dispute was over the pearl fishery at Marichchukaddi.
He is said to have proceeded inland and won a battle at Yapahuwa, thus extending the area under his sway.
Rt. Rev. Dr.S.Kulendran 1900-1992 Bishop, Jaffna Diocese, Church of
South India.
Rt. Rev.Dr.Sabapathy Kulendran was born in Jaffna on 23rd September 1900. His father Sabapathy was a Notary Public and his
mother the Head Mistress of a School. His brother Sam.A.Sabapathy was Mayor of Jaffna.
He was educated at St.John's College, where he distinguished himself in many of the School activities. He was later at Jaffna College, where he was associated with Handy Perinpanayagam and others in the Students'
Congress Movement. He graduated in Arts of the University of London.
Deciding on a religious career devoted to the Church, he proceeded to the Serampore Seminary in Calcutta for ecclesiastical studies. He was ordained in 1934.
He was then elected Secretary of the Church Council, of which he became Principal in 1940. He worked hard for the movement that eventually led to the formation of the South India United Church.
He was selected as the first Bishop of the Jaffna Diocese of the S.I.U.C in 1947. He held this position till 1970, with honour and a kind heart. He fast became "God's gift to the people' of the Diocese.
He was a great scholar and read widely. He was a versatile linguist, knowing Hebrew and Sanskrit in addition to Tamil and English. He contributed several articles to Church publications. In 1945, after attending an International Seminar in Chicago, he published a book on the views prevalent in the American Pulpit. In 1961 he published his first big work "Grace in Christianity and Hinduism'. In it, with a clear sharp concept, he analyses the similarities and dissimilarities in the concept of Grace in the two faiths. Serampore conferred the Doctorate on him the same year. Later in the 1980's, he wrote his great work, a Magnum Opus on the concept of the Transcendence, in the four religions Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity.
After a great and valuable service, he retired in 1970 to lead a quiet life at Vaddukoddai. He passed away on 14th February 1992, at the age of 92.
He married Mathuram, a daughter of Visuvalingam and sister of J.V.Dharmarajah. The couple had two sons: Thavanithy and Arumaikajothi and a daughter Karuna.
Kumarasekara Mudaliyar 17th
century Ancestral Resident of Mullaitivu.
Kumarasekara Mudaliyar, a highly respected nobleman of Mullainagar was a descendant of King Vanni Rajan, who ruled over parts of the Vanni, in the 17th century. His

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ancestral dwelling is even now honoured with respect in Mullaitivu. He is blessed with a long and distinguished progeny.
One of his sons was Velauthampillay; his son Mylvagana Mudaliyar served under the British regime as a Mudaliyar of distinction. His son Canapathipil lai (1828 – 1897) was a prominent person, being Chief Clerk at the Mullaitivu Kachcheri in 1864. He is reputed to have built the Veerakathy Pillaiyar Temple in Mullaitivu. Mudaliyar Arumugam*, and Dr. Sivasithamparam, were two of Canapathipillai's sons who were prominent people of their time.
Kumarasinga Mudaliyar ...1800.... Ayurvedic Physician, Mannar, Composed Hymns. Kumarasinga Mudaliyar was a highly respected, well educated person of Navatkulam in Mathoddam, Mannar. He was also an experienced Ayurvedic Physician of the locality. Once he was accused of having taken part in a revolt against a tax imposed on ornaments by Governor North in 1800. He was tried for sedition and sentenced to be whipped.
In a series of verses to the Blessed Virgin, which he recited whilst being whipped, he had invoked Her intercession, so that he may bear the affliction with fortitude.
These and some of his other hymns are said to be sung in the Catholic Churches of the locality even today.
A.Kumaraswamy Pulavar of Chunnakam, 1855-1922. Eminent Tamil Scholar de Poet.
Kumaraswamy, the esteemed pullavar of Chunnakam, was the son of Ambalavanar (1808-1886), a descendant of Muthucumaru Kavirayar. He had his early education at the Mallakam village school. He then pursued higher studies in Tamil and Sanskrit under distinguished Tamil pundits. He was also given tuition by Pulavar Kanagasabai of Alaveddi in composing Tamil verses. He was encouraged in his studies by Arumuga Navalar.
In 1878, he was engaged by Rao Bahadur C.W.Thamotharampillai as a teacher at his School at Elalai and later placed in charge of same. He was there for twenty four years and earned high recognition for his hard work. In 1902 he was appointed Headmaster of Arumuga Navalars Saiva Pragasa Vidyasa lai in Vannarpannai, a position he held for the next twenty years.
Eventually he gained much recognition for his eminence. When the Madurai Tamil Sangam was established in India, Kumaraswamy Pulavar was one of the first invited to be examiner of pundits.
He contributed research articles regularly to journals and wrote a number of poetic compositions and works in prose, among which
are:-
Tamil Pulavar Satitham, Ilakkiya Sol
Aharathy, Neethi Neri Vilakkam, Mega Thootha Karikai and Raguvamsa Charitha Amirtham.
Besides the above, he also published some of the Tamil classics, with his explanatory notes and comments.
He had two sons Ambalavanapillai and Muttukumaraswamipillai, who were also able scholars and a daughter.
Siva Sri S. Kumaraswamy Kurukkal, 1886-1971. "Saiva Samya Sathira Vitpananer”, Venerable Saiva High Priest from
Achchuvely.
The Venerable High Priest was born in Achchuvely, Jaffna, on 16.11.1886, to Siva Sri N.Sabapathy Kurukkal. He had his early educational guidance under Sivaprakasa Pandith ar Kailasa Pillai of Nallur and Kumaraswamy Pulavar of Chunnakam. He gained his knowledge of the Saiva Agama Sashtras under Sri La Sri Sathasiva Kurukkal and became highly proficient in them. He qualified as a Kurukkal priest in 1910.
He commenced imparting Hindu religious knowledge to a few students at first. Very soon the numbers grew and a proper School, named Saraswathi Vidyalayam, was founded at Achchuvely in 1916. He devoted much time for its success.

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Later, he was in charge of all religious
knowledge studies, at the Jaffna Hindu College. He also functioned as Consultant at
the School established at Thiruketheeswaram for training Brahmin Priests. He was in charge of the rituals and ceremonies held at the commencement of operations for re-building that temple.
He was an authority on Saiva Agama rituals and was consulted by many. In 1960 he was feilicitated by the public at a special function.
He has published several books and booklets in Sanskrit and in Tamil on Hindu ceremonies and rituals His passing away on 10.3.1971 was a great loss to the Hindus.
V.Kumaraswamy Pulavar of
Pt.Pedro
dev - 1925. Scholar & Grammarian.
Kumaraswamy was the son of Vallipuranathar of Puloly, Pt. Pedro. He received his early education under eminent persons and very soon became a proficient Scholar, specialising in Tamil Grammar. Correct grammar was evident even when he conversed with others, so much so that he earned the name of “lakkana Koththu'. He published an edition of the Tamil Grammar masterpiece “Nannool', with his notes and explanations. He was a teacher at the Jaffna Hindu College for a few years.
His son Sivapragasam, familiarly referred to as "Pulavar', was Mathematics Master at Jaffna Hindu College; he then proceeded to London and obtained his Doctorate in Psychology. On his return he was placed in charge of training teachers, at Parameshwara College Jaffna. He was later Principal of the Nelliadi Central School.
V.Kumaraswamy c.1920-.... . Advocate, Tamil Congress M.P for Chavakachcheri, 1947-56.
V.Kumaraswamy was the son of Proctor Velupillai of Chavakachcheri. His elder brother Namasivayam held the post of Chief Clerk in
H.E. the Governer's Office; his younger brother Chandrasenan was an Engineer in the Gal Oya Development Board.
After his graduation, Kumaraswamy entered the Law College to become an advocate. He was elected President of the Law Students Union.
When he was in his final year, he contested the Chavakachcheri seat in the House of Parliament, as a Tamil Congress candidate, in the General Elections held in 1947 and won with a very large majority. As a Member of Parliament he was responsible for initiating several development works, particularly in the Punakari-Tunukai areas. He was appointed Parliamentary Secretary and on several occasions acted for the Minister. He retained the Seat in the 1952 Elections, but lost in 1956 when he contested as an Independent candidate. As an advocate, he built up a lucrative career in Colombo, but unfortunately, he passed away early in life.
He married the second daughter of Dr.Paramanayagam and had a son Vaheeswaran, a planter in Sri Lanka, and a daughter Dushyanti, a Barrister married to Dr.Vethavanam.
V.S.S.Kumaraswamy 1891-1945. B.A., Advocate, Cigar Manufacturing Industrialist.
V.S.S.Kumaraswamy was the son of V.S.Sivagurunathar, who was the son of V.Sinnathamby (c1800-1875) of Kandarmadam Jaffna.
In about the year 1850, Sinnathamby commenced purchase and export of local tobacco. Very soon however, his activiy expanded to include the manufacture and sale of the "Jaffna Cigar', from the tobacco
He had to make long trips to the interior of the Vanni and Kandy Districts to purchase the tobacco leaves. During his absence, his wife looked after the manufacturing industry. In due course she became very proficient in the process of manufacture and the venture flourished.
On the death of Sinnathamby, the industry was continued by his son Sivagurunathar ( 1843-1898), who died early.

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Sivagurunathar’s son V.S.S. Kumaraswamy was well educated, being a London graduate and a qualified Advocate.
He took charge of the industry and
made a great success of it, cigars with the brand name of "V.S.S.K' soon became a household name with every Jaffna cigar smoker in the Island.
He led a very successful life and was a great philanthropist who gave freely to charity He passed away at the early age of 54 years.
Kumaraswamy married twice and had twelve children.
V.Kumaraswamypillai 1875-1936. Lawyer, Antiquarian Tamil Ola Manuscripts, Father of C. Vanniyasingam, F.P M.P
Kumaraswamypillai, born in 1875, was the son of Dr.V.Vannithamby and Theivanaipillai of Tellippalai. He had his early education at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai and proceeded to Calcutta for higher education.
In 1900 he chose a legal career and did very well as a civil lawyer.
Apart from professional matters, he was highly interested in the collection of Tamil old ola manuscripts. He took great pains in conserving them and having the contents printed for the benefit of posterity.
Two such documents were Thandikai Kanagarayan Pallu and the Kathiramalai Pallu. He married Sellam, daughter of S.Vairavapillai, in 1908. Vanniyasingam, CoFounder, Federal Party and M.P for Kopay, was his eldest son, Balasingam C.C.S and Head of the Government Treasury, was his second son. His daughter, a graduate teacher at Ramanathan College was married to Ganeshalingam, school master Kokkuvil Hindu College.
Kunapushana Singai Aryan
King of Jaffna 1348-1371. Segarajasekaran IV
Kunapushana Singai Aryan succeeded his father Marthanda Singai Aryan, as King of
Jaffna, with the throne name of Segarajasekaran IV.
He was a very successful ruler who was interested in the development of his Kingdom. He invited settlers, specially proficient in finer weaving from Andra Nad, Kanjeepuram etc,. They were settled in Vannarpannai. Perumal Kovil, which is now a foremost Vishnu Temple situated in the heart of Jaffna Town, was built inorder that the settlers may perform their customary religious observances there.
Kunaveera Singai Aryan King of Jaffna 1410-1440
Pararajasekaran V
On the death of King Jayaweera Singai Aryan, after a glorious reign, his son Kunaveera Singai Aryan became King of Jaffna with the name of Pararajasekaran V.
He was a devout King who encouraged religious worship. It is found in South Indian records that he had the inner shrine of the temple at Rameswaram built with granite stones taken from Trincomalee.
He encouraged Tamil learning by patronising Tamil Assemblies. A work on medical science was published during his regime.
Pandithar Kunchithamby c1920
1960 Tamil Scholar & Musician from Thambiluvil in Batticaloa.
Pandithar Kunchithamby hails from the Thirukovil-Thambiluvil region in the Batticaloa District, which is well known for folk lore singers, musicians and dramatists.
After his studies at St.Michael's College.Batticaloa, Kunchithamby proceeded to Madurai Tamil Sangam for a three year course in Tamil. On his return he served his community as a lecturer at the Addalaicholai Teachers' Training College.
He was well known for his interest in music and drama. He wrote Tamil dramas and teaming up with Vidvan Saravanamuthan, he staged several plays. This very successful

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combination was unfortunately disrupted by the early demise of the partners.
Among his compositions are Vatukka maalai, and Bajanamirtham, the first extols the deity in the temple at Thirukovil and the second the deity in the Kannakai Amman Temple at Tambiluvil.
Kupaka Rajendran c 13th century Pioneer Settler
Rajendran was a wealthy pioneer from Kupa Nadu in South India. He came with his brother Punniya Poopalan and settled in the Tholpuram area of the Jaffna Peninsula.
They are said to have been keen patrons of learning and had the "Plough' as their symbol on their flag.
It has not been possible to trace their descendants.
L
K.Lakshmana Iyer 1918-1990 M.A (Annamalai), Dip. Ed. Ceylon. Tamil Lecturer.
Lakshmanan, born 5th May 1918, was the son of Sri Krishna Iyer, Trustee of Palaly Amman Kovil, Palaly. He had his education at Manipay Hindu and Parameshwara Colleges and at Jaffna College from where he passed the London Inter Arts examination. Proceeding to Annamalai University, he obtained his Master's degree in Tamil and Philosophy. Later he also obtained the Diploma in Education of the Ceylon University.
He was a teacher at Royal College Colombo for over ten years and then was engaged as Superintendent, Official Languages Educational Publications for another ten years. He then continued in the Ministry of Education till his retirement. Later he was engaged as lecturer, on education at the Ceylon University and on Hindu culture at the Jaffna University. He passed away on 13th April 1990.
He attended several world conferences, as representative of Tamil Language and Hindu
religion in Sri Lanka and has published a book on Indian Philosophy.
Lakshmanalyer had two sons: Sivaraman and Savitharan, both Accountants, and a daughter Mangalam, who is married to Accountant W.V.SirinivaSan.
S.K.Lawton ....1876.... Pioneer Photographer from Manipay.
Swaminathan Kanagaratnam Lawton was from an ancient family in Manipay, Jaffna. His father Swaminathan Lawton was the Son of Vairvanathan, who was the son of Poothathamby. His grandfather built an important Mandapam in the Manipay Maruthadi Pillaiyar temple, so the temple records read.
He was an amateur photographer for Some years and had acquired good knowledge of photographic processes.
In 1876 he set up the first Photographic Studio in Jaffna, under the name of S.K.Lawton & Co. He was the first to introduce the halftone process in Ceylon. Very soon the business expanded. Later he was joined by his son R.R. Lawton.
Photographs by Lawton were always an item in most of the social events, particularly weddings. A branch of the firm was opened in Colombo. Their photographs appeared even in British publications .
S.K.Lawton was a well educated and popular person who was held in high respect. He was Manager of Taylor School (later Mahajana College) Tellipallai, for several years. One of the School Houses has been named "Lawton House', in his memory. It is said that he was the only person whom Sir P.Ramanathan visited, although he had several relations in Manipay.
S.K.Lawton married twice. By his first marriage he had two sons and two daughters. The first som resided in Colombo and the Second son Swaminathan was an agent for petroleum products. The second daughter Alagamma was married to Mudaliyar P.V.Canagasabai, Station Master Jaffna.
From the second marriage there were three sons and two daughters. Chornalingam, the well known amateur actor of Tamil Dramas

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was one of the sons. One of the daughters was married to C.N.Devarajan, School Master and Journalist; another daughter to Kumarasingam, an official of the Malayan Railways.
The Manipay public have named one of their roads as “Lawton Road' to perpetuate his memory.
D.Lingam c.1890-... . Head of Postal Service, Madras.
Dharmalingam, more well known as Lingam, was from Mallakam in Jaffna.
He proceeded to India, early in life and entered the Postal Service of the Madras Presidency. By diligence and hard work he won esteem and recognition. He rose up rapidly in the service, eventually reaching the top.
It is said that he was selected and sent for re-organising the Postal System in the Middle East.
C.Loganathan 1913-1981. General Manager, Bank of Ceylon, Eminent Banker, U.N Consultant.
Loganathan, who achieved banking prestige for the Tamils and formulated the reputed “Loganathan Plan', was the youngest of five Soms of “Kandakkar” V.Chelliah and Pilawadi Thangamuthu Ammai of Puloly South, Pt. Pedro. The family has a long line of ancestors hailing from Jaffna's pioneer Pandi Mallavan, through Mallavaraya Mudaliyar , Senathiraja Mudaliyar, etc.
Young Loganathan, who was born on 19th September 1913, received his early education at Victoria College Chulipuram and later at Hartley College Pt. Pedro. He then sought a University career in Colombo. Proceeding to Bombay he secured the B.Com. degree of the University there.
Deciding on a banking career, he entered the services of the Bank of Ceylon in 1939. By integrity, hard work and efficiency he won recognition in the service and rose rapidly to higher positions, achieving the top prestigious post of General Manager of the Bank of Ceylon in 1953. This position he maintained with great efficiency and distinction. The Bank made
phenomenal growth, during his regime of sixteen years.
On relinquishing the post in 1969, he held the position of General Manager and Director of the Development Finance Corporation of Ceylon for two years. He was also an adviser to the Development Bank of the Philippines. His knowledge of finance was of great assistance to many. He functioned as a consultant to the U.N Asian Institute for Economic Development and Planning.
Loganathan was a leading personality in many of the social and religious activities of the Tamils. With a view of promoting development of the agricultural, industrial and commercial potential of the North, he organised a meeting at Saraswathy Hall in 1979. After discussions, the Consultancy Finance and Development Ltd. and the Merchant Finance Ltd., were promoted as Socio-Economic Development Societies. These are of considerable benefit to farmers.
In his later years, he was actively engaged in expediting the building of a Rajagopuram at the Sri Vallipura Alvar Temple and the restoration of Pillavadi Pillaiyar Temple in Puloly. He passed away at the age of sixty eight, on 4th May. 1981.
Loganathan's writings are masterpieces on Economic Growth. These have been well expressed in a New York publication, entitled "Development Savings Banks and the Third World', (1973), and also in a contribution to the Financial Times of Sri Lanka, entitled, “Social and Economic Reform and Less Developed Countries', (1974). The ideas and principles enunciated on these, form the reputed "Loganathan Plan '.
He married Thilagavathy Ammai, daughter of the distinguished Dr. C.Sivasithamparam, of Mullaitivu, and had three sons Sathananthan, Sritharan and Ketheeswaran and three daughters Gowri.Vasuki, and Lalitha.
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S.Mahadavan 1904-1957
Prop. Mahadavans Ltd., etc.
Mahadavan, born 24th August 1904, was the son of Subramaniam, proprietary planter and Govt. pensioner, Malaya. Mahadavan had his early education in Malaya and later at Jaffna Hindu College.
He and his lifelong friend S.Rajandram, joined Messrs Beer & Co as guarantee brokers. The firm represented several American Companies: Parker Pen Co, Colgate Palmolive Co, Westclox, Champion Spark Plugs, National Carbon, etc, all of whom enjoyed improved sales over the years.
When Messrs Dodge and Seymour took over the business of Beer & Co, S.Mahadavan was appointed Manager. Later, in 1939, he became General Manager of The National Carbon Co. Eventually, he and his friend S.Rajandram set up their own business houses: Mahadavans Ltd., Rajandram Ltd., Stirling Products and Maharaja Distribution. The new Maharaja building in Bankshall St, Colombo was completed in 1953. He passed away after a heart attack in December 1957, at the early age of 53.
Mahadavan was involved in many charitable and social institutions. He was founder secretary of the Colombo Hindu Educational Society, which was responsible for building the Colombo Hindu College. He was founder trustee of the Maharaja Trust which supported many charities.
Hon. Sir A, Mahadeva K.C.M.G.
1885 - 1969. B.A., M.L.C 1924., M.S. C 1934
, 1936, Minister for Home Affairs 1940,
High Commissioner.
Hon. Sir A.Mahadeva, leader of the Tamils in the 1930s, and son of the distinguished Knight Sir P. Arunachalam, and Lady Sornambal, was born on 5th October 1885. He had his early education at Royal College Colombo. He then proceeded to England for higher studies and graduated at Christ College Cambridge.
Returning to Ceylon, he functioned as a
Crown Counsel for a short time. He was associated with the Ceylon National Congress, founded by his father. He then functioned as Principal Parameshwara College Jaffna, for a few years. This enabled him to become familiar with the people of the North.
He was tutored well in Tamil culture and aptly informed of men and matters by his father. He was also fortunate in being guided by the well experienced veteran politician Sir P.Ramanathan. Thus well equipped, he entered public life and the political arena of Ceylon.
In 1924 he contested the Western Province Tamil Seat in the Legislative Council and won, defeating his kinšman R. Sri Pathmanathan and Dr.M.M. Kumaraswamy. During the seven year period of the Council, Mahadeva earned high esteem and built up a well reputed political career.
After the reform of the Constitution and consequent delays, he contested and won the Jaffna Town seat in the first State Council in 1934. He retained the seat in the 1936 elections. He was appointed Minister of Home Affairs in 1940.
In the State Council he agitated for several projects of great benefit to the Tamil community as well as to others. Establishment of a University in Ceylon, facilities and conveniences to pilgrims proceeding to Kadirkamam, social welfare, etc. were all subjects he pressed for.
He was a popular and prominent figure of the time, like his father and his uncle, who were great Statesmen. He held a leading position in many secial and religious organisations.
However with the growing popularity of other political parties, he was unable to retain the Jaffna Seat in the 1947 Elections.
He did not contest thereafter. He served as High Commissioner for Ceylon in India, from 1950 to 1957.
He was closely associated with the movement for gaining Independence by Sri Lanka. In appreciation of his services to the country, he had the honour of being made a Knight.
He was the Chief Trustee of the Hindu Sivan temple at Kochchikade, built by his

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forefathers. He was responsible for building the Maha Gopuram Tower in front of that temple. He passed away in June 1969 at the age of eighty four years.
Sir Arunachalam Mahadeva married Sivahamy Ammal, daughter of Broker Moothathamby and had a son Balakumara and a daughter Sornam Ammai, who is married to N.Nadarajah*, Professor of Law and Author. Balakumara, born on 29th October 1921, after a brilliant school career, graduated and entered the Ceylon Civil Service in January 1945. He held various positions in the service; he was Asst.Secretary to the Minister of Defence in 1949, and in 1952 he was Assistant Secretary to the Minister of Lands. In 1958 he was appointed Permanent Secretary to the Minister for Food. On retiring, he held assignments with International organisations abroad.
Later he returned to the Island and functions as Chairman National Development Bank, Chairman Development Finance Corporation, Director of the Peoples Bank and also as Consultant to important Ministries. B. Mahadeva married a daughter of Dr. Sega Theagarajah, Microbiologist Colombo Municipality.
Dr. Kopan Mahadeva 1934 -
M.Sc, Ph.D., MICE, FIMfgE, etc.
Kopan Mahadeva, born 5th January 1934, is the son of K.V. Kopalapillai and A.Ponnammah of Madduvil South, Chavakachcheri.
After his early education, he graduated in Engineering with Honours at the Ceylon University, in 1955, and worked in Ceylon for a few years. He then proceeded to Birmingham University, where he obtained his M.Sc in Engineering Production and Management, and his Doctorate in 1964. Returning to Ceylon, he was engaged in construction of large engineering works along with "Mite Organisation' as its Chairman and Director, and other Firms. Returning to U.K in 1978, he proceeded to West Indies in 1980 and was Professor of Production Engineering and Management at the Trinidad Campus for four years. He is now a Visiting Professor at Birmingham and Consultant. His hobby is writing poems both in English and in
Tamil; he has published books of Poems, Stories and one containing “A Peace Plan for Eelam”. Kopan Mahadeva married Dr. Seethevi daughter of S.Muttucumaraswamy and they have four children: Uma, Usha, Lavan (son) and Ulla, who are all graduates in various professions.
S.Mahadeva 1893-.... . F.I.C.E., M.I.W.E., F.I.S.E., M.R. San.E., Director of Public Works.
Mahadeva joined the P.W.D in a Junior
Post and became the Head of that Department, and an engineer of high eminence. He was the son of Suppiramaniam, a leading resident of Manipay, and was born on 5th May 1893.
After his school education he joined the Public Works Department of Ceylon as a Draughtsman in 1910 and served in that capacity for two years.
He then commenced a career in the
Technical Services of the Department. Diligent hard work and acquisition of neccessary qualifications gained him promotion to the Inspectorate grade in 1920. He became District Engineer in 1924 and was appointed Engineering Assistant to the Director in 1930 and Chief Engineer, Designs, in 1939. He was responsible for many outstanding architectural designs of the day.
When the Department commenced a Water Works Branch, he took charge of it.
He rose rapidly to the top rungs of the Department, becoming Asst. Director in 1944 and Director in 1945, which position he held with great acceptance till his retirement.
Mahadeva has contributed several papers on a wide range of engineering subjects to the Engineering Association of Ceylon. He has made a special study of the fresh water problems of the Jaffna Peninsula.
He was always helpful with advice to young engineers. Many owe their success in engineering career to his counsel. His was an era which ushered in a surge for engineering by the youth of the country.
He married Meenambal Ammai , daughter of Chelliah Pillai and had a son Nadarajah.

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A.Mahendrarajah 1921-1989. B.Sc (Hons) Lond., L.L.B., President's Counsel.
Mahendrarajah, born on 3rd June 1921, was a son of K.S. Arulnandhy* of Pt. Pedro.
After a successful school career, he graduated in Science with Honours. He also obtained the Bachelor of Laws degree of the London University with Honours. He passed the Sri Lanka Advocates examination with distinctions.
Entering the service of the Attorney General's Department in 1948, he functioned as Crown Counsel. Retiring in 1962, he reverted to the unofficial Bar and practised mostly in the Appeal Courts. He was appointed a President's Counsel in 1983.
His early demise on 12th August 1989, at the age of 68, was a great loss to the community.
He married a daughter of Ambalavanar, Superintendent of Surveys.
A.Maheswaran 1925-1992 B.Sc., B.Sc (Eng) Hons., M.I.C.E., F.I.E. Irrigation Director; Addl...Sec. Ministry of Mahaweli Development.
A.Maheswaran, born on 1st July 1925, was the son of S. Arumugam, Government Surveyor, from Puloly West Point Pedro.
He had his education at Hartley College, Point Pedro, and later at St.Peter's College Colombo. Entering the Ceylon University, he secured the Science Degree, at the young age of 20, in 1945. He then obtained the Engineering Degree, from the Ceylon Technical College, in 1948.
Joining the Irrigation Service in 1949, he rapidly rose to be Director of Irrigation in 1975. In 1979 he was appointed Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mahaweli Development. Retiring from Government Service, he functioned as Consultant to the Food and Agricultural Organisation and the World Bank. He was President of the Institution of Engineers of Sri Lanka.
In 1988 he migrated to Australia, where
he was associated with several Social
organisations. He was President of the Tamil Senior Citizens’ Fellowship Victoria, a keen Official of the Hindu Society of Victoria, Secretary of Hartley College O.B.A., etc.
He passed away in Australia at the age of 67, on the 17th of July 1992, after a brief illness. A. Mahes waran married his cousin Jayaranee, a Science Graduate and daughter of S.Nadarasar and had two daughters: the elder Sumithrai qualified as an Engineer and was married to Prabhakaran an Accountant, the younger Ramani qualified as a Doctor and was married to Dr. Sivakadachcham.
VMailoo 1897-1973. Divisional Supdt. of Post Offices.
Visuvanathar Mailoo was born in Ariyalai Jaffna, in 1897.
He received his education at St. John's College, Jaffna. Passing the Cambridge Senior Local Examination, he joined the Postal Department as a Postmaster and Signaller.
沙 For his diligence and ability, he was
promoted, first as Inspector of Post Offices, and then as Divisional Superintendent of Post Offices. Eventually, he was appointed Assistant Superintendent of Equipment, which position he held till retirement.
Mailoo was a keen social worker; he was the President of the M.P.C.S of Ariyalai and initiated several Cottage Industries, Agricultural and Land-Settlement projects for the good of the community. He was a keen supporter of the Federal Party. He passed away in 1973. w
Mailoo married Meenachy, daughter of Subramaniam and had five sons: Jayaratnam Chartered Chemist, Dr.Visvaratnam Consultant Physician, Dr. Gunaratnam Gynaecologist, Prof. Selvaratnam, Educationist, and Dr.Ganesaratnam, Consultant Surgeon, and five daughters.
Prof. A.W.Mailvaganam 1906-1987 B.Sc (Hons), Ph.D (Cantab). Professor of Physics, Colombo,
Mailvaganam, born on 16th November 1906, was the son of Arumugam Wisvalingam

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of Suthumalai, Jaffna.
After a brilliant school career, Mailvaganam entered the Colombo University College and obtained the Science Degree of the London University, with First Class Honours. He then proceeded to Emmanuel College, Cambridge, as a scholar, and did special studies in Physics, graduating with Honours.
On his return to Ceylon, he was appointed Lecturer in Physics, at the University College Colombo in 1932. In 1939 he was appointed Professor of Physics, which position he held till his retirement in 1966.
After retirement he took to serious study of the Saiva Siddanda Philosophy, until his demise in April 1987.
He married a daughter of S. Somasunderam, Proctor Colombo and had a son , Gajanandan Nandakumar.
Gajanandan graduated in Engineering in Ceylon , and is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer. He was a Factory Engineer in Colombo and later proceeded to Ontario, Canada. He married Rajalakshmi Jeyananthan.
K.Mailvaganam, Pulavar of Tellippalai, 1875-1918.
Mailvaganam, born 1875, was the son of Kanapathipilai ofVaruthalai Vilan, Tellippalai. He was a distinguished pupil of Kumaraswamy Pulavar of Chunnakam. He commenced his career as a School-Master and taught at Mallakam and Kankesanturai. In addition he was a Notary Public and did some notarial work.
He was a poet and a distinguished scholar of his time.
Among his works were:- Mavai Pathikam , Inu vai Pathikam and Nagules waram.
S.Mailvaganam c 1880-.... School Master
S.Mailvaganam, a School Master of high repute, was the son of Sellapah of Alaveddi. He had his education at the Jaffna Hindu College and was then trained at the Teachers' Training College.
He was away in Burma for some years
and on his return was appointed as a School Master at Ramanathan College, Chunnakam.
He was a Member of the Hindu Education Board and was held in high esteem.
M.Sri Kantha Permanent Secretary was his son.
S.Mailvaganam 1920-1989. Director of Finance.
Suppiah Mailvaganam, born on 20th February 1920, was from Chulipuram, Jaffna. After his school education, he entered the Financial Branch of the Dept. of Agriculture Peradeniya, as a clerk.
Very soon he was appointed Chief Clerk of the Divisional Agricultural Office, Kilinochchi ..He then occupied an executive position in the Exchange Control Dept. and was then appointed Chief Accountant S.H.S Office Jaffna. In 1962, he was the Head of the Financial Division of the Ministry of Agriculture for four years and was later appointed Director of Finance. He held this position in the Land Reform Commission and in several other Govt. Agencies, until his demise in August 1989.
Mailvaganam was a contented person who lived within his means and saw with ease several political changes during his 50 years in Govt.service. He married Gnanaranjitham, daughter of Proctor V.K.Gnanasundaram of Kokuvil and had four children: Raguvaran an Accountant, Mrs.Vicknarajah now in Antigua, and Ahilan and Sritharan, who are both in Canada
S.Mailvaganam Pulavar of Mathakal, 1779-1816.
Author of the Chronicle “Yalpana Vaipava Malai”, Hereditary Bard of the Tamil Kings.
Mail vagana Pulavar hailed from an ancestral "Pulavar' family in Mathakal Jaffna. His father's name was Suppiramaniam. His uncle was a famous poet Sittampalam, who enjoyed the epithet of "Thikkeddum puhal eddiya' , meaning "a poet well known in all the eight directions". He was a descendant of the ancient poet Vaiya Puri Iyer, who composed the Vaiya Padal .

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Vaithilinga Chettiyar, a rich merchant engaged him for explaining what the veteran tutor Kulankai Thambiran taught the Chettiyar. Thambiran, who enjoyed a very high reputation, it is said, would never repeat anything more than once.
The Pulavar is well remembered today because of his masterpiece "Yalpana Vaipava Malai', composed by him in the 18th century. . He composed it at the behest of Maccra,the Dutch Governor of Ceylon at that time. It is one of the earliest works on the history of Jaffna. It has been held in high esteem ever since and is referred to as the “Chronicle' of Jaffna History. He obtained material from earlier works, now extinct, chiefly Kailaya Malai, Rasa Murai, Vaiya Padal, etc.
The Yalpana Vaipava Malai has been reprinted more than once. An English translation was published by C. Britto in 1879. A new edition was published recently in 1949, by Kula Sabanathan, with explanatory notes. A reprint of this edition was made in 1959. Copies are available in the book-shops.
He accompanied Vaithilinga Chettiyar on a pilgrimage to Benares and on his return made some compositions about the temples where he had worshipped during the pilgrimage.
Malaana Mudaliyar of Kerudavil A Pioneer
Malaana Mudaliyar was an early settler of Jaffna, who has an interesting progeny: His son was Kulasekaram Pillai, whose son was Thinagaram whose son was Kathirkamar. Kathirkamar's son was Vairamuthar and his son was Arumugam. One of Arumugam’s sons Hudson Paramasamy B.A. was a School Master at Jaffna College and later Head of the Manipay Hindu College.
Hudson Paramasamy had a daughter Ariyamma, who was Principal Uduvil Girls College, and a son Thambirajah
Malaana Mudaliyar of Sithankerni,
Vaddukoddai.
A Pioneer.
Malaana Mudaliyar was an early settler
of Jaffna. His descendant was Ellaiyar, whose son was Sithamparanathar whose son was Kathirkamar, whose son was Periyathamby, whose son Casinadar had five sons, youngest of whom was "Maddaikalappu' Vaithilingam, Who was a Transport magnate and philanthropist.
Mallavarayar of Puttur с 1880-.... .
Mallavarayar was a wealthy nobleman of Puttur, Jaffna, well known for his acts of charity and well being of the community.
He built a School in his village and imparted free education, long before others thought of “Free Education', in the country. The School has since become a well known institution called the “Somaskanda Vidyalayam'. He was also responsible for building a Sivan Kovil there.
It is said that he bequeathed most of his wealth to works of charity, leaving only one third to his heirs.
V.C.,Manicam J.P. 1883-1963 Accountant, Electrical Department.
Manicam, born on 26th March 1883, was the son of Vayramuttu Chellapah, Udayar of Thunnalai Jaffna.
He was educated at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai and at S.Thomas' College Mutuwal, where he was in the cricket eleven.
He joined the General Clerical Service in 1903 and entered the Audit Department. Rising in service, he was Chief Audit Examiner in 1927, Asst. Auditor Railway, in 1932, Asst. Auditor General in 1937 and eventually was acting as Chief Accountant of the Department of Govt. Electrical Undertakings from 1939 till his retirement.
He was an active member of S.Thomas College O.B.Aanda Vice-President of the Tamil Union C.&A.C. He was keenly interested in cricket and horse-racing.
Manicam married a daughter of Kanthiah Udaiyar of Kopay - a sister of Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan* and had a son Sivanathan of the C.C.S, and three daughters:

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Pathmawathi Vallipuram, Kamalawathi Subramaniam and Leelawathi Tirunathan.
Justice V.Manicavasagar 1905-1993 Judge of the Supreme Court.
Manicavasagar, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Vaitialingam of Manipay, was born on 17th December 1905. He was educated at Royal College Colombo, where he was a School Prefect. Choosing a legal career, he became an Advocate and took his oaths in 1932.
After practising for nine years in the Colombo Civil Courts, he entered the Judicial service. He then served at several stations in the Island as Magistrate, District Judge, Commissioner of Assize, Election Judge and eventually as Justice of the Supreme Court 19641967, when he retired after 26 years of service. On retirement he was appointed to various commissions and later was the first Chancellor of the Jaffna University. He then became Deputy Chairman of the Commercial Bank of Ceylon Ltd. and retired as Chairman after functioning for nearly 16 years with the Bank.
He was President of the Colombo Hindu Educational Society, member of the Board of Directors of Parameshwara College Jaffna and was associated with many Hindu Temple Restoration committees. He passed away on 23rd December 1993.
Justice Manicavasagar married Valamba Selliah in 1935 and had a son Arunachala and a daughter Nirmala Devi. The son, an executive in the Mercantile sector, married Rathy Rajendra from Manipay and has two daughters. The daughter Nirmala Devi married T.Ragunathan, a corporate businessman and industrialist from Udupiddy and has a daughter.
N.Manicka daikaddar 1916 - 1991. B.Sc., M.A (Cantab)., F.S.S (Lond)., B. C.D , C.C.S., F.A.O. Consultant.
Manicka Idaikaddar was the son of School Master Nagamuthu, an elder brother of the mathematical prodigy Saravanamuthu. They were sons of Thampu of Athiyadi, who was a descendant of Ilankanayaga Mudaliyar of the
Dutch era.
Idaikaddar was born on 4th August 1916. After a brilliant school career, he graduated in Mathematics from the University College Colombo. He was an Asst. Lecturer in Mathematics for a short while. He proceeded to Cambridge as a scholar and got his Tripos in Statistics
He entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1941 and held many positions at several stations. He was Asst.Govt. Agent Badulla in 1945-1948, Asst.Govt. Agent Vavuniya in 1948-1950 and Director of the Department of Census and Statistics in 1956.
On retiring, he held several assignments with the F.A.O. as Agricultural Statistician, functioning in Sudan, Indonesia and other places. Thereafter, he remained a Consultant of the F.A.O .
He took keen interest in matters relating to the Tamils and occupied a leading position in several of the Tamil social and religious institutions and Societies. He passed away after a brief illness on 24th September 1991.
He married Sivamangalam Sinnappu and had two sons and three daughters: Sarvamangalam, Yoga and Jeya. Sarvamangalam, the eldest daughter was married to Prof.K.Kailasapathy, of the University of Jaffna.
Mani Marpan c.13th century An early Settler of Jaffna.
Mani Marpan , an early settler in Jaffna, came from Kanchipuram in South India and colonised Puttur area in Jaffna.
It has not been possible to trace his descendants.
Mannadu Konda Mudali.
c.13th century An Early Settler of Jaffna
Mannadu Konda Mudali was an early settler in Jaffna; he was from a select clan known as "Er Elupathu” from Thondai Nadu in South India, and colonised the Irupalai area in Jaffna.
It has not been possible to trace his descendants.

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Mudaliyar K.V.Markandu c.1880-..... Shipping & Transport Agent, Contractor, Opulent Philanthropist.
Markandu was the son of the esteemed "Maddaikalappu”Vaithilingam* of Sithankerni, whose ancestor was Maana Mudaliyar.
Both father and son were engaged in setting up flourishing transport organisation; such a venture was rewarding and prosperous. It has been said that at one time they had twenty sailing vessels and an equal number of elephants, for the purpose.
Importing rice from Burma was a lucrative trade then. Their ships were also engaged in maintaining a regular passenger and goods transport service around the Island from Jaffna to Trincomalee and Batticaloa. There was no railway at that time to the Eastern Province. They transported timber for the Forest Department and sleepers for the Railway. They also undertook contracts for the sale of arrack, ferry operations, etc.
A good portion of their income was spent on endowments and donations to religious and charitable undertakings. They built Vaithilinga Madam at Keerimalai, and Markandu Madams at several other places.
Innumerable temples benefited by their donations, among them were the Uhanthai Murugan Temple and the temple at Sanguvely.
Mudaliyar K.V.Markandu's eldest son K.V.M.Thiagarajah, married at Vaddukoddai and looked after the parental interests in Jaffna along with his brother Proctor K.V.M. Somasunderam. The other two sons K.V.M. Subramaniam and K.V.M. Manickavasakar, lived in Batticaloa, administered their estates and maintained the family traditions there.
Marthanda Singa Aryan King of Jaffna 1325-1348 Pararajasekaran III
On the demise of King Varothaya Singai Aryan, his son Marthanda Singai Aryan
ascended the throne of the Kingdom of Jaffna, with the epithet title of Pararajasekaran III.
Ibn Batuta, a much travelled and
distinguished person of the time and a close relative of the Sultan of Coromandel, had visited the King and the Kingdom at this time. He has left on record his impressions of the power and personality of the Sovereign and his flourishing State.
The "Kehla' which contains Ibn Batuta's writings reveal that the Monarch was powerful at Sea, having over a hundred merchant vessels and a large quantity of pearls in his possession. He was a good King, with a liberal education including a knowledge of the Persian languages. When the guest desired to go on pilgrimage to the "Foot of Adam' (Adam's Peak), the King had equipped him with a palanquin and bearers. He had also arranged for four Yogis, three Brahmins, ten companions and fifteen provision carriers to accompany Ibn Batuta.
Reference is also given how the Monarch looked after the welfare of his subjects with loving care, improving their education and increasing the cultivation of food in the country.
The King was adored by his subjects. He suppressed a rebellion created by the Vanniyas.
M.Maruthappah 1875-.... Shroff P & O Bank.
Maruthappah, born in 1875, was the son of S.Murugesu of Manipay.
After his school education, he chose a Mercantile career. Eventually he entered the services of Messrs. Noorbhoys, who were then a very prosperous Company being large importers of rice and other merchandise from India and Burma. By sheer integrity and hard work he became Manager of the concern and was associated with them for over thirty years. Besides the above, he was well known as Shroff of the P & O Bank.
He married Sivakamipillai daughter of Sinnappahpillai of the South Indian Railways and had two sons: Periyathamby who became Chief Shroff Bank of Ceylon and Namasivayam and five daughters. Surveyor General S.Karthigesu, Asst. Commissioner of Income Tax

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Senathirajah, Surveyor General C. Vanniyasingam and Dr. Vaithiasekaram were his Sons-in-law.
V.Masilamani Pillai c 1880-.... A Judge in India.
Masilamani Pillai, son of Moses Velu Pillai, was from Kaddudai, Jaffna. He was educated at the Vaddukoddai Seminary and proceeded to Madras.
There he chose the legal profession and functioned in the Judiciary for a very long time.
He was a Member of the Board of Trustees of Pachiappa's College and was responsible for building the College Hostel.
Edward P.Mather J.P. c. 1880-.... . Businessman and Evangelist,
Edward Ponnusamy, eldest of six sons of William Mather, assisted his father at his several mercantile ventures. He established the biggest Motor Garage in the peninsula and was appointed agent for Rowlands Ltd. of Colombo.
He was the President of the Jaffna Native Evangelical Society, whose activities extended to the Eastern Province as well. He collaborated with the Salvation Army and assisted them in their missions. He founded the "William Mather memorial Orphanage' at Maruthanamadam, in memory of his father.
Mather married Jane Rasammah, daughter of Dr.T.W. Paul and had five sons: William, Bramwell, Wycliffe, Samuel and Quintus and five daughters: Parimalam Kadirgamar, Athisayam Kunaratnam, Jessie Lawrence, Pauline Chinniah and Rani AsirWatham.
Rev.J.S.Mather 1890-1986 Methodist Minister:
James Soundaranayagam, born 20th September 1890, was the fourth son of William Mather* of Manipay.
He entered the Ministry in 1917 and worked at several stations: Jaffna, Vannarpannai, Jampettah Street Colombo, and Kandy. He was Chairman, North Ceylon Methodist Synod 1944
49, President All Ceylon Methodist Conference 1954-59 and Vice-Chairman of the World Methodist Conference and eventually President of the Methodist Mission in Sri Lanka.
He was a gifted speaker and writer. He travelled abroad and represented Ceylon in the World Councils of the Church. He also made several publications.
In recognition of his services he received the honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Simpson College Iowa, U.S.A. He retired in 1961.
Rev Mather first married Ariawathi daughter of Kathiravetpillai and had a son Dr. Jesuratnam. On her demise he married Packiam, daughter of Dr. Curtis Suppiah and had five sons: Dr. Sukunanathan, Selvanathan, Rajanathan, Karunainathan and Ratnanathan and two daughters: Thilagavathy Arulampalam and Kanagapoopathy Thambar.
William K. Mather 1851-.... . Businessman of Jaffna, Managing
Director:
William Kanagaratnam Mather, born 10th May 1851, was the second son of Sinnathamby Cotton, the first of the Mathers and fourth generation of Ampalavanar of Manipay. He was educated at the Vaddukoddai English School.
He sought employment in Colombo for a time. But very soon he returned to Jaffna and set up his own business. His mercantile activities expanded quite considerably under the name of William Mather & Sons. Business flourished. Its scope included several agencies, maritime transport and even banking in Malaya. He was the Managing Director of the Jaffna Commercial Corporation and of many other establishments.
He married Eliza Sinnathangam, daughter of J.R.Arnold, who was at one time the editor of the Journal "Morning Star', and had six sons: Edward*, Solomon, Dr.George, Rev. James, Alfred and Alagaratnam and five daughters: Ponnammah, Thangammah Rajasooriyar, Jane Rasammah Samuel, Harriet Hastings and Anna Edwards.
Miss Kanmalar Mathiaparanam

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. ...1950.... M.A., Lecturer Ceylon University, Warden Women's Hostel.
Kanmalar, was the daughter of
Mathiaparanam, a School Master from Manipay, Jaffna. Her mother, also a teacher, was a sister of the eminent surgeon Dr. S.C.Paul.
After her school education in Jaffna, she proceeded to India for higher studies, at the Women's Christian College, Madras. Graduating with Honours, she was lecturer in academic institutions in India.
Returning to Ceylon, she was appointed Lecturer in Philosophy at the Ceylon University College and later at the Ceylon University, Peradeniya. She was also appointed Warden of the Hilda Obeyasekara Hall, a Hostel for women students of the University. She held these positions with great acceptance, for along time. Many Sri Lankan women graduates of today had been guided by her.
Her sister Kirubai also held an eminent position in the educational field. Another sister Rose, a science graduate and an Inspectress of Schools, married a Palmar. Her brother Ariaretnam was a School Master at Kantherodai.
Miss Kanmalar Mathiaparanam dedicated herself to education and remained single.
Miss Kirubai Mathiaparanam ...-1982 Principal, Pandattarippu Girls"
School.
Miss Kirubai Mathiaparanam hails from a family of educationists. Her father, brother and sisters were reputed teachers. Miss Kanmalar Mathiaparanam of the Ceylon University was one of her sisters.
Kirubai was a teacher at Uduvil Girls'
School at first, where she pioneered modern methods of teaching in the Kindergarten Department.
In 1939, when the Bilingual School at Uduvil was moved to Pandattarippu, she was appointed Principal of the new school.
Introducing new management techniques
and systems, she rapidly built up the Pandattarippu Girls' School to a standard comparable with the older well established Schools of Jaffna.
She had a keen interest in the affairs of the School even after retirement, and passed away in 1982.
Rev.Philip De Mello 1723-1790. Tamil Scholar de Linguist
Rev.Philip De Mello belonged to a Jaffna Tamil family, being the second son of Simon De Mello, Chief Tamil Mudaliyap to the Dutch Governor. He was born on 23rd April 1723.
Early in life, young Philip distinguished himself by mastering six languages: Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Portuguese, Dutch, and Tamil. Theology was his main subject.
He became eligible to enter the University of Leyden at the age of twenty, but never did so. Instead he dedicated himself to the service of the Church. He was ordained in 1750 and was appointed Minister of the Northern District.
He was a very keen Tamil scholar. He made several Tamil compositions. He also translated many Portuguese and Dutch documents into Tamil. He was in frequent contact with "Kulankai Thambiran', a reputed Tamil scholar of the time.
He passed away on 10.8.1790. He married Magdalene, daughter of Ondachchie of Colombo.
Dr.A.Mootootamby Pilai 1858-1917. Lexicographer; Historian, Grammarian
, Scholar, Printer & Publisher:
Mootootamby, born on 16th April 1858, was the eldest son of Arumugam Pillai and Seethevipillai of Manipay Jaffna.
He had his early education at schools in Manipay and then proceeded to Peter Percival's School (now Jaffna Central College). There he came under the guidance of scholar tutor William Ne vins Sithamparapillay and became a proficient scholar.
On leaving school, he was a teacher at Nawalapitiya, for a few years from 1875.

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Relinquishing that post, he left for India and there he was the editor of a local publication at Karaikal, known as "Sathiapimany', in 1884. He was very popular with the Karaikal community; on his severance from that position after some years, they presented him with a substantial donation and asked him to use it for the promotion of the Tamil language.
With that, he established a Printing Press, called the "Jubilee Press', in Anderson Road Madras, in 1885. He then commenced his life task of publishing Tamil books, for which he is most remembered today; among his publications was a Tamil translation of the life-story of "Kalidasan' in 1886.
He returned to Jaffna in 1893. Desiring to settle in Jaffna, he was able to obtain Navalar's house which was for sale. He called it the "Navalar Koddam' and established in it a Printing Press, named "Navalar Achchakam”. He also established, along with his brother, a pharmacy business called "Ward and Davy', which became widely known. His main aim was to serve young students with authentic publications. He wrote a series of Tamil Readers, which contained the essence of Tamil Literature. He wrote the Bharatha Churukam, Jaffna History, Thenmoli Varalaru etc. He also established a Books Shop .
He carried out this esteemed task of promoting the Tamil language for some years. He also gained collaboration and assistance from the Madurai Tamil Sangam for this work. Among the works published by him
Were:-
Apithana Kosam, 1902. a Tamil Encyclopaedia. Nannool, Ilagupotham, 1904, a mammoth English-English-Tamil Dictionary, 1908, which continued to be a standard work of reference for some time. The Jaffna History (1912), a very useful book (reprinted in 1915 & 1933), The Tamil Classical Dictionary (1901 reprinted 1985),
Also numerous School Books. Among his publications was also the Tamil translation of the Bhagavat Gita edited by Sir P.Ramanathan.
He promptly published Tamiltranslations of speeches delivered by Swami Vivekananda, when he visited Jaffna in 1897 and also those of
Dr.Ananda K.Coomaraswamy in 1906, delivered at the Jaffna Hindu College.
He has done valuable and great service for the promotion of his religion and the Tamil language. He upheld the traditions of Arumuga Navalar. His demise on 3rd November 1917, at the prime of life, when he was only 59 years old, was a most lamentable loss to Tamil Language.
Mudali Nainar c18th century Important Treasury Official of the Portuguese era.
Mudali Nainar was a son of Kadirgama Mudali. He is said to have been the eleventh descendant of Thaninayaga Mudali, who came with his retinue, as a pioneer from Thondi Mandalam, and colonised the Nedunthivu area.
His residence at Anaikoddai, where he lived, still continues to be known as "Muthali Nainar's Valavu". The Pootharayar Kovil, where he worshipped, can be seen even now.
Mudali Nainar is said to have held an important post in the Treasury, under the Portuguese.
On his demise, his son-in-law Poologa Mudali succeeded him in Office.
His eldest son Marutha Nainar is said to have founded the settlement Maruthanamadam, which is now a prosperous locality, close to Chunmakam.
Rev.K.S.Murugesu 1870-1947. B.A., Tamil Scholar
Rev. Kathiravelu Samuel Murugesu, an eminent Methodist Tamil Scholar, was born at Sanguveli Jaffna on 17th January 1870. He WS an elder brother of Sadayar, father of K.S.Arulnandhy.
He obtained the Licentiate of Theology in Madras and taught there for some time. He entered the Ministry in 1910 and served at many stations in Ceylon. He was at Vannarpannai, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Jaffna, Murunkan, Kallar etc. He retired in 1940.
He was a linguist who mastered five Indian languages, a Sanskrit Scholar, and an authority on Eastern Philosophy and Tamil

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Culture. He guided many eminent persons in the study of above. He published a prose rendering of Sivajnana Sithiyar, a Saiva text.
Rev. Murugesu married Annammah and had three sons: Balasundaram, the eldest son was M.P for Kopay, Canagasunderam was an Advocate and Rajasunderam, a School Master and an Inspector of Schools later. He also had three daughters: Annapooranam who was married to School Master Visu valingam, Gnanam who was Principal Kopay Training College, and Lydia Ponnammah who was a Teacher at Stanley College, Jaffna.
P.Murugesu Pandithar 1830-1896. Tamil Scholar ccTutor, from Chunnakam.
Murugesu Pandithar, born in 1830, was the son of Poothapillai of Chunnakam, Jaffna. He acquired a good knowledge of classical Tamil under able scholars of the time.
Even at a young age he came to be known as "Illakana Kothu' or "Grammarian', because of his proficiency in interpreting difficult Tamil StanZaS.
He established a School at Chunnakam and taught there. He was a highly reputed tutor. Among his pupils were the renowned Kumaraswamy Pulavar* of Chunnakam, A.Mootootambypillai and others. During his later years, he functioned as Tamil Pundit at Kumbakonam in India.
T.Murugesapillai J.P 1917-1979
Divl. Revenue Officer & Additional Govt. Agent, Jaffna.
Murugesapillai, born on 10th October .1917, was the son of Murugesar Thiagarajah, of Thunnalai, Pt. Pedro, who was a Supervisor in the P.W.D at Anuradhapura.
After his education at Hartley College, Murugesapillai entered the Divisional Revenue Officers' service in 1941 and served at all the stations in Jaffna. He was D.R.O.Jaffna Division in 1951-1954, Trincomalee 1955-1957, Thunukai 1959, Vavuniya South 1961, etc. Eventually he was promoted as Additional
Government Agent and functioned at Jaffna till his retirement in 1977. He initiated and supervised many colonisation projects, village extension schemes, Youth Welfare schemes, and Young Farmers Clubs. He was one of the most popular officers of the service who took a lead in every undertaking, making himself indispensable. He passed away on 4th September 1979.
He was a man of action and a born organiser, who never quailed before obstacles. He spent his spare time in social and religious work. He organised many useful movements, wherever he had worked. He took a leading part in having a statue of Navalar installed in Nallur.
He married Ariyamalar, daughter of his relation Muthiah and had eight daughters: Dr. Yogaluckshmi married to Kumar Ponnambalam, Thanaluckshmi Architect married to N.Balakrishnan, Thiyagaluckshmi, Varaluckshmi married to K.Balasubramaniam, Dr.Dharmaluckshmi to Dr.S.Somasundaram, Jeyaluckshmi Agricultural Graduate to A.Sriskandan, Thiriyaluckshmi Accountant to Ranjit Shanmugaratnam and the last daughter Dr. Mahaluckshmi was married to Dr.S.Manoharan.
M.Murugupillai 1922-1993 Assessor; Inland Revenue Dept.
Murugupillai, born 5th November 1922, was the son of Muttu of Pallai in Kankesanturai. After his school career he entered the Clerical Service and rose rapidly to become an Assessor in the Inland Revenue Department. He retired in 1977 and continued to serve the community with a private organisation for some time. He was also involved in the activities of religious societies in Colombo
In 1988, he migrated to Australia, where he served as Secretary of the Senior Citizens Committee of the Ceylon Tamils in Melbourne. While on a visit to his daughter in London, he passed away on 22nd September 1993.
Murugupillai married Raja Rajeswary daughter of Nadarajah of Vannarpannai and had two children: Kamalawathy who is married to Dr.Vijayapalan and has two children, and Sivakumaran a Mechanical Engineer who

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married Priyakanthi and has two children.
D.V.C.J.T.T. Muthiah 1868 - .... . Chief Mudaliyar, Eastern Province 1895-1902.
Tamil Poet and Scholar.
Muthiah was educated at St John's College Jaffna and at Wesley College Colombo.
He held the post of Mudaliyar, ex-officio, for thirty years and functioned as Chief Mudaliyar of the Eastern Province, from 1895 to 1902.
He was also a Tamil poet and a scholar.
He married a daughter of J.W. Barr Kumarakulasinghe.
Rev.Dr.Kingsley.T.Muthiah President Methodist Church, 1990.
Rev. Dr. Kingsley Thesiganesan Muthiah, President of the Methodist Church of Sri Lanka had his early education at Hartley College, Point Pedro,Trincomalee Hindu College and Kingswood College Kandy.
He obtained the Master of Arts Degree from the University of Hull, England. He attended the Oxford Institute of Methodist Theological Studies in 1982.
His father Rev.D.N.Muthiah was also a Methodist Minister.
S.R. Muthiah Pillai c1895-.. Proprietary Planter
Suppiah Rajah Muthiah Pillai began his life in a humble position, in the Planting Industry of Ceylon. From low beginnings, by diligence and thrift, he became a proprietor and commenced owning estates.
Besides Selva Kande Estate and Talipotana Rubber Estate in Haputale, by careful management and judicious investment, he became the owner of several estates in Koslande , Moneragala etc. It is said that at one time the estates owned by him totalled over four thousand acres. European Estate Superintendents were engaged by him to manage these efficiently. He invested in properties in Colombo.
Several of his houses are found in "Muthiah Pillai Avenue', off Ward Place in Colombo 7.
S. R. Muthiah Pilai married Selvapakkiam of Thunavi, Jaffna and had a large family.
M.Muthubalasuriyar 1905-1991 B.Sc Eng. (Lond)., F.I.E.E. Gen. Manager; Dept. of Electrical Undertakings.
Muthubalasuriar, born on 20th
September 1905, was a son of N.Muthiah, Chief Postmaster, Jaffna. He had his early education at St.John's College, Chundikuli. He received his technical education at King's College London, where he graduated in Electrical Engineering in 1929.
Returning to Ceylon, he functioned as Electrical Superintendent at Kalutara and then at Nuwara Eliya in 1933. He then entered the service of the Govt. Dept. of Electrical Undertakings as a Junior Asst. Electrical Engineer in 1936. He was appointed Electrical Engineer in 1946 and served in many positions, eventually reaching the top, being appointed General Manager in 1963. He retired at the age of sixty years.
He survived his brothers: Postmaster Thanabalasuriyar, Dr. Retinabalasuriyar, Accountant Sanmugabalasuriyar, Dental Surgeon Dr. Saravanabalasuriyar and passed away in March 1991.
Muthubalasuriar married Katpakam, daughter of R.Chelvarayan in 1933 and had four sons and four daughters.
Kavirasar Muthurasan c.18th century Historian who Composed “Kailaya Malai”.
Muthurasan, son of Sandiappan, was from Chola Nad in South India. He had taken residence at Nallur in Jaffna, early in life
He was a scholar and a historian. He collected material locally and composed the first historical chronicle of Jaffna entitled "Kailaya Malai'. The work consists of 310 verses; in it,

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he describes elaborately the building and inauguration of the Kailasanathar temple at Nallur, by the first Tamil King of Jaffna, Kulankai Singai Aryan. The balance of the history of Jaffna appears only in Summary form. It has been mentioned by some authors that Muthurasan lived probably during the era of the regime of King Pararajasekaranc14781519),when scholars and poets from S.India were invited to the King's Court.
C. Muthuvelu 1867-1947 J.P., U.M., Asst. Irrign Engineer.
Muthuvellu was the som of
Chinnathamby of Silambu Walawu, Kokkuvil, who had a long ancestry descending from Natkuna Sekara Mudali, a Magistrate of the Dutch Era.
Muthuvelu, after his Matriculation, joined the Public Works Dept. as a Draftsman. He worked as a Surveyor in the Irrigation Branch. Eventually he became an Asst. Irrigation Engineer and retired in 1926.
After retirement he was involved in community and social welfare work. He was elected Chairman of the Kokkuvil Village Council in 1929. He also presided at the Village Tribunal Council meetings. He sponsored the Kumba abishekam ceremonies of the Bhairavar Temple in the locality, held in 1932. He passed away in 1947.
Muthuvelu married a sister of Proctor Somasunderam of Thavady and had two sons:- Kumarasingam joined the Irrigation Dept. and Mathiaparanam became a Proctor.
V.Muttucumaraswamy 1908-1982 B.A., School Master; Research Historian.
V.Muttucumaraswamy, was the son of K.Vaithilingam and a grand-nephew of the well known Lexicographer and Historian A.Mootootambypillai. He was educated at Navalar School and Hindu College from where he matriculated.
Becoming a graduate trained teacher, he
was a School master at St.Joseph's College
Colombo for over twenty years. During that time he published the Modern Historical Series readers which were well received.
In the late 1960's, he proceeded to U.K and was a teacher at Forest Hill School in London. On retirement, he remained in London and continued his historical research relating to, in particular, Arumuga Navalar and the Ramanathan family.
As a result of his research, he published a comprehensive biography of Sri Arumuga Navalar in 1965. He followed it with Tamil Sages and Seers of Ceylon in 1971 and another on C. W. Thamotharampillai, the same year. In 1973, he published a valuable book on the life story of six eminent Tamils under the series Founders of Modern Ceylon.
The London Tamil Sangam honoured him with the traditional "Golden Shawl’ ponnadai. He was getting some more of his research work ready for publication, when he passed away in 1982, at the age of 74.
. V.Muttucumaraswamy married Thangaretnam, a Trained Graduate Teacher, and had a son Aravindan and two daughters: Bhanumathy who is married to Arulambalam and Sambavy who is married to Sivapathasuntharam. In perpetuating his work, Mrs.T.Muttucumaraswamy organises an "Arumuga Navalar Day' in London annually.
Muhandiram C.Muttucumaru J.P
1905-1987 Director, Co-operative Wholesale Establishment, Trincomalee.
Muttucumaru, brother of C.Saravanamuttu Investigating Officer of Post Offices, was a popular person of Trincomalee. He was employed as a Senior Executive Clerk by the British Admiralty there.
He was well known as a social and religious worker and was the father of the Cooperative movement in Trincomalee. He was a Director of the Co-operative Wholesale Establishment for fourteen years. In recognition of his services, he was made a J.P and honoured with the title of Muhandiram.
He had two sons: Padmanathan, Manager of a Co-operative Bank and Baladasan.

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Kasturiar K.Muttucumaru
c.1880-.... Ayurvedic Doctor:
Muttucumaru was the son of the highly respected Ayurvedic Physician Kathiravetpillai of Suthumalai.
He followed his father's profession and established his practice at Vannarpannai. When he took over the valuable practice of one Kasturiar, the epithet 'Kasturiar' was also conferred on him by the community.
As an Ayurvedic Doctor, Kasturiar Muttucumaru had a large and lucrative practice. He was held in highesteem and was a prominent member of the Jaffna Tamil society.
Dr. Muttucumaru was a well read person , a staunch Saivaite Hindu, who contributed to charitable and religious causes in no small
leaSUTC.
His son Kathiravelu continued his father's profession. His eldest daughter was married to Dr.V.T.Pasupathi, the second to Proctor Karalasingam and the third to M.Sri Kantha, Civil Servant.
T.Muttucumaru c.1890-1955 B.A (Hons) Lond., Principal Chavakachcheri Hindu College.
Muttucumaru was the second son of V.Thilliampalam of Chetty St, Nallur Jaffna.
From his early age, he was a persevering student. After passing the London Matriculation Examination, he taught at Manipay Hindu College for some time. By hard work and sheer persistence, he secured success at the London Inter Arts and later at the London B.A degree examinations, with Honours in Oriental History. This was achieved entirely by private study. There were no institutions coaching students for higher studies, then.
He was engaged as a lecturer in history at Jaffna Hindu College, and later at Parameshwara College. He also taught at Mahinda College Galle, for some time. Eventually, he was invited to function as Principal Chavakachcheri Hindu College. The School improved vastly during his tenure;
science laboratory facilities were introduced and the institution was brought to a higher grade. He held that position with great acclaim, till his retirement.
TMuttucumaru, or “Sinna Annai” as he was often referred to, was a man with lofty ideals. He inspired the younger generation in no small measure. He entertained the company of many intellectuals of his time, notable among whom were Pundit S Mailvaganam (later Swami Vipulanandao), A.Cumaraswamyo etc.
He married Miss Thangaretnam Chelliah, a long time teacher at Ramanathan Girls' College and a sister of Mrs. Ratna Navaratnam*, in 1928.
V.M.Muttucumaru c 1870-1925 Maniyagar. Jafna.
Vairamuttu Muttucumaru was the son of
Dr. Vaithianathar Muttucumaru. He had a long genealogy, as the fourth generation of Perayura Udaiyar of Uyarapulam in Suthumalai
He had a successful educational career finishing with the B.A degree, which was high achievement at that time.
He began life as a school master. Later he functioned as Secretary to the Local Government Board, Jaffna, before being appointed Maniyagar of Jaffna Town. He held that position with dignity and honour for several years. Later, he was transferred as Maniyagar of Valikamam North.
He first married a daughter of Dr. Kandiah Pillai of Nallur and had four children; on her demise, he married Sivaloganayaki daughter of Kathiravetpillai of Puloli and had a son and three daughters.
S.Muttutamby Mudaliyar 1874-.... . Adigar, Mannar Island 1918.
Muttutamby, born 1874, was the son of Marsalpillai Seemampillai, District Adigar, Musali, Mannar.
See mampillai Muttutambly was Kachcheri Mudaliyar, Mannar in 1897. He was appointed District Adigar, Mannar Island in 1918.

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His brother Proctor S.M.Anantham was M.S.C for Mannar.
Dr.A.G.Muttuthamby 1920 - F.R.C.S., F.R.C.O.G. (Britain).
A.Gunaratnam Muttuthamby, born 16th December 1920, is the son of Sinappa Muttuthamby, who was in the Medical Service at Pt.Pedro for a long time.
After a brilliant school education, he chose a medical career and entered the Ceylon Medical College. On passing out as a doctor, he joined as Medical Officer Jaffna in 1945. He was Surgeon in Jaffna in 1948. After being House Officer at many stations he proceeded to U.K and obtained higher qualifications. He was appointed Asst. Gynaecologist Colombo in 1953 and was Obstetrician at the De Soysa Hospital for Women in Colombo, in 1958.
On relinquishing that service, he established and managed a very successful hospital in Gregory's Road, Colombo 7, called the Cinnamon Gardens Hospital for Women; it was the only women's hospital in Colombo. For a short time he went on an assignment with Medical Institutions in Canada and the States. Returning to Colombo, he is engaged in consultation work.
He is a founder member of the College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Sri Lanka and a Fellow of the College.
While at school, he excelled in sports and was high jump champion in the Northern Province Public Schools Meet 1937. He broke the Freshmen's High Jump record at the University College. In later years, he won the All Ceylon Seniors' Golf Championship in 1983. He spends his leisure time in the study of religious literature and has contributed largely to religious institutions. He married Maheswari, daughter of S.Kanagasabapathy of Nallur and has three daughters, two of whom are Doctors.
Dr.C.S.Nachinarkinian 1942Secretary, Health Service, North & East Province, 1989.
Chelliah Surendran Nachimarkinian, born 1st July 1941, is the son of A.Chelliah of Mathakal, who was Principal of Tamil Maha Vidyalayam Haputale and Parasakthy (nee Eliathamby) of Urumpirai.
He had his early education at St.Joseph's College Bandarawela and later at St.John's College Jaffna. Entering the Ceylon Medical College, he passed out as a doctor in 1967 and joined the Medical Service. He worked at several stations as Medical Officer, etc. He obtained his D.P.H (Sydney) qualification in 1976. Eventually, on receiving promotions, he was Medical Superintendent General Hospital Jaffna. His services to the public, during the turbulent years in Jaffna, have been very highly praised. When the N.E Provincial Council was set up, he was appointed Secretary of Health. After retirement, he functions as lecturer, in the Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna.
He was a member of the University Council Jaffna, founder Chairman Association for Health and Counselling Jaffna, President, Jaffna Medical Association and President, Sri Lanka Red Cross Society Jaffna Branch. He was elected Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Jaffna, for outstanding service to the People of Jaffna.
He married Saroja Devi, daughter of S. Arunachalam of Suruvil and has three children: Naranie, Pooranie, and Subashini.
Maha Vidvan FX.C.Nadarajah 1911 “Kalasuri", Supt. Official Language
Dept.
Nadarajah, born 21st July 1911, is the son of Kanapathi pillai Chelliah and Sivakamipillai (nee Sanmugam) of Karainagar, Jaffna. He had his education at Karainagar Hindu College and at Victoria College Chulipuram, from where he passed the ESLC Examination. After teaching at the local schools for some time, he proceeded to Batticaloa in 1931 and became

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a Trained Teacher. While continuing his teaching career, he also embarked on advanced studies in Tamil and became a Maha Vidvan.
He entered the Govt. Official Language Department in 1952 and held many positions there, eventually becoming Supt.of Translations, when he retired in 1971.
F.X.C.Nadarajah has been a prolific writer and has contributed several articles to journals and authored more than 25 books on Tamil Language, History, Culture etc. Among them are (all in Tamil): Ilankai Charithiram, in three parts, Maddaikalappu Makkal Vallamum Valkaium a saga of the lives and culture of the peoples of Batticaloa, Eelathu Nadadu Padalkal (1962) folk lore, Karainagar Manmiam (1971) the tale of Karainagar, biographies of Vipulantha Adigal and T.T.Kanagasundaram Pillai, (1992) etc.
In recognition of his contribution to Tamil literature he was conferred with the title of “Kalasuri', by the Govt. of Sri Lanka, in 1992. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Batticaloa and participates in humanitarian services.
Francis Xavier Chelliah Nadarajah married Grace Elizabeth, daughter of S.O.Canagaratnam * and has three sons: L.A.W.Nadarajah Basket Ball Coach, G.Anton and Desmond who are in Canada and two daughters: Mrs. Yvonne Nadarajah and Mrs.Premini Puvanendrarajah Physical Training Instructress.
K.Nadarajah ... - 1989. Journalist, Colombo.
K.Nadarajah received his early education at Royal College, Colombo and proceeded to the U.K for higher education.
Returning to Ceylon, he took up Journalism as his career, and served in the Times of Ceylon. He then functioned as News editor of the Daily Mirror.
Joining the Lake House Group, he started as Sub Editor and working his way up, became Chief Sub Editor and eventually Deputy Editor of the Daily News.
Nadarajah was always a popular person, with a keen sense of duty to his profession. Many mourned sadly when he passed away in 1989.
K.C.Nadarajah 1917-1985. B.A (Lond)., M.A (Cantab), L.L.B Barrister; Magistrate Bermuda.
K.C.Nadarajah, born 19th June 1917, was the son of Gate Mudaliyar K.Chinnathamby of Karaveddy, Maniyagar of Vadamarachi. Dr. (Miss) Siva Chinnathamby is one of his sisters. M.Sivasithamparam M.P for Nallur and Deputy Speaker, is son of another sister.
He had his early education at Vigneswara College, Karaveddy, and at St.Joseph's College Colombo. Proceeding to England, he obtained his B.A (Hons) in History and L.L.B from King's College London. He also obtained the Master's Degree from St.John's College Cambridge and qualified as a Barrister in 1939. His was a brilliant academic performance and a record, as he was called to the Bar of the Inner Temple, at the early age of twenty two years.
On his return to Ceylon, he commenced practising as a Criminal Lawyer in Colombo. Very often he appeared as Junior to G.G. Ponnambalam, to whom he was very much attached. He soon earned a name as an able Advocate. Many notable cases were won by him. The constitutional changes in the country, made him seek professional employment overseas. He accepted appointment as Director of Public Prosecutions in Nigeria, and was later adviser to the Government there.
In 1971, he was appointed to the Bench in Bermuda, which post he held with high honour and dignity for about ten years.
After retirement he passed away in Colombo, on 22nd February 1985.
Nadarajah married Maheswari, daughter of Physician Vallipuram of Nelliadi, whose son was philanthropist Balasubramaniam. He had ason Kumaraj and a daughter Priya. Maintaining the parental tradition, Priya is a Barrister. She is married and is an able lawyer in Jamaica and Bermuda. Kumaraj was Political Advisor to the Government in Bermuda and is now in the International Consultancy Services based in England.
K.V. Nadarajah 1905 - Proctor; M.S.C. Badulla 1947.

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Kanthapillai VelupillaiNadarajah, born 6th July 1905, is the lawyer son of K.Velupillai*, the reputed Jaffna satirist well known as "Kalladi Velupillai' or more familiarly as “Kalladi Velan" or "Kalladian', and Atchi-Kuddy of Urumpurai, Jaffna.
Nadarajah had his early education at Urumpirai and later at the Jaffna Central College, Parameshwara College and the Ceylon University College. He then qualified as a Proctor from the Colombo Law College. He commenced practising in Badulla in 1930. He very soon became a leading lawyer in the Badulla-Bandarawela Courts. He practised in Badulla for 54 years and was the acknowledged leader of the Uva Province Bar and often acted for the District Judge on several occasions.
He was a popular person of Badulla and a member of the Badulla Urban Council for over ten years. In the first Parliamentary Election of 1947, he was elected member for Bandarawela, in an 82 per cent Sinhala electorate. The wit and humour of his father was frequently discerned in the son.
He was a life member, and President of the Badulla Saiva Paripalana Sangam. He was the founder of the first Tamil Schools in Uva and Manager of the Badulla Saraswathi Minor and Maha Vidyalya Schools, for about 30 years. He was also the Managing Trustee of the KathirVelauthar Swami Temple at Badulla.
He married Gnanamani, daughter of P.S.Eliyatamby, a Planter in Haputale, in 1934. Their son Bala Nadarajah, an Advocate, practised in Colombo and later proceeded to Washington and Bermuda.
The Nadarajahs moved to Colombo after the widespread holocaust of 1983. Mrs. Nadarajah passed away in 1990.
N.Nadarajah K.C. 1897- ... . Advocate from Karai Nagar, Judge of the Supreme Court.
Nadarajah, the eminent lawyer and Judge, was from a family held in high esteem at Valanthalai in Karai Nagar.
His father Veerakathipillai Namasivayam
was a student of Jaffna College. He later became a Surveyor, and held the post of Chief Computer in Malaya for about twenty five years and retired in 1925.
Nadarajah was born in 1897, and had his education at St.Patrick's College Jaffna and St.Joseph's College Colombo. After studying for the Arts degree, he decided on a legal career and entered the Law College. Passing out as an Advocate he very soon built up a lucrative practice in the Colombo Bar. He earned a reputation for winning most of his cases.
At the height of his career, he was appointed Judge of the Supreme Court. It is sad to record his passing away, when he was in the prime of his career, in the early fifties.
Nadarajah married Thangammah, daughter of Kanagasabai of Karai Nagar.
It is known that a Madam (Pilgrim's rest) has been erected in the vicinity of the Karai Nagar Sivan Kovil, a foremost Hindu temple in his village, in his memory and is named after him. His widow , who is highly proficient in Tamil culture, organises regular religious meetings and bajan singing in the Madam hall.
Dr.V.Nadarajah c 1905-..... Chief M.O.H., Colombo Municipality.
Dr.V..Nadarajah was a son of Veeravagu Notary of Kaladdi Jaffna. He was an elder brother of Justice V.Sivasupiramaniam.
He functioned as Medical Officer of Health of the Colombo Municipal Council and was later its Chief Medical Officer. He was widely known.
He married Rupavathi, daughter of Dr. Ponniah of Pannalai, and had a son - Dr. Nadarajah, who died in a motor accident in U.K in 1992, and three daughters: Nirmala who was married to Dr. Puvendiran of Malaysia, Shyamala to Dr.Wijendran and Dr. Aruna to Accountant Perumal.
N.Nadarasa c 1915-1970 Attorney at Law.
Nadarasa was a son of Nagendram of Aiyanar Koviladi, Jaffna. He was educated at Jaffna Hindu College. He then entered the University College and passed his Inter Science,

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after which he entered Law College and passed out as an advocate.
Commencing his legal career as a Junior to Senator Nadesan Q.C *, he very soon built up a lucrative practice, specialising in Mercantile Law.
Nadarasa married Maheswari daughter of Excise Superintendent Balasingam and had a som who is a Doctor, and two daughters both of whom took up law as their career.
S.Nadarasar 1900- ... . Mathematics Lecturer, Ceylon University
Nadarasar, born on 29th October 1900, was the son of Sivapragasam of Puloly, Pt. Pedro Jaffna. He had his early education at the local Hindu School and later at Hartley College.
After his higher studies, he proceeded to Cambridge in U.K, on scholarship, and obtained his Mathematics Tripos there.
On his return to Ceylon, he was appointed Assistant Lecturer in Mathematics at the Ceylon University College in 1926. Later he was appointed Lecturer in 1930. He held this position for several years and later functioned as Registrar as well, till his retirement.
One of his daughters is married to
Engineer Maheswaran, who was a Director of Irrigation.
S.Nadesan Q.C 1904-1986 Senator 1947-1972.
Somasunderam Nadesan was born at Anaikoddai, Jaffna in 1904. In his early years he won a scholarship to study at Royal College Colombo. Later, he entered the University College and from there proceeded to the Law College.
He became an Advocate and commenced his legal career in the nineteen thirties. He was noted for his very logical presentation of facts. He built up a lucrative practice at the Bar, very fast. As a leading lawyer, he was associated with some of the famous cases in legal history.
In 1947 he was elected a Senator; his name was proposed by Independent Members of the House of Representatives. He continued in the Senate till its abolition in 1972. In politics, he
was not a member of any recognised party.
He was a Founder Member of the Civil Rights Movement. His speech in the Senate House, after the insurgency in 1971, was remarkable for his deep concern for human rights and social problems of the younger generation. He had a long career of over fifty years at the Bar. He was made a Queen's Counsel in 1954 and was President of the Bar Council 1970-1972. He was the recipient of the Peter Pillai Foundation award for the year 1983, conferred for promotion of Social Justice and protection of the under privileged section of the society. He passed away in 1986.
He married a daughter of School Master Thambipillai of Urumpirai. His son Satyendra, a Physics (Honours) Graduate and an eminent lawyer, resides in Cambridge U.K with his family.
C.Nagalingam 1893-1958 Advocate, Actg. Chief Justice, Actg. Governor General.
Chellapah Nagalingam, elder brother of C.Suntharalingam* M. Pfor Vavuniya, was born on 25th October 1893, in Urumpirai, Jaffna.
After his early education at St.John's College, he studied at Royal College Colombo.
Choosing a legal career, he became an
Advocate and was soon after appointed to the Bench. He commenced by presiding at the Court of Requests and was later appointed to the Higher Courts. He was District Judge Colombo in 1938, District Judge Kandy in 1941 etc. He was Attorney General in 1946. In 1947 he was appointed Puisne Justice and later Judge of the Supreme Court.
Eventually he was functioning as Actg. Chief Justice. At that time due to the absence from the Island of Lord Soulsbury the Governor General, the Chief Justice was called upon to function as Actg.Governor General and C.Nagalingam had that privileged distinction. He passed away on 25th October 1958.
He married Gnanam, daughter of Vaithilingam and had two sons and four daughters.
PNagalingam c.1905-1980

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L.S.S.P Senator, 1951-1956.
Nagalingam was the youngest of five sons of Ponnambalam of Tellippalai, familiarly known as “Tellippalai Ponnar'. All his four brothers were employed in the Malayan Govt.Service,the eldest Thambiah was a Dist. Traffic Superintendent, the second Chinnappoo a Surveyor, Sivakolunthu a Station Master, and Suppiramaniam a Guard.
Nagalingam however furrowed a new path and took to law. After his education at Jaffna College, where he was the Secretary of the Jaffna Youth Congress, he became a Proctor in about 1934.
Very soon he was involved in Trade Union activities, which were not very prevalent in Jaffna then. He was at one time President of the All-Ceylon Cigar Workers' Union, the North Ceylon Bus Workers' Union, etc. He became one of the foremost Trade Unionists in Jaffna. He was elected Chairman of the Chunnakam Town Council.
As an LSSP Candidate, he contested the Kankesanturai and later the Uduvil Seats in Parliament, but without success. He was elected a Member of the Senate in 1951.
He married Nagalakshmi, daughter of Sabapathy of Uduvil and had three sons: Anandakrishnan, Thirunavukarasu and Mahen and a daughter Sangamitta.
S.Nagalingam c 1855-1897
Eminent Advocate.
S.Nagalingam was an eminent lawyer, patriot, benefactor and a leading citizen of Jaffna, who lived in Brown Road Vannarpannai Jaffna.
He, along with S.T.M. Pasupathi Chettiyar, led a campaign to carry out the movements urged by Arumuga Navalar*. Their effort resulted in the establishment of an association called the Saiva Pari Palana Sabai, a newspaper called the Hindu Organ and the Jaffna Hindu College, of which he was the first Manager 1890-1897. His Centenary was celebrated at the College in 1955.
He strove hard for the good of the community and was in constant touch with the
Government Agent about improvements to the Jaffna Peninsula. He was one of those who agitated for the railway to Jaffna.
His nephew was Proctor R.Sivagurunathar, Chairman of the Jaffna Urban Council. When the Governor of Ceylon visited Jaffna, his daughter Muthammah was invited to present him with a bouquet of flowers.
S. Nagalingam Pilai
1882-1952. Vidvan, Tamil Scholar & Author
Nagalingam Pillai was a son of Sinnathambiyar and Annammayar of Vannarpannai. He was a brother of Vidvan S.Thamotharampillai.
He received his early education under Arumuga Navalar and later under Senthinatha Iyer. He proceeded to India and resided at Chidambaram for a long time.
On his return to Jaffna in 1930, he published several of his literary works, outstanding of which was the "Dakshana Kailasa Puranam”; this work, copies of which are available, narrates the story of several of the ancient temples found in the regions South of India and Ceylon, in easy Tamil prose. Its title refers to the Koneswaram temple in Trincomalee, which is dealt with in two special Chapters.
Besides his own works, he also edited for publication several Tamil classical works.
Mudaliyar T.Nagalingam
1861 .... . Shipping Agent & Leading Merchant of Pt. Pedro.
Nagalingam, son of Thevar a leading merchant, ship owner and planter of Pt.Pedro, was born in 1861. His grandfather was a titular Mudaliyar of Pt. Pedro. Young Nagalingam took to the ancestral business of shipping, planting and other commercial ventures.
He and his partner Sithamparam, between them, owned several schooners and brigs. Their business flourished He made lavish contributions to charity and was a philanthropist. The title of Mudaliyar was conferred on him.
Nagalingam married Theivanaipillai and

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had three sons.
S.Nagamuttu 1917-1988 F.R.M.S.
Nagamuttu, son of Sellapah and Achchipillai of Punnalaikattuvan, was born on 17th February 1917 and had his education at Skanda Varothaya and St.Patrick's Colleges.
Commencing as a Laboratory Assistant, he was later engaged as a Research Assistant in the Parasitology Department of the Colombo Medical College. He did research on microorganisms which affect optical lenses, particularly in microscopes and the microbiology of Malaria, on which he published papers. He proceeded to Birmingham University as a scholar and carried out further research. He was awarded the M.Sc degree in 1976. He was made a Fellow of the Royal Microscopic Society in 1969.
Nagamuttu married Sivapakiam, daughter of S. Kandiah, and had four sons: Dr. Ravindranathan, Manohan Sellapah, Engineer Narendranathan and Dr. Kailanathan.
Adigar Naganathan 1850-1953. C.B.E., J.P.U.P.M. Guarantee Shroff
Naganathan, whose ancestry is traceable
to the Kings of Jaffna, was born in 1850, in Kopay Jaffna. He travelled to Colombo by boat, then to Gampolaby bullock cart and walked from there to Kandy, to commence a banking career, in 1877.
Initially, he was Guarantee Shroff of the Oriental Banking Corporation and the New Oriental Banking Corporation. With the establishment of the British Banks in Kandy, he was associated with the National Bank of India and later with the Hatton National Bank. He was the founder Guarantee Shroff of the National Bank, at Nuwara Eliya.
He was a popular person who was always of great help to the clients of the Bank, the European Planters and the many influential persons who visited Nuwara Eliya.
He was also President of the Board of Directors of Jaffna Hindu College. He lived to a ripe old age of 103. In appreciation of his services to the public, he was conferred with
the title of Adigar.
His son Canaganayagam* followed his footsteps and became a prominent Banker.
Dr.E.M.V.Naganathan
1906-1971. Senator, Member of Parliament for
Nallur
Elangai Murugesu Vijayaretnam Naganathan, born 31st January 1906, was the son of J.J. Hensman, who was Registrar of the University at Madras. His sister Harriet Hensman married Walter Olagasekaram D.J. The family was from Jaffna, but had settled in South India, where they distinguished themselves in the educational field.
Dr.Naganathan was a private Medical Practitioner in Colombo. He became a keen supporter of G.G. Ponnambalam's Tamil Congress Party and functioned as its Secretary in 1947. He was elected a Member of the Senate, the same year.
However, leaving the Tamil Congress he joined the Federal Party, later. He became one of its prominent members and took an active part in the Satyagraha movement organised by the party in 1961. He was also its Secretary for some time. He successfully contested the Nallur seat in the House of Parliament as a Federal Party candidate.
He was elected President of the Party in 1966 and worked hard for the well being of the Tamil community. He passed away on 16th August 1971.
Naganathan married Miss Senathirajah and had five children. One of his daughters, Nirmala was married to Chandrahasan, son of S.J.V. Chelvanayagam. Mary Lakshmi, the eldest daughter, after graduation entered the Sri Lanka Overseas Service and served in many countries. She vacated her post after the 1983 anti-Tamil pogrom.in the Island.
R.Nagaratnam 1890 - 1991 Financial Assistant, Malaya, 100 years Veteran of Nayanmarkaddu, Jafna.
Nagaratnam, son of Ramalingam of

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Nadukuruchi, Sandilippai, was born on 6th November 1890. He had his early education in Jaffna. He then proceeded to Malaya and continued at St. Paul's, Seramban.
He joined the Clerical Service there. By hard work and diligence, he gained recognition and was soon promoted to higher Grades. After holding several responsible positions, he was Financial Assistant, Public Works Department, Negri Sembilan and Malacca, before retiring in 1951.
He was President of the Ceylon Association of Negri Sembilan and was actively involved in working for the betterment of the Tamils. He was also State Councillor, representing the Ceylonese there.
On his return to Jaffna, he was actively engaged in several social activities. He was the President of the Akkarayankulam Multipurpose Cooperative Society, the South Yalpanam Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Kopay South East Rural Development Society and Manager of Sandilippai English School.
He married Sinnammah daughter of Sanmugam of Nayanmarkaddu and had two sons: Dr. Nageswaran Nagaratnam M.D an eminent Physician., and Parameswaran Nagaratnam B. A of the UNDP, and three daughters: Nageswari, Parameswari and Bhuvaneswari.
On 6th November 1989, a public function was held at the Maheswari Vidyalayam, Nayanmarkaddu Jaffna, to celebrate Nagaratnam's 100th birthday. At the meeting that followed, several speakers praised the many interests and services of Centenarian Nagaratnam.
He passed away two years later.
T.Nagendram 1909-1985 B.A (Hons)., Advocate. Handwriting Expert.
Nagendram, born 7th June 1909, was the son of Thambiah of Tellippalai, who was a Divisional Superintendant in the Malayan Railway. He was educated at Trinity College Kandy, where he was a member of the rugger team. Entering University College Colombo, he graduated in History, with Honours, in 1931. He
then became anAdvocate. Photography was his chief hobby.
He was recruited as an Asst. Analyst for Document Work, in the Govt.Analyst Dept, in 1936. Later, he obtained specialist training abroad and was appointed Examiner of Questioned Documents. He was the first person to serve in this position. In 1955, he proceeded to Malaya and Singapore to give expert evidence.
Nagendram retired in 1969.
Nalla Nachchiyar Ammai c.1730-1800
Vanni Head ●
During the era of the Vanni Kingdoms, Chieftains ruled over Small territories in the Northern Vanni, with the knowledge of the Dutch. Nalla Mappana Mudaliyar and his spouse Nalla Nachchiyar Ammai were ruling over the Panamkamam region, consisting of the Mankulam -Tunukai area in the Northern Province.
Nalla Nachchiyar Ammai was very noble and affectionate; her subjects held her in high respect so much so there was a legend that wherever she trod, showers of rain would inevitably follow. To satisfy the Dutch rulers she had adopted the names of "Elizabeth' and "Katherine', as well.
Acting on information sneaked by his rivals, the Dutch took her husband and detained him in Colombo, for a ransom of 2000 liras, and also seized their properties. Upon which, Nalla Nachchiyar Sought refuge in Jaffna, living at Vannarpannai.
Vaithilinga Chettiyar, a kindly person who helped others, and who maintained good relationship with the Dutch, came to their rescue. He paid the ransom and had the Mudaliyar released and their properties restored.
Later in 1791, when the Chettiyar was engaged in building the present Sivan Kovil at Vannarpannai, the Mudaliyar aided the cause with the supply of large quantity of palmyrah timber for erection of the structure. He also made a large donation for the maintenance of the daily pujas at the temple.

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Dr.T.Nallainathan 1900-1984. President Ceylon Students Association, U.K 1926.
Social ce. Religious Leader, Private Medical Practitioner.
Nallainathan, born 9th June 1900, was the son of S.Thambiahpillai, who had a long ancestry and was a lawyer from Vannarpannai Jaffna. His mother Sivakamy Muthuswamy pillai belonged to the Mallavarayar Clan of Puttur. He was educated at Jaffna Hindu College and later at Royal College, Colombo.
He commenced his Medical studies in Colombo in 1922 and completed same at the University College, London. While in the U.K., he was President of the Ceylon Students Association and was also associated with the India League and the Theosophist movement.
Returning to Ceylon, he set up as a Private Medical Practitioner and very soon had a lucrative practice, in Colombo North. He is known to have treated the poor free of charge.
He was a devout Hindu and was at one time Principal Trustee of the Nallur Saddanathar Temple, hereditarily owned by the family. During his tenure he was responsible for installing the Pancha Linga Murthi which he brought from the Yamuna River in North India.
In later years he was a keen devotee of the Bhagavan Sathya Sai Baba movement and was primarily responsible for organising the well attended bajan prayer meetings held regularly at Wellawatte. Nallainathan passed away on 9th December 1984. ... '"
He had two brothers and a sister: Sivapirakasapillai was Chief Engineer Harbour Works and later Lecturer at the University, .Muthuswamypillai, the youngest, was Crown Advocate of the Jaffna Bar. The sister was married to Thamotharampillai and their son Dr.Thambyahpillai was a distinguished Physicist.
Nallainathan married Sornacanthy, and had a son: Dr.Sanath Kumar and three daughters: Rudrania talented Carnatic musician married to N. Balakrishnan Solicitor in U.K., Sivananthini married to Yogendra son of Sir W. Duraiswamy, and Sivarangani married to Chandra Rajan.
Mrs. Sornacanthy Nallainathan 1903-1960 Co-Founder, Saiva Mangaiyar
Kalagam, Wellawatte.
Sornacanthy, daughter of Mavadi Ponniah, was born on 21st June 1903. She had her early education at St.Bridget's Convent Colombo, and proceeded as a scholar to Ceylon University College, where she was the first Tamil lady undergraduate in 1922. She was married to Dr.T.Nallainathan in 1923.
She was as a teacher at Ramanathan College for Girls at Maruthanamadam, Jaffna, for four years from 1924. There, She founded a Saiva Mangaiyar Sabai, which functioned among the Girl Students.
Along with other influential residents of
Colombo, she organised the Saiva Mangaiyar Kalagam, a Hindu Women's Society, in 1930. The principal purpose of the society was to establish and maintain a Hindu School for Girls in Colombo to foster their education, culture and religion. During the tenure of Mrs. Nallainathan as its Secretary, the School expanded to become a well established institution. Today it holds a unique position.
The Kalagam also sponsors an orphanage
Mrs. Nallainathan passed away in 1960, at the early age of 57.
Dr(Mrs) Nallamma Satiyeswara Iyer
... 1899. First Tamil Lady Doctor.
Nallamma daughter of Murugesu of Jaffna, was an outstanding pupil of Vembadi Girls' School. She distinguished herself even as a student. In 1899, she gained First Class Honours at the Calcutta Entrance Examination, winning the prestigious Chandira Sen Prize for the girl who stood first in all India and Ceylon.
She then went to Madras and followed a Medical career. Eventually she proceeded to Edinburgh and Dublin and obtained L.R.C.P & S and other qualifications.
Returning to Jaffna she rendered valuable service to the community working at the

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Hospital for Women at Inuvil. It was due to her efforts that "Inuvil' gained the name of being the leading Women's Hospital in the early decades. It was her presence there that brought about a radical change: the conservative Jaffna women folk realised the ponvenience of having child-births at a Medical Institution.
After working there for over five years, she set up a private practice in Kotahena, Colombo. She was the first Tamil lady to pursue Medical studies and practise as a Doctor. She was a keen social worker and promoted Women's Organisations.
Dr. Nallamma married Satiyeswara Iyer, Principal of Kathiresan College Nawalapitiya, who later practised as a Lawyer in Colombo.
Dr. Nallathamby c 1850-..... Colonial Surgeon.
Dr.Nallathamby had relations at Achchuvely and Alaveddi but lived in Vannarpannai, Jaffna Town.
His name has the unique distinction of being one of the few Ceylonese Colonial Surgeons of the last century. It is believed that he and Dr. Kailasapillay of Araly, were the first Ceylonese to reach this much coveted position then.
One of his sons, Ponniah became the Maniyagar of Punakari.
M.Nallathamby 1896-1951.
Muth Tamil Pulavar of
Vaddukoddai.
Pulavar Nallathamby, Tamil scholar and creative writer was born on 13th September 1896. He was the son of school master Murugupillai and Thangammaiyar.
He received his education at Tellippalai and distinguished himself early in life by winning prizes. He was a scholar and a poet of repute. Becoming a school master he is known to have taught at several Schools including Zahira College Colombo. He was also a lecturer at the University for some time.
He wrote and published several
compositions, hefore his demise in 1951.
His sons Vivekanandan and Sivanathan are Engineers. A third son is a Veterinary Surgeon.
R.Nallathamby 1910-1992. School Master.
R.Nallathamby, son of Ramalingam of Punguduthivu was born in 1910. After his School education he took up teaching as his career.
After teaching at the Punguduthivu and Inuvil Hindu Schools he eventually functioned as Headmaster of the Jaffna Hindu Primary School. His administrative ability and staff relationship was well recognised. He was also of great assistance to the Hindu Board of Education. He completed 35 years of service, before retirement.
He was also instrumental in opening up jungle lands in the Vanni for development.
Rev.N.K.Nalliah 1886-1963.
Rev. Nathaniel Kathirithamby Nalliah was born on 8th August 1885, at Alvai, Pt.Pedro.
He entered the Methodist Ministry in 1915 and served at many centres including Mannar, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Jaffna and Pt.Pedro. He was Chairman of the Provincial Synod in 1934 and Secretary N.C.D in 1936.
He was one of those who shouldered the responsibilities of the Church when the Foreign Missionaries left the Island. His able management and service for over half-a-century was highly commended by many and his wise counsel was widely appreciated.
He retired in 1961 and passed away on 24th February 1963.
V.Naiah M.S.C. 1943, 1947 & 1952. Parliamentary Secretary.
V.Nalliah, the Eastern Province Parliamentarian, was earlier an Educationist. He was a Trained Graduate teacher. Later he was Principal of the Men's Training School at Attalichenai, Batticaloa; he was also a Member of the Urban Council, Batticaloa.

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In 1943, he was elected a Member of the State Council for the Trincomalee-Batticaloa seat. In the House he functioned as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and Local Government
. Later he contested, as an independent
candidate, and won the Kalkudah seat at the General Elections held in 1947. He retained the seat in 1952, when he contested as a U.N.P candidate. He was responsible for the immense improvement works done for the development of Batticaloa, during his time. In the 1956 General Elections, when his Party lost badly, he too lost his seat.
Nalliah married Thangaratnam daughter of Muthiah Supt. of Minor Roads. She was a graduate School Inspectress. He had four sons; one of his daughters is a University Lecturer.
C.Namasivayam J.P
.1920- ۰ههه Chief Shroff, Hong Kong Bank.,
Philanthropist.
Namasivayam was the son of Suppiramaniyar Cathiravelu, who was a descendant of Manapulisinga Mudaliyar, pioneer settler of Mallakam.
Namasivayam, like his celebrated father, also followed a Banking career. He became Shroff of the Hong Kong Bank and was very successful. He made large donations to charity and was an esteemed philanthropist.
He was a popular person and a member of several institutions and societies. In appreciation of his services, he was honoured by being made a Justice of the Peace of the Island.
He married Sinnachipillai daughter of Proctor Sivagurunathar, and had a daughter Pathmawathi and a son Sri Namasivayam, who also became a Bank Shroff.
K.Namasivayam 1900-.. . Proctor S.C. & Notary
Namasivayam, born June 1900, was the son of Kulaveerasingam, from Manipay, whose ancestor was Visuvasinga Mudaliyar, a descendant of Manapillai Mudaliyar.
After his successful school education, he
decided on a legal career and passed out as a Proctor and Notary Public.
He married Balambikai, daughter of Waitilingam. Waitilingam was a son of esteemed philanthropist Mylupillai Shroff and had two sons Dr.W. Balendra and W.Sathasivam
Mrs.B.Namasivayam was a keen social worker; she was the Founder President of the Saiva Mangaiyar Kallagam, which maintains a very good School for Hindu Girls in Wellawatte.
M.Namasivayam 1918-1987 M.A (Oxon)., Conservator of Forests.
Namasivayam, born 27th April 1918, was the son of M.Maruthappah*, Shroff of the P&O Banking Corporation.
He was appointed to the Forest Department as Junior Assistant Conservator of Forests in 1943. He was promoted as Asst. Conservator and then in 1955 as Divisional Conservator . He became Senior Assistant in 1957 and eventually Conservator of Forests, which position he held for a long period with satisfaction.
He married Tresilla and had three children: Dilkusha, Shalini and Rohanna.
S.Namasivayam 1891 - ...
Vanniya, Batticaloa..
Sinnappu Namasivayam passed the Clerical Examination and worked in the Irrigation and the Public Works Departments for
some years.
In due course he was promoted and appointed Vanniya, Kottiyar Pattu Trincomalee in 1924. In 1929 he was transferred to Karavur and Nintavur Pattus in Batticaloa.
He was appointed Vanniya of Manmunai North, Batticaloa in 1931.His son Logeswaran is Chairman of Singers Colombo.
Narasinga Thevan A Pioneer.
Narasinga Devan was an early settler of Jaffna, who came from Kaveri Ur in South India. He is said to have belonged to the Tuluva clan. He was a nobleman of wide fame, who had a

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desire for learning.
He colonised the Myliddy area.
Narayana Thevan
A Pioneer:
Narayana Thevan was an early settler of Jaffna who came from Mel Natham in South India and colonised the Karaitivu area.
Muhandiram P.Narayanar 1874
1941 Social Worker
Narayanar, born 24th November 1874, was the son of Ponnambalam of Chulipuram.
He proceeded to Malaya early in life and joined the Railway service there. Rising rapidly, he reached the Superintending Grade before retirement.
On retirement, he returned to Jaffna and devoted much of his time to social work, spearheading several undertakings beneficial to the community.
He was instrumental in establishing the well known Co-operative Hospital at Moolai. He was the President of the Society of Management of that institution and built it up to become a Successful organisation.
The title of Muhandiram was conferred on him in appreciation of his service to the community.
He passed away in 1941.
S.Natesapillai 1895-1965 (S.Natesan) B.A. B. L., School Principal, M.S.C., Cabinet Minister, Senator & Tamil Scholar:
Natesapillai (also known as S.Natesan), was the son of Subbiahpillai of Tanjavur in South India. He came to Ceylon at the invitation of Sir P.Ramanathan, and was appointed Principal of Parameshwara College in 1924. He also functioned as Private Secretary to Sir P.Ramanathan.
He contested and won the Kankesanturai seat in the first State Council of Ceylon in 1934. He was a Member of the Executive Committee
for Education in 1936. He was a Cabinet Minister, holding the port-folio of Posts and Broadcasting in 1955.
Later he was elected President of the All Ceylon Tamil Congress Party. He was also chosen as a Senator for the Upper House of Parliament. He was a member of the University College Council and of the Ceylon University Court.
He took a very active part in organising and holding a Tamil Festival at Parameshwara College in 1951. He always maintained speaking in classical or cultural Tamil, usually referred to as “Sen Thamil. He was an eminent Tamil scholar. He wrote a composition entitled “Sakuntalai Venba”, and has contributed several articles on Tamil literature. Some of his contributions appear in the Madras Tamil Kalanchiyam.
He married Sundari, daughter of Sir P.Ramanathan.
His contributions entitled “The Northern Kingdom' and "Glimpses of the early History of Jaffna' were republished in Rev.X.S.Thani Nayagam's Journal "Tamil Culture' in 1960.
He was conferred with the Honorary Degree of D.Litt by the Ceylon University in recognition of his contribution to Tamil literature. After his demise, a 'Senator Dr.S.Natesan Memorial Number, was published in his honour, at Chunnakam in 1966.
S.Navaneetha Krishna Bharathiyar 1889-1952. Tamil Poet, Pandithamani.
Krishna Bharathiyar, born 1st June 1880, was the son of Suppiramani Bharathiyar and Thaiyal Ammai of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.
He received his education under very eminent scholars in India and took up teaching as his profession.
He came to Jaffna in 1917 and was in charge of the Tamil faculty at the Ramanathan Girls' College, Maruthanamadam. Later he was engaged in the same capacity at Parameshwara College Jaffna.
He had prepared and published many poetic compositions, among which was Ulahiyal Vilakkam.

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C.S.Navaratnam c1900-1970. History Lecturer, Author, "Tamils and Ceylon"
C. S. Navaratnam was a son of Subramaniam of Navaly, Manipay, who was proprietary planter in Malaya. He was a brother of S.Mahadevan', founder of Messrs. Mahadevan Ltd.
C.S.Navaratnam was well versed in Ceylon history and had made a special study of the history of Tamils and Ceylon. He was a joint Secretary of the Jaffna Historical Association.
He was a teacher at Vaddukkoddai Hindu English School and later at Manipay Hindu College where he held a senior position. He also wrote valuable historical books.
He had three sons: Chandra -sekaram, Prof. Saravanabavananthan and Sahadevan and four daughters: Mrs. Balasubramaniam, Mrs. Nagendra, Mrs. Sampanthanathan and Mrs. Baskaran.
His publications, some of which are listed below, reveal considerable original research and contain valuable material not found elsewhere:- Tamils and Ceylon 1958, Vanni and the Vanniyas 1960, A Short History of Hinduism in Ceylon 1964.
Of these, the first is a book on the History of Tamils in Ceylon. It was published at a time, when there was much demand for Such literature and got sold out almost immediately. The second was a reprint of a paper contributed by him to the Jaffna Historical Association.
The third book A Short History of Hinduism in Ceylon is really his masterpiece. He has put in much information which is not found any where else... Even today, it is an outstanding work of reference. Sir Kandiah Vaithianathan writes in the Preface that while reading the book, he has "followed him through three thousand years of world events and over a thousand miles of zig-zagging through Ceylon by-ways and high-ways and jungles too'. The book was a very successful compilation and was reprinted later.
K.Navaratnam 1898 - 1962
Pulavar”, Fostered Tamil Art & Culture.
“Kalai
Navaratnam was from Kayts, but lived in Vannarpannai, most of the time. He was a School Master, teaching at the Jaffna Central College for nearly thirty eight years.
He was well known for his interest in the development of national Art and Culture. He established a centre called the “Kala Nilayam” at Vannarpannai, in 1930. The cultural intelligentsia of Jaffna gathered there, keen on fostering the study of Tamil, Art and Culture. Regular lectures and discussions were conducted there on cultural, literary and historical subjects. To encourage the young minds on these, a quarterly journal of high quality, called the "Jnayiru' was published. It continued for several years.
He married a daughter of T.P. Masilamani, son ofTPonnambalam Pillai. Shehad graduated from Rabindranath Tagore’s Visva Bharathi University at Shantiniketan.
In recognition of his contribution to the development of art and culture, the title of "Kalai Pulavar” was conferred on Navaratnam
He has published several valuable works in English, among which are:-.
Tamil Element in Ceylon Culture, 1959, Studies in Hinduism, 1963 and Arts and Crafts of Jaffna.
His masterpieces are however the two works in Tamil:- Then Inthiya Sitpa Vadivankal' (South Indian Sculptures) and Ilankayit Kalai Vallaichi (Cultural Development in Ceylon).
It is very difficult to obtain copies of these
11 Ο W.
K.V. Navaratnam 1918-1992 District Judge & Social Worker.
Kandiah Vaithilingam Navaratnam was the son of Vaithilingam of “Peter House” Neeraviady, Jaffna Town. He was born on 19th October 1918.
After his school education at Jaffna Hindu College, he studied Law and became a Proctor in 1944. After practising for a few years he was appointed President Rural Courts in 1957. Later, he was appointed Magistrate and worked at Mannar and Jaffna. Eventually he was appointed

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District Judge, from which position he retired. Navaratnam was a keen social and religious worker. He was responsible for the erection of a grand madam (Pilgrims Rest), at Thiruketheeswaram with contributions from many others.
At Aiyanar Koviladi, his own place, he was responsible for getting a new “Temple Vel Car” chariot made for Nachchimar Kovil and for effecting improvement works at other temples. He married Sathiabaladevi, daughter of Selvaratnam, Secretary District Court, and has a son and four daughters. The son is a Bank official, one of the daughters is married to a Lawyer, and another to an Electronics Engineer.
Mrs. Ratna Navaratnam 1910-1993 M.A.M. Litt(Madras).M.A(Ed). London Principal, Educationist, Exponent of Hindu Philosophy & Culture.
Mrs. Ratnamma Navaratnam, exponent of Hindu Philosophy and Culture, was the daughter of businessman Chelliah, residing in Jaffna.
She was born om 6th November 1910. After a brilliant school career at the Vembadi Girls High School, she proceeded to Presidency College Madras and later to Annamalai University. She obtained her Master's degree with Distinctions and First Class Honours, in History, Tamil and English Literature.
On her return to Jaffna, she joined Ramanathan College for Girls at Maruthanamadam, and was appointed Principal. She held this position with distinction for over ten years.
In 1944 she entered Government Service, as Inspectress of Girls Schools and was eventually appointed Education Officer, Jaffna District in 1951. She held this position till retirement.
Ratna Navaratnam was an active member of many educational and cultural organisations. She had travelled widely in India, the United Kingdom and Western Europe. She had received the benevolent spiritual guidance of Yoga Swamykal, the Tamil Mystic of Jaffna. .
She wrote many precious volumes on
Saiva Hindu Philosophy and Literature, which Were published by various cultural organisations. Even at the age of over eighty, more than one book was being published from her pen, each year.
Her husband K. Navaratnam Accountant, passed away in 1992 and she in 1993.
Among her publications are :- A New Approach to Tiruvasagam, 1951
Studies and Translations, 1953. New Frontiers in East-West Philosophies in Education, 1958. The Holy Kural, Parts I d* II, 1959. Tiruvasagam, - The Hindu Testament of Love, 1963. Siva Yoga Swami Pillai (Tamil), 1965. Saint Yoga Swami and the Testament of Truth 1972, Kartikeya - The Divine Child 1973, Aum Ganesa - The Peace of God 1978, The Vision of Siva in Periyapu ranam, 1987, Siddhanta Saivam in Essence and Manifestation, 1979, The Luminous Eye, Siva Yogamirtham - Ambrosial Siva Yoga 1988 and finally The Call of Sakthi in 1993.
Dr.S.L.Navaratnam
1892 - 1950 FR.C.S., D.T. M & H., FR.C.O.G.
Navaratnam, born on 23rd September
1892, was the son of . Kandiah Vaithianathan (baptised as K.V.Lambert) of Araly Jaffna, who was a Government Officer in Malaya.
Navaratnam had his early education at Jaffna College and at Trinity College, Kandy. At the Medical College, he won the Gold Medal for Pathology. He joined the Ceylon Medical Service in 1915 and served at many stations throughout the country, before proceeding to the U.K. for specialisation. He obtained the D.T.M.& H (Lond) and the F.R.C.S (Edin), in 1924.
On his return, after a short spell in Kandy, he was appointed to the De Soysa Maternity Hospital Colombo, where he was Medical Superintendent and eventually Senior Visiting Obstetrician, until his untimely death on 18th October 1950, at the age of 58.
Dr.Samuel Lambert Navaratnam Was a lecturer to the Final Year Students at the Medical College and also had wide private practice. He was a founder member and President of the

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Govt. Medical Officers' Association and President of the British Medical Association (Ceylon) in 1934.
Socially, he was a very popular person, holding office in many social and religious societies. He helped many youths to improve their prospects
He married Florence Nesaratnam daughter of S.A.Chinnathamby, an Official in Malaya, and had three sons: Dr. James T., Jonathan, and Sam PNavaratnam and two daughters: Sybil who was married to K.Kanagasundaram C.C.S and Sarojini to S.J.Kadirgamar Q.C.
V.Navaratnam 1910 - Proctor, M.P for Kayts 1963-70.
V. Navaratnam, son of Vaithianathan of Karampan Kayts, was born on 25th October 1910. His elder brother was V. Kandiah who was later a Supt. of Audit.
He had his early education at the Shanmuganatha Vidyasalai, Karampan and at St.Patrick's College, Jaffna. After a few years at Ananda College Colombo, he entered the Law college and became a Proctor in 1936.
When Ceylon gained Independence in 1948, he became interested in politics and along with Dr. E.M.V.Naganathan, was a founding Joint Secretary of the newly formed Federal Party. He worked very hard for the success of his Party, steering it through its various stormy and triumphant phases during 1950-1960 and was often referred to as the “brain of the Federal Party'. He had to suffer attacks by mobs and even arrests and detention for political activities. He unsuccessfully contested the Kayts seat, in the first Parliamentary Elections held in 1952, but won the seat in the 1963 by-election and was also again re-elected in the 1965 General Elections. But soon after, his relationship with the Party became strained due to Party policy changes. Ultimately in 1968, he defied the Party directive and broke away from a Party, he had laboured for, and continued as a private Member. He has since retired and lives with his children in Canada.
In 1957 he published a tract entitled "Ceylon Faces Crisis'. He is working on a book of over 350 pages entitled "The Fall and the Rise
of the Tamil Nation', re-constructing the history of the origin and early evolution of the Tamil race and language.
V.Navaratnam married Parameswari, his maternal uncle's daughter, in 1942, and has five sons and a daughter. The eldest son Chandra Mohan a Chartered Engineer is married to Dr.Thilagavathy, Jagadishan a Mechanical Engineer is married to Dr.Sarvalakshmy, Jegan Mohan a Barrister is married to Theivanayaki who is also a Barrister, Raj Mohan is a Stationary Engineer, Bala Mohan a Civil Engineer is married to Devika an Accountant, and the daughter Shyamala is married to Civil Engineer N.Ratnasingham.
V.N.Navaratnam 1929-1991. Member of Parliament for Chavakachcheri., 1956-1983..
V. N. Navaratnam was born in Chavakachcheri on 5th June 1929. He had his early education at Drieberg College Chavakachcheri and later at Jaffna Central College. Entering Law College, he passed out as an Advocate in the First Class. He was called to the Bar in 1954 and very soon built up a lucrative practice in Jaffna.
In 1956, he contested and won the Chavakachcheri seat in Parliament. He was a keen Member of the Federal Party and a close associate of its leader S.J.V.Chelvanayagam. He was a political prisoner along with others in 1959. His contributions to several debates in the House are said to have been of a high order. From 1970 to 1978, he was effectively the leader of the Federal Party Parliamentary Group and a popular Member of Parliament.
He held the Chavakachcheri seat without a break for over twenty six years, until he opted out of Parliament on the issue of the Amendment to the Constitution in 1983.
He left Sri Lanka in 1983 and practised as a Solicitor in the United Kingdom and Canada. He passed away in Canada, after a heart attack, on 29th January 1991.
He had three sons, Sri Namachchivaya, Vallipurananda and Sri Shanmugananda, and a daughter Maitreyi.

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A.Navaratnarajah 1903 - Investigating Inspector; Postal Services
& Social Worker:
Navaratnarajah, born 5th March 1903, is the son of Veemar Arumugam and S.Nagamaniar of Kaitadi. He had his early education at Kopay and at St.John's College Jaffna.
Entering the Postal Service as an Asst. Post Master, he rapidly rose to become an Investigating Inspector and was acting for the Divisional Superintendent, when he retired.
He is an active social worker; he was the Secretary of the Kandy Saiva Maha Sabai for 9 years and the President of the Nallur Multi Purpose Coop. Society, after retirement.
Navaratnarajah married Sironmani, daughter of C.Duraisingham, Dep. Fiscal Jaffna and Proprietor Madduvil Sivan Temple, and has 6 children: Yasodhara Principal Manipay Hindu Ladies College and married to C.Thyagarajah Dep. Dir. Education, Subadra married to S.Sivanayagam Journalist, Rudra Kodeswaran Accountant, Sivakumaran Lecturer Tech.College Kokuvil, Kausalia Lecturer in Brunei and Ratha a Capital Accountant.
A.S.Navaratnarajah 1923-..... B.Sc (Hons)., C.C.S
Alvapillai Sivakolunthu Navaratnarajah was born on 28th November 1923. His father Proctor Siwakolunthu, from Puloly Pt.Pedro, was a leading lawyer and a long time resident of Anuradhapura.
Navaratnarajah was a bright student. After his school career, he entered the University of Ceylon and obtained his Degree in Chemistry with First Class Honours. He then entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1947 and served at many stations. He was in administrative charge of Puttalam District in 1956 and in 1959 he was Administrative Deputy Director, Public Works Department. Later, he was Director of Commerce
and Industries.
He married Inthumathi, a daughter of Dr.S.Rajendram, who was in charge of the AntiMalaria Campaign in Ceylon, and had three
SOIS.
PNavaratnarajah Q.C 1907 - 1994 Barrister-at-Law.
PNavaratnarajah., born in 1907, was the son of Paramanathan of Puloly Pt. Pedro, Jaffna.
He had a distinguished School career at St. Benedict's College, Colombo. He graduated in Mathematics with Honours at the Ceylon University College in 1928 and proceeded to Cambridge as a Scholar and obtained his Maths Tripos. He was also called to the Bar from the Middle Temple in 1934. -
Returning to Ceylon, he enrolled as an Advocate and built up a lucrative practice, mainly in the original Civil Courts. He was the leading Counsel in a number of heavily contested civil actions and election petition cases and earned a reputation for his incisive crossexamination. As a leading and eminent lawyer he was honoured by being appointed Queens Counsel in 1965. On completion of 50 years at the Bar, he was honoured with a banquet by the Bar Association, in 1985 and passed away in 1994. He was a founder member of the Hindu Educational Society.
He married Sundaranayaki, daughter of Dr. C.Sabapathy of Puloly. His eldest daughter Navaranee married K.Shanmugaratnam of the National Inst. of Management, second daughter Lalitharanee married N.Pararajasinham Consultant UNDP, and the third daughter Dr. Manohari married Dr.K.Shanmuganathan.
Miss. R.S.Navaratnasingam c 1920-1992 School Vice-Principal.
Miss Ruby Santhiramalar Navaratnasingam, daughter of J.A.Nava-ratnasingam of Jaffna, had her education at Chundikuli Girls' College, the Jaffna Convent and Jaffna College.
At the University, she won the University Championship in Badminton. She was a teacher at Vembadi Girls' High School. She obtained the post-graduate Diploma in Education at the University of Pennsylvania USA.
She taught for a year in England, before

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returning to Vembadi, where she was a graduate teacher for several years and later Vice-Principal. She was a distinguished administrator, officebearer in the YWCA and a District Commissioner of the Girl Guide Association.
After retirement in 1972, she taught for about ten years in Zambia. She passed away on 9th November 1992, leaving behind five sisters and a brother.
K.Navasothy 1941-1990. B.A(Hons)., M.A (Ceylon).
Navasothy son of Kanapathipillai of Valvettithurai, was born on 2nd April 1941. He was a Tamil Scholar from the Ceylon University. He graduated there in 1964 and later got his Master's degree in 1974.
He was then a teacher and a journalist for some time. He was a good speaker.
Proceeding to London in 1986, he was for a time Library Assistant, East Ham Library. Later he worked in the Archives. He held a Diploma in Information Management and Archives 1985. Navasothy was a prolific writer who contributed several articles in Tamil. He had a passion for the development of Tamil language and culture abroad. He was also editing and publishing a cultural high class monthly Tamil Journal called the "Sindhu'.
He was a Council Member of the International Association of Tamil Research and a Director of Heritage International for Tamils for Education and Culture.
His premature demise on 4th January 1990, at the age of 49, is a great loss.
He married Ruparanee and had three children: Manivannan, Vathani and Yalini.
Neelakandan Early Settler.
Neelakandan was one of the early settlers of Jaffna. He is said to have been handsome, liberal and valorous. He was also a wealthy person, keenly devoted to his Saiva faith.
He is said to have come from Kachchur in South India, with his four brothers and colonised the Pachchilapali area of the Jaffna Peninsula. Others who were settled there were Villavan,
Pathumarayan and Vei Mannan.
K.Nesiah M.A 1901 - 1994
Veteran Educationist
Kunasekaram Nesiah, born on 13th November 1901, was from Nallur, Jaffna. He and S.J.Gunasekaram were sons of two brothers.
Nesiah had a brilliant School career at St. John's College, Jaffna, winning several prizes. His special subjects were English and History. He proceeded to Madras University and got his Master's Degree in English and Postgraduate Diploma in Education.
After teaching at his old School and then at S.Thomas College for a short time, he was appointed Senior Lecturer in Education at the University of Ceylon. He held this position till his retirement.
Nesiah was a person of high principles, a vegetarian, a devoted Christian and a great believer in the “Christian Gospel and the Gandhian way of life'. He was interested in politics at one time. He was a Member of the Board of Education, the Examinations Council of the University Court, and Director of the Peoples Bank and the Jaffna Y.M.C.A.
He was held in high respect by many. After retirement, he was actively involved in the cooperative movement and since 1963 led a quiet life at Chundikuli.
As Chairman of the "Thanthai Chelvanayagam Memorial Trust', he appealed to all Sri Lankan Tamils to take a pledge to adopt a Gandhian Sarvodaya Society mode of life.
He had contributed several articles on Education and Social subjects, for the betterment
of Tamil society. A selection from his writings
was published as "Education and Human Rights in Sri Lanka”, in 1983; in that he explained what he understood as the meaning of life.
He married a daughter of Rev. Canon Somasunderam and had two sons Devanesan and Lanka and two daughters. Devanesan, born on 28th April 1935, after a brilliant school career, joined the Sri Lanka Administrative Service in 1959. He has been holding several positions in . that service at many stations. He was Government Agent Batticaloa in 1962 and Jaffna in 1984.

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Proceeding to the States in 1985, he completed his thesis for Master's Degree on "Public Administration' and also made a study of the subject of “Preferential Policies in Divided Societies', at Harvard. He returned to Sri Lanka in 1990, and continues his service.
..Devanesan. married a daughter of Head Master Sam Seevaratnam.
Rev.Daniel Poor Niles 1836-1915.
Rev. Daniel Poor Niles was the son of Rev. Nathaniel Niles* and father of W.D. Niles. He was born at Vaddukoddai, on 30th April 1836.
He entered the Batticotta Seminary in 1846, graduated there in 1854 and was a teacher at the American Mission Boys' School,
Udupiddy, in 1855.
He joined the Wesleyan Mission in 1861 and was ordained in 1875. He was appointed a teacher at Point Pedro and later in 1866 made Vice Principal Jaffna Central School. Working very hard, he built it up from a humble School with very few boys to a College, presenting students for the Madras University First in Arts examination.
In 1897, he was appointed Minister of the Vannarpannai.Church. After about two years, he went to Batticaloa, where he was able to complete and supervise the printing of the revised Hymn books at the new Mission Press there. After a few years in Colombo, he retired in 1907 and passed away in 1915.
Rev.D.PNiles married Elizabeth, daughter of Rev. John Hensman, in 1864 and had a son and two daughters; on her demise, he married Mary Joshua in 1871 and had four sons and three daughters.
Rev Dr.D.T.Niles 1908-1970
M.A., D.D, Eminent Christian Theologian.
Rev. Dr. Daniel Thambyrajah Niles, born on 4th August 1908 at Tellippalai, was the son of W.D.Niles* D.J. and Rani Muthamma and grandson of Rev.D.PNiles*.
He, had a brilliant school career at Central College Jaffna, winning many prizes and awards
and was marked out for a unique career.
After teaching for a short time, he proceeded to India and received his theological training at the United Theological College Bangalore, 1929-1933. On his return, he was attached to Central College until 1936, when he was ordained and appointed District Evangelist, North District of the Methodist Church in Ceylon. He then embarked on his life task as a world figure of the Christian Church, attending seminars, addressing conferences and preparing publications.
In 1941, he was appointed General Secretary of the National Christian Council of Ceylon. He was Chairman of the Youth Department of the World Council of Churches 1948-1952. In 1953 he functioned as Executive Secretary of the Department of Evangelism of the World Council of Churches. All these and other activities made him an eminent international person. He prepared and published several publications, many of which were translated into other languages.
His pastoral and educational activities include being Pastor of the Methodist Church at Point Pedro 1946-50, Pastor at Maradana, Colombo 1950-53, Principal of Jaffna Central College and Superintendent Minister St.Peter's Church Jaffna 1953-59.
In 1964, he was elected Chairman of the North Ceylon Synod and President of the Ceylon Methodist Conference.
He was an able speaker and prolific writer. He won many International recognitions. Just then, cruel fate decided otherwise. His demise on 17th July 1970, at the age of 62, deprived the community of a star and the Christian faith and Theology of an outstanding personality. The public joined his brothers and sisters in bemoaning their loss.
Rev. D.T. Niles married Miss Dulcie Solomons in 1935 and had two sons: Dr.Preman Niles, who is Secretary to the World Council of Churches, Geneva and Rev. Wesley Dayalan Niles, an Associate Secretary to the United Methodist Church, USA.
Nathaniel Niles 1803-1881.
Velauthar Kathiresan, born in 1803, was

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from Punnalaikadduvan in Jaffna. He was one of the first to be converted to the Christian faith in Jaffna. On receiving baptism, he took on the name of Nathaniel Niles. It was then the practice of the American Mission in Jaffna, to give American names to the converts.
At the age of fifteen, when his father died, he sought education and employment from Dr. and Mrs.Mirom Winslow, who were American missionaries living in Uduvil.
He was one of forty eight boys who were the first to be enrolled at the Batticotta Seminary in Vaddukoddai in 1823, under Dr. Daniel Poor. On completion of the Seminary course in 1828, he was sent to Uduvil for Theological training. In 1831, he received his licence as preacher and returned to Vaddukoddai and was in charge of the Church there for twenty years.
In 1868, he left the American Mission and entered the service of the Wesleyan Mission, serving at the Vannarpannai centre till the age of seventy. He passed away in 1881, at he age of seventy eight.
Nathaniel Niles married Kannathai daughter of Santhiravar from Irupalai, she had received baptism in 1831 and taken the name of Fanny Colt. They had three sons and seven daughters. All the three sons, John, Daniel and Samuel became Ministers.Three of the daughters were also married to Ministers.
W.D.Niles 1873-1952 Advocate., District Judge
Wesley Duraiappa Niles, born 7th of August 1873 was the son of Daniel P. Niles*, who after his school career at the Vaddukkoddai Mission School established a School himself, and called it the Vaddukoddai High School. It was his father Rev. Nathaniels Niles* (8031881), who first took on the name of " Niles' in 1821.
W.D. Niles became an Advocate and enjoyed a wide and lucrative practice at the Jaffna Bar, before being appointed to the Bench. He is said to have been the first person of the Jaffna Bar to be so appointed.
He served as District Judge at Batticaloa and in Chilaw in 1925. He was Commissioner of Requests in Colombo from 1928. At all these
places he is said to have presided with dignity and justice.
He married Rani Muthamma, daughter of Proctor Thambiah Arnold. Dr. N.A.J. Niles, Dr. D.T.Niles, G.C.Niles D.J., and J.J.Niles were their sons and Sister Daisy Mangalam, their daughter.
A.Nithianandan J.P., 1920Solicitor U.K., Magistrate Gambia, Attorney General, Swaziland.
Nithianandan, born 31st July 1920, was the son of N.Appudurai, a Malaysian official from Chunnakam, Jaffna. He was educated at Wesley College Colombo, where he was an active participant in all the sports activities.
Choosing a legal career, he became a Proctor S.C in 1951 and had a successful practice in Ceylon for over ten years. He was admitted a Solicitor in the U.K in 1959. In 1962 he proceeded to Sierra Leone, West Africa, as Master and Registrar of the Supreme Court and held other legal appointments there. Seven years later he went to Gambia, as First Class Magistrate and also held other appointments there. Later he was Registrar and Master of the High Court in Botswana for three years from 1976, before proceeding to Swaziland as Deputy Attorney General. After winning high recognition and Acting as Attorney General, he retired in 1982.
Nithianandan married Manonmani, a daughter of Vallipuram of Maruthanamadam.
P
Gabriel Pachcheko Christian Priest from Goa, Tamil Scholar, in Ceylon 1776-1816.
Gabriel Pachcheko was originally a Brahmin from Goa. He however accepted baptism and became a Christian Priest. He came to Ceylon during the Dutch regime for missionary work.
He studied the Tamil language and became

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very proficient. It has been mentioned that he obtained tuition from the celebrated tutor Kulankai Thambiran, with whom he eventually became very friendly.
He wrote and published several books and booklets in Tamil for use by the Tamil congregation. He also published a Dutch - Portuguese Dictionary.
The Dutch Government recognising his eminence, allowed him the privilege to be escorted by an attendant holding an umbrella overhead, as for V.I.P Govt. Officials.
Mrs.Saraswathy Packiarajah 1926 - Carnatic Vocal Musician
Saraswathy, born on 7th April 1926, is the daughter of M.V.Saravanamuthu of Elalai Jaffna, who was an official in the Malayan Railways. She received her education in Singapore. From her young days she had shown special aptitude for vocal classical music. Initiated by Singaram and tutored by other eminent musicians, she had her Arangetram at the age of 12 years.
She continued her studies in music in India and was the first Sri Lankan student to obtain the Sangeetha Vidwan title (First Class), from ... the Central College of Karnatic Music, Tamil Nadu. She also holds the Teachers Grade Certificate in Violin and Vocal (North Ceylon Oriental Music Society, Dept. of Education, Jaffna)
In 1949 she joined the tutorial staff of the Kokkuvil Hindu College, where she imparted her love of Tamil music to her students. She was also a Lecturer in Music, in the Department of Arts, University of Jaffna.
She married Public Health Inspector T. Packiarajah, in 1949 and has three daughters: Jayanthi, Shanthi and Hamsananthi, who are all married
She continues her interest in music and gives recitals in aid of charity, both in Sri Lanka and abroad. A recital was held in London recently, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of her inaugural "Arangetam " recital.
Pallavan c.12th century
A Chieftain from Kanjepuram.
Among the early settlers in the Vanni was Pallavan, a Chieftain from Kanjeepuram and two others. They colonised the area now known as Pallavarayan kaddu in the Punakari area. Pallavarayan kaddu Kulam, the tank there perpetuates the event today.
The place became a land mark as it was about halfway on the coastal road from Jaffna to Mannar.
Dr.C.Panchalingam ...-1925
Panchalingam was the eldest son of Chellapah of Navaly and Meenachipillai (nee C.Murugesu) of Urumpirai. After a brilliant school career, he entered the Ceylon Medical College and passed out as a doctor winning several Distinctions.
He joined the Medical service and after serving at a few stations, was selected and sent to England for specialised qualifications. But fate overtook him there, he fell ill and died.
He married his first cousin and had a son and two daughters, Marukolunthu and Sivakolunthu. The latter, born on 18th March 1919, was a brilliant pupil, winning Gold Medals at the Medical College, excelling even her father's performance there. On passing out, she was Medical Officer from 1944. She was Gynaecologist Jaffna Hospital in 1955 and Obstetrician Castle Street Maternity Hospital in 1957. She continued to work hard till her retirement and is solely devoted to her profession.
V.M.Panchalingam c 1930-1989 BSc (Hons)., D.L.O, Government Agent, Jaffna.
V.M.Panchalingam was the son of Muthiah a businessman of Kandy. He had his early education at Jaffna Hindu and at Ananda College.
Entering the Ceylon University, he graduated with Honours in Chemistry. After a short time as Research Officer in the Rubber Research Institute, he joined the Public Service

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as District Land Officer.
In 1957, when there was a big flood in Mannar and all the tanks in the District breached as Malwattu Oya overflowed its banks, he as D.L.O., rendered yeoman service. After working for sometime in the Kandy District, he was transferred to Jaffna. He worked in Jaffna for over nine years, first as Assistant Government Agent, then Additional Government Agent, and finally, as Government Agent of the District, from 1984.
He served in Jaffna for nine years, through a period of great turmoil and turbulence, when Government Officers there faced most difficult situations.
Due to his sincere and dedicated nature, V.M.Panchalingam was held in high esteem in the service. Unfortunately he was assassinated on the 1st of May 1989. Several people paid tributes and bemoaned his loss.
K.V. Pandara Vanniyan ...-1803. Heroic Vanni Chieftain.
Kulase karam Vairamuthu Pandara Vanniyan was Ruler of the Vanni Sub Kingdom of Pandarakulam. His territory consisted of the area now known as Karnavatpattu-Mulliavallai of the Mullaitivu District. His regal palace was at Pandarakulam, about five miles from Oddichuddan, on the Oddichuddan Nedunkerni Road.
This young Vanni Prince , though only a Chieftain, has been known traditionally as a daring person of grim determination. History describes him as a "courageous and independent Prince'. He is said to have refused to supply to the Dutch rulers in Jaffna any “Dye Roots' and defied their orders. He and Kailaya Vanniyan were powerful rulers. These two totally ignored the foreign powers, who were attempting to subjugate them.
He is known to have sent his men to strengthen the Kandyan army which defeated the English army sent by Governor North to subdue the Kandyan Kingdom.
This act infuriated the British, who sent a detachment led by Captain Von Drieberg to attack Pandara Vanniyan in his home territory in
August 1803. But they were driven away by the Chieftain, and had to escape by boat to Jaffna.
Later in October, three army detachments were sent, one from Trincomalee under Captain Edward Madge, another from Jaffna headed by Lieut. John Jewell and a third led by Captain Von Drieberg himself from Mannar. Pandara Vanniyan was over-powered and defeated after a sword fight. The final episode took place at Kachchilamadu, about three miles from . Oddichuddan. The English Captain, as a tribute to the determined resistance and valour shown by the young Vanni Prince, had a memorial stone erected at the spot where he last fought and fell on 31st October 1803. The place became known as Kat-Chilai-Madu or Kachchilamadu.
The ruins of a Sivan Kovil are also found near the site today; it may have been his temple or one erected subsequently to commemorate his memory.
Over one hundred and fifty years later a statue of Pandara Vanniyan, the valiant Prince of the Vanni, was erected at Vavuniya opposite the Kachcheri Junction. It was unveiled by T.Sivasithamparam, Member of Parliament for Vavuniya.
Pandi Mallavan of Ponpetti Ur, c.13th century Pioneer Colonist, Respected Progenitor.
Pandi Mallavan, a distinguished pioneer, colonised the Thirunelveli area of Jaffna, with his brother and his cousin Sempaha Mallavan. He came from Ponpetti Ur in South India. His descendant was Mallavaraya Mudali, whose son was Mappanar. Mappanar’s son was Kanthar and Kanthar's son was (another) Mappanar.
The later Mappanar married Parvathipillai, daughter of Nallur Allvaiyanar, who was the son of Velauthar and grandson of Singabahu Deva Mudali. Mappanar and his spouse were highly respected and held in highesteem.
They had nine children :-Theivanaipillai, whose daughter Thangamuthu married “Kandakkar' K.M.Chelliahpillai, whose youngest son was Loganathan, General Manager Bank of Ceylon: Thampu, whose son was Thambyappa of the Pt. Pedro Customs: Sabapathipillai, whose son was Proctor

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Somasunderam Tamil Union Cricketer: Sinnathangam, who had two daughters, Rasarethinamma wife of Arumugam, Notary of Anuradhapura, and Nagarethinam wife of
Periyathamby of the P.W.D and a son Chelvathurai: Appapillai whose son was Dr. Thirunavukarasu: Kulainthaivelu whose son was Mappanapillai: Kanagasabaipillai of H.M Customs Jaffna, who had two daughters: Thaiyalnayaki and Kanakambikai and a son Sivasuppiramaniam: The last two were Gopalu and Arumugam.
Panditha Arasar c.15th Century Scholar from Trincomalee.
Arasar was a Scholar and Poet who lived about the 15th century in Konamamalai, Trincomalee.
He composed "Konesala Puranam', the story of Koneswaram Temple at Trincomalee.
R.Paramakuru 1916. District Judge
Paramakuru, born 7th May 1916, is the son of V. Ramaswamy Crown Proctor and Manonmani (nee Velupillai) of Puloly West, Point Pedro. He had his education at Hartley College and entered Law College. There he passed the Final Examination for Proctors with First Class Honours, in 1938, winning Law Books and cash, as prizes. He passed both the Intermediate and Final Advocates Examinations later, with First Class Honours.
From 1938 to 1947, he worked as a partner in his father's Legal Practice Group at Anuradhapura, specialising in civil work. He functioned as President Rural Court and Acting Magistrate at Trincomalee, Vavuniya, Mannar, Mullaitivu, Vadamarachy and Valikamam North, during 1947-1965. He then held positions as Magistrate, Additional District Judge, and District Judge at Kuliapitiya, Mannar, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Puttalam, Jaffna and Point Pedro. Retiring in 1976, he practised as an Attorney - at - Law, till the age of 70. He was considered a top civil lawyer, and a highly esteemed impartial Judge, whose judgments could not be challenged by the appellant's Counsel.
While practising as a lawyer, he sometimes appeared free of charge for clients who cannot afford the fees.
Paramakuru married Annalakshumy, daughter of M.Sethappa of Thumpalai and has five children: Leelamany Paramchothy B.A (Hons), Satyabhama Sivanesan B.A, Radhakrishnan M.Sc., Dr. Yasodhara Sathananthan, and Anusiyadevi Dharmarajah A.M.I.C.E.
Dr.S.Paramanathan 1918-1991
Paramanathan, the last of six children of Sinnathamby Saravanamuthu and Annammah of Ariyalai, was born on 24th June 1918. He was a brother of School Principal Miss. K.Charavanamuttu. He had his education in Jaffna and Matriculated from Jaffna Hindu College.
Entering the Medical College in 1937, he passed out as a doctor in 1943. He then worked in the Medical Service for several years, working at Jaffna, Kayts, Balapitiya and Kalutara. He was D.M.O Point Pedro in 1960.
After retirement, he worked at the Cooperative Hospital in Kurunegala and was afterwards in charge of the Anaipanthi Private Hospital in Jaffna. In 1991, he fell ill and proceeded to London, where he passed away at the age of 73. He had rendered medical service to the community for 48 years.
Dr. Paramanathan was a dynamic personality who was always keen to serve. As a Rotarian, he engaged himself in social and community service at Point Pedro. He was a devout Hindu and made large contributions to the Sithivinayakar Temple, close to his home.
He married Vallambikai,daughter of Advocate Arulambalam and had a son, Dr. Wigneswaran and two daughters: Lohini, who was the first female to qualify as an engineer from Ariyalai and was married to Dr.Ganesharetnam, and Mohini M.B.A., who was married to Dr. Retnasabapathy
Miss A.Hudson Paramasamy
1903-1975 Principal Uduvil Girls School.

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Miss Ariammah Hudson Paramasamy, the first Ceylonese Principal of Uduvil Girls' School, was born on 24th June 1903. Her father Hudson Paramasamy, a descendant of the reputed Maana Mudaliyar, and a Calcutta University graduate, was classics master at Jaffna College and later Principal of Manipay Hindu College.
Ariammah was educated at Uduvil Girls School. She proceeded to Madras and obtained her B.A degree from Women's Christian College. She then taught at her old School. Later, she obtained her Master's degree from Oberlin College, U.S.A.
She was appointed the first national principal of Uduvil Girls School in 1942. She took over from Miss Bookwalter, who retired after a long and Successful period.
She managed the position very ably,
maintaining the traditions so ably built by her predecessor and also made many improvements. Her period of tenure of over twenty years had been very crucial in the development of the
institution. The School was brought to the fore-front of educational institutions in the North.
After retirement she lived in her ancestral home at Sandilippai and continued her interests in the School. She died in March 1975 and was given the special privilege of being buried in the exclusive grave yard where past missionaries were buried in Uduvil.
Ariammah had two brothers Thambyrajah and Selvarajah and four sisters. Roseammah, one of the sisters, married Solomons. Ariammah was devoted to education and remained single.
S.R.Paramsothy ...-1983. Social Worker:
Sivaramalingam Paramsothy was from Anaikoddai Jaffna.
He took an active interest in politics and worked for Sir A.Mahadeva, during his early years. He then served as resident representative of the Jaffna Malayalam Tobacco Sales Society in Travancore, first in Quilon and later in Trivandrum .
Arriving in the U.K in the seventies, he took an active interest in the social events of the resident Sri Lankan Tamils. He was an active
member of the Britannia Hindu Temple Trust; he worked for the establishment of the Ganapathy Temple at Wimbledon and made himself popular. He passed away in 1983.
He married at Thirunelveli and had a son Sivaji, who is with the Singers in Colombo and a daughter Vathsala, who is a doctor married to Paramanathan, a Consulting Engineer and son of V.Paramanathan, Dep. Tea Commissioner.
Sir S.Pararajasingam 1896Chairman L.C.P. A d. Several
other Institutions, Senator 1954.
Sir Pararajasingam, born on 25th June 1896, is the son of A.V.Sangarapillai, Founder of Manipay Hindu College.
He was educated at S.Thomas College and Wesley College and is a landed proprietor. He was a Broker with Messrs. Volkart Brothers for Some time during his early years. He maintains a leading position in the Agricultural, Educational, Cultural, Religious and Financial organisations of the country.
Promotion of agriculture in the country was his special interest. He was Chairman of the Low Country Products Association, of the Board of Directors of the Agricultural and IndustrialCredit Corporations, of the Ceylon Coconut Board, and of the Board of Governors of the Ceylon Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research.
He has also been closely associated with the Tea Propaganda Board, the National Savings Committee, the Radio Advisory Board etc. He was the President of the Ceylon Poultry Club for twenty years, President of the Colombo Rotary Club and their District Governor in 1952. He was appointed to the Upper House of Parliament as Senator in 1954.
In appreciation of his services and contributions to the promotion of Agriculture in the Island, he was Knighted in 1955.
He is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Sri Ponnambala- wanaeswaran Hindu Temple in Colombo.
He married Pathmawathi, daughter of Sir PArunachalam. His son Nadesan of the Civil Service, is a leading business figure of Colombo. Another son Ramanathan, a leading legal personality has been appointed Judge of

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the Supreme Court.
Dr.R.Pararajasegaram 1928F.R. C.S., F.R.C. P, F.R.C. Ophth.
Dr.Pararajasegaram, born on 10th May 1928, is the son of K.Ramachandra. He had his education at St.John's College Nugegoda and Jaffna Central College. Entering Medical College, he passed out as a doctor, first in first class.
He was appointed Medical Officer in 1951 and in 1959 was Surgeon, Victoria Memorial Eye Hospital Colombo. Proceeding to the U.K., he obtained higher qualifications, specialising in Ophthalmology, and was Registrar, Royal Eye Hospital London. Returning, he functioned as Consultant Ophthalmologist, Eye Hospital Colombo. When he retired he set up private practice in Colombo and Jaffna.
He was then appointed Regional Adviser, Prevention of Blindness, World Health Organisation, New Delhi. He now holds the post of Ophthalmologist, Programme for the Prevention of Blindness, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland.
He was President of the Ophthalmological Society, Sri Lanka, the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology, the International Society of Geographical Ophthalmology, and President Elect, International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness. Community eye care programmes in Sri Lanka, Ghana, and Australia are his valuable contribution to the community.
Dr. Pararajasegaram married Ruby, daughter of J. Kattukaren and has three daughters: Geeta, Meera and Priya.
Pararajasekaran Singai King of Jaffna, 1478-1519. Pararajasekaran VI.
Pararajasekaran Singai, the most successful of the Jaffna Kings, was the son of King Kanagasuriam
He showed much valour in the defeat of Vijaya Bahu and his forces and displayed great skill in regaining the Kingdom of Jaffna for his father King Kanagasuriam. He married a Chola
Princess named Rajalakshmi. In due course the father handed over the administration of the Kingdom to Pararajasekaran, and thereafter lived in retirement till his demise.
Pararajasekaran ascended the throne in 1478. His regime was the "Golden Era' of the Jaffna Kingdom. He was a pious King; he paid homage at every temple in his little Kingdom. He got the "celebrated four temples' around Nallur, the capital city, redecorated. He also built new temples for the well-being of his subjects. One of them found today is the well known “Pararajasekara Pillaiyar Temple” at Inuvil , Jaffna.
The King’s brother Segaraja- sekaran* was an eminent scholar of great repute. He invited men of learning and culture from India to hold discourses and conferences in the Court. The ancient Tamil Assembly of Poets (Tamil Sangam) was revived. The King, who was a scholar himself, encouraged learning and culture. It will be remembered that both the brothers had their early upbringing in India at Thirukovil.
At that time, the King's nephew Arasakesari, translated the great Sanskrit classic "Raguvamsam' into Tamil. A Chronicle of Jaffna called the “Pararajasekara Ula” was also compiled then.
The King had two sons Singa Bahu and Pandaram by his Queen, the Chola Princess Rajalakshmi. By his second wife Valli Ammaiyar, of Pandi Mallavan descent, he had Paranirupasingam and four others. Sangili, who played a conspicuous role in Jaffna history later, was the son of Mangatha Ammal, who was the King's third wife.
An interesting event of the period was the visit by a seer “Supathida Munivar” to the King's Court. He is said to have been a descendant of a long line of Munivars, from the sage Agasthiya Maha Munivar. At the time the Jaffna Kingdom was at the zenith of its glory, the Munivar foretold of the evil days that would soon befall the Jaffna dynasty and the Hindu temples.
The King’s sons Singa Bahu, Pandaram, Paranirupasingam and Sangili were well educated and grew up to become able Princes.
But the golden era sadly moved on to lamentable later years. The Crown Prince Singa Bahu was found poisoned. Prince Pandaram was

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murdered by unknown assailants. Paranirupasingam was silenced for fear of death.
With the aid of the army, Sangili took over the throne in 1519. Pararajasekaran spent his later years as a humble individual. However, the Portuguese, who defeated Sangili, treated him with respect, and honoured him with the title of Mudali.
S.T.M.Pasupathy Chettiyar
1856-1906 Prosperous Merchant of Jaffna.
Pasupathi Chettiyar, born in 1856, was the son of Muthucumaru Chettiyar and grandson of Sithampara Suppiah Chettiyar. He hailed from a highly respected and wealthy family in Vannarpannai Jaffna. He was a learned person, who was well versed in Hindu traditions and enjoyed high eminence in the Jaffna society of the time. He is said to have been a "dynamic personality and a force to reckon with in his day'.
Along with his colleagues S.Nagalingam, a leading Advocate, C.Casipillai, Crown Proctor T.Chellapahpillai: Retired Chief Justice of Travancore, V.Sanmugam, Head Clerk and others, he furthered the revival of Hindu religion during the latter part of the last century. It was this group who founded the Jaffna Hindu College, and commenced the Journal "Hindu Organ” and the "Inthu Sathanam".
He led the operations for the excavation of the ancient temple at Thiruketheeswaram, in thick jungle, and suffered ill health . His premature death, when he was only 50 years old, was very much lamented.
Dr.V.T.Pasupati 1894-1981 M.B.B.S (Madras)., D.T.M & H (Lond), Eminent Jaffna Doctor
Vaidyanathan Thampoe Pasupati was born on 9th May 1894. After his early education at Jaffna Hindu College, he proceeded to the Medical College in Madras and obtained the M.B.B.S degree in 1920
He entered the Ceylon Medical Service in 1923 and served at many stations including Chavakachcheri, Galle, Kandy, Chilaw, Batticaloa and Jaffna.
He proceeded to England in 1938 and obtained his post-graduate qualifications. On his return, he was Medical Superintendent Jaffna Hospital and later Divisional Medical Superintendent, Northern Division.
After retirement, he was wholly involved in the practice of medicine and in the social and cultural activities of Jaffna. He was President of the Jaffna Medical Association and Chairman of the Jaffna Hospital Board, the Jaffna Cooperative Stores, the Death Benevolent Society, Trustee of the Suthumalai Bhuvaneswari Ambal Temple and member of the Jaffna Hindu College Board. He passed away on 22nd January 1981.
He married Kamalambikai eldest daughter of Ayurvedic Dr. K.Muthucumaru of Kasturiar Valavu, Kasturiar Road, Jaffna and had five eminent sons and a daughter; the eldest son Dr. Vaidheeshwaran (Consultant Radiotherapist) married Sivapackiam, daughter of Dr.R.Jeremiah, the second son Shivakumaran (President's Counsel and Attorney General of Sri Lanka for over a decade) married Punithavathy the only daughter of "Eelakesari'Ponniah*, the third son Muthucumaraswamy (Senior Partner of Coopers & Lybrand Satchithananda Pasupati & Co, Chartered Accountants) married Lingeswaridaughter of Prof.C.Suntharalingam, thefourth son Dr. Jegadheesan FRCP (Consultant Physician) married Dr.Nimala Devi FRCOG (Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist) daughter of Advocate Sambandan, the fifth son Dr. Yogananda FRCP (Consultant Physician) married Dr.Nalayini DRCOG daughter of Dr.K.Sivagnanaratnam, and his only daughter Bhuvaneswary WS married tO K.Ratnasabapathy, who retired as Commissioner of Inland Revenue.
Dr.YPasupati 1936 - MRCP, DCH(Lond), FRACP
Yoganandan, born 30th Dec. 1936, is a son of Dr.V.T. Pasupati* and Kamalambikai nee Kasturiar Muttucumaru of Vannarpannai. He had his early education at Jaffna Hindu College and later at Ananda College, Colombo.
He obtained his MBBS from the Ceylon Medical College in 1962 and entering the Medical Service worked at Kandy and Jaffna,

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He then proceeded to London in 1970 and obtained higher qualifications. On his return, he was appointed Consultant General Physician (with special interest in cardiology), Jaffna. Later, he retired and set up in private practice at Jaffna.
He was President Jaffna Medical
Association 1977-78, Chairman Board of Trustees M.A., 1979-83, non-academic member of the Jaffna Medical School and Visiting Lecturer in Post Graduate Medicine.
He also held important positions in many social and other institutions: in the Lions Club International, he was President of Jaffna 1978, Zone Chairman 1979, and Dep. Dist. Governor 1980; he was Chairman of the Refugee Rehabilitation Organisation 1982-83, Chairman of Merchant Finance Insurance 1980-83, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Suthumalai Amman Temple. Many service projects were organised by the above. He migrated to New Zealand in the 1980's and is a Senior Specialist Physician, Medical Director, etc. there.
Yoganandan married Dr. Nalayini nee Sivagnanaratnam and has four children: Dr. Yoga Shankar, Yoga Shoruban, Yoga Mayuran, and Yoga Nivethini Pasupati.
K.Pathmanapan 1917-1965 B.A (Lond), M.Sc (Stanford).
Pathmanapan, born 22nd January 1917, in Puloly Pt.Pedro, was a close relation of Saiva Periyar S.Sivapathasuntharam. His father M.Karthigesu B.A (Madras) was Principal of Chavakachcheri Hindu College and later of Kokkuvil Hindu College.
Pathmanapan was Principal of Colombo
Hindu College Ratmalana and Bambalapitiya 1951-58. Proceeding as a Fulbright scholar he obtained the M.Sc degree in Linguistic Science at Stanford U.S.A, 1958-61. On his return, he functioned as Principal Stanley College until his demise in 1965.
Pathmanapan married Surveyor Vellupillai's daughter and had four sons : Dr.Iswaranathan, Dr.Nagulesan, Aravindan and Panimoliyan.
He published a book entitled Ceylon Under the British Rule, in collaboration with
Maheswary Mahadeva.
P.M..Jayarajan Paul c 1910-1975 I.C.S., Municipal Commissioner;
Colombo.
Jayarajan Paul (often refered to as
P.M. Jayarajan), was the fourth son of Dr.S.C.Paul. Born in Colombo in 1910, he had his education at Royal College Colombo and later at the University of Cambridge. He was successful in the Indian Civil Service Examination, when he was even below 22 years old. He served in various States of South India. Retiring from that service, he returned to Ceylon in 1947 and was appointed Municipal Commissioner, Colombo. In 1966 he proceeded to Uganda as Adviser to the Bank of Uganda. On his return, he was appointed Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
He was proficient in Western Music and was the First Violinist in the Cambridge University Symphony Orchestra. Later he conducted his own orchestra in Colombo.
Jayarajan married in India and had a son, who was an Accountant.
Dr. Milroy Paul 1900-1989 M.S (Lond)., M.B (Lond)...,
M.R.C.P., F.R.C.S.
Dr.Milroy Aserappa Paul, eldest son of Dr.S.C.Paul, was born on 20th June 1900.
He had his early education at Royal College Colombo and then proceeded to King's College London, for medical studies. He won several distinctions and awards in medicine and surgery and obtained the F.R.C.S. and M.R.C.P. qualifications. On his return, he was appointed acting Professor of Anatomy and Surgical Tutor in Colombo in 1930.
In 1939 he was appointed first Professor of Surgery at the Medical College, a post he held till his retirement. He enjoyed a reputation as one of the ablest surgeons of the country. It is said that he never hesitated to take on a difficult
CaՏՇ.
He was the first Ceylonese to be awarded the Hunterian Professorship of the Royal College of Surgeons on three occasions and appointed a

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member of the James the Fourth Surgeons, a rare honour. He was made an Hony. Fellow of the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland.
He was awarded the Hony. degrees of Doctor of Science by the Colombo, Peradeniya and Jaffna Universities and was the President of the Sri Lanka Medical Association.
He functioned as Registrar of the Medical Council for alongtime and passed away in 1989.
Dr. Milroy Paul married Ponmani, daughter of Dr.Canagasabai and had a son Wakeley, a Crown Counsel in Ceylon, who later proceeded overseas. On her demise, Milroy married Irma, daughter of Francis Philips and had three sons: S.R.Jeyarajan, Dr.J.Amarjit and S.A.Jeyaratnam, and a daughter Dr. Dayila Wijeyan.
Pastor Paul of Uduvil “Pothakar" of Uduvil, Jafna.
“Pothakar” Paul was village Pastor of Uduvil Jaffna, during the latter part of the last century. He was a kind hearted person, well known to everyone in the locality.
His eldest son proceeded to Malaya where he was eventually the Principal of the Anglo Chinese School at Singapore.
His second son, Lt.Col. Samuel Paul proceeded to Madras and became the Principal of the Engineering College, Madras University. His third son, Prof. R.H.Paul, eventually became Professor of Electrical Engineering, University of Ceylon.
His eldest daughter married Postmaster Fry.
His second daughter Grace Paul M.A., was Headmistress of the Bilingual School at Uduvil and later Principal of Girls High School at Kandy.
The third daughter Ranee Paul M.A., married Rev. Victor Sathianathan and was a teacher. Later she was Vice-Principal of Methodist College, Colombo.
The Pauls were of high intellectual calibre, who distinguished themselves and held important positions in the field of education.
Prof.R.H.Paul c1905-1983 B.Sc., M.A. (Cantab)., Mech. Science Tripos(Cantab) Professor of Electrical Engineering University of Ceylon.
Robert Hoisington Paul was a son of "Pothakar” Paul, Pastor of Uduvil.
Robert received his early education in Jaffna and in Singapore. He passed the London Inter-Science Examination from St.Joseph's College Colombo, as he was underaged to enter University College.
He graduated in Science in 1926 and proceeded to Cambridge on Scholarship. At Cambridge University he obtained the Mech. Science Tripos with First Class Honours, being the first Ceylonese to achieve such success.
Returning to Ceylon in 1931, he was for a time Head of Electrical Engineering, Ceylon Technical College and later its Director.
He was Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University, Peradeniya in 1945. He was also Dean of the Faculty. He retired in 1965 and passed away in 1983.
Prof. Paul married Sheila Casperz, niece of U.D.R.Casperz, Lecturer in Mathematics, Ceylon University.
Lt. Col. Samuel Paul c1900-... . Principal, Engineering College,Madras University.
Samuel Paul was the second son of "Pothakar’ Paul, the Pastor of Uduvil.
After his school education he gained proficiency in Mechanical Engineering, and was appointed Instructor at the Technical Institute, Guindy Madras. By his diligence, hard work and obtaining further qualifications, he improved his position to become a Lecturer and then a Professor, as the Institute was raised to University status.
Eventually he finished up as Principal, College of Engineering, University of Madras. He then set up a Faculty of Engineering at the Annamalai University.
On his retirement, he continued to be an adviser to the Tamil Nadu Government on the subject of engineering education.

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D.S.C.Paul 1868-1942.
M.D., F.R.C.S. Eminent Surgeon of his time.
Samuel Chelliah, born 28th February 1868, was the eldest of four sons of Dr. William T.Paul
He had his early education at Jaffna Central College, Wesley College and S.Thomas College Colombo. He passed his First in Arts Examination from Presidency College Madras and had his medical education at the Madras Medical College, where he obtained the M.B. B.Ch. degree, first in First Class. He was the first Ceylonese to obtain F.R.C.S, which he did from King's College London in 1901.
Returning to Ceylon, he was appointed lecturer in Anatomy in 1902 and Pathologist in 1905. He was appointed a Surgeon in 1908; he very soon built up a high reputation and was Senior Surgeon till his retirement. He built up people's confidence in Surgery as a successful
CC.
He held a high social position. He was a well read person, a Tamil scholar and historian, who had a wide knowledge. He was Chairman of the Ceylon Planters' Association, President of the Ceylon Medical Association and Captain of the C.M.C., which he commanded as Lieut. Col. 1923-27. He contributed very learned articles on ancient history of Ceylon to the Royal Asiatic Society, of which he was President. Among his contributions were:-The Overlordship of Ceylon in the 13th and 14th centuries, J.R.A.S.vol.: xxviii and Pre-Vijayan Legends and Traditions pertaining to Ceylon, J.R.A.S Vol.: xxxi, 1929. He passed away in 1942 at the age of 74.
Dr. Paul married Dora, daughter of Dr. Simon de Melho Aserappa and had a distinguished family of seven sons: Milroy, William, Egerton, Albert, Jeyarajan, A.T.S and Ellalasingham and three daughters: Girlie Cooke, Amy Crosette-Thambiah and Tutse Rasaratnam. Milroy, the eldest son, followed his father's footsteps and became an eminent Surgeon. W.R.C.Paul did his postgraduate work at Emmanuel College Cambridge, obtaining the M.A., M.Sc. and Ph.D qualifications; he joined the Agricultural Dept., and finished as
Dep.Director. Egerton C.S. Paul also secured similar high qualifications and joined the Dept. of Industries, where he finished as Dep. Director. He later had a U.N.assignment in Iraq for ten years. P.M.Jeyarajan Paul was successful in the Indian Civil Service. Dr. Arthur T.S. Paul the sixth son, born in 1915, qualified as a doctor, proceeded to King's College, London and was the first Ceylonese to obtain the triple F.R.C.S degrees in U.K. Returning, he was appointed Asst. Surgeon Colombo in 1950 and Thoracic Surgeon 1952-75. On retirement from that post, he was Senior Lecturer and Cardio Thoracic Surgeon, University of Nairobi, Kenya 1975-89.
Dr.William T.Paul c 1850.....
William Thillayampalam, the ancestral first of the Pauls, was himself the fifth generation of one Ampalavanar of Manipay. Ampalavanar's son was Vinayakar, whose son was Ramanathan of Pandattarippu; his son was Velautham, whose son Karthipillai married a daughter of Nagendram of Uduvil; their son was William.
He married Kanagam, a daughter of Sampanthar Kathirgamar of Vaddukkoddai, but settled down at Anaikoddai. They had four
sons: Samuel Chelliah, Albert, Victor and Charles, and nine daughters: Thangamma (a)Nicholas (b) Thambiah, Annamma
Chanmugam, Chellamma Canagasabai, , Rasammah Mather, Ratnamma Tampoe, Pakiam Rajasooria, Muttamma Mathiaparanam, Nallamma Thambiah and Nesammah Wilson.
M.Peethambaran 1898-1972 Inspector of Schools, etc.
Peethambaran, son of N.Mari-muttu of Chavakachcheri, was born on 9th November 1898. He WS a brother of A.M.K. Cumaraswamy *, Registrar, Ceylon University.
After his education at St.John's College Jaffna, he received training in education. He commenced his teaching career in the 1920's and taught at Schools in Alaveddi, Chava

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kachcheri, Trincomalee etc.
He worked as Inspector of Schools in the Up-Country and Batticaloa areas. He was then attached to the Teachers’ Training College at Kopay and later at Chavakachcheri, before retirement.
Peethambaran won an all-Ceylon Tamil Essay prize while at School. He took an active interest in the production of School educational publications.
He married Elizabeth Nagaratnam Thambiah and had two sons: Vivekanandarajah a Chemist and Jegatheeswaran a Prof. of Mechanical Engineering and four daughters: Leelawathi Sothy siri hari, Chandramani Thamotheram, Nalanayagi Rajaratnam and Buvaneshwari Stairs. On her demise, he married Potkodinayaki Canagaratnam from Trincomalee and had two sons: Parameshwaran and Koneswaran who have gained international recognition as “Tamil Pop Stars' and are Musical Directors.
Pulavar Perambalam 1859-1935.
Tamil Scholar from Velanai.
Perambalam was the son of Konamalai from Velanai, an island off the Jaffna Peninsula.
He had his early education at the American Mission School in his village. Later he received his higher cducation in classical Tamil, Grammar and the traditional Sashtras from Kanthappu Pulavar and other able scholars.
Among his works are (all in Tamil):-Vannai chiledai Venpa, Velanai ilanthaikadu Sithi Vinayakar i raddai mani Malai, and Kadambaranthathi.
Dr.V.Perambalam 1917-1993 Ph.D., Works Manager; KKS Cement Factory, U.N Consultant.
Dr.V.Perambalam was the son of Velupillai from Tellippalai. He was an elder brother of Dr.V.Rajanayagam. After his school education and graduation, he acquired high proficiency in Chemical Technology.
He was at one time, Works Manager of
the Cement Factory at Kankesanturai. Later, he held several high Technological positions.
He was a Consultant having assignments with International organisations.
He married a daughter of Town Overseer Thilliampalam of Sangarathai and had a son and two daughters.
Perayiram Udaiyan Early Settler, c. 13th Century.
Perayiram Udaiyan, a pioneer from Kovalur in South India, was one of the early settlers of Jaffna. He is said to have been a person of charming appearance, learning and influence.
He colonised the Inuvil region of the Peninsula. His progeny remains to be traced.
Rev.Peter Percival c1800-... . A non-Ceylonese who became proficient
in Tamil.
Rev. Peter Percival, was a non-Ceylonese, who entered the Ministry in 1825 and came to Ceylon in 1826.
He was very much involved in educational work. In 1834, he opened the Central School for boys and taught English at Vembadi Jaffna. (This later became Jaffna Central College). This was followed later with a Boarding School for Girls, under the management of Mrs. Percival. A training institution also was organised by him. Arumuga Navalar went to him as a young Student to study English. Seeing Navalar's intelligence, Rev Percival gave him a helping hand and eventually employed him as a member of the School Staff. Under his guidance Navalar translated the Holy Bible from English into Tamil. The contact between these two was mutually beneficial, as in due course Rev. Percival himselfbecame proficientin Tamil. Having worked in Jaffna and Trincomalee, he left Ceylon for U.K in 1851. Shortly afterwards he proceeded to the University at Madras. In India, he is known to have published a Tamil Journal Thinavarthanani. and other works in Tamil.
His outstanding work was, however the very useful Percival’s English-Tamil Dictionary.

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Handy Perinpanayagam 1899-1977. Youth Leader, School Principal
Handy Perinpanayagam, the "Maker of Men and the Builder of Kokku vil Hindu College", was born on 28th March 1899. His father Saravanamuthu was a School Master from Manipay.
He received his early education at Jaffna College, Vaddukoddai. He was one of the first students to pass the Inter-Arts from there. Graduating in 1920, he joined the tutorial staff of his old College, commencing what was to be a long career in the field of education.
It was the established tradition of Jaffna College to encourage "Freedom of Thought' among the pupils. In that environment, Handy very soon became a leader of the youths of the College and of Jaffna. That was the time when the freedom struggle was uppermost in India. The students who gathered around him formed themselves into a movement called the 'Students Congress'.
It became more broadbased, and was later known as the “Youth Congress' of Jaffna which was active for about ten years in the 1920's. Its primary aim was to propagate the importance of Tamil language and education through the medium of the mother tongue. Some of the subjects discussed at the Annual Meetings of the Congress were:-"Revival of Tamil Literature, Art and Music”, “Tamil our National Heritage”, “The Tamil Renaissance', etc. He was very much involved and his name became associated with the Youth Congress movement. The Congress eventually veered into the political field as well. Handy worked very hard for the eradication of untouchability and the recognition of the rights of the Minority Tamils, which was denied to them at that time. He was chiefly responsible for the visit of Mahathma Gandhi to Jaffna.
In keeping with the popular trend of the time, Handy decided to take to Law and entered Law College; he passed out as an Advocate and practised for some time. During that time he entered the political arena and contested a Seat in the State Council. But meanwhile there had been many changes in Jaffna's political trend,
with new groups fast becoming more popular. He envisaged a united independent Sri Lanka. Handy lost the contest to the Tamil Congress Party candidate. The winning candidate's tribute was "He (Handy) was undoubtedly the most qualified... but party slogans and mass hysteria snatched the seat from him'.
Reverting to his former field of education, he accepted the post of Principal of Kokkuvil
Hindu College. He held this position with great
acclaim for about ten years. The School improved vastly during his regime. He made a deep impression on the students and inspired them. They will never forget him. When he retired, a Special Bill was enacted in Parliament, concerning his pension.
He was a great educationist and teacher. Gandhian ideals were his inspiration. He took an active part in securing the rights of teachers. He was President of the Northern Province Teachers Association, Founder President of the Northern Province Principals Association, President of the All-Ceylon Union of Teachers and Member of the Ceylon University Court.
He maintained his interests even after retirement, contributing articles to Journals and presiding at Mahathma Gandhi Remembrance meetings. He passed away on 11th December 1977.
Handy Perinpanayagam married a daughter of Singam of Pandaitharippu, who was the Head of a School in Burma. Handy's eldest son, Sidhardan born in 1934, is a Professor of Sociology in the States. Another son, a Planter in Batticaloa, married a daughter of the well known Proctor K.V.M.Suppiramaniam. His daughter Semmana Chelvi is married to Thiruchandiran son of Dr.Jeremiah, Poongothai to K.Sathiaseelan an Attorney at Law, and Gnany to Engineer C.Parameswaran.
The "Handy Perinpanayagam
Commemoration Society", published a "Handy Perinpanayagam Memorial Volume" in 1980. The Society has instituted a "Handy Perinpanayagam Memorial Scholarship' in the University of Jaffna.
J.T.R.Perinpanayagam 1895-1968.

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Headmaster,St.Thomas Prep.School,
Colombo.
James Thuraiayah Robert Perinpa - nayagam, born on 14th September 1895, was the son of Vethavanam Perinpanayagam.
He was educated at St.John's College Jaffna, where he was Head-prefect and distinguished himself in football and cricket. After his School education, he decided on a teaching career and was trained at the Teachers' Training College.
He was a teacher at Trinity College Kandy and afterwards at Royal College from 1937
In 1942, when all the Schools in Colombo had to close down due to war emergency, a Branch of the Royal College was opened at Bandarawela with Perinpanayagam in charge as Warden. He managed it very efficiently to the satisfaction of everybody till 1949, when he was appointed Head of the Middle School at Royal College.
When St.Thomas Preparatory School was commenced at Kollupitiya, in 1951, "J.T.R.' took charge as Headmaster and made it a very
successful institution, preparing juniors for entry.
to Royal, S.Thomas and other Colleges. He retired in 1966.
In later years he was Secretary of the Ceylon Association of the C.M.S., Member Standing Committee of the Diocesan Council, Member of the Board of Directors Y.M.C.A. and President of St.John's College O.B.A. (Colombo Branch).
He was a good sportsman and won Tennis championships in Jaffna and Nuwara Eliya. He had a good sense of humour and great organising capability.
He married Parimalam, daughter of
Sinniah and had four sons: Dr. Mahenthiran, Gnaneswaran Ph.D, Dr. Sounthararaj and Selventhiran a tea planter and a daughter Swarnam who was married to Dr.K.Sivapragasam.
Peri Sundaram 1890-1957. B.A., LL.B (Cantab)., Lecturer; Law College, M.S.C., Senator; President Workers' Congress.
Peri Sundaram, born on 23rd July 1890 in Madulkele, Sri Lanka, was the son of Peri Annan, Supervisor in the Tea industry of Sri Lanka.
He had his early education at an estate school and then went to Trinity College, Kandy in 1904. In 1906 he attended S.Thomas College Colombo, from where he went to the Law College. Proceeding to England when he was 23, he had his higher education at Emmanuel College, Cambridge. He graduated in Arts and in Law in 1916 and was called to the English Bar.
At Cambridge he was a leading figure in the Indo-Anglo Societies, being President of the Cambridge Indian Majilis and the Ceylon Society.
Returning to Ceylon, he practised as a Barrister for some time. In 1928 he was appointed a Lecturer at the Law College, Colombo, which position he held for over twenty years. Later he was an Examiner as well.
He was elected uncontested by the Hatton Electorate to the first State Council in 1931 and served as Minister for Labour, Industry and Commerce. He did not seek re-election in 1936. He was closely associated with other political leaders of the time, among whom were Sir P.Ramanathan, and Sir P.Arunachalam. He was one of the Founders of the Ceylon National Congress.
He was actively interested in the welfare of the Workers and had been taking a leading interest in their Trade Unions. He was the Founder President of the Ceylon Indian Congress Labour Union in 1940, which was later known as the Ceylon Workers Congress.
In 1941, he was elected to the Senate, where he spoke on behalf of the Estate Workers and was again re-elected in 1951. In the Senate he was elected Vice-President.
Peri Sundaram was well known to leaders of the other communities. He cherished visions of a united Ceylon with equal opportunities for all. He passed away on 4th February 1957.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value Re. 1, on 14th December 1990.
He married Selvanachiyar, daughter of Rasiah in 1925, and had three sons: Dr. P.S. Alagesan, who was a G.P in Kent,

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M.P.Sundaram, Solicitor in U.K holding high office in several International Organisations, and Jayanandan Peri Sundaram L.L.B, Advocate, Ambassador for Sri Lanka in Indonesia and three daughters.
S.Periyathamby c1880-1953. B.A., Colonial Sec.s Office, Colombo.
Periyathamby was from Thunnalai South in Puloli, Pt. Pedro. His father was a learned and highly respected person, familiarly known as "Sastriyar' in the locality. One of his elder brothers, D.S. Arumugam was a Notary Public in Anuradhapura and the other brother Kanapathipillai, father of Poornampillai, was an Advocate.
Periyathamby had his early education at Hartley College, Pt.Pedro . In addition, he was well tutored in Tamil by able persons. Later he graduated, studying privately .
Entering the Clerical Service, he rose rapidly and was placed in responsible positions in the service, in view of his diligence and qualifications. He was held in high respect and functioned as Clerk to the State Council. He passed away due to an unfortunate accident.
Periyathamby married Nagarethinam, whose father was esteemed Ananthar Mappanar Sinnar Velupillai and mother Sinnathangam, a relative of Kanagasabai, Sub Collector H.M Customs, Jaffna.
King Periya Pillai of Jaffna
1565-1582, Segarajasekaran VIII.
King Periya Pillai's ancestry is not known.
At a time when there was no ruler in Jaffna, the Portuguese placed Periya Pillai in charge of the Jaffna Kingdom.
Later, his son Edirmanasingam ruled Jaffna under the Portuguese for a long period, from 1591 to 1615.
E.Periyathambipillai 1899-1978 Pulavar Mani of Mandur,
Batticaloa.
Periyathambipillai, the celebrated Pulavar
of Batticaloa, was born on 8th January 1899. He was the eldest son of Ehamparampillai, Trustee of the reputed Kandaswamy Temple at Mandur, for over 32 years.
He was a very capable student and was brought up under traditional religious surroundings at home. He received English education also at a local School. However, desirous of higher studies in classical Tamil, he
proceeded to Jaffna and studied at the Navalar
Kavia Padasalai from 1917 to 1920. He was fortunate to come under the influence of eminent personages of the time: T. Kailasapillay*, A.Kumaraswamy Pulavar*, Pundit S. Mail vaganam ( låter Swami Vipulananda then a Science master at St. Patrick's College, Jaffna) and others. Completing the course, he gained the Pandithar title
Afterwards he was a teacher at Nunavil and from there he went to Pasumalai in India, for a couple of years. Meeting his former sponsor Swami Vipulananda, now a sannyasin of the Rama Krishna Mission, he commenced teaching at Trincomalee in 1926. He was then employed at the Teachers Training School in Batticaloa for a few years. The year 1943 was a crucial year for him due to illness in the family. For consolation, he read the Bhagavad Gita. Afterwards he composed over seven hundred venpa verses, elucidating the meaning of the Gita. Later in 1947, he came into great prominence as Head of the Tamil Section and as poet of the Batticaloa Hindu College. Retiring in 1959, he led a quiet life and passed away in 1978.
Pulavar Mani wrote many poetic compositions relating to events of the time and was held in great respect as a celebrated poet and Scholar of Batticaloa.
The public of Batticaloa has organised a Society in his memory called the Pulavarmani Periyathambipillai Ninaivupani Manram. This organisation engages in various activities under the Chairmanship of Vidvan F.X.C.Nadarajah*.
Dr.C.Perumalpillai 1920FA.O Veterinary Science Expert.
Perumalpillai, born 16th February 1920,

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was the second son of Proctor Manicam Chellathamby and Parvatipillai of Puloly, Point Pedro. After his general education at Hartley College, Perumalpillai went on an award to Calcutta and qualified in Veterinary Science.
On his return in 1952, he was appointed Asst. Veterinary Surgeon and served in many stations including Vavuniya and Mannar. Early in the 1950's, he proceeded to the U.K for higher studies and obtained his Ph.D (London). He functioned as Head of the Animal Research Division in Peradeniya from 1953.
After a few years, he relinquished that position and proceeded to Sudan as Head of the Animal Health Department, Khartoum University. He was then engaged in an FAO assignment Somalia for a couple of years and thereafter functioned at Bangkok, as the FAO Regional Animal Production and Health Officer, Asia-Pacific Region. Before retirement in 1982, he was engaged in establishing a Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Kabul in Afghanistan.
Since then, after a short stay in Australia, he is engaged in Consultation practice in Sri Lanka.
Perumalpillai married Gnanambikai, daughter of V.K Gnanasunderam and has two sons Dr.Ravi and Ranjit and two daughters Usha and Jeeva.
Mrs.G. Perumalpilai 1926-1993 Social Worker
Gnanambikai, daughter of Proctor V. K. Gnanasunderam and granddaughter of Balangoda Candiah*, was born on 4th July 1926. She was educated at Kokuvil Hindu College and later at Chundikuli Girls' School and Ramanathan College.
She obtained her London Arts degree by private study and joined the staff of Kokuvil Hindu College, as mathematics teacher.
In 1950, she married C.Perumalpillai of Puloly West, who became Head of the Veterinary Research Division of the Agricultural Department in Peradeniya in 1953. She was then a teacher at Holy Family Convent Kandy. She then joined her husband, when he went overseas on F.A.O assignments, to Somalia in 1963,
Bangkok 1969-79 and Afghanistan later. At all these places, she took active interest in community and social welfare work. After her return to Sri Lanka in 1983, she was very much
interested in pursuing meditation for spiritual
progress. She passed away in 1993.
During their stay abroad, Mrs Perumalpillai ably organised elementary classes and educated their four children, two boys Ravi and Ranjit and two girls Usha and Jeeva, at home. Dr.Ravi Pillai is now a Consultant Heart Specialist in the U.K.
A.Perumyinar 1913Additional Government Agent, Jaffna.
Arumugam Perumynar, born on 30th December 1913, is from Vaddukkoddai. He had his early education up to Cambridge Senior, in Malaya. He then graduated from the Ceylon University College.
After being in the Clerical Service for a short time, he was in the first group recruited as Divisional Revenue Officers in 1939.
He was attached to the Jaffna Kachcheri; later he was in charge of the Vadamarachchi Division in 1942. He functioned at Oddichuddan, in charge of Vavuniya North during 1947-1954. In 1959 he was transferred to Batticaloa. He was later appointed Additional Government Agent of Jaffna, before retirement.
Peru my nar married a sister of K.Sittampalam of the Govt. Treasury.
He was a keen social worker and took a keen interest in the development of the area under his charge.
Rev. Father Peter A.Pillai 1904-1964. O.M.I., M.A (Cantab)., M.Sc, Ph.D., D.D (Rome). Rector, St.Joseph's & Aquinas Colleges .
Peter of Alcantara Pillai, born on 19th October 1904, was the son of Jacob, Headmaster of a Tamil School at Wennapuwa and Anna Pillai, of Karampan Kayts. They had five sons all of whom distinguished themselves. Besides Peter, there were: Fr. Cajetan a teacher, Rev.Br. Luke,

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Director St.Benedict's College, His Lordship Emilianus, Bishop of Jaffna, and J.L.Stanislaus, Actg.Secretary to the Treasury.
Peter was an outstanding pupil; his brilliance was evident from his early days at St. Benedicts College Colombo. He was always at the top, and the masters at school recognised his exceptional talents.
He graduated with First Class Honours in
Mathematics and Physics, from the Ceylon .
University College in 1923. He proceeded to FitzWilliam Hall in Cambridge, as a scholar and obtained his Masters degree in 1927.
In keeping with his dedication to his Church, he then proceeded to a religious learning centre in Rome. There he was awarded Ph.D in 1931 and D.D in 1936. He was ordained a priest in 1934.
On his return to Ceylon in 1936, he was appointed to the staff of St.Peter's College. He succeeded Rev.Fr. M.J. Le Goc as Rector St.Joseph's College in 1940 and held that post till 1961. He also founded Aquinas University - College at Borella, in 1954 and was its first Rector. In addition to his own duties, he was appointed Vicar-General of the Lay Apostulate, in 1959.
Among the many improvements he carried out at Joseph's College was the establishment of a new section for imparting Technological Education. This has helped many youths in finding employment in the Technological Services.
He campaigned vigorously for freedom and human rights and for justice and fair play to all. He started the Social Justice Movement and for many years edited its organ "Social Justice'. A selection of his writings appear in his Memorial Volume.
He passed away at the age of sixty, on 27th September 1964. As a tribute to this "Educationist and Social Reformer', the Sri Lankan Government issued a Rev. Father Peter Pillai Memorial postage stamp, value 60 cts, on 22nd May 1985.
V.N. Pillai 1908-1992 B.A (Lond)., Supta.of Prisons, U.N. Consultant in Criminology.
Vallipuram Narayana Pillai, born 13th September 1908, was the son of Gate Mudaliyar Sinnathamby Vallipuram of Kandarmadam, who was a prominent officer of the Land Settlement Department.
Pillai had his education at Royal College Colombo. Entering University College, he obtained his B.A (Lond) Degree with Honours in History. He also qualified as an Advocate.
After teaching at St.Peter's College Colombo for a short time, he joined the Prisons Department as Asst. Supt. of Prisons, in 1936. Rising quickly in service, he was Head of the Department during the time of the political upheaval in the 1950's.
Retiring from that position, he was a U.N Consultant for two years, from 1962. He was then Director of Asia and Far Eastern Institute for the Prevention of Crimes and the Treatment of Offenders, established by the U.N. in Tokyo. He held that position for six years before relinquishing in 1970. He passed away on 2nd September 1992, in England.
Pillai married Kamala, daughter of Dr. and Mrs W.S.Ratnavale in 1938, and had three sons: the late Romesh who was a Civil Engineer, Dilranjan Ph.D who is a Biochemist in Australia and Dr. Chitranjan who is a G.P in England.
A.Ponnambalam Mudaliyar 1814-1887. Mudaliyar of the Governor's Gate.
Ponnambalam son of Arunachalam and Thangam, was born in Manipay, Jaffna in 1814. Arunachalam was a descendant of Mana Mudaliyar of Thondai Nadu, a pioneer settler in Jaffna during the reign of Tamil King Pararajasekaran, who reigned in Jaffna during 1478-1519.
Young Ponnambalam was sent to Colombo at the age of sixteen, where he was brought up by Gate Mudaliyar A.Coomaraswamy.* and his wife Visalachchi, as if he was their own son. They were residing in Chekku Street and had no children then. He acquired proficiency in English and held several posts under the Government. He had an interest in banking. He cultivated the friendship of people in high positions and soon became well known. In 1847

14
he was appointed Mudaliyar of the Governor's Gate and promoted to high office.
In the year 1850, he and his family went on an extensive pilgrimage to Hindu temples in South India. Returning from there, he decided on building a Sivan temple in Colombo, himself. This he accomplished. He also made detailed arrangements for the regular performance of ceremonies and rituals at his new temple. He lost his wife in 1884 and he passed away in 1887.
Ponnanbalam married Sellachi Ammai, daughter of Gate Mudaliyar Coomaraswamy and had three sons: Coomaraswamy (later Advocate), Ramanathan (later Sir.P.Ramanathan), and Arunachalam* (later Sir. PArunachalam).
G.G.Ponnambalam 1902-1977. Natural Science Tripos (Cantab)., Barrister, K.C., M.S.C., M.P. Cabinet Minister.
Ganapathipilai Gangesar Ponnam-balam was born on 8th November 1902. His father Gangesar was a Postmaster from Alvay, Pt.Pedro and his mother was from Navaly, Manipay.
Ponnambalam had his education at St.Joseph's College Colombo, and proceeded to Cambridge on scholarship. There he obtained Natural Science Tripos and was also called to the Bar.
Returning to Ceylon, he commenced practising as an Advocate in Colombo. He was a very able debater and soon became an outstanding Criminal Lawyer. He was made a King's Counsel in 1948.
Ponnambalam's political career commenced in 1931, when he unsuccessfully contested the Mannar-Mullaitivu seat in the First State Council. However, he won the Pt.Pedro seat in the same Council, when elections were held in the North in 1934, after the lifting of the boycott. He made his name as an able speaker in the Council and retained his seat in the Second State Council 1936-1947. For a brief period he also acted for the Minister of Communications and Works.
He won great acclaim soon after 1944, when he presented before the Soulbury Commission a logical case for equal
representation for the minorities in the Council. He rose high in political esteem with his 50/50 slogan. His Tamil Congress Party swept the polls, at the 1947 General Elections to the First Parliament. He secured the Jaffna seat, defeating A.Mahadeva by a majority of over 9,000 votes In the House, he was appointed Minister of Industries, Industrial Research and Fisheries in 1948. He held this position for over five years. Several large industrial ventures were mooted during his regime as Minister. Among them were the Kankesanturai Cement Factory, the Paranthan Caustic Soda Chemical Factory and the Valaichchenai Paper Factory. These developed into huge concerns in due course and were a monument to his diligence and forethought
In the elections held in 1952, G.G. Ponnambalam won the Jaffna seat by a majority of about 4000 votes defeating Dr.E.M.V.Naganathan of the Federal Party.
In the meanwhile, a new party had gained popularity in Jaffna. The majority became even less at the General Elections held in 1956, when only he, of his Party, was elected and that too with a small majority. He then had to be a back-bencher, and was the only representative of his Party in the House.
He migrated to Malaysia and practised there for some time and passed away on 9th December 1977.
He married Rose Alagumani Clough, a sister of Clough Balasingam. She survived her husband and passed away at the age of 84 in 1992. They had a son Kumar and a daughter Vijayalakshmi. Kumar, like his father, is an eminent lawyer and a keen politician; he married the eldest daughter of T.Murugesapillai *G.A. Vijayalakshmi is married to Brahman elder son of Sivapirakasapillai, Harbour Engineer and University Lecturer.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value 75 cts., on 22nd May 1986.
Satchi Ponnambalam 1935B.A. (Econ)., LL.B. (Lond), Solicitor, Judge of the Supreme Court, Belize.
Justice Ponnambalam, born 27th January

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1935, is the son of R. Ponnambalam and Sinnamah Ammal of Chundikuli Jaffna. He had his education at St.John's College and entered the University of Ceylon, Peradeniya in 1955.
After graduation, he chose a legal career and became an Advocate and Solicitor (England). He was State Advocate and Senior State Advocate, Zambia and later Magistrate and Chief Magistrate, Belize, Central America. He was
Judge of the Supreme Court there from 1985 to
1993.
He is a Legal Consultant, writer and has participated at various Tamil Conferences. Dependent Capitalism in Crisis Sri Lankan Economy 1948-1980, 1980, and The Tamil Liberation Struggle in Sri Lanka, 1983, are two of his books on Sri Lanka.
He married Vasantha, Head of an infant School and daughter of V.Sittampalam, brother of V.Sachithanandam and Gemma (Singham) and has three daughters: Sumathi, Jamuna and Menaka.
WPonnambalam 1930-1994 School Master, Communist Party. Secy, Jaffna District.
Ponnambalam, born 18th December 1930, was the son of Vallipuram and Ponnammah of Alaveddi. He had his early education at Arunothaya School and Skanda Varothaya College, Kanterodai.
He then continued at Madras Christian College, where he distinguished himself winning prizes forelocution etc. Working with members of the Communist Party, whom he met there, he was involved in upliftment and social work.
Returning to Jaffna, he was appointed a teacher at Skanda Varothaya College in 1951. He became an active promoter of communist party politics and worked hard for the Party in Jaffna. He was invited for conferences in Russia and China. He was elected a member of the local Village Committee in 1952. Contesting the Kankesanturai seat in Parliament in 1956, he obtained 4313 votes, although S.J.V. Chelvanayagam' secured the seat. winning more votes. He did not succeed in his later attempts.
Later, he taught at other schools and on
retirement from teaching, was involved in the co-operative movement and also functioned as Chairman of the Mallakam Alaveddi Village Committee. He resigned his Secretaryship due to differences in policy with the Communist Party in 1976 and in later years worked for the T.U.L.F.
Ponnambalam married Pooranam daughter of Kanapathipillai of Karainagar and had two sons Mavalirajan and Namunakulan. On her demise in 1974, he married Puvaneswari, daughter of Nagarethinam and had a daughter Senchudar.
Dr.S.Ponnampalam
1915-1981 F.F.A.R.C.S., Chief Anaesthetist
Ponnampalam was the eldest of four sons and four daughters of Dr.J.P.Subramaniam of Arali, Jaffna.
Passing out as a Doctor from the Ceylon
Medical College in 1940 he worked as a Medical Officer for a few years. He then proceeded to the U.K and obtained Post Graduate qualifications in Anaesthetics. On his return he worked at the General Hospital Colombo, till his retirement in 1976, after which, he was engaged in private practice.
"Ponna', as he was often referred to, was a very popular person, known for his friendly and helpful nature. He passed away in 1981.
He married Pathma, daughter of G.C..Thambiah and had four daughters : Premila, Nirmala, Shyamala and Romilla.
V.Ponnanpalam MBE, 1880-1962 Gate Mudaliyar President, Jaffna Co-operative Bank.
Ponnampalam was the son of Vairavanathar, a farmer and land owner of Punnalai Kadduvan, Jaffna. He was educated at St.John's College Jaffna.
He then proceeded to Malaya and was employed in Government Service there. Retiring in 1929, he returned to Urumpirai, his native village in Jaffna.
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established the Jaffna Co-operative Stores, the first co-operative stores in the Island and was its first President. The Moolai Co-operative Hospital and the Jaffna Co-operative Bank followed. He was the President of the Bank for several years. He was also interested in education and was a member of the Hindu Board of Education, which managed the Jaffna Hindu College and other Schools.
In recognition of his services to the community, the Government honoured him with the title of Muhandiram, then Mudaliyar subsequently Gate Mudaliyar and eventually M.B.E. also was conferred on him.
Ponnampalam married Thayalammal, daughter of Murugesu, farmer and land owner of Urumpirai, and had six sons: Retnarajah, Navaratnam, Vyravanadan, Villavarayan and two others and two daughters one of whom was married to Dr. K.Sivagnanaratnam.
N.S.Ponnambalampillai 1836-1902. Tamil Scholar from Nallur.
Ponnambalampillai was from Nallur
Jaffna. His father was Saravanamuthupillai and his mother a sister of Arumuga Navalar*.
From his early age he was well tutored by Arumuga Navalar in classical Tamil, Grammar, and the Hindu classics. In due course he acquired a high reputation as a Tamil scholar and several flocked to him, even from India for tuition and higher studies in Tamil.
He continued the many activities Arumuga Navalar had initiated; he was for a time Head Master and Manager of Navalar's Saiva Prakasa Vidyasalai.
He published some of the ancient Tamil Texts, with his own explanatory notes on them.
“Eelakesari” Ponniah, J.P c1900-... .
Founder "Eelakesari' Publications, Prop. "Thirumagal Printing Press",
Chunnakam.
Ponniah, the founder of a leading Printing Press in Jaffna, was from Kurumbachetti; he started life as a compositor at the Tellippalai Mission Printing Press and very soon mastered
the essentials of printing.
In due course, he ventured on his own with a small Printing Press. Printing school books, Such as the “Palla Padam” Series for the lower classes, was very beneficial . In 1930 he launched a proper Printing Press and called it the "Eelakesari Printing Press'. Very soon he embarked on the productions of high grade artistic and of adult interest.
Each year, an "Eelakesari Annual' was published containing illustrations of events and portraits of prominent persons of the year, on art paper. This was looked forward to by the public and it enjoyed a good demand.
A valuable service he rendered, was to collect and print some of the ancient medical ola manuscripts, thereby preserving their contentS.
He encouraged and contributed towards the social welfare of his village , establishing Schools and School Libraries. An Elementary School founded by him is now a big Central School at Vasavillan.
After his death, the Printing Press changed hands, but retains its original name of "Thiru Magal Printing Press'.
His daughter is married to lawyer Siva Pasupati, who held the position of Attorney General of Sri Lanka.
Mudaliyar M.V.Ponnusamy 1880-..... Vannia , Manmunai
Ponnusamy, born in 1880, was the son of Visvanathapillai Velmurugu who was a Village Tribunal President. His grandfather Vetharniam Kanagasabai was Udaiyar of Korale Pattu.
Ponnusamy was appointed Udaiyar Korale Pattu in 1909. In 1919 he was appointed Vannia, Manmunai, which position he held with distinction, for a long time.
He was conferred the Honorary title of “Mudaliyar' in 1934.
Dr.S.Ponnusamy c 1885 -.... Proprietor "The Jaffna Apothecaries”.
“Apothecaries” Ponnusamy was the son of Sittampalam of Navaly, Jaffna.

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He studied the practice of Western
Medicine and became proficient in it, at a time when it was not popular in Jaffna.
In due course, he commenced a chemist's establishment in Main Street, Jaffna, retailing medical goods in particular, as well as otherevery day requirements. The concern prospered as a sound business venture, with the name of The Jaffna Apothecaries. The undertaking soon became a reputed landmark and a household name for dependable and quality goods, in Jaffna.
Dr. Ponnusamy's name was held in high esteem; he performed several charitable deeds and was very popular.
He had seven children. The eldest son Thiagarajah was an eminent and highly qualified Doctor. He was a Visiting Obstetrician in Colombo, in 1939. Another son Thurairajah carried on with his father's business. Chief Mechanical Engineer Railways Rajagopal, was another of his sons.
A.J.P.Ponrajah 1927-1986 B.Sc(Lond)., F.I.C.E., Director of
Irrigation
Anthony James Princely Ponrajah, born on 4th February 1927, was the son of Proctor Ponrajah of Mannar.
He had a distinguished school career. After graduation he held the post of Instructor at the Technical College in 1950, for a short time.
He was appointed an Assistant Engineer in the Irrigation Department in 1951. Distinguishing himself, and obtaining more qualifications, he was promoted to higher Grades in the service. Rising fast, he reached the top of the Irrigation Service when he was hardly fifty years old.
He was an able Engineer who stressed on the design and scientific aspects of engineering. His untimely demise in 1986 was a great loss to irrigation engineering in Sri Lanka and to the community.
He married Tirzah, a daughter of Chief Postmaster Fry of Jaffna. Mrs. Ponrajah is an able Bharatha Natiyam dance artiste.
Vidvan K.Poopalapillai 1856-1921.
Tamil Scholar from Batticaloa.
Poopalapillai was the son of Sathasivampillai and Vallipullai of Mandur Batticaloa.
He had his early education at Central College, Batticaloa; thereafter he received special tuition in the Tamil texts and Hindu Sashtras etc., from S.Vaithialingampillai, an able
scholar.
He entered Government Service and functioned for over 30 years in the clerical service, winning recognition and receiving promotions.
Retiring in 1915, he devoted his time to fostering Tamil and the preparation of compositions on Tamil literature and Hinduism. He helped several youths in their studies. He passed away at the age of 65, in 1921.
A collection of his works has been edited and published in 1923 by S.V.Jambulingam . They are all in Tamil and include:-Thiru Muruka Pathikam (1882), Seemanthani Puranan( 1884), Vinayakar Manmikam (1905), Puliya Nagar Anaipanthi Vignes varar Pathikam (1905), Siva Thothiram , Mupporularachi kadadurai (1918), Arasadi Ganesar Ahaval (1920). Ganesar Kali Venpa (1921), and Thamil Varalaru .
Pundit S.Poopalapillai 1902-1967. Scholar & Headmaster
Pundit Sellapah Poopalapillai, born on 12th July 1902, was a relation of the Sabapathipillai Udayar Family in Arayampathi, Batticaloa.
He was a Trained Teacher from Kopay. He became a Pundit during the days of Swami Vipulananda and became a Teacher.
Later he was appointed Headmaster at St. Sebastian's College Batticaloa and Lecturer at the Teachers' Training College, Batticaloa.
Pundit Poopalapillai was greatly dedicated to Education. He conducted free Tamil classes and gave Radio talks, for the benefit of the community. He helped the people in their agricultural and religious activities. He was one of the Founders of the Training College at Batticaloa and the Vellur Colony. He passed away on 26th April 1967.
He married Kamalavathy and had four sons

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and five daughters.
In recognition of his services to the people,
a public roadway in Batticaloa has been named
"Pundit Poopalapillai Road".
K.Poornampillai 1909Principal, Hartley College 1944-66. Principal „St.John’s College 五967-星976 &星9&7-星9&& Manager, 1985-1988.
Poornampillai, born on 30th October 1909, is from Thunnalai Pt.Pedro. He is the son of S.S. Kanapathipillai, who was a graduate teacher, advocate and Principal, Point Pedro Methodist Central School. His younger brother Theivanandampillai was Vice-Principal Central College, then Lecturer Malaysian University and afterwards Professor of Linguistics in Fiji.
Poornampillai had his early education at the Methodists School and later at Hartley College Point Pedro. He graduated in 1930 and was a School Master at Hartley College for ten years, before becoming Vice-Principal of the College in 1943. He then succeeded C.P.Thamotheram as Principal from 1944. He had a long and very successful periodas Principal Hartley College, Pt.Pedro for twenty two years.
Afterwards he accepted the post of Principal of St.John's College, Jaffna in 1967, and held that position through a very difficult period of nine years. Many striking changes took place in the country at that time. Yet many improvements were effected to the College and the Jubilee Hall was also built
He was invited to be Manager of the College in 1985. In 1987, he had to function as Principal as well. He retired in 1988.
He married Jeyarajamalar, daughter of
R.R.Sherrard in 1941, and has a son and two daughters. His son Jeyakumar Rajanayagam B.Sc., M.Phil is married to Vilogini Kulathungam M.Sc. His daughter Shanti Thangaratnam B.A., is married to Dr. Arulanantham F.R.C.P. The younger daughter Dr. Vasanthie Inparanee D.G.M. is married to Dr.P. Karunakaran M.Sc., Ph.D.
Pootha Nathar c18th century Arachchi, during the Dutch Regime.
Pootha Nathar held the position of an Arachchi (Chief Headman), during the regime of the Dutch in Jaffna.
He was sent with a force on a mission by the Jaffna Dutch Commander to overcome a Vanni Chieftainess Mariya Sempathi, who defied all efforts to be subdued by the Dutch.
On his way to the Vanni, he had to camp near Pallai. That night, in a vision, a child advised him to change his bed and sleep in a different place. That saved his life from surprise slaughter. In the morning he made a vow that should he succeed in this mission alive, he would build a church there.
The expedition was considered a great success. The Arachchi had the Chieftainess brought and delivered to the Dutch in Jaffna by clever stratagem.
Later after retirement, in keeping with his vow, he erected a church dedicated to St.James at Kilaly. His descendants and clan hold an annual nine day feast here in July, seeking the Grace of St. James, the benign Saint of their anceSt0r.
His son Lawrence Samarasagra had a daughter by the name of Ananthasipillai, who was married to Nicholas Sandrasagra. The couple had two sons, engineer Joachim Sandrasagra and Rev. Father Sandrasagra. The well known Colombo lawyer H.A.P.Sandrasagra was a son of Joachim Sandrasagra.
K.C.Praesoody 1906-1991 Superintendent of Excise, Oиtstanding Sportsтап.
Veteran Sportsman Praesoody was the son of Kanapathipillai Culanthaivelu of Puloly Pt. Pedro. He was born on 4th March 1906 He had his education at Ananda, Hartley and St.John's Colleges.
From his young age, he was an outstanding sportsman. While at Hartley College, his performance in the Football field won the admiration of every one at that time. When he was Captain of the College football eleven, the College enjoyed a leading place in Inter Collegiate contests becoming champions.

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Praesoody joined the Excise Department as an Inspector in 1928. He continued his enthusiasm for football by organising inter Departmental and inter club football tournaments. He was always a popular figure. He introduced the "Tree Tax System', for Excise Revenue.He was of great help to other officers. Eventually he was promoted to the Superintendent's Grade from which position he retired in 1965.
After retirement he took to farming in the
Mannar region. He was one of the first to introduce tractors as an useful aid for cultivation.
Praesoody married Thevayogam daughter of Kovindapillai and sister of K.Alvapillai. They had two sons and a daughter. The two sons Nagendra and Rajah* were outstanding Tennis players, who became International champions. Unfortunately they passed away early in life.
After the death of his wife Praesoody went to U.K in 1981 and lived with his widowed daughter Sita Kandaswamy. He passed away on 7th September 1991.
Rajah Praesoody ....- 1982. Tennis Champion
Rajah was the second son of K.C.Praesoody, Superintendent of Excise and veteran sportsman.
Rajah achieved prominence as a champion Tennis player. He won the open Men's Championship in Sri Lanka. He represented Sri Lanka in the Davis Cup Tournament, playing against New Zealand, India and Malaysia.
He set up the Rajah Praesoody School of Tennis to promote the game.
His premature passing away in 1982 was a great loss for the development of sport in Sri Lanka.
A.B.S.N.Pullenayagam 1916-.... . B.Sc Special (Lond)., CCS.
Basil Nesarajah, born 28th July 1916, was the son of Proctor B.O. Pullenayagam and Nesamma nee Sethukavalar.
He was educated at St.Benedict's College
Colombo and proceeding to University College passed the B.Sc (Special) London examination with second class Honours.
He entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1938 and held various posts. He was Food Controller in 1941, Government Agent Uva in 1953, Batticaloa in 1957 etc. He retired as Director of Statistics in 1963.
He married Miss Dulcie Muriel ChristiDavid.
V.S.A.Pullenayagam 1921-1983 B.A., LL.B (Lond), Dep. Solicitor General.
Pullenayagam, born on 23rd August 1921, was the second son of Proctor B.O.Pullenayagam and Nesammah nee Sethukavalar. He was the younger brother of A.B.S.N.Pullenayagam CCS.
After graduation, he studied law at the
post-graduate level at Stanford University for a year and joined the Attorney General's Department Colombo, as Crown Counsel, in 1952. He represented the Crown in several important cases with commendable skill. Later he reverted to the unofficial Bar in 1974.
He was known for his sturdy independence as a lawyer and for his handling of cases where an individual's fundamental rights were affected. In the 1980's he, along with others, worked hard for obtaining release of detainees held without trial. He died on 24th December 1983.
Pullenayagam married Miss E.N. Setukavalar, who was a Ceylon University graduate teacher, at Ladies and Methodist Colleges in Colombo.
Puviraja Pandaram King of Jaffna, 156-1565 & 1582-1591. Pararajasekaran VII.
Puviraja Pandaram was the son of King Sangili *. He came to the throne in 1561 as his father became unpopular. When Sangili died, the throne was seized by a Kasi Nainar in 1565.
However the intruder was assassinated . After an interval, when Periya Pulle was on the throne supported by the Portuguese, Puviraja Pandaram regained the Kingdom in 1582.
In an attempt to drive the Portuguese out

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of his Kingdom he laid a siege on their Fort at Mannar. The Portuguese sent an expedition to Jaffna, which landing at Kolumbutturai attacked Nallur. In the battle the King was slain and the city looted.
R
Sri E.S.Ragunatha Iyer 1901-1969
Computer, Tamil Almanac
Sri E.S.Ragunatha Iyer was born on 3rd March 1901, in Kokkuvil. He was well learned in Hindu sashtras and Hindu astronomy. After research in ancient books, he published books on astrology.
His name is well known for his computation of the Annual Tamil Almanac called the "Vakkiya Panchangam'. This much valued publication is being continued by his nephew Sri E. Vengadesa Iyer.
The Almanac is in daily use in almost every Hindu household. It has been published annually for the last 134 years.
He passed away on 20th July 1969.
Don Juan Ragunatha Mappana Mudaliyar ... 1734... Founder of the celebrated Nallur
Kandaswamy Temple.
Ragunatha Mappana Mudaliyar lived in Nallur, Jaffna, during the Dutch regime in the era of the year 1734. He had assumed the added prefix "Don Juan', to placate the Dutch authorities. He was serving the Dutch Government as Shroff Mudaliyar at the Jaffna Kachcheri.
In the year 1734 (some writers say 1737), the Mudaliyar secured a permit to erect a madam in an abandoned piece of land which had reverted to Crown. It was to be used by the people who congregated there to listen to the reading and recitation of the Saiva sacred work “Kantha
Puranam". As the reading proceeded daily, the madam soon became a place of worship. There, a priest Krishna Iyer placed a “Vel', the symbol of the deity Kandaswamy and performed pujas. A shrine thus grew up.
The shrine so founded, was later re-built as a proper temple by the founder's son Ragunatha Mappana Mudaliyar (Junior).
Ever since, the founder's progeny (shown below) have been managing the affairs of the temple in a very systematic and highly acceptable way. They have won the admiration and appreciation of the thousands who congregate there for worship. Management genealogy:-
Founder (1734), then Ragunatha Mappana Mudaliyar (Jnr), Arumuga Mappana Mudaliyar (1839), Ragunatha Mappana Mudaliyar (1860) III, Sangarapillai (1915), Arumuga Mappana Mudaliyar (1921), Ragunatha Mappana Mudaliyar IV , Sanmugadas Mappana Mudaliyar (1964), and Kumaradas Mappana Mudaliyar.
Improvements have been effected all the time to the temple.
Ragunatha Mappanan c 14th century
Ragunatha Mappanan was an early settler of Jaffna, who came from Mel Natham, and settled down in the Periyapulam area of the Jaffna Peninsula.
C.Ragunathan 1883-1954. Dep. Commissioner, Co-operative
Development.
Cathiravelupillai Ragunathan, born 2nd July 1883, was from Moolai, Jaffna and received his education at Victoria College, Chulipuram and later in Malaya.
He served in the Malayan Railways for two years. On his return to Ceylon in 1928, he was selected and sent for training at the Co-operative College Poona in India.
With the establishment of a separate Department for Co-operative Development in 1930, Ragunathan was appointed Asst. Registrar of Co-operative Societies Northern Division

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(Northern and Eastern Provinces). He held this office with great distinction till 1942. It was during this period that various types of cooperative ventures were established and registered. Among them were:- The Malayalam Tobacco Co-operative Sales Society, the Moolai Co-operative Hospital Society, the Northern Division Agricultural Producers' Co-operative Union and the Northern Division Co-operative Federation.
In recognition of his services as pioneer and able administrator, he was appointed Deputy Commissioner of Co-operative Development in 1943. He has been referred to as the father of co-operative movement in the Northern Division. He passed away on 28th February 1954.
He had three daughters, one of whom was married to Proctor Cumaraswamy.
A.Ragunathar 1901.... B.Sc(Lond).A.M.I.E.E., M.I.C.E., Dip. El Eng., Lecturer in Engineering.
Arumugam Ragunathar , born on 3rd April 1901, was from Vaddukoddai, Jaffna.
After his early school education , he proceeded to U.K and obtained proficiency in Electrical Engineering.
On his return in 1931, he was appointed Electrical Superintendent Batticaloa. He was appointed Instructor in Mechanical Engineering at the Ceylon Technical College, Colombo in 1934 and promoted Lecturer in 1949.
Later when the Faculty was merged with the University at Katubedde, he continued as Lecturer there until his retirement.
Ragunathar was very helpful to students. It is known that he would go out of his way to assure that the students receive full benefit from their contact with him. He helped several in their lives by helpful guidance.
His demise in the seventies was a loss to the community.
He married Thevanayagi and had four sons: Surendra a Mechanical Engineer, Ganendra, Yogendra and Alagendra and a daughter Ananthalákshmi .
G.Rajadurai 1902-1974. B.A (Lond)., Chartered Accountant.
G.Rajadurai, born on 2nd July 1902, was the son of Gnanapirakasam, School Master of Navaly.
He had his early education at Manipay Hindu College and entering Government Clerical Service worked in the Education and Audit Departments.
In 1921, he resigned and entered the University College from where he graduated in Arts and also won the Arts Scholarship in 1924.
Proceeding to the U.K., he qualified as a Chartered Accountant and on his return in 1929 served as an Accountant in the Dept. of Medical and Sanitary Services, etc. n
Retiring from service, he established an
Accountant's firm known as L.Muttukrishna and G.Rajadurai & Co. He passed away on 9th June 1974.
He married Sornambal Muttuthamby and had two sons: Sabanayagam and Gnanayagam and two daughters: Gnanambikai and Gayatridevi.
He published a religious journal entitled "Vithakam', with Pundit Kandiah as Editor, in 1932.
T.Rajadurai 1922B.Sc., C.C.S., A.G.A Vavuniya, Businessman & Industrialist.
Rajadurai, Asst. Govt. Agent Vavuniya in 1955 and later businessman and industrialist, is the son of Muhandiram T.Thiagarajah of Manipay North, who was Secretary of the District Court, Kandy.
Born on 30 August 1922, he had his early education at Kokkuvil Hindu School. He was later at St.Benedict's College Colombo, where he obtained several distinctions. He won an Exhibition in Zoology at the University College. Later, graduating in Science, he entered Law College and became an Advocate.
Rajadurai entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1947 and was Asst. Govt. Agent Batticaloa in 1951.
He was Asst.Govt.Agent Vavuniya in
1955. He encouraged dry farming in the District and was a very popular Officer who did great

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service to the people.
Later he was Controller of Supplies and Cadre in Colombo, ChiefAdministrative Officer Railways, in 1957, and Commissioner of Tea Exports in 1959.
Relinquishing the service in 1962, he took to Commerce. He established the manufacture of the popular "Rose" brand sweets. He was also associated with "Modern Plastic Works' of Colombo, engaged in the manufacture of various items of utility in plastic.
He retired from all business activities in 1986 and has since become a keen devotee of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, spending his time in propagating the teachings of the Guru. He "is firmly of the view that the only way out for the Sri Lankan Tamils, out of their present predicament, is to follow and practise the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba”.
He has two sons and a daughter.
Mudaliyar P.J.Rajah J.P.,U.P.M
1867-.... . Maniyagar Delfi.
Phillipupillai John Rajah, born in 1867, was Maniyagar and Village Tribunal President Delft, in 1918. He held that position with great acceptance.
He is said to have been very helpful to the rice cultivators. The titular rank of Mudaliyar was conferred on him in 1927
H.Rajanathan 1884-... Proctor & Notary.
H.Rajanathan, born in March 1884, was the son of Dr. Hallock Saravanamuttu, a well known Doctor of his time. The Doctor was the son of Gate Mudaliyar Hallock Murugesar, who was a son of Maniyagar Saravanamuttu.
Rajanathan had his education at S.Thomas' College, Colombo and entered the Law College. He became a Proctor and commenced practising in 1906.
He was a person of high repute and lived a long life. He is said to have contributed lavishly to charitable undertakings and was very popular. He married Sivakolunthu and had four sons and three daughters.
K.N.Rajanayagam 1913B.Sc (Lond)., F.I.C.E, Civil Engineer.
K.N.Rajanayagam, born on 22nd December 1913, is the son of Kathirgamar Nallathamby, a Malayan Pensioner from Chankanai Jaffna.
After obtaining the London B.Sc
(Engineering) degree, he joined the Public Works Department in 1944. He was a Junior Engineer, in 1952 Executive Engineer, and District Engineer in 1958.
He served at many stations before proceeding abroad on an assignment in Zambia. He has since retired, and is living in the U.K.
He married Kanagasavundary, seventh child of Mudaliyar C. Arumugam* of Mullainagar and has two sons. The elder son, a doctor, married a grand-daughter of Rajendra of the Maharaja Organisation.
Dr.S.Rajanayagam 1919.- ... F.R.C.S., Eminent Gynaecologist
Dr.Sangarapillai Rajanayagam,born 5th
April 1919, entered the Medical Service in 1942. He was House Officer Jaffna in 1945, Obstetrician Castle St Hospital in 1950 etc. Eventually, he was an eminent gynaecologist of Colombo.
He proceeded overseas in the 1980's and worked in Singapore, New Zealand and other places.
He married Sir Ratna Jothi Saravanamuttu's daughter, who also was a doctor; their daughter is married to Gnanendra, son of Dr.S. Balasingam*.
Dr.V.Rajanayagam 1919-1990 F.R.C.S, Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr.V.Rajanayagam, born 19th Jan. 1919, was the son of Vaitilingam from Tellippalai. His elder brother was Dr.V.Perambalam, the Industrial Chemist.
Dr.Rajanayagam entered the Medical Service in 1943 and specialised in Ear Nose Throat surgical work. He was E.N.T Surgeon in

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Kurunegala in 1951 etc. Eventually he was a leading Orthopaedic Surgeon in Sri Lanka in the 1960's. He migrated to Australia, with his family, and worked in a Hospital there.
He married Malini, a daughter of M.Sri Kantha Permanent Secretary, and had three sons. He passed away on 3rd December 1990.
S.Rajandram 1903-1965. Prop. Rajandram Ltd. etc., Business Magnate, Colombo.
Rajandram, born 30th November 1903, was the son of Sinnatamby of Kokkuvil who was in the Medical Dept. Kuala Lumpur. He received his early education in Malaya and later at Jaffna Hindu College.
He and his classmate and lifelong friend S.Mahadavan decided on a business career and joined Beer & Co, as guarantee brokers. The firm represented Parker Pen Co, Colgate Palmolive Co, Westclox, Champion Spark Plugs etc. When Dodge and Seymour took over the above firm, Rajandram was appointed Asst. General Manager in 1935 and General Manager, three years later.
When that firm ceased in Ceylon, Rajandram set up Rajandram Ltd. and other companies to function with their agencies etc. Business flourished. In 1953, the Maharaja Building in Bankshall Street Colombo was completed. When S.Mahadavan died in 1957, he took over the management of their three companies: Mahadavans Ltd., Rajandram Ltd. and the Maharaja Distributors Ltd. When foreign imports were restricted in Ceylon in 1959, he launched on to local manufacture and set up the Parker Quink Ink Factory, Ponds Cosmetic Factory, Chemway Factory and the S.Lon PVC pipe extrusion plant. The Maharaja Organisation of later years was thus set up. He passed away in 1965.
He was a founder member of the Hindu Educational Society and a founder Trustee of the Maharaja Trust which supported many charities. Rajandram married Chellammah, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sittampalam of Kokkuvil and had two sons: Maharaja and Rajamahendran and
four daughters: Rajalakshmi Sri Ramanathan, Mahalakshmi Satkurunathan, Jeyalakshmi Satyendra and Vijayalakshmi Kumarasamy.
J.M.Rajaratnam 1927Fellow, Institute of Chartered Accountants., Vice-President, Far Eastern Region, Singer Co, U.S.A.
Jesuthasan Mylvaganam Rajaratnam, born on 23rd December 1927, is the son of A.J.Mylvaganam of Alvai, Pt. Pedro Jaffna.
After his early education at Hartley College, he entered the Ceylon University. He proceeded to England on scholarship for professional Accountancy studies. Winning high recognition, he was awarded a scholarship for Management Accountancy studies in the States.
He held the position of Senior Manager of Ford Rhodes Thornton & Co, Accountants. In 1976 he was Vice-President Far Eastern Region of the Singer Company, U.S.A. and Director of other Firms.
J.M.Rajaratnam has been holding leading positions in many social and cultural associations; he was President Ceylon Students Association in London, Vice-President London Tamil Sangam, President , Ilankai Thamil Sangam of the U.S.A..etc.
He married Rajeswari Muttucumaru and has three sons: Rajakumaran, Rajakanthan, and Rajarengan and two daughters: Shanthini and Vathani.
Hon.S.Rajaratnam c 1880 - ... . Member Legislative Council Chairman, Hindu Board of Education.
Rajaratnam was a brother of S.Kathiresu* (1876-1950), well known lawyer and author. His relations were leading residents of Kopay, Irupalai and Udupiddy.
Adopting law as his career, he passed out as an Advocate and commenced practising in Colombo and later in Jaffna.
He was in the forefront of political life of the time and was a Member of the Legislative Council for several years. He is known to have

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initiated and promoted several projects beneficial to the Tamil Community, in the Council.
However, what he is most remembered for, was his life task of organising and promoting the "Hindu Board' establishment for the advancement of education in Jaffna in the 1920's. He went into the interior villages of Jaffna and addressed the people asking them to establish schools in every village. He obtained financial support from well to do persons and set up a Central Board to meet the salaries of the teaching staff. At one time the Hindu Board was responsible for over 150 Schools. Eventually almost all these Schools were taken over by Government and commenced functioning as Maha Vidyalayams.
A Training School for Teachers was also established at Thirunelveli to provide teaching staff to the Schools. This has since become a Government Teachers Training College.
He was also responsible for commencing and maintaining an orphanage at Thirunelveli, which later became a well established institution.
He married at Achchuvely and had a large family. His son Saravanapavananthan, a Mechanical Engineer, worked with Paranthan Chemicals, before accepting an assignment in Zambia.
Spencer Rajaratnam 1894 - 1963 District Judge.
Spencer Rajaratnam, was born on 30th September 1894; he lived in Wyman Road Nallur Jaffna, where Hon.S. Rajaratnam* and Hon.K.Bala -singam also lived. The three of them were a formidable team of contemporary advocates.
But Spencer, unlike the other two, kept aloof from politics. He was reserved, but was held in highesteem.
After practising at the Bar for some years, he entered Government Service and was appointed Magistrate at Pt.Pedro in 1934. In due course he functioned as District Judge in Kandy 1939, and in Kurunegala 1947.
He spent most of his life in improving the
financial, structural and legal position of Theivayanai Amman Kovil, a shrine at Kadirkamam. The incumbents of the Shrine have for generations been a line of priests from North India.There had been frequent disputes between them and the local management.
T.C.Rajaratnam C.B.E, J.P.U.M 1892-1956 Proctor S.C.
Tellippalai Chinnappah Raja-ratnam, born on 21st February 1892, was the son of Tellippalai Pillaiyanar Chinnappah, whose ancestor was honoured with the title of "Irumarupuntuyya Kumarakulasinghe Mudaliyar', by the Dutch Government in 1756. He was educated at Jaffna College, where he was Captain of the football eleven.
He taught at Trinity College for a short time. Later, he passed out as a Proctor of the Supreme Court and commenced practising at Avissawela, at the age of 27; he moved to Jaffna later. He was a founder member of the Youth Congress movement and was involved in its activities along with Handy Perinpanayagam. He enjoyed a lucrative practice at the criminal COurtS.
He was a pioneer of the Co-operative Movement and was the Chairman of the Cooperative Wholesale Establishment and the Malayalam Tobacco Co. of Jaffna. He actively promoted the welfare of the Jaffna farmers in recognition of which he was made a J.P.U.M and in 1956, the honour of C.B.E. (Civil) was conferred on him.
He was the first Sri Lankan to be appointed Chairman of the American Ceylon Mission and he made valuable contribution to education and health. He was also Chairman of the Board of Directors of Jaffna College and the Medical Board of the C.M.S. Mission, which was responsible for the administration of the McLeod Hospital at Inuvil and the Green Memorial Hospital at Manipay. He passed away on 6th June 1956.
He married Muthiah Mudaliyar Kumarakulasinghe Mudaliyar Ranee- nayagam Ammal in 1918 and had three sons: T.J. High

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Court Judge, T.W. Supreme Court Judge and later an M.P. and Dharmarajah D.L.O., and two daughters: Sakuntala who was married to C.R. Tissanayagam and Sulochana to Sam Navaratnam.
T.J. Rajaratnam 1919-1981 High Court Judge.
Tellippalai Jayaratnam Rajaratnam, born on 23rd January 1919, was the eldest son of T.C. Rajaratnam. He was educated at St.Patrick's College Jaffna and later at Trinity College Kandy where he won prizes for History and Latin. He also won an All-Kandy District Gold Medal for oratory.
Proceeding to the University and the Law College, he passed out as an Advocate in 1948 and practised in Jaffna.
Entering the Judicial Service, he was appointed Magistrate in 1954, and then District Judge. Later he was appointed High Court Judge and was the first to conduct cases in Tamil under the 1972 Administration of Justice Law.
He was the President of the Young Men's Club in Jaffna and a member of the Medical Board of the C.M.S Mission. He passed away on 15th September 1981, at the age of 62.
T.W. Rajaratnam .....-1994. Supreme Court Judge., M.P.
Tellippalai Wanam Rajaratnam, second son of T.C.Rajaratnam had his secondary education at Trinity College Kandy, and obtained his degree in Western Classics and Law, from the University of London.
He became a Barrister in 1948 and soon built up a good practice in criminal and labour law, in the Ceylon Courts. He was appointed Commissioner of Assize in 1970 and was Supreme Court Judge for six years, from 1972. On retirement, he became actively interested about the law relating to industrial and estate workers and published two authoritative books, "A Manual of Industrial Law' and "Plantation Workers' Manual'. Later, he published "The Bhuto Trial", for which he was honoured by Pakistan.
In 1989, he was nominated to the Sri Lankan Parliament, by the SLFP. He passed away in January 1994.
Mrs.Y. Rajaratnam 1923 - Principal, Ramanathan College,
Chunnakam.
Yogalakshmy, daughter of Aruliah Elayathamby of Urumpirai, was born on 15th
February 1923. She had her early education at
Urumpirai Hindu College and at the Methodist’s Girls' College Singapore. She obtained her Teachers' Training Certificate at the Ramanathan Training School and graduated in Arts from Queen Mary's College Madras, m 1949. Later she obtained her Diploma in Education of the University of Ceylon.
She joined Ramanathan College in 1949, as a teacher and later became Deputy Principal and eventually served there as Principal 198083. She was involved in many social activities; she was Vice-President, Ganesha Mahalir Sangam Urumpirai, Member, School Development Society of Ramanathan College and Urumpirai Hindu College and a Committee Member of Sampanthar Illam, Urumpirai.
She inaugurated Old Girls' Associations of Ramanathan College in Canada and in London. Yogalakshmy was married to Sinnathamby Rajaratnam of Alaveddi, who worked in the Ceylon Govt. Railway eventually becoming Station Master Anuradhapura. They have four sons: Raj Siddhartan, Bhakeerathan Food Technologist, Paranthaman Technologist in Knitting, and Aravinthan B.Com.Their son Natkeeran died in 1982.
Their eldest son Raj Siddhartan, born 30th June 1955, received his education at Urumpirai Hindu and St.John's Colleges and graduated in Civil Engineering with First Class Honours, from the University of Sri Lanka. He pursued furthur studies in geotechnical engineering at the University of British Columbia U.S.A., eventually becoming an Associate Professor in Civil Engineering at the University of Nevada.
Raj Siddartan married Vishantri daughter of Tharmalingam of Sittankerni, Jaffna and has two children.

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Rajkumar RajaRayan 1953M.Sc (Lond)., B.D.S.D.R.D., M.R.D.,
M. G. D.S., L.D.S (Eng).
Vice Dean & Examiner:
Rajkumar son of R.C.RajaRayan, has a distinguished ancestry. His paternal greatgrandfather was Solomon Kasinathar Ramanathan J.P. Proprietary Planter Kuala Kangsar Plantations, and his maternal grandfather was Prof. Suntharalingam, M.P for Vavuniya, whose daughter Lingamani is married to R.C.Rajarayan.
Young Rajkumar was born on 6th April 1953 and had his education at S.Thomas College, Colombo and later at Harrow Public School, in the U.K.
Deciding on a dental career he graduated at Guy's Hospital and did postgraduate work at other professional Institutions in UK.
He moved on to Consultant practice at Harley St, London. He is Vice Dean of the Dental Faculty at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, Advisor to the Minister for Health, the Lord Chancellor on judicial appointments and an Examiner in Dentistry.
Like his grandfather he is a gifted organiser and leader. He married Ahila, daughter of S.Arumugam and has two sons and a daughter.
S.Rajaretnam 1926-1992 Advocate, Trincomalee.
Sivakumaran Rajaretnam, born 11th May 1926, was the son of Duraiappah Rajaretnam and Vallinayaki of Trincomalee.
He had his education at St. Mary's Convent Trincomalee and Royal College Colombo. He entered the Law College, where he was elected President of the Law Society in 1979.
As a lawyer he was of great assistance to the public on legal matters. He also worked for the welfare of the Tamil community, till his demise on 20th March 1992
S.Rajaretnam married Lalitha Subramaniam and had two sons; Sanjekumar and Rajeevkumar and two daughters Shanta Devi and Sujeeva.
T.K.Rajasekaran 1901-1986. M.A. (Madras), Vice-Principal, Founder, Tellippalai Co-op. Hospital
Rajasekaran was the son of T.Kanagasuntharampillai and Suntharambal of Tellippalai, who resided in Madras. He had his education there and after getting his Master's Degree, was a Lecturer in Christian College, Tambaram for over twenty years.
He was very much interested in the Khadi and Swadeshi movements and wore Khadar made dress. He was also an active Social worker in the Satyagraha movement and encouraged co-operative ventures.
Returning to Jaffna in 1946, he was appointed Vice-Principal of Parameshwara College. He held that post till that institution closed.
During later years, he has been the spearhead of many Co-operative activities in Jaffna. He was responsible for organising the Tellippalai Co-operative Hospital, which now stands as a monument to his efforts. He was an ardent supporter of the Federal Party and suffered political house arrest and imprisonment. He passed away in 1986.
Rajasekaran married Ponmani Suppiah, a niece of S.J.V.Chelva-nayagam in 1935, and the couple had three sons: Vijayasekaran Chartered Accountant who married Sarojini Bio-Science Graduate, Uthayasekaran Physics Hons.Graduate & Electl. Engineer who married Susie Social Worker, Dr.Wickramasekaran who married Chandralekha, and a daughter Maithiri Maths. Hons Graduate, who is married to A.C. Manoharan eldest son of S.J.V.Chelvanayagam'.
Mrs. Rajasekaran, survived her husband and passed away in 1991.
Don Juan Rajasinga Kanagaraya Mudaliyar ... . 72 17 ه. . .
Mudaliyar was from a leading Chetty family in Tellippalai. He lived during the Portuguese regime in Jaffna and was a successful business man. He was well educated in Tamil . He held a trustworthy position in Church

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administration, during the Dutch regime.
His eldest son Kantharatnam Succeeded him. His other sons were also prominent residents of Tellippalai.
C.S.Rajasingham 1873-1945. (C.S.R.Singham) Lecturer; Univ. of Rangoon.
Chinniah Subramaniam Rajasingham ( C.S.R.Singham) was the son of C.Subramaniam, Udayar of Pandattariippu, Mathakal and Sillalai. He had his early education at Pandattarippu and later at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai. He proceeded to Tiruchchirappalli and graduated from Calcutta University.
He commenced teaching at St.Paul's High School, Rangoon and eventually became Headmaster of Government High School. He was awarded B.E.S (Burma Education Service) for distinguished service in education and retired in 1931. Afterwards he was lecturer in English Language at Judson College, University of Rangoon.
Returning to Jaffna in 1937, he was actively involved in the social and religious activities of the Jaffna College Alumni Association, along with his former classmates: J.V.Chelliah*, Sir W.Duraiswamy, Dr.Edwards and others.
C.S.R. Singham married Navamany, daughter of C.Chittambalam and had six children: Jai Singham teacher, Amita Devi who was married to Handy Perinpanayagam, Kula Singham, Guru Singham, Gemma Ranee and Lukshmi Devi.
Rudra S.Rajasingham 1926Inspector General of Police.
Rudra Srichandra Rajasingham, son of Surgeon Dr.A.S.Rajasingam, was born on 2nd April 1926.
He was educated at Ladies College Colombo and at Trinity College Kandy, where he was a School Prefect. He then entered the Colombo University College and followed a graduate course in English, History and Economics.
He joined the Police Force as a
probationary Asst. Superintendent of Police, in 1949 and worked at several stations including Tangalle, Mannar, Colombo etc. In his long career in the Police Force, he tackled many difficult situations ably. He rose rapidly in the Force and in 1982 reached the top most post of I.G.P.
On his retirement, he was appointed Ambassador to Indonesia in 1985 and was later
Chairman, State Mortgage Bank.
Dr.S.Rajasundaram 1943-1983.
Dr.S.Rajasundaram, born on 23rd March 1943, was the son of Somasundaram, a teacher at Kokkuvil Hindu College.
He had his early education at Kokkuvil Hindu College and later at Jaffna Hindu College. Entering the Medical College, he completed the Diploma Course in Pharmacy.
He commenced his medical career as an Apothecary in a hospital situated in the tea estates of Lunugala. As he was a keen social worker he developed a great sympathy for the plantation workers and became involved in their welfare.
He met Dr. Shanthi Karalasingam, his future spouse, at Eheliyagoda, his next station. The couple were married at Thiruketheeswaram Temple. Relinquishing the Medical Service, they set up private practice in Vavuniya.
In 1976 S.A.David and he organised the Gandhiyam movement in Vavuniya. He functioned as Secretary. The movement assisted the under privileged plantation refugees by setting up farms and training youths to work them.
However, during the holocaust in the country in 1983, the farm got destroyed and the movement terminated.
He was detained and sent to Colombo, where he met with a lamentable end in July 1983, when prisoners went on a rampage and fatally assaulted the detainees.
V.Rajasundram 1921-1986 School Principal, Social Worker, etc.
Rajasundram, born 23rd September 1921,

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was the son of PVaitilingam and Seethathaipillay nee Krishner of Chu lipuram Jaffna. He Matriculated from Victoria College Chulipuram and became a Trained Teacher.
After a short time in the Clerical Service and at the Law College, he commenced teaching at Victoria College and became its Principal, later.
Besides being a keen sportsman, he was an enthusiastic social worker. As President of the Chankanai Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society, he was responsible for its expansion to include synthetic textiles and the installation of a Toddy Bottling Plant. He was President also of the prestigious Co-operative Hospital at Moolai and a Director of the Peoples Bank.
He was an organiser of the S.L.F.P and President of the Human Rights Association for Jaffna. He was well known for his philanthropy and entertaining important visitors to Jaffna. He was abducted by unknown persons on 7th August 1985.
Rajasundram married Paripooranam, daughter of Muthuvelu and had three sons: Seinthan, Niruthan and Paraparan anda daughter Devaki Kandasamy,
Rajavara Thungan c14th century
Rajavara Thungan was an early settler who came from Manallurin South India and colonised the Matoddam area in the Mannar District.
A.Rajavarothiam c 1900-1967. Superintendent of Stores, G.O.D.B.
A.Rajavarothiam, son of Arunasalam of Trincomalee, joined the services of the Irrigation Department early in life in a minor position.
By his ability, diligence and perseverance he rose rapidly, gaining several promotions. In the thirties he was a Head Clerk and by 1945 he was appointed Acting Superintendent of Mechanical Stores. Because of his capabilities, he was selected for the responsible position of Superintendent of Stores, by the Gal Oya Development Board in 1953. He held that position till his retirement.
A.Rajavarothiam had a very impressive
personality, and achieved much in his life. He passed away on 20th February 1967.
He had three sons: Sambandan, later a Proctor and M.P for Trincomalee, Vignesvaran a Proctor, Mahendran and four daughters.
N.R.Rajavarothiam 1908-1963. M.P Trinconnalee 1952 d: 1956.
N. Ratnavarothiam Rajavarothiam son of Navaratnasingam was born on 8th October 1908, in Trincomalee.
He was educated at St. Joseph's College Trincomalee, and at Ananda College Colombo, after which he entered the University College. He was a good sportsman.
He was a keen member of the Federal Party of which he was once a Vice-President. He contested and won the Trincomalee seat in Parliament, as a Federal Party candidate in the elections held in 1952. He retained the seat in the General Elections held in 1956.
He was a landed proprietor and was the Chief Trustee of the Muttucumaraswamy Temple which he managed very well. He took a great interest in the social, cultural and religious uplift of the people of Trincomalee. He passed away on 27th August 1963.
He was married and had two sons, both of whom are engaged in business.
Mudaliyar A.B.Rajendra, M.B.E. 1884 - 1963 Administrative Officer Education Dept., Senator 1947.
A.B.Rajendra was born in 1884 and was educated at St. Patrick's College, Jaffna. Completing his studies in Colombo, he entered the Govt. Clerical Service.
Winning speedy promotions, he eventually became Administrative Officer Education Dept. He was also Official Translator to the Govt. and Interpreter Mudaliyar to the Governor, on important occasions. He also functioned as an Examiner and a Member of the Tamil Text Books Committee. He worked in the Education Dept. for almost 35 years. In recognition of his services, he was awarded the title of Member of the British

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Empire.
On retirement he was nominated to the Upper House of Parliament as Senator, to represent interests which were not represented. He is remembered today for the fight he put up for the down trodden community in Jaffna, oppressed by a caste ridden society, at that time.
Rajendra had 7 children, who were well educated and held high positions in the professions.
Murugeysen Rajendra 1911-1991 B.A (Hons)Lond., C.C.S, Govt.Agent, Land Comr, Secretary to the Treasury.
M.Rajendra, the model Civil Servant, was the son of Murugeysen of Vaddukoddai, who worked in the Postal Department, Malaya. He was born in Malaya on 4th July 1911 and was a brother of M.Thiruchelvam Q.C.
He had his early education at the Victoria Institution Kuala Lumpur, and at S.Thomas College, Colombo. In 1933, he graduated in History with Honours, from the Ceylon University College.
Entering the Ceylon Civil Service in 1934,
he held several positions. He was Government Agent Matara, Hambantota, Chilaw, Nuwara Eliya Batticaloa in 1949 and North Central Province in 1951. He was Commissioner of Lands and Land Development
for five years from 1954.
He was then appointed Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Posts, Broadcasting and Information, and afterwards to the Ministry of Nationalised Services.
He was Secretary to the Treasury and Head of the Public Service from 1968 to 1971.
On retirement, he functioned as Chairman of the Freedom from Hunger Foundation; and was also a Member of the Monetary Board, from 1971 to 1977. He passed away on 10th March 1991.
M.Rajendra was a model Civil Servant who maintained the traditions of the Service. He was elegant and highly motivated. He was an able administrator with an outspoken manner.
He married Neela, daughter of Dr.G.Wignarajah and had two sons and a daughter Malathy who is married to
Ramachandran.
Dr.S.Rajendram 1899-..... LR.C.Pá.S., L.R.F.Pd:S, D.TM&H., D.P.H., Supt. Anti-Malaria Campaign.
Dr. S.Rajendram, born on 5th December 1899, was the son of Sanmugam of Puloly, Pt.Pedro. Passing out as a doctor, he joined the Medical Department as Asst. Medical Officer in
1926.
He was House Officer Colombo in 1931 and Asst Port Surgeon in 1933. He was selected for training in 1935-36 and appointed Medical Officer of the Anti-Malaria Campaign, in 1937, and later promoted as Superintendent The work was done so thoroughly that the scourge of malaria was eradicated from the Island. Great credit was given to him and the members of his team, who were engaged in the effort.
Dr.Rajendra married a sister of District Judge Sivagnanasunderam; she was a Tamil Pundit. They had a son Ravindran who is an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Australia, and a daughter Inthumathi who is married to Civil Servant A.S. Navaratnarajah*.
T.K.Rajeswaran c 1905-..... Trustee, Navalar Trust.
Trincomalee Kanagasuntheram Rajes waran, the third SOI) of TT.Kanagasuntheram Pillai, was a younger brother of T.K. Rajasekaran.
He settled down in Madras and worked in the Madras Municipal Corporation. On his retirement, he was appointed Trustee of the Arumuga Navalar Trust at Chidambaram. He edited and reprinted many of Arumuga Navalar's works. He was well known and was responsible for making the Navalar School at Chidambaram, a Higher Secondary School.
His son Dr.T.R.Vijayakumar is a general practitioner in Great Britain.
K.Ramachandra 1895-1976. Mystic - "Illara Jani ", Editor "Religious Digest."
K.Ramachandra, born on 6th December

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1895, was the son of Kathiresu of Nainativu. He joined the Railway Service in 1913 and rose up steadily becoming Office Assistant in 1950 and Assistant to the General Manager Railway, in 1953. He held that position till his retirement. He was a social and religious worker; a Gandhian follower in his early years, he welcomed Mahathma Gandhi to his home in 1927.
He had a good knowledge of Yoga and was well read in advanced Vedanta aspects of Hinduism. He was an ardent follower of Sri Ramana Maha Rishi of the Annamalai Hills. In appreciation of his religious knowledge and practices, he was often reverently referred to as "Ilara Jani”, meaning a ”House-holder Saint”. He founded a religious Journal in Tamil, "Athma Jothi', the publication of which is being creditably continued by N. Muthiah, a retired School Master. His greater work was the publication of the Journal "Religious Digest', in English in the same format as the popular "Readers Digest” magazine. It contained a digest of all religious publications of the day. Unfortunately it terminated with his demise in the seventies.
Ramachandra has contributed several articles and prepared many compositions for publication, both in Tamil and in English. His speech on European Unity and World Peace, delivered before the joint Houses of Parliament in Norway brought him great acclaim. It is in retrospect a prophetic speech. He was a keen promoter and supporter of the “One World Movement', which had the support of many luminaries of his time.
He married Sinnathangam, an amiable, devout and devoted wife and mother. He had three sons: Dr. Pararaja- sekaram, Sunderalingam of the Police Dept. and Balasupiramaniam, and two daughters: Thanalakshmi Gananathalingam and Puvanalakshmi Arunachalam, who are gifted devotional musicians.
K.Ramalingam 1880-1953. Tamil Vidvan, Jaffna.
Ramalingam, born in 1880, was the son of Kandiahpilai of Sarasalai, Jaffna.
In his early days he was well educated in classical Tamil and Tamil music by able scholars. In addition he also studied English at Hindu College, Jaffna.
He became proficient in composing Tamil Dramas; very often he played a leading role when staging his plays. This was very highly successful as he was a good musician too. The success of the dramatic troupe known as the "Saraswathi Vilasa Sabai', who performed in Jaffna for a few years in about 1915, was due to his enthusiasm. He passed away in 1953.
Mudaliyar Ramalingam c1880-.. . Kachcheri Mudaliyar
Ramalingam lived in Navalar Road, Jaffna, during the first decade of this century.
He was functioning as Mudaliyar at the Jaffna Kachcheri. He was a popular person, well known in all social circles.
His eldest daughter Leelawathy was
married to the well known Jaffna Proctor R. R.Nalliah. His son District Judge Ramachandran married a daughter of C. Suntharam * of H.M. Customs Colombo. Rajagopal, his other son, married Nagaratnam daughter of Kandiah, a reputed Ayurvedic Physician for children's diseases.
M.Ramalingam 1908-1976. Antiquarian of Tamil Folk Lore
Ramalingam, born on 9th October 1908, is from Vaddukoddai. He had his education at Jaffna College and at Ananda College Colombo.
He entered the Railway Clerical Service and worked at many stations. He was at Galle in 1929. Later, he was drafted to the Department of Inland Revenue, from where he retired.
He cultivated a highly commendable hobby of collecting Tamil Folk Lore in various forms, relating particularly to Jaffna and Batticaloa. They consisted of Folk Songs, Proverbs, Sayings, Ditties, Nursery Lullabies, Couplets and other compositions. Some excellent compositions are found in the form of wailings at a funeral; they are very consoling and are highly appreciated by listeners.

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But for Ramalingam's efforts in collecting, printing and preserving them as booklets, many of these would have been lost.
P.Ramalingam c1890-.... Indian Civil Service.
Ramalingam was the son of Ponnambalam from Kolumbuthurai, Jaffna, and his brother P.C. Villavarayan was Legal Draftsman.
Ramalingam had a brilliant school career in Ceylon and proceeded to U.K as a scholar. His high performance at the Civil Service Examination enabled him to enter the Indian Civil Service.
Accepting that service he worked as High Court Judge in the Judicial Service, in India, for several years.
On retirement, he returned to Ceylon and was Commissioner of several Judicial Commissions.
He married a daughter of Asaipillai. His son Sunderam is a Professor of Botany and his daughter Uma is married to Nailainathan S.L.A.S.
Ramalinga Munivar...1587... Eminent Astrologer Published Tamil Calendar:
Ramalinga Muni var was a son of Sandirasekara Sasthrikal, a Royal Astrologer of the Court of the Tamil Kings of Jaffna.
Ramalingam was well versed in Sanskrit, Astrology etc. He became well known when he published a Tamil Calendar - "Panjankam", computed in the Vakiyam' mode in Tamil, when he was only 18 years old. It was continued for many years. After him, his descendants improved the Calendar and continued to publish it annually.
When the Jaffna Kingdom fell and Nallur was demolished, this clan, it is said, moved their residence to Arali Vaddukoddai. Visuvanatha Sasthirikal * (1836) was an illustrious progeny of this clan.
T.Ramalingam c1905-.... B.Sc (Lond). Advocate, M.P for Pt.Pedro, 1947.
Ramalingam, son of R.Damodarampillai, a leading Proctor of Vadamarachi, was from Udupiddy. After his school career in Pt.Pedro, he graduated in Science from the University College Colombo.
Choosing a legal career, he became an Advocate. After practising in the North for a short while, he accepted a post on the Bench and functioned as Magistrate for some time.
Relinquishing that position, he contested and won the Point Pedro seat in Parliament, as a Tamil Congress candidate, in the 1947 General Elections. He passed away early in life.
Hon. Sir PRamanathan Q.C
1851-1930 Outstanding Statesman, National Champion.
Sir P. Ramanathan noble Knight and champion leader of the Tamils, was the second son of Ponnambalam Mudaliyar* and Sellachi Ammaiyar, daughter of Gate Mudaliyar Coomaraswamy *.
He was born on 16th April 1851. He had his early education at the Royal Academy (now the Royal College) and proceeded to Presidency College Madras, for higher studies.
On his return, he chose the legal profession and became an Advocate of the Colombo Bar in 1874. As a young Advocate he became prominent by editing the Law Reports of the previous thirty six years. Subsequently he was appointed Editor of the official Law Reports, which position he held for nearly ten years.
His first sortie into the political arena was in 1879, when at the age of 28, he was chosen for the Nominated Unofficial Member seat in the Legislative Council, in preference to a senior Advocate C.Britto. It was a very keen contest, when several public meetings were held in Jaffna. He secured the seat which his distinguished grandfather had occupied.
A few years later, he went on a tour of Europe, with his family. While in England, in 1886, he was presented to Queen Victoria by the Prince of Wales. He was also called to the English Bar (Inner Temple), without keeping a single Term, which was a unique privilege.
At the age of 38, he was a Senior Barrister,

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with over fifteen years legal experience and was also the Unofficial Leader of the Legislative Council. He was invested with the Honour of Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George.
Considered as the most suitable person, he was invited by the Government to function as Solicitor General. He accepted and held that position with great esteem and honour, from 1892 to 1908.
When, in 1903, Queen's Counsels were appointed in Ceylon, Ramanathan was one of the first to receive that honour.
Prior to his retirement, he went on a grand lecture tour to America. His lectures on Hinduism and Hindu Philosophy, delivered at the higher seats of learning there, were published by his wife later.
One of his remarkable achievements was the winning of the election for the Educated Ceylonese seat in the Legislative Council, in 1911. He defeated Dr. Marcus Fernando, a popular Physician. He retained the seat for over ten years.
He was very much in the forefront during the 1915 riots in Ceylon, when he battled for the release of the Sinhalese leaders who were held in detention. He even made a hazardous journey to England, during the first World War, to present their case personally. He won their release and on his retun, the supporters of the leaders showed their appreciation by carrying him in a palanquin from the landing jetty.
Ramanathan was a lawyer, legislator, scholar, statesman and silver-tongued orator. He was responsible for the enactment of several measures for the good of the people.
He was Knighted in 1921, when he was seventy years old, and Nominated Unofficial Member of the Legislative Council 1922-1924. When territorial representation was introduced, he contested and won the Valikamam North Seat, in the Jaffna Peninsula, which he occupied from 1924 until his demise on 26th November 1930, almost 80 years old.
His monumental contribution to education has been the establishment of two Schools, the Ramanathan College for Girls established at Chunnakam in 1913, and the Parameshwara College for boys, eight years later. The latter
has since become the Campus.
He rebuilt the Hindu Sivan Temple, commenced by his father in Colombo, in granite stone sculpture. The elaborate stone sculptures seen on the pillars are the subject of a booklet published separately.
Besides the Ramanathan Reports and Supreme Court Circulars' collected and edited by him, he has authored the following writings (in English):-. Culture of the Soul among Western Nations, Commentary on the Gospel according to St.John, Commentary on the Gospel according to St.Mathew.
In Tamil:-Translation of the Bhagavat Gita with Notes and Commenta ries, Senthamil Ilakanam and others.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a commemoration postage stamp, value 75 cts., on 4th September 1975.
Jaffna University
Solomon Kasinathar Ramanathan, c1850-1923 Proprietary Planter; Ceylon & Malaya.
Ramanathan was from Manipay, Jaffna. He took to planting early in life and was the Proprietor of Logie Estate, Talawakelle. He was a good friend of Sir Graeme Elphinstone, who honoured him with the epithet 'Solomon', though he was a Hindu all his life. When Sir Graeme invested in large scale planting project in Malaya, he persuaded Ramanathan to assume charge of his plantations.
Proceeding there in 1882, he opened up new lands, eventually becoming Director of the Kuala Kangsar Pepper, Coffee and Rubber Plantations. He was very popular. He made a large donation towards the War effort, enabling the presentation of a fighter plane named “Kuala Kangsar”.
He was the first Nominated Member of the Kuala Kangsar Local Council and the first nonEuropean in the F.M.S., to be honoured with a J.P. He passed away in 1923.
His son Solomon R.Chelvarayan was the father of R.C.Rajarayan, who is the father of Rajkumar Rajarayan*.

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Prof. M.Ramasamy 922M.Sc, Ph.D, D.I.C., F.R.S.C. Public Analyst., Scientist, etc.
Ramasamy, born 27th April 1922, is the son of S. Murugesu and Abiramipillai nee Arumugam, of Maviddapuram Tellipalai. He had his education at Nadeswara College, Kankesanturai and later at Jaffna Hindu College. He graduated, with Honours in Science, at the University of Ceylon Colombo and later obtained the London M.Sc and Ph.D qualifications and the D.I.C from Imperial College, London.
He commenced his career as Asst. Govt. Analyst in Sri Lanka; he was then Govt.Analyst, British Guiana etc., and later Public Analyst South Wales. He was Professor in the University of Technology, Libya, Nairobi, etc.
He was a F.A.O. and W.H.O. Scientist and has evaluated several insecticides for medical uses. He has given expert evidence in forensic cases and has made over 40 significant contributions, on the subject of control of malaria, etc. He is engaged in writing a book "Manual of Food Analysis', for use in developing countries.
Professor Ramasamy married Therese, daughter of Bastiampillai Patrick and has six children: Dr. Ranjan, Dr.Indra, Dr.Rajkumar, Dr.Nirmalan, Dr.Ragini, and Dr. Dayalan.
A.Ramasamy Reddiyar c 1890-... . Colombo Businessman.
Reddiyar was the son of Aiyappa Reddiyar from Tirunelveli in South India. He came to Ceylon, early in life and settled down in Colombo.
He commenced trading with great skill, in a small way at first. Very soon he was owning mercantile establishments, most of them situated in Slave Island, a dairy farm in the outskirts of Colombo and an extensive flower garden. There were several other ventures. He did Well in the manufacture of Aerated Water, and had interests in Kandy as well.
He became a leader of his community and was highly respected.
He married Kuppammal, daughter of Kuruva Reddiyar and had a son and a daughter.
V.Ramaswamy 1880-1954 Crown Proctor, Anuradhapura.
Ramaswamy, born 28th June 1880, was the second son of six children of Kathirkamar Velupillai, a teacher from Arthiady, Puloly West, Point Pedro. He had his education at Hartley College and passed his First in Arts examination from the Jaffna College Seminary.
He qualified as a Proctor in 1902 and setting up in Anuradhapura, practised for a long time. In his later days, he was senior partner practising with his son-in-law S.Velmurugu and his son Paramakuru and acted for the Judge on several occasions.
He was a member of the Provincial Road Committee, the District Road Committee and the Local Government Board. When the Anuradhapora Urban Council was formed, he was elected a member and there chosen as Vice-Chairman and subsequently Chairman.
He was an avid reader of books on Hindu Philosophy and actively supported social and religious organisations. He was a founder member and President of the Anuradhapura Vivekananda Society and a Trustee of the old Kathiresan Temple, which he and his relative S.N.Sittampalam got built. He died at the age of 74, in April 1954.
Ramaswamy married Manon many daughter of Velupillai, tutor to H.R.Freeman etc., and had eight children: Sivaguru, Seethevipillai married to S.Velmurugu President Rural Courts, Meenambal married to S.Thirunavukarasu Chief Telecom. Engineer, Parpathy Ammal married to S.Sivaramalingam Asst. Suptd. of Surveys, R. Paramakuru* District Judge, V.R.Charavanapavan D.G.M. Electricity Board, R. Sathasivampillai Asst. Director Agrl. Engineering, and Pathmanayaki married to S.Somasunderam D.R.O.
C.Ranganathan Q.C 1909 - 1983. Eminent Lawyer.
Ranganathan, leading Appeal Court

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Lawyer, was from Alaveddi, Jaffna.
He was educated at St.Joseph's College Colombo and at the University College. .
He took his oaths as an Advocate of the Ceylon Bar in 1936. He built up a lucrative practice rapidly and was soon a leading Advocate in Colombo.
His eminence was recognised and he was appointed a Queen's Counsel in 1965. In his practice he specialised in Appeal Court work.
He was a member of the Council of Legal Education and a Director of the Government Tourist Board.
Besides his legal interests, he occupied a leading place in many social and religious Societies, including the Hindu Educational Society, Hindu Affairs Advisory Board, the Ramakrishna Mission Board of Management etc. He passed away in May 1983.
He married a daughter of Dr.S.Saravanamuttu of Kaddudai and his son Srinivasan also adopted a legal career.
S.M.Rasamanikam c 1920-... Member of Parliament for Paddiruppu, Batticaloa Dist.
Rasamanikam was from Mandur in Batticaloa. After a successful School career he graduated in economics and joined Government Service as an Asst. Food Controller
He soon gave up that for a political career. He joined the Federal Party and contested and won the Paddiruppu Seat in Parliament.
Later, when the Federal Party merged to form the new T.U.L.F, he was chosen as its President for 1969. In his address delivered at the Convention held at Uduvil in April, he pointed out the unsuitability of a unitary form of Constitution for the Island and advocated a Federal type.
He passed away early in life.
Mudaliyar C.Rasanayagam 1870-1940 Gate Mudaliyar, C.C.S.
Rasanayaga Mudaliyar, son of Chellapah Pillai of Navaly, was born on 22nd October 1870.
He was educated at S.Thomas College, Colombo and entered the Clerical Service in 1889. He functioned mostly as an Interpreter in the Law Courts.
In 1920, he was promoted and the titular rank of "Mudaliyar' conferred on him. Later in 1923, he was promoted to the Ceylon Civil Service. He then commenced to function at the Jaffna Kachcheri till his retirement in 1929.
Afterwards he devoted himself fully to research work on the History of Ancient Jaffna. It is said that at one time he employed as many as eleven scholars from India at his house to carry out studies of old manuscripts. All the ancient "ola manuscripts' collected by him were carefully deciphered and scrutinised.
He proceeded to London and perused the ancient manuscripts of Kailaya Malai and Yalpana Vaipava Malai ”in the Museum Archives. These are two ancient works on the History of Jaffna. He published the text of the earlier work, with his notes.
In 1926 he published his much valued work entitled Ancient Jaffna, which has been the only available book in English, on the specific subject, for years. Even to day it is a basic standard source work and masterpiece. A second edition of this valuable book has now been published and copies are available in the book shops.
This was followed with a work on Kadirkamam in 1930 and History of Jaffna in Tamil in 1933. A History of Jaffna during the British period was published in 1934. A collection of Tamil Documents in the Archives was selected and translated in 1937.
He encouraged Tamil studies in many ways. He urged Kula Sabanathan to edit and publish the Yalpana Vaipava Malai, adding explanatory notes. The venerable Mudaliyar passed away on 17th January 1940.
He married Vethanayagi Ambal and had three Son S: - Col. R. Sabanayagam*, R.Kumaranayagam Municipal Engineer, and Irumaraputhaya nayagam, Assistant Commissioner of Inland Revenue.
V.Rasaretnam 1901-.... . F.R.I.C.S., Surveyor General
Vytialingam Rasaretnam,born 7th April

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1901, was from Nallur, Jaffna.
He joined the Survey Department as
Probationary Asst. Supt. of Surveys in 1922.
He rose steadily to the higher grades of the service; in 1935 he was appointed Superintendent of Surveys. He became Surveyor General in 1958, which position he held with great acceptance till his retirement.
He married Tutsy, daughter of Dr.S.C.Pau:
C.Rasiah 1909-1989 B.Sc (Lond)., B.A (Cantab)., F.I.C.E Director; Water Works.
Chellapah Rasiah, born 8th December 1909, was from Poiti in Jaffna. After his School education, he graduated in Science and proceeded to Cambridge as a scholar.
On his return he joined the Public Works Department as an Asst. Engineer and was promoted a District Engineer in 1938. He was Executive Engineer Colombo South in 1945. He rose to the Superintending Engineer Grade in 1949 and became Deputy Director of Public Works in 1955.
Thereafter he was Director, Department of Water Works and Drainage, till his retirement.
After retirement he was functioning as a Director of Messrs. Samuel & Co, a leading Construction and Mercantile Establishment.
Rasiah functioned first as Honorary Treasurer and later as Honorary Secretary of the Institution of Engineers,Sri Lanka for several years. He passed away in 1989.
Rasiah married Sathiyalakshmi, daughter of V.S.S.Kumaraswamy.* and had two daughters. The elder daughter Ratneswari was married to S.Esvarathasan Deputy Governor Central Bank and the younger daughter Sivakumarito Captain Gnaneswaran of Shipping and Harbour Works.
Muhandiram E.P.Rasiah J.P
1895-1990 Chief Scout, Chief Organiser Red Cross de St. John's Brigade, Jaffna.
E.P.Rasiah was a son of Ponniah Pillai, Govt. Pensioner, Kandarmadam. He was the younger brother of E.P.Chelliah*.
During his early years he served as an Inspector in the Excise Department for a few years. Relinquishing that he took charge of a business establishment in Jaffna.
He became well known for his interest in social service to the community. He took a leading interest in the Scout Movement and was the Chief Scout in Jaffna at one time.
He encouraged Red Cross activities in Jaffna. Enthusiastic youths volunteered First Aid service under his guidance; they were seen helping those in distress at festivals and in crowded gatherings. Later he was associated with the St.John's Brigade.
In appreciation of his services to the public, he was made a J.P and was later conferred with the titular rank of Muhandiram.
He lived a long life and passed away in the early 1990's.
Pandithar S.Rasianar, c1900 Exponent of Pure Tamil
Pandithar S Rasianar was from Vavuniya. He was well learned in Tamil.
He functioned as Headmaster of Government Schools.
He is said to have been a keen supporter of a movement which was engaged in keeping Tamil Language free of any Sanskrit or other foreign letters.
In his own writings or talks he would carefully refrain from using any letters other than those of the Tamil alphabet.
N.S.Rathinasingham 1922 - B.A (Lond)., Eng. Trained (1st Class) & Teacher Counsellor, School Principal.
Nagamuttu Samuel Rathinasingham, born 19th October 1922, is the son of K.J.Nagamuttu and Lydia Sethupillai of Varany. He had his early education at the Varany American Mission School and later at Jaffna College, Vaddukkoddai where he was Secretary of the Student Council, President of the Hostel Union and Editor of “Young Idea' the students' journal.
After a few years in the clerical service, he became a teacher and taught at the Udupiddy American Mission Boys School. At Jaffna

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Central College, he was teacher, Vice Principal and eventually Principal, serving in all for 31 years.
He was a Director of the Vallikamam West Co-operative Federation, President of the Jaffna Town Teachers' Association and Vice President of the Northern Province Teachers Association. He is the author of a Graded Series in Arithmetic for Primary students and co-author of text books in General Science, etc. In Australia, where he migrated in 1986, he is the President of the Tamil Christian Congregation of Western Australia, President of the Sri Lankan Tamil Association, etc. His talks over the Ethnic Radio of Western Australia have been printed in book form by the Tamil Association.
Rathinasingham married Thavamany a teacher and daughter of A.V.Chelliah and has four children: Lydia Shantha, Jasmine Jeyantha, Jeremy Thavachelvam and David Thavasuthan.
S.Ratnakaram 1900-... . Proctor S.C & Notary.
Ratnakaram, born in 1900, was the son of T.K.Sivaram, whose genealogy may be traced to Manipay Jaffna.
He had his education at Wesley College Colombo. Deciding on a legal career, he became a Proctor and Notary.
As he was a dependable person, who enjoyed much respect, he soon built up a lucrative practice in Colombo.
He married Thaiyalnayaki, daughter of Appiapillai, a well to do businessman.
Dr.E.V.Ratnam 1876-1937. L.R.C.P.F.R.C.S.M.M.C.
Dr.E.V. Ratnam, leading private medical practitioner of Union Place Colombo, was born in May 1876 in Jaffna. His father S.Eliathamby, a brother of “Wattegama Velupillai', was an Inspector in the Public Works Department of Singapore who, after retirement, lived at Vannarpannai Jaffna. They were descendants of Nayan Moorthy Chettiyar of Uduvil.
Ratnam had his early education at Central College, Jaffna and at Jaffna College Vaddukoddai. He won the Junior Wesleyan
Mission Scholarship, and entered the Medical College. He passed out as a doctor in 1900.
Entering Government Service, he was House Surgeon at the General Hospital Colombo, and afterwards at the Kandy Hospital.
In 1905, he resigned from Government Service and proceeded to England to obtain higher qualifications.
Returning with L.R.C.P and F.R.C.S qualifications he commenced private practice, with a Hospital at Maradana and a Dispensary in Old Moor St, Colombo. He was a popular person and was very successful. Patients, who were unable to pay, were treated free of charge, on certain days.
Eventually, the Hospital enterprise was shifted to a much larger premises in Union Place, Slave Island. Later it became known as Union Hospital.
Dr. Ratnam was the President of the local branch of the British Medical Association. He was elected a Member of the Colombo Municipal Council in 1912. He held that position for nearly eighteen years.
He agitated and obtained a free Government Dispensary for St Paul's Ward. He expended much of his income in works of charity. He made large donations to temples and arranged for pujas and festivals there. Feeding the poor figured uppermost in his social obligations.
He contributed a highly valued professional paper to the Medical Association.
When he passed away in 1937, thousands mourned his loss.
He married Rosammah daughter of C.S.Chitty, a Landed Proprietor and had three sons and two daughters.
Rajadurai Ratnam, his eldest Son, was born in 1907. He followed his father's footsteps and became a doctor. In due course he commenced working at Ratnam Hospital. After his father's demise, he assumed a leading position in its management,.
He was a quiet steady personality who maintained the name and fame of the Institution his father had built up. He steered it successfully through difficult periods of labour unrest.
He married a daughter of Station Master

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Candiah from Kaddudai. Mrs. Rajadurai Ratnam takes a very keen interest in the working of the Hospital.
Dr. Kumaran Ratnam (1.7.1911 - 16.9.1956), another son, had a brilliant career as a Doctor. He was elected a Member of the Colombo Municipal Council and was a very popular personality. He would have gone very far, but for his unfortunate early demise at the age of forty five years. A street in Slave Island Ward has been named Kumaran Ratnam Road, in his memory.
He married Meena, daughter of A.Cumaraswamy.* and had a daughter. Mrs. M. Kumaran Ratnam became a Municipal Member and was an active social worker for her Ward. She is a keen devotee of Sri Sathiya Sai Baba.
Vidvan K.P.Ratnam, 1914B.A (Lond)., M.A., B.O.L., Pundit., M.P for Kayts.
Karthigesar Ponnambalam Ratnam was born on 10th March 1914, in Velanai Jaffna.
He was an able student, and proceeded for higher studies in Tamil. He became a Pundit in 1933 and Vidvan (Madras) in 1942. He obtained his B.A(Hons) London degree in 1945 and Master's Degree of the Madras University in 1952.
After being an Asst. Master at the Kopay Teacher's Training College in 1941, he became an Inspector of Schools in 1943. He was Lecturer in Tamil at the Maharagama Training College 1945-56.
He held the post of Research Officer in the Official Languages Department, Colombo, for some time and then proceeded to Malaya, as Lecturer Indian Studies in the Malaysian University, in 1964.
On retirement, he took up politics and joined the T.U.L.F. He was elected Member of Parliament for 18 years, for the Kilinochchi and later the Kayts constituencies.
Vid van Ratnam is President of the Colombo Tamil Sangam and the "Ulaka Tamil Marai Kallakam”, Vice President of the T.U.L.F, etc. He has made several publications in Tamil, among which is Ilankayil inpath Tamil. He has
been awarded D. Cult. (W.U.) and Litt.D. (W.A.A.C.).
He married Sinthamany, daughter of P. Vaitilingam of Chulipuram and has a son S.Nimalan.
Mudaliyar M.Ratnasabapathy 1858-... . Landed Proprietor:
Mudaliyar M.Ratnasabapathy, born in 1858, was the son of Mudaliyar Namasivayam of the prestigious residence in Colombo, known as “Jaffna House", in Ward Place.
He was educated at the Colombo Academy (present Royal College). In 1886 he joined the firm of Messrs. Bosanquet & Co., as a Broker, and was there for about twenty years. He was the owner of many Rubber and Coconut Estates.
He married a daughter of Proctor E. Doresamy. He was a generous person, who made large contributions to charity.
Dr.W.D.Ratnavale 1913 - M.B.B.S., M.D (Lond). Propr: "Glass House" Path. Lab.
William Dharmaraja Ratnavale, born 10th March 1913, is the eldest of six sons of Dr.W.S*. & Magdalene Ratnavale. He was educated at Trinity College Kandy, where he played rugger for his School.
Following his father's footsteps, he entered Medical College and passed out with Honours and Distinctions. After serving in the Army as a Captain, he joined the Ceylon Medical Dept. as a Pathologist. Proceeding to U.K for higher studies, he obtained the London M.B.B.S., M.D. (Medicine) and the M.D. ( Pathology) qualifications.
Returning to Ceylon in 1953, he took charge of the Pathology Dept. of the Colombo Hospital and worked very hard doing biopsies and investigating blood conditions. Retiring in 1963, he commenced private practice, setting up the well known "Glass House" in Colombo 7, which undertook biopsies, blood tests, XRays etc., for several patients, daily.
Relinquishing that after about 20 years, he was involved in organising and lecturing at a

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Private Medical College in Colombo North. He retired shortly after.
Ratnavale married Leela, daughter of Dr.Coomaraswamy.
Dr.W.S.Ratnavale 1876- ... M.R.C.S (Eng)., L.R. C. P (Lond)., D.T.M., C.P. M (Lond).
W.S. Ratnavale was a son of Postmaster Sithiravale, who was a brother of Proctor Narayanaswamy and Subethar Vaithilingam of Manipay and Tellippalai. He was born on March 9th 1876.
He had his early education at Vaddukkoddai and proceeded to Calcutta for his medical studies.
Qualifying as a doctor he worked at a few stations in Ceylon; afterwards he proceeded to England and obtained further qualifications. Rising to higher grades in the service, he later functioned as Judicial Medical Officer Colombo. He inaugurated a Psychological Society in Colombo.
He married Magdalene, daughter of Postmaster Savirimuttu and had six sons: Dr.William D*., Arthur C.C.S., Dr. George, Victor C.C.S., John, and Dr. David, and two daughters: Kamala, who was married to V.N.Pillai and Grace to Selvarajah.
Major David Rockwood c1900-.....
David Rockwood was educated at St.Joseph's College, Colombo.
He joined the well known motor car agency and repair-works firm of Messrs. Rowlands as an apprentice and worked his way up steadily. He was eventually the Manager of The British Car Co., Ltd.
He had military service with the Ceylon Light Infantry .
He was an active social figure in Colombo, holding leading positions in many Societies and Institutions.
Lt. Col. Dr. John Rockwood 1881-... . L.R.C.PéS(Edin), L. F. PčS (Glas)
Lt. Col. Dr. John Rockwood, second son of Dr. Rockwood, was born on 29th October 1881. He had his early education at Royal College and entering Medical College qualified as a doctor.
Proceeding overseas he obtained medical experience and higher qualifications. Later he
was a Lecturer at the Ceylon Medical College.
He was a Commanding Officer of the Ceylon Medical Corps.
He was a popular person and a great Cricket enthusiast. He was one of the founders of the The Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club.
He married Sivakolundu, daughter of Thiagarajah and had four children.
Dr.W.G.Rockwood 1843-1909 M.D., M.R.C.S., M.R.C.P Tamil Representative, Ceylon Legislative Council.
Dr.William Gabriel Rockwood was born on 13th March 1843 at Alaveddi, in Jaffna. He was the second son of Sinnathamby Elisha Rockwood, Sub-Collector H.M.Customs, Kankesanturai.
He had his early education at the Vembadi Boys School in Jaffna and proceeded to Presidency College Madras, where he Matriculated.
He received his medical education, at the Madras Medical College, where he passed in the First Class.
Returning to Ceylon, he was appointed Medical Officer at Puttalam. He served on special duty during the Cholera epidemic in Jaffna, in 1875. After serving at many stations he was appointed Surgeon, General Hospital Colombo in 1878. Later, he obtained higher qualifications and functioned as Lecturer in Surgery at the Ceylon Medical College.
Reputed as a capable and popular Surgeon and Physician of his time and an able politician, he was an eminent personality of the time. He was the President of the Ceylon Branch of the Medical Association. The Government appointed him Tamil Representative in the Ceylon Legislative Council for five years and subsequently extended the period further.

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He functioned as an able Councillor and agitated strongly for a Railway service to the North and to Chilaw.
He retired from the Council in 1906 and passed away in 1909.
Dr.W.G.Rockwood married Muthammah, daughter of Sinna Mudaliyar Kathiravetpillai of Moolai, Jaffna, who was a School Master at Kalpitiya and had four sons and four daughters. Mrs. M.Rockwood (1857-1925) helped her husband in all his social activities and was a well known personality. She passed away on 29th August 1925.
One of their daughters was married to Advocate Saravanamuttu and another to S.Cumaraswamy Chartered Accountant.
TRudra J.P.U.M. 1909-1960 Mayor, Colombo Municipal Council.
Rudra, son of Thillainathan of Vaddukkoddai, was born in 1909.
From his early days, he had shown an interest in body-building and leadership. As he grew up, his fad for physical culture also developed.
At Wellawatte, where he was residing in the 1940's, he had a group of adherents who would follow him in his daily programme of physical exercises.
Very soon he became an exponent of physical culture, champion weight lifter and strong man of Colombo.
He came into prominence when he was called upon to stop the looting and to restore law and order, after the Japanese Colombo air raid in April 1942. When called upon, he managed the Vegetarian Restaurant 'Ananda Bhavan', with great success. He showed his leadership qualities then and his efforts were well appreciated by the community.
When the Municipal Elections were held in 1946, he was elected Member for Wellawatte South Ward. In the Council, he was chosen as Mayor of Colombo. That was a tribute to his leadership qualities.
He had stamina, integrity, resourcefulness and honest shrewdness. These enabled him to make a success of his exalted position. In his capacity as the first citizen of Colombo, he had
the privilage of receiving Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in 1954. He passed away on 14.th April 1960, at the age of 51.
Rudra married Paramavathy and had five sons: Dr.Tilaka, Jeya, Hari, Ravi, Sri Prakash and a daughter Bawani, who is married to Architect Vijetheivendran.
A road in Wellawatte has been named “Rudra Mawatte', in his memory.
Dr. James T.Rutnam 1905-1988
Lawyer; Scholar & Philanthropist.
James Thevathasan Rutnam, born 13th June 1905, was from Pandaitharippu and had his early education at Manipay Hindu College. Later he studied at St.Joseph's College and S.Thomas College Colombo.
He entered University College, Colombo, in 1922 and after a brief period there, entered Law College. There, he was the editor of the Law Student's Magazine and won the Walter Perera Memorial Prize for a monograph on the Introduction of trial by Jury in Sri Lanka. As a lawyer, he attempted to enter politics, but gave it up preferring historical research.
He was, at one time a leading correspondent of more than one of Ceylon's daily newspapers. His monograph on the Polonnaruwa Colossus (1974) and his lecture on the Tomb of Elara (1981), caused much controversy, as they highlighted fresh aspects on the two subjects. They have been re-printed as booklets.
He was elected President of the Jaffna Archaeological Society in the 1970's. In his Presidential address (available as a separate reprint), he traces the historical development of Archaeology in the North of Ceylon. He also made a contribution entitled "A megalithic Burial Site at Anaikoddai Jaffna', which is an article of great value on the subject.
The Jaffna University conferred on him the degree of Doctor of Letters honoris causa, and made him a Member of the University Council.
He is reputed to have collected, at great expense, many valuable and rare books on Ceylon history. With these, he established a library known as the “Evelyn Rutnam Institute

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for Inter-cultural Studies' in Jaffna, in memory of his wife. This was later donated by him to the University of Jaffna. It could one day become a haven for international scholars engaged in historical research. He passed away on 4th November 1988, at the age of 83.
Rutnam married Evelyn and had two sons and a daughter.
E.Sabalingam 1919-1988 School Principal, Jaffna Central 1964-1971, Jaffna Hindu, 1971 - 75.
An able School Principal, who was highly rated by the Education Department, and who ably steered two leading educational institutions in the North, was Elayatamby Sabalingam. Born on 4th February 1919, he was the son of Elayatamby and Ledchumiplai of Vannarpannai. His younger brother Canagalingam was also a School Principal.
He had his early education in Malaya and at Jaffna Hindu College 1932-37, where he was Vice-captain of the Football Team and an able Wicket-keeper. Entering Ceylon University College, he graduated in Science in 1941. Later, he had his Post-graduate Teachers training, in 1948.
Commencing his teaching career at Kokkuvil Hindu College in 1943, he taught Mathematics and Science subjects to the students of the Higher Forms for over twenty years. He was Vice-Principal of that College from 1960 to 1964.
Accepting the Principalship of Jaffna Central College in 1964, he ably steered that institution for seven years. He accepted charge of Jaffna Hindu College in 1971 and made a special mark in administering that institution. On retirement, he was Senior Education Officer in Nigeria 1975-79. Returning, he proceeded to
U.K. and was with his sons and daughters there, when he passed away in 1988.
Sabalingam was Secretary and later President 1957-58 of the Northern Province Teachers Association. He was President of the National Union of Teachers in 1963-64, of the Northern Province Principals Association in 1972-73 and Vice-President All Ceylon Principals Association 1973-75. His name goes down in the annals of distinguished School Principals
Sabalingam married Malarjothi and had four sons: Uthayalingam, Jothilingam, Jeyalingam, and Abayalingam and four daughters: Rajini, Ranjini, Shanti and Kalaichelvi. Uthayalingam, a keen Sportsman who was working with the British Telecom met with a fatal accident in London in April 1991.
Kula Sabanathan 1907-1986 Editor and Chief Translator, Dept. of Education & Information.
Kulasegarampillai Sabanathan, born on 7th August 1907, was from Karampan, Jaffna.
He was well educated in Tamil. He was a Translator and Interpreter in the Education Department. Later he was in the Department of Information. He was the Chief Tamil Translator and Editor of the Tamil monthly Journal "Sri Lanka '.
He has contributed several valuable
articles in Tamil, on historical and religious topics; he has also published several books in Tamil. The publication by which he is most widely known is his edition of Mailvagana Pulavar's Jaffna Chronology, the Yalpana Waipava Malai. This valuable and at one time the only book on the history of Jaffna, was out of print for some time. Persuaded by Mudaliyar C.Rasanayagam*, Kula Sabanathan published it with his own research notes, in 1953. The Jaffna public and other students of history are thankful to him for this work. He passed away on 2nd April 1986.
He married a daughter of Kandiah of the PWD from Arali and had three sons: Dr. Sitsapesan who married Miss Sivananthan, Nadana Sabesan a Mechanical Engineer who married a daughter of Dr.Rajadurai Ratnam and

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Dr. Ketheeswaran who is at Norfolk and two daughters Nithiya Kaliyani who is married to Water Works Engineer Siva Kumarasuriar and Jnana Kaliyani who is married to Engineer Ganeshalingam .
Other books he had authored were on Ancient Temples of Ilankai (in Tamil). In this series, books on temples Nainai Nageswari Ambal 1962, Kathirgaman 1965, and Nalur Kandaswamy 1971, were published. Earlier he had written on the Trincomalee Bronzes 1954. He has also contributed articles on the life and work of Arumuga Navalar*, Sir. P.Arunachalam*, Swami Gnanapirakasar*, Kathiravetpillai*, Rasanayaga Mudaliyar* and others.
Col.R.Sabanayagam O.B.E
1902-1981
Sabanayagam, born on 24th. December 1902, was the son of Mudaliyar C. Rasanayagam' and Vethanayagi Ambal. Kumaranayagam, Colombo Municipal Engineer and Irumarapumuthay Nayagam of Inland Revenue were his brothers.
He had his early education in Jaffna and later at S.Thomas College Colombo. He qualified as a Proctor S.C and practised first in Matale before moving to Colombo.
He was a member of the Army Volunteer Service and as Colonel, was in charge of Depot Training at Diyatalawa. He was Director of the Hatton National Bank, Brown & Co and many other Companies.
He was a keen member of the Philatalic Association and was consulted by the Government on the design and colour of stamps. He took a keen interest in Tamil religious studies. and in Hindu cultural activities. He was the President of the Colombo Vivekananda Society for several years. During his later years, he was the President of the Thiruketheeswaram Temple Restoration Society, till his demise on 16th March 1981.
He had two sons and two daughters.
S.Sabapathipillai 1910-1989 Barrister, Founder- Hindu Temple at High Gate, London.
Somasunderam Sabapathipillai, born on 27th December 1910, was from Puloly, Pt. Pedro.
He had his early education at more than one school and passed the Cambridge Local Examination with Honours and Distinctions. He passed the London B. A examination in Mathematics Parts I and II with Honours and obtained the Master's Degree in Astronomy at the age of 21 years. He also qualified as a Barrister.
Returning to Ceylon, he was a lecturer at the Law College; he also taught Mathematics. In 1965, he took up permanent residence in Britain.
Sabapathipillai is however well remembered for pioneering the establishment of a Saivaite Hindu institution in London. He founded the Britannia Hindu (Saiva) Temple Trust, to enable Hindus resident in Britain observe their religious ceremonies. In the early years when there were no Saiva Hindu priests in Britain, he would himself perform wedding ceremonies and even funeral obsequies.
Meanwhile the Trust commenced templebuilding by securing a building in North London and renovating it. The High Gate Murugan Temple standing now with its full complement of shrines, deities, festivals and devotional pujas, is a monument to Sabapathipillai's labours.
The Hindu community in Great Britain is ever so thankful to Sabapathipillai for what he has bequeathed to them. They all bemoaned his loss when he passed away in May 1989, at the age of 78.
He married Miss Maheswary Mailvaganam and had two sons and a daughter.
Sir A.Sabapathy. cl860-... . Member, Legislative Council 1917.
Arunachal am Sabapathy was from Thalaiyali, Vannarpannai. He was an appointed Second Tamil Member of the Ceylon Legislative Council in 1917 and was well known as Hon. A. Sabapathy,
He was regarded as a great patriot. He did yeoman service for the good of the Tamils. He was a great supporter of Sir P.Ramanathan

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and together with him, they were a formidable force in the Legislature.
He was honorary Editor of the weekly journal "Hindu Organ', a powerful newspaper at that time. He did it as a service to the community, continuously for over thirty years from 1891 to 1924. He was Manager of the Jaffna Hindu College as well.
With his passing away in the 1930's, the Tamil community lost another stalwart of the early twentieth century.
Mrs Manickam Sabapathy c1890-1962.
Manicka Ammaiyar, the noble lady responsible for restoring the ancient Kailaya Nathar Temple, was from Nallur. She was the daughter of Kandiah Pillai and Sinnachipillai, who was the daughter of Vairamuthar, a son of Karampan Maniyagar. Periyathamby and Suntharam C.C.S, were her elder brothers. Her younger sister Sinnammah was married to M.Kanagasabai, son of Mappana Mudali.
Manicka Ammaiyar was married to Kachcheri Mudaliyar M.Sabapathy, a brother of M. Kanagasabai. They had a son Proctor S.Somasunderam, a Tamil Union cricketer and a daughter Mangaiyarkarasi who was married to C.Cumaraswamy, C.C.S and High Commissioner.
Manicka Ammaiyar became a widow
early. She is remembered today for the noble task she took upon herself to re-build the Kailaya Pillaiyar Temple at Nallur to its pristine glory of Kailasa Nathar and Pillaiyar Temple. With support received from her brother C. Suntharam, relatives and others, she devotedly worked hard and had the temple rebuilt. She witnessed the re-installation ceremonies in 1946 and lived to an old age, before passing away in 1962.
Thanks to her, the Nallur folks are able to venerate Kailaya Nathar once again like their ancestors, a worship which was abruptly terminated by the Portuguese in the year 1620.
Sabapathy Nawalar 1844-1903 Tamil Scholar.
Sabapathy, on whom the title of "Navalar' was conferred, was the son of Suymbunathar Pilai of Kopay, Jaffna.
He sought tuition from eminent scholars of the time, including Arumuga Navalar, from an early age. At the request of Arumuga Navalar, he proceeded to Chidambaram, in India and taught at the Navalar Vidyalayam there, for some time.
He then proceeded to Thiruvavidu Thurai Atheenam in South India. At that time it was enjoying high prestige as a leading seat of learning and culture under a "Sannithanam' in charge. Sabapathy acquired good knowledge and high proficiency in Saiva Siddanda Hinduism. He was also honoured with the title of "Navalar', there.
He later set up a Printing Press in Madras and printed many religious texts. He also published a journal known as "Gnana Amirtham'. He passed away in his 58th year, in 1903.
Several of his compositions consisting of explanatory notes and meanings of texts from the Maha Bharatha and the Ramayana classics have been published.
Sam.A.Sabapathy 1898-1964 Proctor, First Municipal Mayor,
Jaffna.
Samuel Ariaretnam Sabapathy, born on 6th September 1898, was the son of Notary Kanagasabapathipillai of Varany and Annammah. He had a brother S. Kulendran, Bishop of the Jaffna Diocese, and five sisters.
He was educated at St.John's College, Jaffna, where he was Head Prefect, Cricket Captain, member of the Football Eleven, and also winner of the prize for oratory.
He chose a legal career, became a Proctor S.C and specialising in Criminal Law, built up a highly lucratuve practice in Jaffna.
He was elected a member of the Jaffna Urban District Council, a position he held uninterruptedly for several years; he was also chosen as its Chairman 1937-39. When the civic status of the Jaffna Council was raised to a Municipality in 1949, he was chosen as the

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first Municipal Mayor, a position he held for the next three years.
The erection of a specially designed architectural building and housing the Jaffna Public Library in it, were his creditable achievements. The designs were prepared by Narasimhan, an Indian architect well known as a specialist in Dravidian architecture. The building was a monument to his regime. He was also responsible for the Subramaniam Park, opposite the Jaffna Town Hall and the Health Centre and Maternity Clinic near the Jaffna Convent. He passed away on 12th February 1964.
Valuable books from the Asia Foundation, and priceless research manuscripts and collections of Rev. Father J.M.F.Long were housed in the Library. There were also the original books that belonged to the private library which the Jaffna Urban Council took over. On 1st June 1981, thugs in disguise burnt most of the books and also damaged the building. The re-building of the structure was soon commenced, but the loss of the manuscripts and research documents is irreparable.
Sabapathy married Kanakeswary
daughter of Nagalingam of Tholpuram and his daughter Padmini was married to Dr.C.K.Thurairetnam.
J.M.Sabaratnam 1913-1988.
B.A (Lond), J.P. Additional G.A, Jaffna.
John Moothathamby Sabaratnam, the youngest of eight children, was born on 10th December 1913, in Nallur, Jaffna. J.M. Arasaratnam and S.M.Kanagaratnam Accountant C.W.E, were two of his brothers, and Mrs Lily Jesudason of the U.K., a sister.
He had his early education at St.John's College and also at Jaffna College, Vaddukkoddai. Proceeding to the University College Colombo, he obtained his London Arts Degree with second class Honours.
After teaching at Pembroke Academy for two years, he entered Government Service as a Divisional Revenue Officer in 1939. He functioned in this capacity at many stations, winning Several commendations for his
meritorious services. Eventually he was appointed Additional Government Agent Jaffna, before retirement in 1970.
He was a devout Christian and attended the Church regularly. He took a great interest in helping his old Schools. He helped the Chundikuli Girls' College to put up new buildings, when he was Manager.
He was a Member of the Board of Directors of Jaffna College and later its Chairman.
He was closely associated with the administrative matters of St.John's College, as a Member of its Governing Body. He was also Manager of St.John's and a Director of the Jaffna Academy. With all these activities, Sabaratnam led a busy life. Social and Community Service were his long cherished contributions to society. Even after retirement, he was engaged in social work for the benefit of others until his regrettable demise. He passed away in 1988, at the age of 75, in London.
Sabaratnam married a daughter of William Black and had four daughters.
K.Sabaratnam 1915-1990, B.Sc (Lond)., Diploma in Glass Technology.
Sabaratnam, born on 13th September
1915, was the son of Kathiravelupillai of Kantharmadam and a brother of Sivasubramaniam and Dr. Kanagaratnam.
He had his early education at Parameshwara College, Jaffna and later at St.Joseph's College, Colombo. After graduating in Science, he underwent a course of training in Glass Technology at Mysore. On his return he worked in the Glass Factory at Natandiya.
Entering the Administrative Service, he was Asst. Commissioner, Marketing Department Batticaloa, and then Asst. Commissioner Agrarian Services, Jaffna. He then worked in the Paddy Marketing Board for some time.
After retirement, he was associated with the Merchant Finance and Home Financing and Private Finance Companies, for about ten years. Sabaratnam was a popular figure in Jaffna. He was a Director of the Jaffna Co-operative Society, and President of the Sathiya Sai Seva

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Samithi of Jaffna. He passed away when he was in the UK, on 20th February 1990.
K.Sabaratnam married Gnanambikai daughter of V.S.S.Kumaraswamy and had five SOS.
N.Sabaratnam 1913-1992 B.A., Dip.in Education, Principal, Jaffna Hindu College.
N.Sabaratnam was born in Karainagar Jaffna, on 5th December 1913. He had his early education at Victoria College, Chulipuram and later at Jaffna Hindu College.
After obtaining his London B.A degree, he was a teacher for some time at the Karainagar Hindu College. He then had his Post-Graduate training and obtained Diploma in Education with distinction.
He was President of the Northern Province Teachers' Association in 1954-55, when he worked hard for teachers' rights. Later he held the distinguished post of President, All Ceylon Union of Teachers in 1958-59.
He functioned as Vice-Principal Karainagar Hindu College for a few years before being appointed Vice-Principal Jaffna Hindu College. He was appointed Principal in 1962, which post he successfully held till his retirement in 1971. After retirement he continued to serve the community functioning as Editor of the Tamil daily newspaper Eelanadu.
He was a man of high intellect, a well respected teacher, an efficient kind-hearted principal, an ebullient journalist and a good speaker. His talks on “Hindu thoughts of the day on Radio Ceylon in the mornings, were always captivating. He passed away on 22nd November 1992.
Sabaratnam married Leelawathidaughter of Postmaster Chanmugam of Karainagar and had three sons: Somanathan, Vamadevan and Dr. Sivakumaran and two daughters: Sivambikai and Rajkumari.
Mudaliyar S.Sabaratnam 1858-1922 Gate Mudaliyar, Deputy Fiscal Jafna & Author
Sabaratnam, born on 17th April 1858,
was the son of Sabapathipillai of Kokkuvil, who worked at the Mullaitivu Kachcheri for a long time. Sabaratnam had his Tamil education under Pundit Suyambu-nathar and Arumuga Navalar. He then went to an English School.
He entered Government Service as a Clerk at the Jaffna Kachcheri at the age of twenty and served at Jaffna, Mullaitivu and Kandy. Eventually he was appointed Tamil Mudaliyar at the Jaffna Kachcheri. In 1919 he was appointed Mudaliyar of the Governor's Gate. He functioned as Deputy Fiscal at the Jaffna Kachcheri for ten years and retired in 1921. He was conferred with the title of Mudaliyar in 1905.
He made several publications in Tamil,
explaining the philosophy of Saiva Sidhanda. He wrote the life story of St.Thiru Jnanasampanthar, the Hindu Saint, in English. He published an English translation of parts of“Thiru Kural”, a superb work on ethics.
His masterpiece however is the work Essentials of Hinduism 1913. In it, he comprehensively covers Hindu ideas of God, Souls, Evil, Fate, Worship, Religious Conduct etc., in simple English. The work has been reprinted by the Ministry of “Hindu Religious and Cultural Affairs in 1990.
Mudaliyar Sabaratnam married Kanagambal, daughter of Ponnambalam and their daughter is married to Proctor V.Manickavasakar of Kokkuvil.
T.M.Sabaratnam c 1880- 1970 Proctor; M.L.C., Mullaitivu.
Sabaratnam, son of Thambiah Mudaliyar of Mullaitivu who was a nephew of M.Canapathipillai father of Mudaliyar Arumugam* District Mudaliyar Mullaitivu, was born in the late 1880's. He had his early education at Mullaitivu and later at St.Patrick's College, Jaffna.
He entered the Law College, before World War I, and becoming a Proctor practised in Jaffna. He contested the Mullaitivu-VavuniyaVadamarachchi Seat in the Ceylon Legislative Council in 1924, and won by a large majority. He however resigned his seat, after a few years, due to differences of opinion in the Council.

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Sabaratnam married in Vathiri and had a son, and a daughter who died early.
M.Sabaratnasinghe 1887-1960 School Principal.
Sabaratnasinghe, born in 1887, was the son of Vetharanyar Murugesar of Uduvil. He had his early education at the Vaddukoddai Seminary and proceeded to Burma, where his elder brothers were employed, and obtained the B.A degree of the Calcutta University. He then underwent a two year course at the Teacher's Training College, Colombo and became a trained graduate.
In 1917, he was appointed a Schoolmaster at the Jaffna Hindu College, taking Geography in the Upper classes. He was a person of magnetic personality and was very much involved in many extra-curricular activities. He was Scout Master of the School, Chief Scout representative for Jaffna and was qualified in St.John Ambulance Tests. He took great interestin fostering national art and culture and was an active participant in the meetings and discussions organised by “Kalai Pulavar' K.Navaratnam* at his “Kala Nilayam”. He was good in dramatics and took part in dramas, enhancing the culture of the Tamils.
In 1933, he was appointed Principal of Vaddukoddai Hindu College. During the 16 years he held this position, the School improved vastly. He was then Principal of the Pandattarippu Hindu College for two years.
Even after retirement, he contributed articles regularly to the Hindu Organ and the Siva Thondan journals. He also published Geography and Health Science books for the Primary Classes, in Tamil. He passed away in 1960, at the age of 73.
Sabaratnasinghe married his cousin Ponnammah Murugesu and had a large family.
V.Sachithanandam 1913-1977. B.Sc (Lond), Barrister, Commissioner, National Savings Dept.
Sachithanandam, born 28th May 1913, was the son of Vallipuram of Thirunelveli Jaffna, who was employed in the Customs in Malaysia.
and at the age of twenty one,
He had his education at Parameshwara College obtained the London B.Sc degree with First Class Honours in Mathematics. He also qualified as a Barrister (Lincoln's Inn), later.
After being a lecturer at the University College and Vice-Principal Victoria College, Chulipuram, he entered the Ceylon Administrative Service. He was in the Industries Department, and later took charge of War Savings Dept. Eventually he functioned as Commissioner of National Savings Dept, from 1953. Retiring in 1970, he was a lecturer at Law College and also practised as an Attorney-atLaw.
Sachithanandam advocated socialism as opposed to nationalism. He entered the political arena and contested the Nallur seatin Parliament, as a L.S.S.P candidate, but without success.
He passed away on 25th November 1977, leaving his wife Gnanam nee Muthiah and six children. His eldest son is Sathananthan Ph.D (Cantab); the second son Jeeva S.Anandan is Professor of Physics at South Carolina University and the third son Kumaresan is an Electronic Engineer. The eldest daughter Selvi is an Architect Planner, the second daughter Meera is an Accountant and the third Shanthi is an Architect.
Srimathi Muthupillai “Sadali Amma” c 1870- ...... .
Srimathi Muthupllai of Chunnakam, though leading the life of an ordinary house-wife, developed the characteristics of a mystic.
She gave up household ties and proceeding to Nallur, resided in a “Madam” adjoining the well known Nallur Kandaswamy Temple. There she spent the rest of her life in prayer and service to the temple. With reverence and respect, she became to be known as "Sadai Amma', due presumably to her matted hair.
In view of her mystic powers, several persons paid homage and sought her blessings. On her demise on the 12th of August 1931, her remains were interred and a "Samadhi' erected by the beach at Keerimalai. The site has since become a place of pilgrimage to many. A small shrine has also been erected

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there.
Anton St.George c1920-1991. Businessman & Philanthropist Jaffna.
Anton was the eldest of five illustrious brothers of a distinguished family in Jaffna. His brother John is an eminent Gynaecologist, Charles a Doctor of Veterinary Science, Victor an Estate Superintendant, and Albert a Medical Doctor.
Anton, like his other brothers, received his education at St.Patrick's College Jaffna. But unlike them he took to a business career. The "Autos', a lucrative concern located in the busy part of the Grand Bazaar of Jaffna, retailed automobile spares.
Besides the above, he was also
concerned in two guest houses, "Palm Court' and "Palm Beach', both in Jaffna. These catered for prominent visitors to the Town. He passed away in 1991.
Anton married Mangalam, sister of Cyril Gardiner.
S.Sampandar 1865-.... . Crown Proctor; Anuradhapura
S.Sampandar was the son of Sinnacutty of Trincomalee and was born in 1865. He had his early education at the Wesleyan Mission School, Trincomalee.
After passing the Matriculation examination of the Madras University, he chose the Legal Profession and articled himself under Advocate Allegakone.
On becoming a Proctor, he practised in Trincomalee for some time. He then shifted to Anuradhapura. He continued his practice there for a longtime and was appointed Crown Proctor in 1897. He acted as Police Magistrate and Commissioner of Requests on several occasions. Sampandar married a daughter of Kuddithamby of the Govt. Salt Depot Jaffna
Dr.N.T.Sampanthan 1916ER.C.S. (Glas)., F.R.C.S. (Edin) Senior Physician, Cooperative Hospital, Moolai.
Thirujnana Sampanthan, born 19th May 1916, and his brother Jeyaseelan of the Agricultural Service, are sons of Kandappar Nagalingam of Karainagar, Jaffna. His sister is married to S.Sharvananda, Chief Justice.
He was educated at St.George's School, Taiping, Malaysia and from 1929 at S.Thomas College M.Lavinia
He was in the first batch of medical students to enter the Medical Faculty of the Ceylon University in 1937. He obtained his M.B.B.S in 1943.
After passing out he served in the Medical Department for a short time. Relinquishing that, he entered the service of the Moolai Cooperative Hospital at Vaddukkoddai in December 1945. While serving there, he proceeded to U.K and obtained the F.R.C.S (Edin) qualification in 1949.
He performed great service as Senior Physician and Medical Superintendent at the Moolai Cooperative Hospital for thirty years. His devoted attention and successful service was highly appreciated by the patients. He largely helped in building up that village hospital with 10 beds to an important medical establishment in the North, with 120 beds, a fine surgical theatre, an up-to-date labour room and also a well equipped intensive care unit.
In 1975, he experienced trouble with his eye-sight and retired. He then moved to Jaffna and functioned as a Consultant. From 1986, he resides with his family in Kondavil.
In 1945, Dr.Sampanthan married Rohini, daughter of Sanmugam whose son is Mahadeva of Mahadeva Jewellers, and has two sons: Subeschandran and Nagalingam. The elder son is an Accountant and the younger a Radio Technologist.
R.Sampanthan 1933 - M.P for Trincomalee 1977,
Sampanthan, born 5th February 1933, is a son of A.Rajavarothiam* of Trincomalee, who was Superintendent of Stores, Gal Oya Project. He had his education at St. Patrick's College, Jaffna and later at St.Sebastian's

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Moratuwa. Entering Law College, he passed out as an Attorney at Law.
Sampanthan contested and won the Trincomalee seat in Parliament, defeating the U.N.P. candidate and has been a member from 1977 to 1983. He is a keen Member of the Federal Party, later of the T.U.L.F and held high office in them. He has been intensively involved in the negotiations for a solution of the Tamil Nation problem. He takes a great interest in the religious and cultural activities of Trincomalee.
He was instrumental in getting made an ornamental Vel Ther chariot for the Villoondy Kanthaswamy Temple at Trincomalee.
He married Leeladevi, daughter of P.K. Rudra and has two sons Sanjeevan and Senthuran, and a daughter Krishanthini.
Peter R. Samuel 1931-1993 M.I.Mech.E., Chairman & Managing Director, Messrs Samuel Sons Co., Ltd
Peter Retnarajah Samuel was the son of Shadrach Chinmiah Samuel (1895-1957), founder of Messrs. Samuel Sons & Co Ltd, leading Engineering Construction Contractors of Colombo. The Senior Samuel left Jaffna at an early age for Colombo, where he founded the construction firm, now 73 years old, and managed it for 35 years, till his demise in 1957.
His son Peter R.Samuel was educated at St. Benedict's College and qualified as an engineer in U.K. He took charge of the firm, on his father's demise and managed it with great success. The firm now has over sixty engineers on its staff and an annual turnover of several million Rupees.
He was the founder Chairman of the Association of Construction Contractors of Sri Lanka 1981-1989, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Institute for Construction, Training and Development. He passed away in May 1993.
D.S.Sanders 1928-1993 B..A (Cey)., Ph.D (Minn)
Social Welfare Educationist.
Daniel Selvarajah Sanders, son of David
born
S. and Harriet C. (nee Handy) Sanders, was born on 18th September 1928. He was educated at Jaffna College and graduated at the University of Ceylon in 1953. He obtained his Diploma in Social Welfare from the University of Wales, in 1958 and Ph.D from Minnesota in 1971.
He was Associate Director and Lecturer Ceylon Institute of Social Work 1955-1961 and thereafter held several important academic positions in the field of social welfare. He was the founder and first President of the InterUniversity Consortium for International Social Development 1980-1989. He has contributed many papers and made several publications on social work.
Sanders married Christobel Chelvathy, daughter of R.N.N.Niles, O.A Dept. of Inland Revenue.
A. Sandirasekara Pandithar. ... -1879
Pandithar was the son of Ambalavanar of Uduvil, Jaffna. He was a learned person who was proficient in three languages: Tamil, English and Sanskrit.
He utilised his proficiency in the languages, to compile a dictionary called the "Jaffna Dictionary", from Manipay in 1842.
He is also said to have assisted in the production of the “Winslow Dictionary", later.
Hon.H.A.P.Sandrasagra K.C 1875-.... Member Legislative Council
Advocate., M. L. C.
Henry Alexander Patrick Sandrasagra, 12th June 1875, was the son of J.N. Sandrasagra Superintendent of Minor Roads.Jaffna. His historical ancestry may be read under Pootha Nathar.
He was educated at St. Patrick's College, Jaffna. Later he studied Law. Becoming an Advocate, he commenced his legal career at the Jaffna Bar in 1898.
He rapidly distinguished himself as a prominent lawyer. He was known for his witty comments and biting remarks about his opponents. He was engaged in specially

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difficult cases. At that time there was also another leading advocate Thampoe Duraiswamy (S.D.Thampoe). Very often these two appeared opposite to each other.
Sandrasagra later shifted his practice to the more lucrative Colombo Bar. He soon enjoyed the reputation of being a successful lawyer there. In recognition of his ability he was made a King's Counsel
He interested himself in politics and was a Member of the Ceylon Legislative Council in 1929. He remained in Colombo till his demise. He married Josephine, daughter of Interpreter Mudaliyar Simon Cherubim and had a son Wilfred and two daughters.
Sangara Pandithar 1821-1891.
Sanskrit Scholar.
Pandithar was the son of Sivagurunathar of Chunnakam, Jaffna. He lived in Neerveli. He studied classical Tamil and Sanskrit under very able tutors.
Soon he became a very able scholar and won the reputation of being the most proficient Sanskrit scholar of his time.
He was a good friend of Arumuga Navalar and wrote aforeword to one of Navalar's best publications: Periya Purana Vacanam.
Several of his compositions and works have been published, including Sivapirakasam, and Anuddanavithy, all in Tamil.
A.Sangarapillai c 1895-.... . Contractor, Proprietor “ The Times of Ceylon.".
Contractor A. Sangarapillai was from Karainagar, Jaffna.
From his childhood days he had shown an inclination for business. He commenced with supply contracts and later undertook larger undertakings.
He then ventured into the field of journalism and became proprietor of the popular evening Colombo Newspaper "The Times of Ceylon ", previously owned by a British concern. He was also a proprietary Planter.
His son was a Managing Director of the
"Times”. One of his daughters was married to Dr. Paramasamy and another to Dr.R.Kanagasuntheram.
John Sangarapillai с.1880. Author of “Yalpana Sarithiram”
John Sangarapillai of Manipay lived in Uduwil, Jaffna.
He did research in old documents. Based on the information gathered, he published an early history of Jaffna entitled, Yalpana Sarithiram. The work is now out of print.
P,Sangarapillai 1913-1990. B.A., B.Sc (Econ)., B.Com., M. S
(all of Lond University)., A.M.I.T. Dep. Commissioner of Motor Traffic, President. Colombo Thamil Sangam.
Sangarapillai, son of Kumaru Ponnambalam, a farmer from Maviddapuram Jaffna, was born on 20th December 1913.
He had his early education at Union College,Tellippalai and later at Victoria College Chulipuram, before proceeding to the University College Colombo.
He graduated in Arts offering Sanskrit, when he was 21 years old. Afterwards he acquired proficiency in Banking and Currency for the B.Sc., and Transport for B.Com. He obtained London University degrees in these . Commencing as a clerk in the Motor Transport Office in 1938, he rose rapidly to become Assistant Commissioner of Motor Transport in 1951. From 1953 he was carrying out the duties of the Registrar of Motor Vehicles and Deputy Commissioner of Motor Transport. Retiring from Government service, Sangarapillai had a busy life, participating in several activities. He was a visiting Lecturer at the Technical College, Aquinas University and other educational Institutions. He was a good Volley Ball player and was an All Ceylon Volley Ball referee. He was President and ardent supporter of the Thamil Sangam, Colombo, an institution very much involved in the educational development of Tamil youths.
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to be with his children and passed away on 18th February 1990.
Sangarapillai married Manonmani, daughter of Advocate Thamby, in 1938 and had five sons: Chandira Mohan, Asokan, Nagendran, Manoharan who are Doctors and
Mahendran who is an Accountant, and two daughters.
He published a Tamil translation of
Keyne's treatise on Theory of Money, a very useful work for Tamil-stream students studying Economics. Among other books authored by him were : - Kalyana Poruthankal, Saiva Sidhandam, Maranathitkupin, Naam Thamilar; Etc. (all in Tamil).
Sangara Suppiramaniya Sachchithanantha Rajayogi 1864-1944. "Katha Pirasankam" Lyric Preacher.
Sangara Suppaiyar, as he was familiarly referred to, was the son of Nagendra Iyer of Vaddukoddai.
He was a person well learned in traditional Saiva Hinduism and an able musician. He had good knowledge of the Saiva Puranas and could recite many of them. Being a good musician, he would sing and recite stories from the Puranas to large captive audiences.
He took upon himself a mission to raise funds for building a "Ther Chariot' for the Hindu temple at Thiru Alan Kadu in South India, as his life task. He addressed several meetings, both in Jaffna and Colombo, for this mission and lived a long and useful life.
King Sangili of Jaffna. Segarajasekaran VII, 1519-1561.
Sangili was the son of King Pararajasekaran and Mangalath Ammal. He claimed the throne after the mysterious death of the Crown Princes who were the legitimate heirs. Sangili assumed the Jaffna throne by winning the support of the army and by conciliating Paranirupasingam, a Surviving son of King Pararajasekaran. Both the elder sons Singa Bahu and Pandaram died under mysterious circumstances .
He - soon made his position secure by getting rid of his opponents Even Paranirupasingam was antagonised.
Meanwhile the Portuguese who had
landed in Colombo in 1505 were making inroads into the Island. Sangili embittered the Portuguese by seizing their ships which were stranded off Delft.
Matters came to a head when he put to death about six hundred persons in Mannar. They had accepted conversion, which in his opinion was an act of treason. The Portuguese anxious to punish Sangili sent an expedition in 1560.
Landing in Kolumbutsurai they attacked Nallur. Sangili retreated to Kopay and then escaped to India. After a long period of hostilities, a settlement was reached. Sangili continued as King, but under the Portuguese rule.
Eventually, as he was tired and had also become unpopular, he handed over the Kingdom to his son Puviraja Pandaram, in 1561. He died soon after,
Sangili Kumaran ( Sangili II ) Regent, Jaffna Kingdom 1617-1618.
Sangili Kumaran ( not to be mistaken with King Sangili 1519-1561) was from the Royal family of King Puviraja Pandaram.
When King Ethirmanasingham died, his infant son was left in charge of Arasakesari, a close relative, who acted as Regent. Sangili Kumaran did not favour the arrangement. He and his followers assassinated Arasakesari and his supporters and Sangili Kumaran took upon the Regency himself.
His Regency is marked by cruel deeds and atrocities. This infuriated the people who rose up in insurrection. This was quelled by more massacres. There was disquiet in the regime.
The Portuguese then decided to take over the Jaffna Kingdom. They built a fortress in secret and started arming themselves. When this was discovered, a fierce battle took place between Sangili Kumaran's forces and the Portuguese for a number of days. Finally Sangili Kumaran was defeated and taken prisoner. He was tried for his crimes and beheaded. That was

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the end of independant Jaffna Kingdom. Thereafter Jaffna became a Portuguese colony.
Sammugadas Mappana Mudaliyar
... - 1964 Temple Trustee, Nallur.
Sanmugadas, son of Sangarapillai Mappana Mudaliyar assumed charge of the management of the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, on the demise of his father in 1915.
He introduced several new measures in
the daily rituals and pujas observed at the temple and organised it into a well administered religious institution.
A striking feature was the timing of the various pujas, abishekams, festivals etc. to split -second punctuality. This was meticulously adhered to and was the marvel of every one. At most of the temples, festivals were prolonged, invariably lasting all night. and until dawn, but it was not so here. It became the best managed temple in the Peninsula.
Such a step induced confidence and a firmer belief in the minds of the devotees. They increased in numbers and the whole set -up became a very efficient organisation. It brought much credit to the management and even induced a greater faith in religion.
Several additions and improve-ments were carried out to the temple structure. Assistance was also given to other temples in the neighbourhood.
He passed away in December 1964. The management then devolved on his brother Kumaradas Mappana Mudaliyar who maintains the administrative discipline, so well established. He has carried out some fundamental improvement works and ably steered the management through the difficult years of unrest in the Peninsula.
Somakalavalli Sanmugalingam
(Kala)
1936-1993 Red Cross Worker, Jaffna.
Somakalavalli was the daughter of Chelliah of Kodikamam and was well educated in early life.
From her young days she had an aptitude for social service and looking after the sick. In 1957, she married Dr. Sanmugalingam, son of Crown Proctor C.C. Somasekaram, and devotedly standing by his side looked after him all her life, although he had a defective limb.
Her motherly care won the affection of all the patients and the poor who came to her husband for tretment. She worked hard for the Red Cross movement in Jaffna, maintaining it through all the travails of tumultand strife during the critical years of warfare and numerous deaths in Jaffna. She maintained the Red Cross organisation in function in spite of the dangers involved. Her name became a legend among the suffering. Her motherly care and religious devotion has been praised by all.
She passed away on 2nd November 1993.
Sanmuganatha Mudaliyar c18th century High Official under the Dutch .
During the Dutch Regime in Ceylon, there lived in Navaly, Jaffna, a descendant of the Ariya Chakravarthi Kings named Sanmuganatha Mudaliyar .
He held a high position in the “native ranks' of the official service under the Dutch Administration.
He was required to examine and "pass' cattle for slaughter to provide supply of meat for the Dutch masters. He found this so repugnant that he opted to resign his office and forego all of its privileges. He sacrificed them because of his convictions.
N.Sanmugathasan 1920-1993 Communist & Gen. Secretary, Ceylon Trade Union Federation.
N.Sanmugathasan, born on 3rd July 1920, was the son of Arulambalam Nagalingam of Manipay. He had his education at Manipay Hindu College and St. Joseph's College Colombo, before entering the Ceylon University College.
There he followed a course in History and graduated in 1943. He was the Secretary

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and later President of the Union Society at the University.
He decided to be a full-time worker of the Communist Party and became its leader. He founded the Marxist-Leninist Communist Party of which he was elected General Secretary. He was also the General Secretary of the Ceylon Trade Union Federation. In politics, he remained faithful to the principles of Marx, Lenin and Mao Tsetung.
He wrote the book A Marxist looks at the history of Ceylon, in 1971 and in 1989 published an autobiography Political Memoirs ofan Unrepentant Communist. He passed away in February 1993, at the age of 74.
V.Sanmuga Chaddampiyar 1831-1885. Tamil Pundit from Batticaloa.
Chaddampiyar, born in 1831, was the son of Vallipuram of Kodidai Munai, Batticaloa.
He was well versed in Tamil as he had received tuition underable scholars. Even when he was young he had a reputation for composing Tamil verses.
He was also proficient in English and was engaged as a Tamil Pundit to teach at some of the English schools.
Sri Santhira Sekara Kurukkal. c 13th century.
The learned Kurukkal was from Thiru Vaddanai in South India. He was invited to Jaffna by the Tamil Kings who reigned at Nallur in the 13th century.
When the first Tamil King of Jaffna built Nallur, his capital city, he also erected four temples at its four corners, invoking divine protection for the new Kingdom.
Santhira Sekara Kurukkal, also known as "Thiru Vidanaiyar', was invited to be in charge of and officiate at the Ganesha Pillaiyar Temple erected in the East of the city. This temple is now known as the “Veiul Ukunda Pillaiyar' Temple and is situated at Nayanmarkaddu on the Chemmani Road.
The revered Kurukkal” s son was Ramalinga Kurukkal, whose son was Santhira
Sekara Kurukkal the second. His son was Kangathara Kurukkal who distinguished himself; he passed away in 1888. His son was even more well known as an erudite scholar. He translated into Tamil and published some of the ancient Sanskrit works.
Santhirasekara Mappana Mudaliyar
..1365. "Thanakara Kuruchchi Pioneer'
Mudaliyar was a wealthy nobleman
from Kanjeepuram, in South India. He decided to migrate to Jaffna in about the year 1365, with his two sons, Thanabalasingam and Kunabalasingam, the family Brahmin priest Gopala Kurukkal, and a retinue of attendants.
On their way to Jaffna, they landed at a place, which later became known as Veeramahakali Thurai. As the Mudaliyar found that place congenial and comfortable, they decided to remain there permanently.
In due course, having established his bona fides with the King of Jaffna, he colonised the locality, placing his son Thanabalasingam in charge.
It became a flourishing settlement, eventually acquiring the name of "Thanakara Kuruchchi', after Thanabalasingam. Even the residents of the village enjoyed a reputation of wealth - "Thanakarar'.
Today there exists a tank Santhirasekaran Kulam and a temple Veerapathirar Kovil, which were built by the Mudaliyar.
J.R. Santiapilai 1918-1985 Senior Commercial Manager
Air Ceylon Ltd., etc.
Joseph Reginald Santiapillai, born 30th October 1918, is the son of Soosaipillai Santiapillai, Maniyagar of the Islands Division, Jaffna in the 1920's.
Regi entered the service of Air Ceylon Ltd. in 1948 and was Branch Manager Jaffna, during its early years. He was a very obliging and popular public relations Officer.
He rose steadily in the service and was appointed Commercial Manager Colombo in

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1962, and later functioned as Air Ceylon's Regional Manager in U.K. In 1978 he was posted to Colombo as Senior Commercial Manager systemwise. He then held the position of Managing Director in leading travel organisations in Colombo.
Regi Santiapillai married a daughter of Saverimuttu, School Master St Patrick's College. He passed away in London, in April 1995.
S.Santiapillai c1890-1958 Maniyagar Delft & Islands.
S.Santiapillai was the son of Soosaipillai Udaiyar of Karampan Kayts. He was educated at St. Patrick's College Jaffna, where he was Captain of the Cricket Team and at St.Joseph's Colombo, where he was a member of the cricket eleven.
He was Chief Clerk Sanitary Board Jaffna and later Chief Clerk Provincial Road Committee. Later he was appointed Maniyagar, Delft and Islands Division, Jaffna, which position he held ably till his retirement. He passed away in 1958.
He married Harriet Nicholaspillai and had four children: J.R. Santiapillai, Mrs F.N.C. Saverimuttu, Mrs.T. Rajaratnam, and Yogarajah Santiapilai.
Vidvan A.Saravanamuthan 1890-1930. Tamil Journalist, Humorist & Actor; from Mandur Batticaloa.
Vidvan. A. Saravanamuthan, Journalist and celebrated actor born in 1890, was the son of Arunagiri and Kanthammai of Mandur, Batticaloa. He had his early education at St.Michael's and very soon became a Journalist contributing humorous articles to the local Journals.
He had the good fortune to come under the influence of able scholars Swami Vipulananda, Vidvan Poopalapillai and others. He acquired advanced knowledge of Tamil and became a Vidvan himself at the age of 26.
He wrote plays and often took part in staging them. His favourite part was that of Ravanan, in which he excelled. Eventually he took charge of the Sukirtha Vilasa Sabai, a successful dramatic society of the time.
In 1910, “Samiyar Saravana- muthan”, as he was then known, took charge of reviving the Hindu Schools in the region. He worked very hard and improved many of them, for which he is remembered even today.
He also functioned as an officer of the Forest Department. In 1930, he underwent an operation but suffered a relapse and passed away at the age of 40.
Miss K.Saravanamuttu 1913-1992
Principal, Vadamarachchi Hindu Ladies' College.
Kanagammah was the daughter of Saravanamuttu and Annammah of Ariyalai, Jaffna. She was a sister of Dr.Thanabalasingham and Dr. Para- manathano and sister-in-law of School Master Somasundaram.
She graduated from Queen Mary's
College, Madras and was a teacher at the Jaffna Hindu College for some time.
She was then appointed Principal of Pandattarippu Girls' College, and later assumed the Principalship of Vadamarachchi Hindu Ladies College. She was an esteemed Principal who improved the School vastly. She also functioned as an Inspectress of Schools, before retirement. She passed away on 21st January 1992.
K.S.Saravanamuttu 1896-1983. Principal, Drieberg College, Chavakachcheri, 1930- 1956.
K.Sathiathasan Saravanamuttu, born 17th August 1896, was the son of Kasinathar of Nunavil East, Chava- kachcheri.
He was educated at Jaffna Central College. After some teaching experience, he entered the Government Training College at Maharagama. On completion of his course, he taught at Jaffna College.
In 1930, he was appointed Headmaster, Drieberg English School Chavakachcheri. He

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built up that Elementary School to the present Drieberg College, with over a thousand pupils. He held that position with great acclaim, till his retirement in 1956. He passed away in 1983.
Saravanamuttu married Kirubai-ratnam, eldest daughter of Rev.J.K. Sinnathamby of the C.S.I., in 1920.
Dr.M.V.Saravanamuttu 1852-1912 M.D (Durham).
Vethariniam Saravanamuttu, was the Son of Muttuthamby Vetharniam of Uduvil, who is remembered today for his benevolent act in providing a 5 acre plot of land where farmers could sell their produce. That eventually became the Chunnakam Market of today. He was a descendant of Kathirgamasekara Mudaliyar of Pannalai in Valikamam North Jaffna
Saravanamuttu proceeded to England for his professional studies and returned an M.D (Durham). He set up a wide and lucrative practice in Wolvendhal Street, Colombo.
He married a grand daughter of Armstrong Muthukkammaniyar, who had a distinguished ancestry in Vaddukkoddai and had six sons:- Ratnajoti, Nanasothy, Tharmasothy, Pakia sothy *, Manickas othy *, and Sabtharatnasoti, and two daughters Panjamahasothy and Jegasothy.
All the six sons distinguished themselves. They became prominent in public life and held leading positions.
Ratnajoti was a doctor, social worker, Municipal Mayor and was Knighted. Nanasothy was a Proctor, Member of the Municipal Council and Chief A.R.P. Warden.
Tharmasothy Vetharniam, born in 1890, joined the Excise Department straight from School. He rose to be Asst. Superintendent in 1912 and Excise Commissioner before retiring in 1951. He was a renowned actor, especially in Shakespearean Drama and founded the Thespian Society of Ceylon.
Pakiasothy was a Civil Servant and Head of the Rubber and Tea Control Departments. Manickasothy was a journalist and High Commissioner for Ceylon in Malaya. Sabtharatnajoti was an engineer, who joined the army and rose to the rank of Lieut. Colonel. As
a renowned cricketer he captained the all Ceylon team. He became an advocate and was a Member of the Colombo Municipal Council; he passed away in 1957.
Panjamahasothy, the elder daughter was married to R.A.M.Thuraiappah, Supt. Engineer P.W.D. Younger daughter, Jegasothy was married to T.C.S.Jayaratnam of the Indian Civil Service, who was later in charge of the Gal Oya Project. Their daughter was a Minister in the State of Madya Pradesh, in India.
Manickasothy Saravanamuttu 1895-1965 High Commissioner for Ceylon in
Malaya, Malaya s “Most Popular Personality of
1953'.
Manickasothy (Manickam) was the fifth son of Dr. and Mrs. Saravanamuttu of Uduvil. Their ancestry is seen under the biography of Dr. M.V. Saravanamuttu.
Like his brothers, Manickam also had his early education at S.Thomas College Colombo, where he was Cricket Captain, Football Captain, Senior Prefect and Science scholarship winner. He proceeded to St.John's College Oxford, for higher studies.
Returning to Ceylon, he joined the “Ceylon Observer”, as a Journalist in 1922 and rising rapidly became Assistant Editor of the “Ceylon Independent” in 1929.
Later, proceeding to Malaya, he joined the editorial staff of a newspaper in Penang, eventually becoming Editor of two North Malayan Newspapers, 1939-1947.
He was a very popular person in Penang, holding leading positions in many of the social and sports clubs there. In 1953, he was elected the “Most Popular Personality” in Malaya , by popular vote,
He was appointed Ceylon's High Commissioner in Malaya in 1950, which position he held tiI 1957.
He was in charge of the Colombo Plan Exhibition, the grand success of which earned him much praise.

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Mrs. Naysum Saravanamuttu 1890-1944 First Lady Member of the
State Council.
Naysum, born on 9th December 1890, was the daughter of Chelliah Cooke of Jaffna and was educated at the Vembadi Girls' High School. She married Dr.(Later Sir) Ratnajoti Saravanamuttu and lived with her husband in Colombo.
She came into prominence, when she contested the Colombo North Seat in the Ceylon State Council, in 1931. She entered the contest when her husband, who though very popular, was however unseated on a statutory disqualification which became evident on an election petition. She had the unique position of being the first Lady Member of Ceylon's Legislature.
She held this position with much acclaim in her constituency and was re-elected at the subsequent General Elections.
She occupied the seat with elegance for several years. She passed away on 19th December 1944.
Pakiasothy Saravanamuttu
1892-1950 B.A (Lond)., Ceylon Civil Service
Familiarly referred to as " P. Sara', Pakiasothy Saravanamuttu, born on 26th October 1892, was the fourth of the well known Saravanamuttu brothers. His ancestry may be seen in the biography of his father Dr.M.V. Saravanamuttu*.
He had a unique School career at S.Thomas' College, winning all the available prizes and awards.
Commencing as a Cadet in the Ceylon Civil Service, in 1919, he served at many stations. He is well remembered by the village folks of Mullaitivu District, for the rural upliftment work he did, as A.G.A in that backward region of the Vanni in 1926. He was later at Kegalle, Hambantota etc.
When he was Commissioner Tea Control and Rubber Control Departments, he had helped many youths to find employment. It is said that he would carefully watch over these
temporary employees and see to it that they made a success of their careers. In later years, there were several who would express their gratitude to him for his concern and guidance.
He married Sybil Thangam, daughter of Crown Proctor Muttuicumaru of Puttalam and had a son, who held a position with the Maharajah Organisation and a daughter who was married to P.Rajagopal, C.M.E of the Ceylon Railway.
He is remembered by posterity for his arduous task in fostering the development and growth of the Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Club. He was mainly responsible for laying their Oval cricket grounds and erecting the spacious pavilion, considered one of the finest in the East. The Head Quarters of the Club moved from the humble building in Campbell Park to the
widely spread out pavilion, which posterity has
aptly named the "P.Saravanamuttu Stadium'. He died at the early age of 58.
The much coveted Inter Club Cricket Championship for the “P Sara Trophy", had been an annual feature in the sports world of Sri Lanka from 1949 for over thirty three years. Sports fans all over regretted its sudden termination from 1982.
Sir Dr. Ratnajoti Saravanamuttu c 1880-..... M. B. C.M (Madras), M.R.C.S (Eng), L.R.C. P(Lond). Municipal Mayor:
Ratnajoti was the eldest of the six well known Saravanamuttu brothers. They were sons of Dr.M.V.Saravanamuttu and Mrs. Saravanamuttu of Uduwil, Jaffna.
Ratnajoti had his early education at S.Thomas College, Colombo and graduated in Medicine in Madras. Later, he proceeded to England , and obtained further special qualifications.
On his return, he set up a Dispensary in Colombo North, which rapidly grew up to a large medical centre. He was always very considerate to those who were unable to pay and often treated them free. He became a popular personality of Colombo.
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was chosen as the first elected Mayor of Colombo, in the 1920's.
He contested and won the Colombo North seat in the Ceylon State Council in 1931, but was later unseated due to a statutory disqualification. His wife then contested and won that seat and retained it for a long time with great
SUCCCSS..
Meanwhile Dr.Saravanamuttu continued to be a very popular social figure in Colombo, being re-elected as Municipal Mayor more than
ᎤᎠᏟᏋ.
He was responsible for the valuable essential services rendered to the community, when life was disrupted in Colombo in April 1942 due to the Japanese Air Raid. His war effort was held in high esteem by the authorities, in appreciation of which he was Knighted, in the late 1940's.
His demise, a few years later, was bemoaned by many.
T.Saravanamuthu 1889-1923.
M.A. (Madras),M.Sc(Calcutta),
B.Sc (Lond). L.L.B (Lond).
Thampu Saravanamuthu was born
on 14th March 1889 at Aththiady, Vannarpannai, Jaffna. His father Thampu who was a direct descendant of Ilankai Nayaga Mudaliyar of the Dutch era, had two sons Nagamuthu and Saravanamuthu.
Saravanamuthu commenced his studies at the Kantharmadam Saiva Pragasa Vithiyasalai and later joined Kilner College, Jaffna. He was a remarkable prodigy with numbers.
At the age of 14 years, he passed the Matriculation Examination of the Calcutta University. He then joined the Jaffna Central College and obtained the Calcutta F.A.
Proceeding to Madras University, he graduated, in the First Class, at the age of 19 years, in 1909. Returning to Jaffna, he taught Mathematics at Jaffna Hindu College for a few years.
He then proceeded to Calcutta studied science, and obtained the degree in Science in 1913. Later he got his M.Sc of the Calcutta
University.
He taught in Jaffna and Colombo before
being appointed Vice-Principal Jaffna Hindu College. He passed away in 1923, at the early age of 34.
His brother was veteran School Master Nagamuthu, father of Manicka Idaikaddar C.C.S, and founder of Vaitheesvara Vidyalayam
R.Satchithanandam 1924B.A (Lond)., School Principal.
Satchithanandam is the son of Ramalingam of Kantharmadam Jaffna. He had his education at St.Patrick's College, Jaffna and proceeded to Jaffna College, from where he obtained the London B.ADegree in Latin, Tamil and Mathematics in 1951, and also won the Tennis Championship. Later he obtained the Ceylon University Diploma in Education.
He was mathematics teacher and Prefect of Games at St.Patrick's College for over fifteen years. As Secretary of the Northern Group School Sports Association and later of the Amateur Athletic Association of Jaffna, he was actively involved in organising sports and athletic championship meets there.
He was School Principal in Jaffna from 1968, before being appointed Chief Education Officer, Batticaloa in 1976. He was then Principal of Ratmalana Hindu College from 1980, before retiring in 1984. Since then he has been busy editing and publishing Sivathondan, a religious journal.
Satchithanandam married Parameswari daughter of Mr. and Mrs S.Sivapragasam and has a son: Sivanandakumar, an Electronics student and two daughters: Sathiya Ranjini who is married to Prof. C. Ambikairaja, and Bala Rangini who is married to T. Siriharan, a Chemist.
K.Satchithanantha 1914-1992.
B.Sc (Lond)., F.C.A(Eng & Wales),
FCA (Ceylon).
K.Satchithanantha, head of the firm of Accountants and Auditors "Satchithanantha, Schokman, Pasupathi and Co', was born on 27th February 1914. He is the eldest son of V.S.S.Kumaraswamy who was a leading cigar manufacturing industrialist of Jaffna.

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After his general education at Jaffna Central College, he proceeded to the University College Colombo and graduated in Science. He then proceeded to England and followed a career in Accountancy.
Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, he returned to Ceylon and entered Government service, in 1940.
Relinquishing that post after five years, he founded his own private auditing firm known as Satchithananda Schokman, de Silva & Co. The firm rapidly became a large establishment undertaking accounting and auditing of Several of the large business establishments in Colombo. The firm of Satchithananda Schokman, Pasupati & Co was established in 1945. More partners were taken and more assistants also recruited. It became one of the leading Firms of Accountants in Sri Lanka.
He retired from the partnership in 1991 but remained a Consultant of Coopers & Lybrand Satchithananda Pasupathi & Co. He proceeded to Australia where he passed away in March 1992.
He was a member of the controlling body of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Sri Lanka and retired as its President.
K.Satchithanantha married Lingambihai, eldest daughter of C.Suntharalingam and had two sons, Anandakumar and Anandakrishna and a daughter Anandavalli.
Ananadavalli is an esteemed Bharatha Natiyamartiste.
Srimathi Satchithanantha Mathajee,
c 1905-.... .
Mathajee was a daughter of Nagaretnampillai of Trincomalee, and younger sister of District Judge N.Krishnadasan.
She had hier early education at St.Mary's Convent Trincomalee. Later she became a School teacher at Sri Shanmuga Vidyalayam, where she was known as "Chellaka'.
She was always a religious minded person and became interested in the teachings of Swami Sivananda, Divine Life Society Rishikesh. Becoming a disciple of the Swamiji, she was ordained a "Mathajee', by him.
She organised and managed the "Sivananda Thapovanam', a charitable institution at Uppuveli, Trincomalee, for the welfare of the poor. She was also responsible for managing an orphanage there.
She gave all her time and much of her wealth for the development of the above societies and her work was greatly appreciated.
Even after her demise, many persons gather at her Samadhi to pay homage to the memory of Mathajee of Uppuveli Thapovanam in Trincomalee.
Muhamdiram Brahma Sri
T.Sathasiva Iyer 1882-1950 Inspector of Schools,
Education Officer & Author.
Muhandiram Sathasiva Iyer, Editor of "Ariya-Dravida Language Publications” and Inspector of Schools for a long time, was born on 22nd September 1882, in Chunnakam, Jaffna.
Even from his early years, Iyer distinguished himself as a bright and studious pupil. He passed the FA examination of the Calcutta University in the First Division. He was a teacher in the Mallakam and Kantherodai English Schools for some time.
Entering Government service as Inspector of Schools in 1910, he rose to Senior Grades and was promoted as Education Officer in 1927.
He spent his years of retirement in doing valuable service for the development of the Tamil language. He established a school at Chunnakam known as “Pirasanna Pada Salai”. His outstanding contribution was however the establishment of the "Ariya Thiravida Paasha Apivirithi Sangam', for the development of Ariya-Dravida languages. He was chiefly instrumental for several publications made by the Society. One of their publications on Tamil Grammar and Composition, Thamil molli Paiyuchium Thiruthamum is in use even today. The work is an aid to the study of Tamil language. He passed away on 27th November 1950.

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Arnold Sathasivampillai 1820-1895 Educationist & Journalist.
Arnold Sathasivampillai, scholar and writer, was born on 11th October 1820. He was the son of Arunasalam of Navaly Manipay, Jaffna.
He had his early education at the local village school and then entered the Batticotta Seminary in 1832. After receiving baptism, he continued his studies for about eight years. William Nevins Sithamparapillai and Caroll Visvanathan were among his classmates.
He commenced his teaching career with a short spell at Chavakachcheri, after which he taught at the Uduvil Girls’ School, where he eventually became Head Master in 1854.
He was the Editor of the popular vernacular Journal “Uthaya Tharakai” in 1857, which he continued to edit Sfor a long time.
Later, he joined Jaffna College and was the Chief Tamil Pandithar there, for over ten years, till he retired in 1891.
Arnold Sathasivampillai married Muthupillai, daughter of Kovinda Udaiyar.
He has written and published over ten works, all in Tamil.
Mrs Ranee Sathianathan c1910-..... M.A., Principal Methodist College.
All the children of Pastor Paul of Uduvil were of high intellectual calibre, most of them held important positions in the field of education. Ranee, the youngest daughter, was pre-eminent in this field.
She had her early education at Uduvil Girls' School and graduated in India obtaining the Master's Degree in Science.
Ranee Paul was a very successful
Principal of her old School at Uduvil. As a teacher, she made her Science, Mathematics and Physical Exercise classes very interesting to the students, with well -planned lessons. As Principal, she instilled punctuality and discipline. She showed the path to a disciplined way of life to every pupil in the School.
She married Rev. Victor Sathianathan.
In the 1960's, she was appointed VicePrincipal and later Principal of Methodist College Colombo, which position she held with highesteem.
Mrs. Neilambikai Sathyalingam
c1940Exponent of Bharatha Natiyam Dance
Neilambikai is a daughter of Dr. W. Balendra Hindu Art critic and Manonmani nee Kandiah. After her general education in Colombo, she proceeded to Madras and studied classical Indian dance at the Kalakshetra College of Fine Arts, under the guidance of Rukmani Devi. She obtained the Diploma for Bharatha Natiyam in 1957. She was awarded the post-graduate Diploma in Dance in 1972.
On her return, she organised training classes in Bharatha Natiyam dance. It is an ancient classical dance form, strictly conforming to the various artistic poses depicted in stone sculptures at Kanjeepuram temple, by the ancients. It is Art with grace.
In 1975, she proceeded to Singapore and has been actively engaged in teaching this dance to innumerable persons in Singapore. She founded an Indian dance group "Asparas'. She commenced being dance instructress at the Cairnhill Community Centre in 1982, so as to reach out to reach a wider community; she led the Cairnhill Indian Dance Group to the Australian Youth Music Festival in Melbourne. In 1983, she was appointed dance instructress and choreographer of the PA Indian Dance Group. She led a delegation of 22 Chinese, Malay and Indian dancers to the International Folk Dance Festivals in Belgium and France, in 1983.
She has created several dance dramatic compositions, which have been featured in television and the theatre.
Neilambikai Sathyalingam is the recipient of the 1989 Singapore Cultural Medallion for Dance and has been specially honoured by the Singapore Government. In 1995, the title of “Kala Ratna' was conferred on her.
Nei lambikai is married to

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S.Sathyalingam, son of C.Sunthara- lingam*. Sathyalingam is himself an able musician. He acquired proficiency in Carnatic Vocal music at the Kalakshetra Music School. They have a son and three daughters.
Gate Mudaliyar Sandrasagara
Saverimuttu, 1805-... Chief Mudaliyar, Jaffna.
Mudaliyar of the Governor's Gate Sandrasagara Saverimuttu was born in 1805. He entered Government service as a Clerk in 1827.
By diligence, hard work and winning recognition, he rose rapidly in the service; eventually he was appointed Chief Mudaliyar in 1843.
He served in the Jaffna Kachcheri for a long time and the title of Gate Mudaliyar was conferred on him in 1867.
He was a devout Catholic and was honoured for his devotion to religion, with titles and presentation of medals in 1879.
A.P.Savundaranayagam 1880-... . Classics Scholar.
Antony Peter Savundaranayagam, born on 27th February 1880, was from an ancient family in Jaffna, several of whom were scholars. He was the son of G.P.Savundaranayagam, who was a lawyer and a Tamil Scholar. His grandfather was a Tamil Pundit, Grammarian and Interpreter Mudaliyar at the Supreme Court.
Antony had a brilliant school career at Royal College winning several prizes. He passed his Cambridge Junior at the age of 12 years and Matriculated with First Class Honours.
Proceeding to England as a scholar, he graduated in Arts winning the Research Prize in comparative philology of Latin and Greek. He was also called to the Bar at the age of 24. Returning to Ceylon, he practised as an Advocate.
D.J. Sayampu Natha Mudialiyar 18th century.
Sayampu Natha Mudaliyar was an
eminent scholar who lived during the Dutch era at Maviddapuram in Jaffna.
He was one of the twelve eminent scholars invited by the Dutch Governor to frame the Law of the Land embodying the customs, manners, etc. of the people of Jaffna. Their compilation called the "Thesavalamai', constitutes the Laws of the people of Jaffna, even today.
The Mudaliyar had two sons Kanthappar and Sinnathamby. They are the ancestors of a long progeny of Bartletts, Macintyres, Knights, Hitchcocks etc., most of whom did well and held high positions.
M.S.Seevaratnam 1892-1984. B.A., Chief Accountant & Author:
M.S.Seevaratnam, born 27th April 1892, was from Kondavil, Jaffna. He was educated at Kilner College and Central College, Jaffna. He was one of the three to pass the first London University External Degree Examination held in Ceylon, in 1923.
He entered Government Service early in life and by his diligence and hard work, rose to higher posts in the service. Eventually he held the position of Chief Accountant in the Department of Education.
After retirement, he functioned as Deputy Commissioner for Registration of Indian and Pakistani residents in Ceylon.
He was an ardent supporter of the Federalist cause in Ceylon and contributed articles on Federalism and a Federal Constitution for Ceylon, in the 1940's. He published two books: The Sinhalese of Ceylon and the Aryan Theory and Tamil origin of English Language. He passed away on 14th October 1984.
Seevaratnam married Eunice Sugithamalar Kanagaratnam and had three sons: Harry Seevaratnam, a Barrister, President of Sri Lankan Society and Old Royalists of Sri Lanka in U.K., Theivendran Seevaratnam B.Sc (Econ)., A.C.A., a Chartered Accountant in Melbourne and Rasendran Seevaratnam.
TSeevaratnam 1866-..... Chief Appraiser; H.M. Custons Trincomalee.

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Thamotharampillai Seevaratnam was born on 2nd June 1866 in Trincomalee. His father
Thamotharampillai was a son of the much respected Vet havana Mudaliyar Kathirkamathamby.
Seevaratnam received his education at Wesley and Royal Colleges.
He entered the Customs Service at the age of 23 years and served at several places. He retired in 1924, after serving for thirty five years.
Seevaratnam married Thiyal -nayaki daughter of Swaminatha Vanniyanar Kathiravetpillai
Singai Segarajasekaran c1450-... . Royal Scholar.
Maha Vidvan Singai Segarajasekaran, the Royal Scholar of the 15th century, was a brother of the very successful King Singai Pararajasekaran (1478-1519) of Jaffna.
Their father King Kanagasuriam Singai Aryan took both brothers to India, when they were young. They had their upbringing in martial arts and scholarship in the Royal Courts of India.
Segarajasekaran was devoted to scholarship and learning, which he nourished even later, while his brother Pararajasekaran excelled on the throne. He sponsored the development of culture, learning and scholarship in the realm, and was an ornament to his brother's regime.
He inaugurated a Cultural Sangam in Jaffna. Eminent scholars and learned men were invited from India to hold discourses, under the auspices of the Royal Court.
Two outstanding works published then were an Astrological volume Segarajasekara Malai and a Medical treatise Pararajasekaram. The medical work has since been republished by Physician Ponniah of Erlalai.
Another very useful publication was the Sthala Puranam or Temple History of the Hindu Temple at Koneswaram, of which the King was a great devotee.The work entitled Thakshana Kailasa Puranam was composed by Segarajasekaran in Tamil verse.
However, great credit has been given to
the King who made all the arrangements needed for obtaining the necessary material for the work from India. A great work of much use for all ages has been produced. Copies of this masterpiece, as published in 1887 by Siva Sithampara Iyer, son of Karthigeya Iyer of Karai Nagar Jaffna, are available today.
Modern authors have drawn from this work as a source for writing stories about Trincomalee and the temple at Koneswaram.
Mudali Segarajasekaran 14th Century Pioneer:
Mudali Segarajasekaran was an early settler who came from Kanjepuram and colonised the Maviddapuram region of Jaffna.
It is said that he came with the following :- Viththa Thevan, Ulaku Kawalan, Punniya Poopan and Vinayaga Poopan.
It would be of interest to trace their progeny and descendants today.
Adigar A.Sellamuttu M.B.E 1877-..... Proprietary Planter & Philanthropist.
Adigar, a well known Broker, Director of Pappe & Co and Philanthropist, was born on 4th February 1877.
He was the son of Vinasithamby Velauthar Arumugam of Manipay Jaffna, a brother of a well established Broker, Sangarapilai.
Adigar Sellamuttu enjoyed high reputation as a great philanthropist. He contributed freely to several charitable organisations for the well being of the community.
The Dispensary building at the Green
Memorial Hospital, Manipay, Jaffna, was donated by him to facilitate the dispensing of medicines to patients in need.
He assisted the Manipay Hindu College in a large way for the educational upliftment of the youths of the community.
He made large donations to religious establishments in Colombo, Kathirkamam and Jaffna.

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He was a very popular personality of his time and held leading positions in many social and cultural institutions in the country.
Adigar Sellamuttu married Thaiyal Nayaki, daughter of Broker Kulaveerasingam, a son of Ambalavanar, who was a descendant of Manapuli Visuvasinga Mudaliyar. They had six sons: Somasunderam, Sivanathan, Nagendra, Sangarapillai*, Rajasingham and Balendra, and four daughters: Bales wari, Rajes wari, Sundareswari and Yogeswari.
Somasunderam Sellamuttu, the eldest son, was educated at Royal College. He took to Mercantile business in a big way, even when he was young, and held leading positions in several business enterprises. He was Senior Partner of Messrs. S. Sellamuttu&Co and Director of Messrs. Sellamuttu's Ltd...The Cargo Boat Dispatch Co., etc. He was honoured by being made a J.P.
Sivanathan Sellamuttu O.B.E., the second son, is Chairman and Managing Director Messrs. Sellamuttu Sivanathan & Co.
Nagendra was the first Shroff of the Bank of Ceylon and later Director of leading Mercantile Establishments in Colombo.
Sangarapillai Sellamuttu*, lawyer and businessman, became Mayor of Colombo.
S.Sellamuttu M.B.E. 1916-1993
Sangarapillai, fourth son of Adigar A.Sellamuttu, was born on 25th February 1916. He was educated at Royal College Colombo and later at Trinity College Cambridge.
He became a Proctor and an astute businessman of Colombo. On the invitation of Sir Chittampalam Gardiner:* he joined Ceylon Theatres Ltd. and took charge of the Company's finances, legal matters and the procurement of cinema films from India, eventually becoming its Chairman in 1974.
Becoming interested in Municipal politics, he was elected uncontested to represent the Cinnamon Gardens Ward in 1951. In the Municipal Council, he was chosen as Mayor of Colombo, at the early age of thirty five. During his regime the Kalatuwawa Water Supply Scheme was inaugurated, Trolley Buses were
introduced, etc.
He was a member of the Board of the State Mortgage Bank, the Board of Directors of Millers and Cargills etc., and Trustee of the Hindu Amman Temple at Mutuwal. He passed away in August 1993, at the age of 77.
Sangarapillai married Gnaneswari, daughter of Sokkanathan Thambyah in 1941.
S.Sellathurai ... - 1992 Attorney at Law, Chairman, Hatton-Dikoya U.C.
Sellathurai, was the son of Sinnathamby Sinniah of Alvai North. He was educated at Hartley College where he took a prominent part in School plays. Qualifying as a Proctor he soon established himself in the Hill country as a successful lawyer and Councillor.
He was a popular figure and soon became a senior member of the Hatton Bar. He was elected a Member of the local Urban Council, where he was chosen as Chairman.
He lived a long time after retirement and passed away in Australia in 1992.
Sellathurai married Kunaratnam, daughter of N.Thampoo of Araly and had six children :- Dhanalakshmi who qualified as a Doctor, Padminian Attorney at Law, Saroginia Doctor, Krishnakumar a Doctor, Vasantha an Accountant and Nandakumar was the last child.
K.A.Selliah J.P 1904-1983. B.Sc. (Lond). Dip. Ed., FPS Principal Jaffna College, 1947-1968
K.A.Selliah, born 27th October 1904, was a student of Jaffna College from 1917; he passed his Inter Science from there. Proceeding to University College, he graduated in Science.
Returning to his old School, he was appointed Science Master in 1924, and taught Physics and Mathematics. In about the year 1935, the College awarded him a scholarship which enabled him to proceed to London and secure an Honours Degree in Physics.
Rev. John Bicknell, Principal of Jaffna College for twenty five years, died in 1936. Rev. Bunker took over the Principalship. When VicePrincipal J.V.Chelliah retired, K.A.Selliah was

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appointed to that post. A few years later, when the Graduate Department was inaugurated in 1947, Rev. Bunker was appointed President and Selliah the first national Principal of Jaffna College.
Selliah steered the College ably for over twenty years by diligent management and hard work. He taught Physics for the Advanced Level and the Varsity Entrance Classes. He was a kind man, very helpful to the students and devoted to Jaffna College.
Even after retiring, he was in turn Welfare Officer, Honorary Treasurer and Member of the Board of Directors. He was honoured as "Principal Emeritus of Jaffna College', until his lamented demise on 5th October 1983. He had been associated with Jaffna College for sixty five years.
He had three sons and four daughters. One of his sons Rajan is a Doctor with M.R.C.P. qualification. Balan, another son is a First Class Honours Graduate in Mathematics with a Doctorate. His daughter Selvi Selliah followed her father's footsteps and became Principal of Uduvil Girls College, Chunnakam. Another daughter is married to Chartered Accountant Jehoratnam.
“Thikkam” Selliah Pilai c1880-... . Tamil Scholar.
Thikkam is the name of a village near Point Pedro, in the Jaffna Peninsula. Selliah Pillai, being an eminent citizen of that village was often referred to as "Thikkam Selliah Pillai' or even as just "Thikkam'.
He was the son of Sinnathamby, a Notary Public of Achchuvely, a nearby village. He was a learned person of high scholarly achievement. He was very conversant in Saiva religious shastras and temple rituals. He functioned as the Trustee of the Kandavana Kadavai Murukan Temple, near his village. He is known to have managed it very well, taking great pains in organising the rituals and ceremonies there. He is also known to have improved the temple building vastly.
Thikkam had a good knowledge of the ancient Tamil Puranams. He derived much pleasure in explaining the meaning of the puranic
verses in simple language.
He enjoyed a high reputation.
Nevins Selvadurai M.B.E.J.P 1863-1938. B.A., Principal Jaffna Hindu College, 1892 - 1909 & 1914 - 1926. M.S.C for Kayts, 1934.
Nevins Selvadurai, one of the ablest educationists of Ceylon who built up Jaffna Hindu College, was the youngest son of the scholar educationist Williams Nevins Sithamparapillai. Young Nevins was born on 15th October 1863 and had his early education at the Vaddukoddai Primary School. He then proceeded to the Jaffna Wesleyan Mission Central School, of which his father was Headmaster,
At the age of 15, he was sent to Madras, where he Matriculated from Presidency College. He then graduated in Science with Honours, winning a much coveted prize in Physics, at the age of 21. He had intentions of pursuing a medical career, but following the tradition of his distinguished father, he decided to devote himself to education and returned to his old School in Jaffna and was a teacher there for some time.
In 1891, Members of the Board of Jaffna Hindu College, then known as Hindu High School, with about 60 to 80 children, invited him to be its principal. They had confidence in his ability, although he was not a Hindu . He accepted the position which carried a monthly salary of Rs.60. Thus commenced a momentous period, both for him and for the institution.
The School rapidly grew , so did his reputation for being an able Principal. He worked hard serving with great success for several years. He built up the School to a high standard, on par with the best of the educational institutions in the North. It fast became a national institution as a fully equipped English Secondary School. He shaped the destinies of many youths of Jaffna. His association with Jaffna Hindu College was long. Commencing from 1892 it lasted till 1926, except for a short break when he was away at Kandy to serve at Trinity College on the invitation of Rev. A.G.Fraser.
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English and in Tamil. He was the guest-speaker at almost every School Prize Giving.
After his retirement in 1926, he functioned as Member of several organisations. He was a member of the Board of Education, a member of the University College Council, President of the Jaffna Association, Chairman of the Rural Education District Committee, etc. Becoming involved in politics, he successfully contested the Kayts seat in the first State Council in July 1934, defeating Mudaliyar Karalapillai and others. That was the Election held in Jaffna, after the boycott of the Donoughmore Constitution was abandoned. In the Council, he made valuable contribution to the discussions, as a Senior Educationist. He however failed to win the Jaffna Seat from Hon. A. Mahadeva, at the 1937 General Elections.
He had a heart attack and passed away on 28th April 1938, at the age of 76. His wife predeceased him two years earlier.
In appreciation of his services to Education, he was awarded the M.B.E. honour in 1915. The son had added lustre to a distinguished name, already established by his father Williams N. Sithamparapillai.
He was a strong supporter of the Wesleyan Church. He was a preacher, member of the Synod and regular worshipper.
Nevins Selvadurai married Margaret Annie Papapammah, el dest daughter of Muttusamy Watson and grand daughter of Rev. Richard Watson, in 1889, and had a large family. Among those who bemoaned his loss at the time of his demise, were his sons: Dr.R.V.N.Selvadurai, William D.N.Selvadurai the Colombo Proctor, Dr. D.D.N.Selvadurai, E.K.N.Selvadurai, A.J.D.N.Selvadurai a reputed Tennis player and cricketer, D.J.N.Selvadurai, and B.S.N.Selvadurai and the two daughters Mrs. Doresamy and Mrs. Hoisington. .
R.R.Selvadurai 1894-1973. Dist. Judge & Permanent Secretary,
Robert Rajanayagam Selvadurai, born 19th November 1894, was the son of Godwin William and Gnanamma Selvadurai of Chumidikuli Jaffna.
He had his early education at St.John's
College Jaffna. Later he studied at S.Thomas' College Colombo, where he continued as a teacher for some time.
He became an Advocate and practised in Colombo for about three years, before accepting a Judicial appointment. He functioned as Police Magistrate in Kalutara, and District Judge in Tangalle, Badulla, Kegalle, Kandy and Jaffna. He was then appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice in 1951, which post he held till his retirement in 1955.
R.R.Selvadurai married Lilly Suhitharetnam Saravanamuttu and had two sons: G.E.Selvadurai who is in Germany, and K.C.Selvadurai who is an Accountant in Singapore and three daughters: Gnanamma who is married to G.S. Arnold D.R.O., Parimalam who is married to Dr. S.J. Bartlet and Dr.(Mrs).I.L. Canagasabai of Tasmania.
S.A.Selvanayagam 1906-1972 Businessman & Commission Agent, Batticaloa.
Sabapathipillai Albert Selva— nayagam, born on 5th July 1906, was the eldest of eight children of Joseph and Annam Sabapathipillai of Katkovalam Point Pedro.
His parents moved to Batticaloa, when he was a young boy. He was educated at St.Michaels and Wesley Colleges. He started working in the Post Office, but soon gave it up and took charge of his father's business interests in Batticaloa. He was Commission Agent, Broker and Insurance Agent. He was also proprietor of several business establishments connected with the motor industry. He soon became a leading businessman in Batticaloa.
He was member of the Batticaloa Urban Council for several years and its Chairman for a term. He was devoted to the Methodist Church. He was a member of the Provincial Synod and Manager of the Methodist Mission Schools in Batticaloa for a long time. He was awarded the OBE in 1953. He passed away on 1st January 1972.
In 1929 Selvanayagam married Rani, daughter of Ponnuduraisamy and a sister of PSiri Skanda Rajah Supreme Court Judge, and had three sons: Leslie Kulendran, Kingsley

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Balendran and Princely Rajendran (Rajan), who was an S.L.F.P Member of Parliament and died in 1986, and a daughter Selvaranee Selliah.
V.Selvanayagam 1912-1981 Eng. Asst., Personal Officer, Malaysian Railways.
Selvanayagam was the son of
Apothecary V.Vallipuram and Sinnachi of Urumpirai. He had his early education at the Jaffna Hindu College. Later he studied at the Victoria Institution Kuala Lumpur. He received his technical training also in Kuala Lumpur, at the Technical College there.
He joined the Malayan Railways in 1933 as a Technical Assistantand and by his diligence and training rose to be Eng. Assistant and later Structural Superintendent. He was holding the post of Personnel Officer, when he retired in 1969.
He was a very active person who held leading positions in technical, social and religious societies. He was President of the Cooperative Union of Malaya 1956- 1957, President of the Technical Association of Malaya in 1967, Chairman, International Association of Tamil Research Malaysia, 1979-1981 etc.
He rendered valuable help to the Hindu College at Urumpirai by donating lands and providing financial assistance.
He passed away on 23rd June 1981. Professor Rajakrishnan Ramasamy Ph.D has dedicated his book entitled Sojourners to Citizens 1988, to V.Selvanayagam's memory.
Selvanayagam married Maheswari daughter of Chelliah and had a son Dr.Thiagi and a daughter Kamaladevi.
S.Selvarajah 1911-1991 Crown Proctor, Jaffna.
Selvarajah, born on 10th September 1911,
was the younger son of Proctor Saravanamuthu of Chetty Street, Nallur, Jaffna who practised at Kandy. Selvarajah's elder brother Thangarajah was a distinguished Advocate of Colombo, who married Speaker Sir W. Duraiswamy's*
daughter. -
Selvarajah became a Proctor and enjoyed a good practice in Jaffna. He functioned as Crown Proctor in Jaffna for several years. He was elected President of the Saiva Pari Palana Sabai and other social institutions and was a popular personality in the town. He passed away on 27th March 1991.
Selvarajah married Valliyanayaki, daughter of Velupillai of Urumpirai and had five children: Sathiyabama who first married Dr. Sivakadachcham and on his demise married Engineer Somasundaram, Saravanamuthu an Accountant who married Dr. Bhuvana Kasilingam, Nithiyanandan who married a daughter of Irrigation Engineer Jayasingh, Nalayini who married Accountant Shivanath, and Accountant Sri Kantha who married Geetha.
Rev. S. Selvaratnam 1906-1973. Founder "Christa Seva Ashram' Maruthanamadam, Jafna.
Rev. Samuel Subramaniam Selvaratnam, born in Jaffna in 1906, was educated at Jaffna Central College. He had his theological training at Serampore, where he obtained his B.D in 1927. سمبر
It had been his long cherished desire to have in Jaffna, an "Ashram" a place of refuge and quiet life, where Christians of all the Churches could meet and which would also exemplify the ideals of Christian service. With the help given by many and ably assisted by Rev. E.M. Weaver, foundations were laid for five buildings at Maruthanamadam, in 1939.
Very soon it commenced to function and the undertaking was a great success. Rev.Selvaratnam, "Peri Annan', as he was
known, worked unceasingly for the cause. He
visited Europe in 1949; his visit to U.K., in 1960, is remembered for the commencement of a Tamil Christian Service in U.K by Rev. S.W.Arasaretnam in 1972.
Peri Annan passed away in 1973, but the Ashram, which is over 50 years old, perpetuates his memory. It has now become a big Refuge Centre. There is also a Theological Seminary.

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Sempaha Perumal, alias Sapumal Kumaraya Agent of the King of Kotte in Jaffna 1450-1467, Later; King Bhuvaneka Bahu VI of Kotte, 1473-1480.
During the reign of King Parakrama Bahu VI at Kotte, there came to his Court a Cholian Panikkan who showed great ability.
The King accepted him and got him married to a “Woman of Rank'. The couple had two sons and a daughter. The elderson Sempaha Perumal, also known as Sapumal Kumaraya, grew in valour and ability and soon distinguished himself. He even excelled the Royal Prince in the Court.
It was therefore considered prudent to keep him occupied in some distant place far away from the Kotte Kingdom. The King decided to send him to subdue the Northern Vanni Chiefs and the King of Jaffna, Kanagasuria Singai Aryan*.
Making a spectacular march, Sempaha Perumal easily subdued the Vanni Chiefs but encountered stiff resistance at Jaffna. When he returned to Kotte with the hostages he had taken, the King sent him back once again in 1450. This
time he was asked to overthrow the Tamil
Monarch and remain in Jaffna.
Unfortunately for the Jaffna King, this time his expected support from India did not arrive in time. Although his own forces showed much bravery in the fierce battles that ensued, the City of Singai Nagar was destroyed and heavy slaughter took place. After a time, King Kanagasuria decided to withdraw in order to spare his subjects the ravages of prolonged warfare.
Sempaha Perumal took charge of the Jaffna Kingdom and established himself there in 1450, as an Agent of the King of Kotte. He engaged himself in repairing the destruction caused during the war and rebuilt much of the city. In 1467, hearing of the demise of King Parakrama Bahu at Kotte, he advanced on Kotte with an army, leaving one Vijaya Bahu in charge at Jaffna.
At Kotte he met with some opposition and took some time to establish himself. Eventually
he was crowned as Bhuvenaka Bahu VI, King of Kotte, and ruled from 1473 to 1480.
Meanwhile King Kanagasuria regained his Jaffna Kingdom, defeating Vijaya Bahu and his forces.
Mariyai Sempathai Vannichi c 17th century.
History records that Vannichi Mariyai Sempathai ruled her little kingdom in the Vanni hinterland very successfully. She is said to have defied all attempts by the Dutch to subjugate her.
Finally the Dutch Commander of Jaffna sent Arachchi Pootha Nathar with a retinue to overcome her and bring her as captive.
But Pootha Nathar was able to persuade her, by clever Machiavellian strategy to go to Jaffna voluntarily in a stately palanquin. Once she reached the Fort in Jaffna, she was handcuffed, taken prisoner and deported.
J.W.P.Senathirajah J.P.U.P.M. 1863-..... Crown Proctor Puttalan.
John Wirt Ponniah Senathirajah, younger brother of Advocate Senathirajah of Colombo, was born in Jaffna in 1863. He was educated at St.John's College, from where he passed the Madras Matriculation Examination.
He passed the Government Clerical Service Examination and worked in that service for a short time.
Later he studied Law and became a Proctor in 1893. He established his practice in Puttalam , where he was appointed Crown Proctor.
He was a long time resident of Puttalam and owned several estates there.
N.Senathiraya Mudaliyar 1750-1840 Reputed scholar from Irupalai
The Mudaliyar was a scholar of great repute. He was the son of Nallainatha Mudaliyar of Irupalai.
He received tuition from esteemed

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scholar Kulankai Thambiran and others. He was proficient in Portuguese and in English as well. He is said to have functioned in the Courts as Counsel and Interpreter. He also functioned as Maniyagar.
He was responsible for the compilation of a Tamil Dictionary, published from Manipay. Several of his students, including Arumuga Navalar became well known Scholars later.
Among his publications were compositions in Tamil about Nallur Temple, Maviddapuram Temple etc.
Brahma Sri Kasi Vasi S.Senthinatha Iyer, 1848-1924 Scholar, Author & Publisher from Erlalai, Jafna.
Iyer, born on 17th October 1848, was the son of Sinniah Iyer of Erlalai, Jaffna. During his early years he was taught classical Tamil and Sanskrit by his uncle. He also studied English at the Wesleyan Central School.
He became a school master and was teaching at Arumuga Navalar's School at Vannarpannai 1872-78.
He then proceeded to India and gained greater proficiency, imbibing further knowledge of the Hindu Sashtras. He took great pleasure in reading and reciting the Puranas to audiences at various places. He also resided in Banaras (Kasi) for about ten years.
Later, he was able to set up a Printing Press of his own, named "Senthinatha Iyer Swamy Yanthirsasalai', with the help of others. All his writings, numbering more than twenty, were published there.
R.E.J.A.Sethukavalar 1912-1988 B.A., School Vice-Principal.
Sethukavalar, son of Proctor J.A and grandson of Rev.R.N. Sethukavalar*., was born on 28th December 1912. He was educated at Batticaloa Central College and later proceeded to Ananda College, as a scholar. There he won the Hewawitharne Prize and prizes in History and English.
He later obtained the London B.A degree
in the First Division and the Post-graduate Teacher Certificate.
He joined the staff of Batticaloa Central College as an assistant teacher and gradually rose to the position of Vice-Principal there. He was later lecturer in Mathematics and English at the Teachers Training College Palaly and on retirement was appointed Supervisor of Mathematics in the Upper School at St.John's College.
Sethukavalar was a devoted Christian, a Lay Preacher and Vice-President of the Methodist Synod. He married Selvaranee, daughter of Proctor B.O.Pullenayagam. He passed away on 27th December 1988.
Rev.R.N.Sethukavalar M.A 1846 - 1920. School Headmaster.
Rev. Robert.N. Sethukavalar was born on 17th June 1846 at Batticaloa. He entered the Ministry in 1875. He was one of the first to obtain the Master's degree in Ceylon. He was engaged mostly in the Educational field; he was the first Ceylonese Headmaster of Methodist Central College Batticaloa. He retired in 1899.
He also worked as Minister in Jampettah St. Colombo and Eravur. He was Co-editor and Publisher of a monthly paper called the “The North Ceylon Christian Herald". He published a textbook on Arithmetic in Tamil. He passed away on 7th July 1920.
Rev. Seth ukavalar married Miss Allegakoon and had four sons: J.A., R.N. S.H and W. A. Sethukavalar and a daughter Nesammah. The eldest son Proctor J. A. Sethu kavalar married another Miss Allegakoon and had a son R.E.J.A.* and two daughters Hilda and Mercy. The daughter Nesammah married Proctor B.O.Pullenayagam and had two sons: A.B.S.N.Pullenayagam of the Ceylon Civil Service and V.S.A.Pullenayagam, Deputy Solicitor General, and two daughters Selvaranee and Kamalaranee.
TSevanthinatha Thesikar c1910Scholar & Publisher from Karanavai, Jafna.

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Thesikar was the son of Thirujnana Sampanthar of Karanavai in Jaffna.
He was brought up by his father's brother, who gave him a good foundation in Tamil and Sanskrit. He thereafter joined the Prasanna Pada Salai at Chunnakam and continued his higher studies. He obtained tuition under the reputed Ganesha Iyer too.
Later he established a School and an Association for educational upliftment in his village.
He was responsible for publication of several works, including his own. One of his works which was popular for a long time was Thamil Molly Araichi.
K.Shanmuganathan Q.C (K.S.Nathan) 1930-1990. Barrister in London
. Shanmuganathan, also known as K.S.Nathan, was the son of Shanmugam Kandiah and Sundaram of Karainagar, Jaffna. He was born on 24th May 1930, in Ipoh Malaya.
He had his early education at the Anglo Chinese School in Ipoh and at the Teachers' Training College in Singapore. After being a teacher and Personnel Officer in Singapore for a short time, he proceeded to England in 1959 and obtained his LL.B from the London University. Later he was called to the Bar from Lincoln Inn.
He practised in London and was a specialist in Immigration Law. He worked for the immigrants and was very familiar with the rights of the individual as enshrined in common law. He was part-time Chairman, Value Added Tax Tribunal, Member, Bar Disciplinary Tribunal and Bar Race Relations Committee. He passed away on 20th November 1990.
K.S.Nathan married Elizabeth Mary Woodwark and had three children: Mohan who died in an air crash, Indrani and Anil.
K.Shanmugarajah 1925 -
Dip.Eng (Hons), Lond, FIE (S.L), FICE, CEng.
Shanmugarajah, born 9th April 1925, is
the son of K.S.Kanagasabapathy and Ponnammah of Kondavil East, Jaffna. He had his early education at Jaffna Hindu College. Joining the Irrigation Service, he proceeded to Kingston Polytechnic London, where he obtained his Diploma in Engineering with Honours.
After serving in the Irrigation Department, where he rose to the Deputy Director grade, he was Adviser on Irrigation Development, Nigeria, for two years from 1980.He was then on a World Bank assignment and later on FAO assignment for four years. Returning to Sri Lanka, he was involved with the United States Agency for International Development till 1992. He now resides in Australia, engaged in writing technical literature; an excelent book on “Water ResourceS Development - Jaffna Peninsula' was published in 1995.
Shanmugarajah married Yogarani, daughter of S.Balasubramaniam of Kondavil East and has a son Sudarshan.
N.Shanmugarajah 1917MIEE, Chartered Engineer Gen. Manager, Cey. Electricity Board.
Shanmugarajah, born 6th November 1912, is the son of S. Nadarajah and Pakialakshmi nee Vairamuttu of Vannarpannai. He had his education at the Jaffna Central College and followed a course in Engineering at the Ceylon Technical College, Colombo.
He was then an apprentice under
Calendar Cables Ltd. in South India. Later, he joined the Dept. of Electrical Undertakings, Ceylon, and rose steadily in the service to eventually become General Manager of the Ceylon Electricity Board. He was a popular person and was very much involved in social and cultural development of the Tamil community.
Shanmugarajah married Padmavathy, daughter of Duraipillai and has three children: Priyadarshini, Chitraleka and Ravi Prakash.
K.C.Shanmugaretnam 1919-1966. Ayurvedic Physician.

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Shanmugaretnam, born 11th December 1919, was the son of Ayurvedic Physician Kandapillai Chinnathamby of Vannarpannai and brother of K.C..Thangarajah*.
He had his early education at Jaffna Hindu College and following his father's profession, pursued his medical studies at the Kilpuk Medical College, Madras and obtained his Licentiate in Indigenous Medicine (L II M), in 1947.
He then took charge of his father's practice at Vannarpannai and became well known as a specialist in children's diseases. He was responsible for some pioneering work in modernising Ayurvedic drug production. He was a popular person who was very helpful to others. He was also involved in the production of the Tamil Newspaper Eelanadu.
Shanmugaretnam married Parvathavarthini, daughter of Amirthalingam of Mallakam and had five children: Rajan who married Thisangani, Jayanthi, Medical Graduate & Lecturer Jaffna University, married to T.Jeganathan Attorney-at-Law, Nanthakumar Chartered Accountant who married Sujitha, Manjula married to R.Swaminathan Chartered Accountant, and Ranjit Financial Analyst who married Thairialakshmii.
V.S.C.Singam c1905Business entrepreneur of the 1940
50s Negotiated Trade with China.
The Firm of Messrs. Singham Bros & Co (Ceylon) Ltd., with a branch in Bombay, was very much in the lime light in business circles of Colombo, during the 1940-50's.
V.S.C.Singham was at one time the Secretary of the Young Lanka League and a keen politician.
When he embarked on business ventures, he did not hesitate to take risks, which very often turned out to be favourable.
That was the case with his "Trade with China' venture. He took the initiative to commence trading Ceylon's rubber for rice from China. That brought him to the forefront of the business world.
C.V.Sinnapillai c1840-..... Tamil Literary Novelist, Younger brother of Rao Bahadur C. W. Thamotharam Pillai.
Sinnapillai was the son of Vairavanathar of Sirupiddi in Jaffna, and was the younger brother of the more well known C.V.Thamotharam Pillai.
During his active years, Sinnapillai held high office in India.
On retirement, he returned to Jaffna and spent his time in improving Tamil prose writing in the country. He wrote several Tamil literary novels and had them published.
Prof. A.Sinnatamby 1911-1986. FRCS(Eng), FRCS(Edin), FRCOG.
Sinnatamby, born in September 1911, was the son of S.Appucutty and Thevanaipillai of Manipay. He had his early education at Manipay Hindu College and then at Royal College Colombo, as a scholar. Entering the Medical College, in 1928, he completed the Final Examination first in the First Class and won prizes.
Joining the Medical Service, he served at Vavuniya, Kandy, and Divulapitiya. In 1947, he proceeded to U.K and obtained higher qualifications. On his return, after a short time at the General Hospital, he was appointed Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ceylon University.
He encouraged and contributed freely for the study of medicine and Tamil language and sponsored the publication of a Tamil classic. He also made some medical publications in Tamil. In his later years he identified himself actively in furthering medical and Tamil academic developments in Jaffna. He passed away on the 1st of March 1986, at the age of 75.
He married Leelawathie, daughter of Proctor R.R.Nalliah and had five children: Vasanthi who is married to R. Paskaralingam Govt. Chief Secretary, Malini who is married to Ganeshlingam, Ganeswaran an Accountant who married Logeswari, Sivamathy who is married to Bhuvana Krishna and the youngest is Ketheeswaran.

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Dr.M.Sinnatamby c1870-..... M.D., F.R.C.S.
Dr.M.Sinnatamby, an eminent Gynaecologist and Obstetrician of his time, was the son . of Vinasitham by Murugesu of Anaikoddai, Jaffna.
He had a distinguished career and his professional services were sought by many, which made him very popular.
He married Ponnambal, daughter of Ramalingam, Notary Public of Anaikoddai and had two sons, Weerasekaram and Nadarajah and three daughters Thaiyalnayaki, Saraswathi and Nagulamba.
Dr. Weerasekaram Sinnatamby became an eminent Dental Surgeon; Advocate Nadarajah Sinnatamby entered the Judicial service and was a Supreme Court Judge. The first daughter was married to V.Coomaraswamy CCS (later Sir)*; the second to P.C. Villavarayan Legal Draftsman. and the third to K. Somasuntharam CCS.
J.R.Sinnatamby 1905-..... B.Sc (Lond), Dep. Surveyor General
John Rasasingham Sinnatamby was born on 18th September 1905.
Graduating from the University College he was selected and sent to U.K for training in Surveying.
He was appointed Assistant Superintendent of Surveys in 1933 and rose to the grade of Deputy Survey General.
After retirement he spent much of his time in research in the history of the Tamils. He was a frequent reader at the Royal Asiatic Society Library and has contributed papers there.
In 1978, he contributed a series of articles to the “Ceylon Daily News', which was later published as a booklet with the title The Travails of Wanni. It contained excerpts from historical writings relating to the vicissitudes of the Tamil population in the Northern Vanni region of Sri Lanka.
S.Sinnathamby Pulavar 1745-.... . Pulavar from Inuvil.
S.Sinnathamby Pulavar was from Inuvil and was the son of Sithamparanathar from that village in Jaffna.
Even when he was young, he had a reputation for composing verses. Later, he was engaged by the Dutch authorities for drafting documents.
He has composed several verses in praise of the deity Siva Kama Sundari installed in the Inuvil Ambal Temple, whom he venerated.
One day, by a misadventure he was locked up by the Guards. He then besought intervention by the Goddess whom he venerated and was miraculously released and set free.
To the Inuvil folks he is their poet. To perpetuate his memory, they have erected a small pretty community building close to the poet's favourite Ambal temple at Inuvil.
V.Sinnathamby Pulavar 1716-1760 Eminent Nallur Pulavar:
Villavarayar Sinnathamby Pulavar was a poet of great distinction, who lived in Nallur, Jaffna.
His father Mudaliyar Villavarayar of Nallur was a highly educated person who was held in great respect by the people and the Government. He was a descendant from the Royal family of King Pararajasekaran of Jaffna. He was one of those appointed by the Dutch Governor to compile and codify the Laws and Customs of the Tamils of Jaffna. This eventually became a proper Legal Act entitled the "Thesavalamai', in 1707. It is the Law of the Land even today and is applicable to the Tamils of Jaffna only. It has been said that Kulankai Thambiran, the reputed tutor, spent much of his time with the Mudaliyar.
Young Sinnathamby being the son of the Mudaliyar, therefore grew up under the guidance and tutelage of Kulankai who was a strict disciplinarian. Sinnathamby, who started composing verses even when he was seven years old, unfortunately started playing truant and fell from grace.
One day he took his father by surprise,

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by completing some verses which his father had left incomplete. Thereafter he was reconciled with his father and turned a new leaf in his
Caree.
He commenced his life-task of composing celebrated poetical works on the traditional lore of the land.
Among his works are:- "Paralai Pallu’ composed in the form of narration among harvesting folks. The lore is of a historical incident, when a Portuguese temple demolition leader, who went to demolish the Paralai Pillaiyar Temple, had to abandon his mission as he was stung in the eye by a crow. It is a popular work read by many. It is available as a separate book.
“Kalvalai Anthathi", or the story of the Vinayakar Temple at Kalvalai in Sandilippai. It is popular with the devotees of the temple.
"Marasai Anthathi”, composed at the age of fifty, during a pilgrimage to Chithamparam and Vetharniam.
“Karavai Velan Kovai”, another temple history.
C.M.Sinnayah Mudaliyar 1854-....
The Mudaliyar, born in 1854, was from Anaikoddai. He was educated at the Batticotta Seminary in Jaffna and continued further studies in India.
On his return he held several posts in Jaffna. He was a Director of the Jaffna Hindu College and Manager of a School at Anaikoddai. He married a daughter of Karthigesu Udaiyar. ''
W.Nevins Sithamparapilai 1820-1889 Educationist of the 19th Century
William Nevins Sithamparapillai, the educationist father of the renowned educationist Nevins Selvadurai, was born in Sanguvely, Jaffna in 1820.
His father Muttu Cumarar, a Chetty from Maviddapuram, was the Trustee of a Hindu temple there. He was a timber merchant owning
large extents of paddy fields and was well to do. He had four daughters. Sithamparapillai was his fifth child; he was born in 1820 after his father's pilgrimage to the famous Sithamparam Temple in South India where he prayed for a male offspring. As he was born soon after, he was named Sithamparam - pillai.
Young Sithamparapillai, who was a brilliant pupil, was educated at Vaddukkoddai High School and the Batticotta Seminary. He commenced his teaching career in 1840, as an Asst. Teacher in the English School at Manipay. After 1846 he was taken as an Instructor at the Seminary. When the seminary was closed in 1856, he went over to Madras. While there, he assisted Dr.Winslow in publishing his dictionary. Returning to Jaffna he was Headmaster of the Wesleyan Central School for over twenty five years. Later,he founded a School of his own named the Native Town High School at Vannarpannai. It was taken over by Advocate Nagalingam and others in 1889. Later, that School became the Jaffna Hindu College and was under his son's Principalship. He passed away soon after, in 1889.
He first married a daughter of Rev. Stickney of Uduvil and had a son and a daughter. After the death of his first wife, he married Ponnammah, daughter of Kandar of Maviddapuram and had three children: Rasammah who was married to V. Watson, Joshua who was later in the Irrigation Department and Nevins Selvadurai, who became an esteemed educationist.
W.N. Sithamparapillai was a scholar, mathematician and writer in Tamil. Unfortunately his works have not been preserved. He compiled an English-Tamil Dictionary with very clear and original definitions. Elements of Logic, Selections from Literature, and Essentials of Tamil Grammar were some of his other writings.
KSittambalam 1911-1985 B.A (Lond)., Dir of Finance, etc.
Sittambalam, born 2nd October 1911, was the son of Perambalam Kanapathipillai and Sinnachipillai of Moolai, Jaffna. He had his early education at Victoria College Chulipuram

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and later at Jaffna College Vaddukkoddai.
He entered the Clerical Service in 1929; he graduated in Philosophy in around 1934, obtained Diploma in Public Administration and became a qualified Government Accountant. He was Accountant Marketing Board in 1956-1960, Asst. Commissioner and later Deputy Comr. of Agrarian Services 1960-1968 and Comr. in 1967. He was Director of Finance, General Treasury, till 1974 when he retired. He then functioned as Dep.Chairman C.W.E for 8 years, making it a viable organisation.
He was Secretary of The Vivekananda
Society Colombo, member of Hindu Temple restoration committees and gave regular talks on different aspects of Hinduism, over the radio. He was the first Honorary Registrar of the “Navalar Hall' educational establishment in Colombo. He passed away on 17th May 1985, at the age of 74.
Sittambalam married Manonmani Arumugam and had five sons: Kanapathipillai, Sivagnanasundaram, Balas un daram, Dr.Rajasundaram, and Kumarasundaram and three daughters: Selvanayaki, Sivanayaki and Sathiyanayaki.
Dr.A.Sittampalam 1922 - F. R. C. P, FR, C. Psy , D. PM Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist
Sittampalam, born 30th November 1922, is the son of Visuvanathar Arumugam and Kanapathyar Sinnapillai of Ariyalai Jaffna. He had his early education at St.John's College and entered the Ceylon Medical College.
Passing out as a doctor, he was a Medical Officer in Sri Lanka. Later, he obtained further qualifications in U.K. He commenced working in U.K., where he eventually became a Consultant Forensic Psychiatristin Berkshire. He helps the Tamil Community and was one of the founder contributors towards the Hindu Temple at Highgate.
Dr. Sittampalam married Puvaneswari, daughter of Casipillai Parumu, and has six children:- Yogeswaran, Jegatheswaran, Naguleswaran, Ganeswaran, Ketheswaran and Thayalini.
Arjuna S.Sittampalam 1946 - B.Sc Maths Hons (Cey), Diploma in Mathematical Physics, Ph.D
(Lond).
Arjuna Sittampalam, who has won spectacular success in “Investment Banking' and as “Fund Manager' in Great Britain, is the brilliant son of C.Sittampalam C.C.S and Minister. He was born on 9th April 1945. His genealogy may be seen under his father's biography.
Young Arjuna showed his brilliance from
his very early years. He won several awards
and prizes at Royal College, where he was a Scholar, till 1963. Entering the University of Ceylon, he passed the B.Sc. Special Mathematics Examination with First Class Honours, in 1966 and was awarded Science Research Scholarship.
After being a Lecturer at the Ceylon University for two years, he proceeded to Imperial College, University of London in 1968. There he completed a Diploma course in Mathematical Physics and obtained his Ph.D in 1972.
He then followed a course and qualified as a Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries, in 1977. After some time in consulting actuarial practice, he joined Abbey Life Assurance in 1979, where he managed large funds with remarkable success, and was awarded the "Fund Manager of the Year' accolade in 1986. He excelled in Fund Management practice in Ireland and earned highesteem.
In 1987, he joined Swiss Bank Corporation as Head of Investments, Swiss Bank Portfolio Management International and Director of Swiss Bank Investment Services. He was later General Manager of Japan's Sanwa Bank, the fifth largest in the world, engaged in launching Unit Trusts in Britain. He has since set up his own consultation practice.
He has been addressing various Seminars and lecturing on Investments and related subjects in Europe, America and Asia.
Ganesh, his only child, is a mathematical prodigy. Born on 11th February 1979, in Croydon, he surpasses his father Arjuna and his grandfather C.Sittampalam, as a genius.

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Ganesh attends a school near his residence, studies all the subjects and has all the normal interests of any other boy of his age. In mathematics however, he is a genius. At the age of 8 years 9 months, he passed the G.C.E "O' Level Mathematics Examination, securing an "A" Grade, being the youngest student ever to do so. At the age of 10 years 4 months, he passed the G.C.E. "A" Level Mathematics, securing "A" Grade in two subjects. This was followed with success at the “S” Level also.
At the age of eleven years, he attended mathematics degree classes at the Surrey University, in addition to the normal classes of a eleven year old, in other subjects, at a Secondary School. He graduated in Mathematics with First Class Honours at the age of 13, in 1992.
C.Sittampalam 1898-1964 B.A(Cantab)., Barrister, C.C.S. M.P., Cabinet Minister:
C. Sittampalam, Civil Servant and Minister, was the son of Proctor A.Cathiravelu J.P.U.P.M., Member Jaffna Local Board, who was a grandson of Visuvanathan. Visuvanathan has an ancestry descending from Canagasekara Kothanda Kuriyan.*, a descendant of the Royal "Kuriyans’ (Heralds) of the Tamil Kings of Jaffna,
Sittampalam was born on 13th September 1898. His brilliance became evident when he passed the Cambridge Senior Examination with First Class Honours and Distinction in Mathematics, at the age of fifteen. Two years later, he secured a Science Scholarship, at the Inter Science Examination, and proceeded to England. There he graduated at Cambridge University and was also called to the Bar from the Middle Temple.
He entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1923 and served at several stations as ASSt. Govt ...Agent, Magistrate, District Judge,etc.
On relinquishing that service, he practised as an Advocate and entered the political field. He was elected Member for the Vavuniya-Mannar seat in the Ceylon State Council; there he functioned as Cabinet Minister for Posts and Telecommunications. He was also
Minister of Industries, Industrial Research and Fisheries for some time. He won the Mannar Seat, defeating the U.N.P candidate, at the 1947 Elections . He retained the Seat at the subsequent 1952 Elections, but lost it in 1956. He passed away on 3rd February 1964.
Sittampalam married his cousin Kamalambikai Subramaniam and had four daughters: Devalakshmi a lawyer, Pushpalakshmi also a lawyer, Yogalakshmi M.Sc (Maths) and Mallikalakshmi also M.Sc (Maths) and eminent son Arjuna Sittampalam.
S.Sittampalam 1913-.... B.Sc (Special) Lond, Commissioner, Dept. of Inland Revenue.
Sittampalam, born on 1st December
1913, was the son of Sangarapillai of Mallakam. He was a brother of Civil Servant Kathirkamanathan.
After his graduation, he was appointed Probationer in the Department of Inland Revenue in 1935. In 1937 he was appointed Assistant Assessor, after which he rose steadily in the service, eventually becoming the Commissioner of Inland Revenue, Estate Duty and Stamps in 1961.
He held this position with great acceptance for several years, until his retirement. He passed away in the 1980's.
S. Sittampalam married a daughter of I. Rasanayagam, son of Mudaliyar C.Rasanayagam.
Dr.K.Sivagnana Ratnam 1907-1986 D.I.M & H., Supt. of Health Services.
Sivagnana Ratnam, born 20th July 1907, was a son of C. Kanagaratnam, Proprietor, “C.K. Ratnam Dispensary' and a brother of C.K. Kandaswamy, Principal Kokkuvil Hindu College.
He was educated at Jaffna Hindu College and entering Medical College passed out as a doctor.
He entered the Medical Services as a

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Field Medical Officer and served at many stations. He was Medical Officer in 1943, Dist. Medical Officer in 1946. In 1954 he was Resident Obstetrician in Castle St Maternity Hospital, a work in which he excelled helping the poor and the needy. Eventually he was Dep. Superintendent Health Services in 1958 and Medical Superintendent Jaffna Hospital later. After retirement, he was for sometime Director of Obstetrics at the Green Memorial Hospital, Manipay.
During his later years, he was very much involved in cultural and musical activities. His special interest was in promoting and teaching children to sing Hindu devotional songs (Thevarams) in the traditional “Punn Murai”. He was one of the founders of the Ramanathan Music Academy and held a leading Office there.
He married a daughter of Gate Mudaliyar Ponnambalam of Urumpirai and had five children: Dr.Padmini Kasinathan, Dr.Nalaini Pasupathy, Sri Krishnaratnam an Engineer, Muhunthini Sivapatham and Dr. Sri Ramaretnam Ph.D (Agriculture).
V.Sivaguru 1887-..... Maniyagar
Vaithilingam Sivaguru, born 1887, was Chief Clerk of Minor Courts, Badulla.
He was appointed Maniyagar of Thenmarachi Division in Jaffna District, in 1932.
V.Sivaguru 1914-1987 B.Sc (Physics) Hons.
Sivaguru, born 30th April 1914, was the third son of S. Velupillai and Thangamma of Kovalam, Karainagar Jaffna. He had his early education at Victoria College Chulipuram and at Manipay Hindu College. Proceeding to the Ceylon University College, as a scholar, he graduated with Honours in Physics.
After being a teacher at St.John's College, and an Inspector of Schools (Science Division) for short periods, he was appointed Superintendent of Examinations. From there he was transferred to the Dept. of Educational Publications, where he excelled in preparing
Tamil translations of English Mathematics and Physics books. These were of great value to the Tamil stream students, preparing for higher examinations.
Sivaguru was a social and religious worker. He was the President of the Karainagar Development Society and a keen devotee of the Sivan Temple. His hobby was promoting planting of trees, which he encouraged every one to do.
He married Thaiyalnayaki daughter of C.Rajah of Neeraviady and had seven children: Sivanayaki, an Annamalai University "Sangeetha Booshanam' who was married to Accountant M.Nadarajah, Arulnayaki, a Medical Graduate married to Dr.N.Balasubramaniam, Sivarajan an Engineer who married M.Sakuntala, Sivapalan also an Engineer who married Jayarajee, Sivaraman an Electrical Engineer who married V.Ananthi, Suntharanayaki married to A.Nallainathan and Thangavelan, an Accountant who married M.Sharmini.
R.Sivagurunathar 1885-.... Proctor, Chairman, Jaffna U.C.
Born on 13th April 1885, in a distinguished family in Vannarpannai, Jaffna, Sivagurunathar had his early education at the Jaffna Hindu College.
He chose a legal career and became a Proctor S.C..and built up a lucrative practice in Jaffna.
He was elected a Member of the Jaffna Local Board. When the civic administration of Jaffna changed to Urban Council status, Sivagurunathar was chosen as Chairman of the new Jaffna Urban Council in 1929. He held that position with distinction for the next three years.
He was closely related to T.Chellapahpillai retired Chief Justice of Travancore.
R.Sivalingam 1932Educationist from the Hill Country
Ratnavelu Sivalingam was born on 18th May 1932, in Upcot, in the tea estate Hill Country District of Sri Lanka.
He was educated in Sri Lanka and in

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India. He obtained his Master's Degree in Madras in 1957. He also obtained the Ceylon Diploma in Education in 1960. He was Headmaster of Highlands School in 1966.
He has published a book on the Tamil Cinema in 1960. Among the articles he has written are: "Tamil in the Hill Country of Ceylon' 1963, and “Beauty in Tamil Literature' 1965.
Retnam Sivalingam 1933Tamil Cartoon Artist dk Humorist.
Retnam Sivalingam, or “Master Sivalingam' as he is often referred to, had his early education at Shivananda Vidyalayam, Kallady Uppodai, Batticaloa. He then proceeded to Chandannu Art College in India and received training in Cartoon Drawing and obtained a Diploma.
On his return, he became a Sub-Editor of the Children's Section of the journal Dinapathi . He is a Story Narrator at the Batticaloa Public Library and is also a Radio Artist. He is well known for his ability to render Villu Pattu Folk Songs and amuse the people with his humorous and witty dialogues.
He conducts free classes, narrating stories from the Ramayana and Mahabaratha epics and organises quiz competitions, in Batticaloa.
He is married to Mangayatkarasi and has a son Vivekanandan.
A.Sivanandan 1930 - Advocate., Puisne Judge, High Court, Zambia.
A.Sivanandan, retired Puisne Judge High Court , Zambia, is the son of Proctor K. Aiyadurai and Poornam of Neeraviadi, Jaffna. He passed out as a Proctor and later as an Advocate of the Supreme Court, Ceylon, and built up a well established practice in Nuwara Eliya. He later functioned as a Magistrate.
Desirous of working overseas, he proceeded to Zambia where he functioned as Puisne Judge.of the High Court.
Retiring from that service in 1983, he resided for a few years in Madras, where he was the Convener of the "Overseas Tamil
Association', before returning to Colombo.
Sivanandan married Doctor Pushpavathy Rajaratnam and has two sons Siva Raman and Sri Lakshmanan, and a daughter Umayal. The elder son Siva Raman is an Accountant and has married Bahirathy daughter of P.V.Ganeshanathan, in 1990.
S.Sivanantha Iyer, 1873-1916 Vidvan, Tamil Pundit.
Vidvan Sivanantha Iyer was the son of Sabapathy Iyer of Pannalai, Jaffna.
He received his higher education in classical Tamil, Sanskrit etc., at the Academy established at Erlalai by Rao Bahadur C.W. Thamotharampillai. The eminent A. Kumaraswamy Pulavar was the Headmaster of the Academy at that time.
Proceeding to India, he functioned as a teacher at some of the leading educational institutions in Chidambaram.
He has written many compositions. Among those published were (in Tamil):- Puli Ur Puranam, Puli Ur Anthathi” and Sani Thuthi, The first two works deal with the puranic history of Chidambaram, a sacred place of the Hindus, where he was resident. The third deals with the worship of Saturn, the malefic planet.
M.Sivanathan 1918-1989 B.A (Lond), C.C.S., Permanent Secretary.
Sivanathan, born on 6th September 1918, was the son of V.C. Manicam Chief Accountant G.D.E.U. He was educated at Royal College Colombo, where he was Captain of the cricket eleven.
He graduated in classics from the Ceylon University College. He then served in the army as a volunteer.
He functioned as Asst. Assessor in the Income Tax Dept. in 1946, when he entered the Ceylon Civil Service. He held several posts in that service, functioning as Asst. Secretary, Asst. Government Agent, Government Agent, Chairman of Corporations and eventually Permanent Secretary to the Minister for Industries.

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On retirement, he was appointed a member of the Public Service Commission and was awarded the National Honour of "Desabandu', for meritorious services.
Sivanathan married a daughter of Proctor Walloopillai and had two sons: Ramana, an Accountant and Jayantha an Engineer and a daughter Vasanthi.
S.Sivanayagam 1930
Free lance Journalist. Editor: "Saturday Review”, Jaffna, & "Tamil Nation', Madras.
Sivanayagam, born 7th September 1930, is the son of Sattanathar Subramaniam of Vannarpannai and Kan maniammal nee Karthigesu of Kokkuvil, Jaffna. He had his education at Kokkuvil Hindu College, where Handy Perinpanayagam was Principal then, and later at Jaffna College, Vaddukoddai. From a young age, he was a good communicator and developed a talent for journalism.
He joined the editorial staff of the Ceylon Daily News, Colombo, in 1953. Later, while working with the Times of Ceylon, he conducted a weekly column titled "The Forum' and came in close contact with K.C..Thangarajah* the Manager. He was with the Daily Mirror 196169, J.Walter Thompsons 1970-71, and Editor / Asst. Editor Ceylon Tourist Board, until 1980. When K.Kanthasamy, K.C..Thangarajah* and others launched the weekly Journal “Saturday Review' in Jaffna, in January 1982, Sivanayagam was appointed Editor. When the Journal was fast gaining popularity, the unfortunate holocaust of July 1983 caused its abrupt end.
He then went to Madras and was in charge of the Tamil Information Centre, and set up the "Tamil Information and Research Institute' (TIRU). He also contributed articles to several Journals. From October 1990, he functioned as Editor of a new Journal Tamil Nation, published by "The Tamil Forum Ltd.' group in London, which terminated when he was detained and kept without charge. He left India in 1993.
Sivanayagam has authored and edited innumerable articles on the Tamil Eelam issue and his publications include: "Dear Sri Lanka
Ambassador” 1983.
Sivanayagam married Subadradevi, daughter of A.Navaratnarajah of Nallur, and has two daughters: Dr. Sivanangai and Sivanarayani (M.A. Lit. Madras).
S.Sivapalan c1890-1960 Vanniya & M.P for Trincomalee.
Sivapalan was the son of M.Subramaniam, Secretary District Court, Trincomalee. He received his early education at the Wesleyan Mission English School Trincomalee and later at St.Patrick's Jaffna, and Wesley College Colombo. He then entered the Government Clerical Service and served for some time.
Later, he was appointed Vanniya (Chief Headman) of Kaddukulam Pattu Division in 1935 and afterwards of Thampalakamam Division, both in Trincomalee District
Retiring from Government Service, he contested as a Tamil Congress candidate and won the Trincomalee seat in Parliament at the General Elections 1947.
Due to his intimate knowledge of the area, he was able to contribute valuable service towards the development of his constituency. He took a great interest in Food Production work, especially during the critical period of shortage due to World War II.
He however lost his seat to the Federal Party candidate in the General Elections held in 1952.
S. Sivapalan married Bagavathy, daughter of Somasundaram and had five sons: Sivarajah, Sundararajan, Sriskantharajah, Dr. Varatharajan and Ganeshan and a daughter Wimaladevi.
S.Sivapathasunderam 1912Radio Broadcaster; & Tamil Research Scholar
Somasunderampilai Sivapathasunderam, born 27th August 1912, is from Karampan, Kayts. After his school education and a short period of Law studies, he took up journalism and joined the Eelake sari Tamil weekly at Chunnakam in 1938 and functioned as editor

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for four years.
In 1942 he joined the Radio Ceylon Colombo broadcasting organisation as an announcer. He was later recruited by the BBC, where he organised and conducted the Tamil Osai magazine feature. Returning to Ceylon he joined Lever Brothers as advertising and Public Relations manager.
In 1958, he shifted his residence to India, where he was on the visiting faculty of Mass Communication at the Rajaji College of Journalism. On the invitation of the Madura University, he gave a series of lectures on the History and Development of the Tamil Novel and Short Story.
His publications include: Tamil novel Varalarum Valarchiyum, short story Varalarum Valachyum, (co-authored with P.G.Sundararajan), Oli Paraappukalai 1956 (with Rajaji's Foreword, Govt. of Madras award), Manikkavachakar Adichuvattil 1947, Gauthama Buddhar Adichuvattil 1960 (Ceylon Govt. award), Sekkilar Adichuvattil 1978 (Tamil Nadu Govt.award)
He married Gnanatheepam Moses, a
talented musician and broadcaster, in 1946 and has two children: a daughter Dr. Manjubhashini who is married to R. Sivanathan and a son Ravilochanan, a Financial Consultant who has married Manjula Sivapaatham. The second daughter Prasannavadani, who passed away, was a Bharatha Natiya dancer and lecturer Kalakshetra, Madras; her portrait appeared on the postage stamp issued in India, depicting Bharatha Natiyam.
Saiva Periyar S.Sivapathasundaram 1878-1953
Scholar; School Principal & Author:
The highly respected author of books on Saiva Siddanda philosophy and School Principal Sivapathasundaram, son of Suppiramaniapillai, was born on 17th , January 1878, in Puloly Pt. Pedro. When he was young he studied Tamil and Sanskrit under V. Kumaraswamy Pulavar ..and attained high proficiency.
Proceeding to India he graduated in
Mathematics and Science from Presidency College Madras. On his return in 1920, he was appointed a teacher at Manipay Hindu College. In 1924, he was made Principal of Victoria College at Chulipuram, which position he held with eminence till 1933.
He excelled in Logic and his forte was Saiva Siddanda philosophy. As teacher and Principal he influenced the life of his pupils with spiritual guidance.
On retirement, he was associated with Parameshwara College for a short time. He also served on the Education Board.
However, by about 1939, he preferred to lead a quiet life and decided to live in a humble abode at Kandavanam, near the Kandaswamy Temple there.
He wrote profusely, with forceful and convincing logic. Of his many books, the "Saiva School Of Hinduism' has been outstanding. It is in English and was published in England. It earned him praise from scholars in England, India and America. It became a recognised work on Saiva Siddanda philosophy. The honorific title “Saiva Periyar” was conferred on him.
He was President of the Hindu Board of Education and the Thiruketheeswaram Temple Restoration Society. He strove to influence the Hindus to lead a true Saivite life, as enunciated earlier by Arumuga Navalar.
He passed away at the age of seventy five, on 14th August 1953.
Among his several publications are:- (In English) Essentials of Logic, Outline of Sivagnana Botham, Saiva School of Hinduism, I Glories of Saivaism, 1954.
Arumuga Navalar:
(In Tamil) - Saiva Botham, 1916,
Saiva Sithantham, 1932, Kantha Purana Vilakam, Saiva Kiriyai Vilakan.
Dr.V.Sivapiragasam 1889 -1950 L.M.S.L.R.C.P.L.R.F. P&S.

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Dr. Velupillai Sivapirakasam, born on 19th February 1889, was from Vaddukoddai Jaffna. His brothers were the highly respected Kandiah and Sir Coomaraswamy.*.
Passing out as a Doctor, he entered the Medical Department in 1917 as House Officer in Colombo. In 1921 he was Dist. Med. Assistant Jaffna, D.M.O Beruvala in 1929 , Trincomalee in 1934., etc. He was appointed Divisional Medical Superintendent in 1943. On his retirement, he set up private practice in Colombo. He passed away in 1950.
Dr. Sivapirakasam married Thaiyalnayaki, elder sister of Mrs. Suntharalingam and daughter of M.Kanagasabai of H.M.Customs Jaffna and had two sons and a daughter. The elder Son is a Doctor and the younger a Lawyer; the daughter Mrs. Sarojini Nagendra was Vice-Principal, Ladies College Colombo.
V.N.Sivarajah 1934-93. B.A., M. PA . Sri Lanka Administrative Service
Sivarajah, born 7th October 1934, was the son of V.Nadarajah, a School Master. He had his early education at Sacred Heart College, Karaveddy, Nelliadi and later at Hartley College Point Pedro. He graduated in Arts at Peradeniya in 1956 and functioned as D.R.O in Batticaloa and Mannar 1957-59.
He was selected for the Sri Lanka Administrative Service in 1959, and served as Asst. Commissioner of Local Government at several stations and as Deputy Commissioner in 1974. He was Asst. Secretary Ministry of Finance 1975-80 and was the first Director, Dept. of Hindu Religious and Cultural Affairs. He then functioned as Registrar, Jaffna University before taking up the difficult task of being the first Secretary of the North-East Provincial Council. He retired in 1989 and spent his leisure hours in religious studies and pilgrimage. He died in Madras, on 28th September 1993, while returning from a pilgrimage to Varanasi.
Dr.C.Sivaratnam 1897-.... . L.R.C.P.L.R.F.P & S. & Author:
Dr.C.Sivaratnam, Medical Doctor and writer on Hinduism and History of the Tamils, was from Navaly Manipay. He was born on 24th June 1897 and his father Carthigasam was a Government Officer in Malaya till 1918. Prof.K.Kularetnam was his brother. His greatgrand father was Udaiyar of Sandilippai.
Young Sivaratnam had his early education at the village school at Navaly; afterwards he continued at Jaffna College, Vaddukkoddai and later in Colombo.
He commenced his Medical studies in 1919, passing out from Edinburgh in 1926. He joined the Ceylon Medical Service, as House Surgeon Jaffna, in 1928. He served at many stations as District Medical Officer: Walasmulla in 1940, Eheliyagoda in 1945, Gampaha in 1951
etc.
Besides his medical work, Dr. Sivaratnam was very much interested in Tamil Culture and Hindu Civilisation. He read profusely and gathered much information.
After his retirement in 1958, he commenced what he had always wanted to do, writing on Ceylon History. His book on Cultural History and Principles of Hinduism, containing a mass of information, was published in 1964. A very useful smaller book entitled The Tamils in Early Ceylon was published in 1968 which was followed by Origin and Development of the Hindu Religion and People, in 1978. He passed away soon after.
He married Saraswathi, daughter of C.Suntharam of H.M.Customs Colombo and had three sons: Balakumaran, Vigneswaran and Ratna and a daughter Mrs. Indra Rajaratnam.
A.Sivasambu Pulavar 1830-1910 Poet of high Eminence.
Sivasambu Pulavar was the son of Mudaliyar Arulambalam of Udupiddy. He had his early education under able scholars. He was able to compose verses from his young age.
He acquired high proficiency in Tamil literature as well and became a reputed scholar. He was soon recognised as an able composer

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of Tamil verse and a good lecturer. He was honoured with the title of “Pulavar” by Arumuga Navalar. Many of the well known later scholars were his students.
Over fifteen of his works, which show his eminence, have been published. Many of his compositions are recited even today.
R.N.Sivasambu 1889-1974 Draughtsman , Journalist, etc.
R.N. Sivasambu of Mallakam was a brother of R.N.Sivapragasam, Proctor and Editor Hindu Organ. He was a draughtsman in Malaya, and was associated in the preparation of designs for building the City of Singapore. He also functioned in the same capacity when New Delhi was built.
In Jaffna he worked with his brother in editing the Hindu Organ and the Inthusathanam,
He was a Khadi enthusiast and spun the yarn for his own wear. In Madras he was well known as the proprietor of the Madras Publicity Co., and the representative of the Publicity Society of India.
Dr.C.Sivasithamparam 1877 - 1947. L. R. C. Pik,S(Edin), L. F. Pik,S(Glas), Provincial Surgeon.
Sivasithamparam, born in Mullaitivu on 7th February 1877, was the son of Mylvagana Mudaliyar Canapathipillai, Chief Clerk Mullaitivu Kachcheri. His mother was Ahilanda Ammaiyar. His ancestor Kumarasekera Mudaliyar was a descendant of the Vanni Kings. He was the youngest of a family of four brothers and a sister, all of whom, including Mudaliyar C.Arumugam, distinguished themselves.
Sivasithamparam had his early education at Mullaitivu and at the Wesleyan Mission School Trincomalee. Later, he continued at Hindu College, Jaffna, from where he passed the Calcutta University Entrance Examination.
He then proceeded to the Medical College, Colombo and passed out as a doctor in 1904 and entered Government service on 1st January 1905. He was Medical Officer Mihintale in 1907, M.O Mantota in 1908, M.O Jaffna in
1920 and served at many other stations in the Island.
In 1913, he went to England to obtain British qualifications. These were rare those days. Unfortunately his programme was interrupted by the outbreak of War in 1914.
He was J.M.O Colombo in 1928, and later Medical Superintendent Hendala. In 1932 he was appointed Provincial Surgeon, Eastern Province. He held this position till he retired two years later.
He was a very popular person, and involved himself in many social and religious activities. At Thunavi, Jaffna where he had settled in a new house, he supported the Arasadi Pillaiyar Temple. In Mullaitivu he contributed largely to the Veerakathy Pillaiyar Temple. As a member of the Vivekananda Society and the Ramakrishna Mission Colombo, he took active interest in the reception accorded to Swami Vivekananda. He had a good library and had collected many old coins.
He contested the Mannar-MullaitivuVavuniya Seat in the State Council, in 1936, but was not successful. He passed away in 1947.
Dr.C.Sivasithamparam married Thiripurasundari, daughter of Dr. Moothathamby Kailasapillay of Navaly and Alaimelamma, daughter of Dipple Sabapathipillai of Uduvil. They had three sons: Balasingam, who became a Visiting Physician, Nadarajah and Sabanayagam and two daughters Maheswari, who was married to Dr.R.Somasundaram and had three brilliant specialist doctor sons and a daughter Thilagavathy, who was married to C.Loganathan.
M.Sivasithamparam 1923Advocate, President T.U.L.F. Deputy Speaker in Parliament.
Murukesu Sivasithamparam was born on 20th July 1923 in Karaveddi, in a family whose members were much respected in the village.
After his early education at Vigneswara School Karaveddy, he proceeded to University College Colombo. Entering Law College, where he won the Gold Medal for Elocution, he passed out as an Advocate. At the Colombo Bar, he appeared in criminal cases and won high

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esteem. He was defence counsel in many political trials in the Courts and appeared in more than a dozen cases where Tamil youths were charged under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. He also worked in the Free Legal Aid Scheme. He is an active and popular politician and was elected a Member of Parliament four times - March 1961, July 1961, July 1965 and in July 1977. He was chosen as President of the Tamil United Liberation Front (T.U.L.F). At the July 1977 Elections, he was elected for the Nallur constituency by a majority of over 26,000 votes, said to be one of the biggest majorities for a Single Member constituency.
In Parliament, he was chosen as Deputy Speaker in the 1960's. He held that Office with dignity and honour. By his refusal to take the Oath under the Sixth Amendment of the Constitution, he lost his right to practise his profession and was also debarred from Parliament, in 1983.
Sivasithamparam married Sarathadevi, daughter of Ponnambalam and has a son Sathyendra and a daughter Niranjali.
T.Sivasithamparam 1926-1992 V.C.O., M.P for Vavuniya.
T.Sivasithamparam, born on 26th March 1926, was the son of Village Headman Thamotharampilai of Mulaitivu.
He was educated at Hindu College Trincomalee and was a Village Cultivation Officer. Relinquishing that post, he contested and won the Vavuniya seat in Parliament, as a Tamil Congress Party candidate, in 1960. Later, as a member of the T.U.L.F. he retained his seat for sixteen years. During this period, he worked hard for the development of his constituency.
Due to the troubles in Vavuniya during the holocaust of 1983, he left the Island and settled in Canada, where he passed away on 9th November 1992.
Sivasithamparam married Nagambaland had three sons: Sugumaran, Srikanthan, and Sivakumar and two daughters Vanetha and Kanchana.
S.Sivasubramaniam c1900-1980 Proctor S.C., Colombo.
Proctor Sivasubramaniam was from Kopay- Irupalai, in Jaffna. He was a prominent and long standing Attorney at Law of the Colombo Bar. w
Besides his professional interests, he took a prominent part in the social and religious interests of the community. He held a leading position in several institutions such as the Vivekananda Society Colombo, the Ramakrishna Mission and the All Ceylon Hindu Congress. He functioned as Honorary Secretary of the Thiruketheeswaram Temple Restoration Society from 1949 to 1958.
He had two sons, Kathiravetpillai (19241981) who was M.P. for Kopay and Ambalavanar Attorney at Law and two daughters, one of whom was married to Advocate Shanmuganayagam son of Gate Mudaliyar N. Canaganayagam*.
V.Siva Supramaniam 1908-1985. B.A(Lond)., Supreme Court Justice.
Siva Supramaniam, born on 14th March 1908, was the second son of a family of 5 sons and 2 daughters of K.S.Veeravagu, Notary Public of Kaladdi Vannarpannai, Jaffna. His elder brother Dr. Nadarajah, was Chief Medical Officer of Health, Colombo Municipality.
He was educated at Jaffna Hindu
College and later at Ananda College Colombo. After graduation, he chose a legal career, passed out as an Advocate and was admitted to the Bar in 1933.
After practising for a few years in Jaffna, he joined the Judiciary and was appointed Magistrate Matara, in 1941. He then held several positions in the service and was appointed Commissioner of Assize in 1962, Judge of the Supreme Court in 1966, Judge of Court of Appeal etc. He retired in 1970.
He involved himself in the cultural and
religious activities of the community in Colombo. He was President of the Colombo Hindu Education Board, All Ceylon Hindu Congress, Arumuga Navalar Sabai, Hindu Advisory Council etc.
His loss was deeply felt by the Tamil

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community, when he passed away on 5th December 1985.
Justice Siva Supramaniam married Manon mani daughter of Dr. and Mrs.Thiyagarajah of Horton Place Colombo and had three sons : Dr.Thiagarajah Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Accountant
Yogeswaran and Advocate Sivakumar.
Gate Mudaliyar E. Somanadar c 1830-..... Chief Mudaliyar, E.P.
Gate Mudaliyar Ezekiel Somanadar was the son of Daniel Somanadar, who was First Mudaliyar of the Batticaloa Kachcheri, from 1822 to 1857.
Ezekiel was Chief Mudaliyar, Eastern Province, from 1864 to 1888.
His son Albert Canagasabapathy Somanadar was the Vanniya of Akkaraipattu, in the Batticaloa District.
He received a Gold Medal for distinguished services to the country.
S.V.O.Somanadar J.P. 1897-1978 School Principal
Samuel Victor Ousmond Somanadar was born on 19th February 1897 in Batticaloa. He had his education at the Batticaloa Central (Methodist) College. At the Government Teachers' College Colombo, he came first in the Diploma Course and won the Evans Teaching Prize.
He started life as a School Master at his old school in 1920 and was appointed Principal in 1942. During his regime, many improvements were effected to the School and Higher Forms were commenced. He retired after 12 years in
1954.
He was a well known and respected journalist, naturalist, photographer, wild life enthusiast and student of marine life.
He regularly wrote a feature called “Nature Notes by Victor', to the Times of Ceylon, for many years. He was an Honorary Member of the Wild Life and Nature Protection Society, to whose journal he contributed often. He was
made a Fellow of the Zoological Society of London, in recognition of his scientific study of birds and animal life in Ceylon. He was also a member of the Royal Geographical Society and the Royal Society of Teachers.
Somanadar was a staunch Methodist layman and local preacher. His son Kenneth was a Journalist and later Director of Information.
C.C.Somasegaram 1901-1991 Crown Proctor; Jaffna.
Somasegaram, born on 21st March 1901, was the son of Candavanam Chelliah and Ponnammah of Kolumbuthurai, Jaffna. He was the eldest of four brothers: Sabaratnam, Muttucumaraswamy and Dr.Balasubramaniam. Somasegaram was educated at St.Patrick's College Jaffna and entering Law College, qualified as a Proctor S.C & Notary Public in 1925. He rapidly built up a lucrative practice in the Jaffna Bar and was appointed Crown Proctor. He celebrated 50 years of practice at the Jaffna Bar, in 1975, and continued to practice till his demise in 1991, a record period of 66 years.
He was Chairman and President of the Law Society (Jaffna Branch). He devoted lifetime service to the Yarl Arasadi Vinayakar Temple, of which he was managing trustee. During his management, the temple was improved vastly.
He married Rasammah daughter of Thuraiappah, Overseer at Wattegama, and had three children: Dr.Sanmugalingam who married Somakalavalli, Somawathi who was married to Dr. Mahendran, and Somainthrani who was married to Sanmugamurthi.
S.U.Somasegaram 1903-1981 . B.A (Hist).M.A (Ed), Dip. Ed. (Lond)
Director of Education.
Ulagakavalar Somasegaram, born 29th April 1903, was the son of S.Sivagurunathar and Sivasuntheravalli, daughter of S.Ramalingam, of Neeraviady Jaffna. Somasegaram was educated at Jaffna Hindu College, where he Matriculated in the First Division; proceeding to Ananda College, he passed the London Inter Arts

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Examination. He then graduated in History, with Honours, in 1926.
He was a teacher at Jaffna Hindu College and Victoria College Chulipuram; proceeding to London, he obtained his Diploma in Education in 1929 and M.A in Education in 1947. He joined the Education Department as an Inspector of Schools in 1932 and subsequently became Education Officer and eventually was appointed Director of Education. During his active years, he was an enthusiastic educationist and an active socio - religious worker, who held leading positions in several educational, social and religious Societies and associations. In his later years, he led a religious and secluded life and passed away in 1981.
Somasegaram married Valliammai, daughter of V.Sanmugam of Moolai and had three daughters: Rajes wari Shanmugam, Logambikai Swaminathan and Vigneswari Ganesharatnam.
Dr.K.Somasundara - Rajah 1936M.B.,B.S., F.R.C.S, Principal in General Practice, Divisional. Police Surgeon,
Kandiah Somasundara-Rajah , born on 16th July 1936, is from Thunnalai South, Karaveddy, Jaffna. His father was Vallipuram Kandiah J.P. a retired Customs Officer.
Somasundara- Rajah received his early education at the local school and then went to Hartley College, Point Pedro, from where he proceeded to the University of Ceylon.
Entering the Medical College, University of Calcutta, he obtained his M.B.B.S degree. Later, he secured his postgraduate qualifications F.R.C.S Edinburgh and F.R.C.S Glasgow.
He commenced as House Surgeon, Jaffna. Afterwards he was Surgeon, Birmingham Hospitals in U.K. He was then Captain, Senior Surgical Specialist. Royal Army Medical Corps, and served in Cyprus, Germany and Hong Kong.
He was Medical and Managing Director (1983-1987) of the Birmingham Deputising Service, employing more than 40 doctors. Since then he is the Medical and Managing Director
Nursing Homes in Birmingham.
He is the Founder Trustee of the "Valar Eelam Trust', Founder Member and Treasurer of the "Federated Tamil Association of U.K., Trustee and Treasurer of the “Balaji Trust', the aim of which is to build a Hindu Temple.
Somasundara-Rajah is married to Jegatheswary, who is also a Doctor and has a son Atputharajah, who is a Dental Student at Kings College London and a daughter Umarany who is an Engineering Student at Cambridge.
Somasundara Thesikar 1885-.... . Methodist Preacher from Samanthurai, Batticaloa.
Somasundara Thesikar was born in Veeramunai Village close to Samanturai. He had a good education in Tamil and functioned as a Schoolmaster for a few years.
Later, desirous of serving the Church, he entered the Methodist Mission. Residing in Kurumanvelinai, he functioned as a preacher for nearly forty years from 1913. He had a good knowledge of the Hindu religion as well. His preaching was appreciated by all members of the community and he was held in highesteem.
He prepared several compositions in verse and also wrote many plays which were staged at that time. These performances made Batticaloa well known for its folk-dramas and dances.
Dr.K.Somasunderam 1919 - D.T.M &.H., D.G.O.
Somasunderam, born 17th June 1919, is the son of K.Kathiravelu Ayurvedic Physician, and Sellammah nee Arumugam, of Nallur, Jaffna. He had his early education at St.John's College Jaffna and at Ananda College Colombo.
He did his medical studies in the University of Ceylon and entered the Medical Service. He did his post graduate studies in London and in Dublin and acquired the DTM&H and DGO qualifications. He served in many stations in the Island including Polgahawela, Matale and Colombo. He was also Director of the Sai Nursing Home in Jaffna
Later, he functioned as Chief Consultant

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Physician in State Hospital, Nigeria, during which time he discovered a major breakthrough in the treatment of a blood associated disease.
Dr. Somasunderam is a keen devotee of Sri Sathya Sai Baba and was President of the Sathiya Sai Samitty in Jaffna forten years, from 1966.
He married a daughter of S.R.Muthiah Pillai of Balangoda and Ward Place Colombo and has three children: Manohary Kulachandran, Mahendran and Sivakumaran.
M. Somasunderam J.P 1889-.... . Maniyagar of the Islands. 1918.
Muthiahpillai Somasunderam was appointed Maniyagar of the Islands Division of the Jaffna District in 1918.
His father Vinasithamby Muthiahpillai was Maniyagar, Islands Division and so was his grandfather Weerasekara Ambalavanar.
Their ancestors bore the title name of “Perum Udaiyan”.
Rev. Canon S.S.Somasunderam c1880-1967
Sangarapillai Samuel Somasunderam, obtained the B. A Degree of the Calcutta University in Mathematics.
He was Senior Mathematics Master at St.John's College Jaffna. He was ordained in 1909 and was then appointed Pastor of the Nallur Parish. Later he held the position of Pastor of Vavuniya for several years. Thereafter he was at Chundikuli, Jaffna till his demise in 1967.
His son George qualified as an Electrical Engineer and after working in Ceylon for some years, held an appointment in Singapore for a long time. There, he was responsible for raising the Polytechnic to a high standard of recognition. On retirement, he was involved in building a Technical Institute in Vaddukoddai, Jaffna. Another son also qualified in Electrical engineering.
His elder daughter was married to K.Nesiah the eminent Educationist and the younger to Rev. Hoole of the Anglican Church.
S.Somasunderam O.B.E
c1890-1976 Proctor S.C., President, Tamil Union Cricket & Athletic Club
Somasunderam was the son of M.Sabapathy Mudaliyar of Nallur. His only sister Mankayarkarasi was married to C. Coomaraswamy.*, Senator & High Commissioner.
"Soma', as he was often referred to, was educated in Colombo and choosing a legal career, became a Proctor S.C.
He had a lucrative legal practice; many of his clients were from the Indian mercantile community, resident in Ceylon.
He visited India regularly on pilgrimage and maintained contact with leading Indian personalities. He was well known to prominent national leaders of India.He played an important role inconnection with Mahathma Gandhi's visit to Ceylon.
Soma was a keen sportsman. He was one of the stalwarts who built up the “Tamil Union Cricket and Athletic Sports Club' and held a leading position in it. He was a good cricket player, a bowler who maintained his place in the Club's Cricket Eleven for several years. He was often referred to as "the veteran cricketer of the Tamil Union'.
He contributed to charity and was popular in social circles. In his later years, he was President of the Thiruketheeswaram Temple Restoration Society from 1965 until his demise in 1976.
S. Somasunderam married his cousin Meenambikai, daughter of C.Suntharam, Chief Appraiser of H.M Customs, Colombo. They had two sons, Sri Kantha and Rajeswaran and two daughters. The elder daughter Padmawathi was married to Prof. A.W Mailvaganam and Leelavathi the other daughter to Proctor Thuraisingam.
K.Somasuntharam 1897-..... Ceylon Civil Service.
Somasuntharam, son of Kandiah, a senior Govt. official from Neeraviadi Jaffna, was born on 15th March 1897.
After his general education he aspired

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for a career in medicine but instead entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1921.
He held several positions at various stations in the Island, in that service. He was Deputy Controller of Commerce and Industries in 1940. Eventually he was appointed Permanent Secretary to the Minister of Commerce.
He took an interest in the Scout
Movement in Ceylon and was associated with its activities.
Somasuntharam married Nagulamba, daughter of Dr.M.Sinnathamby and had three daughters, one of whom was married to Sathy Coomaraswamy*.
Navalyur K.Somasuunthara Pulavar 1879-1953. Poet & School master
Pulavar, born on 29th September 1879, was the son of Kadirgamar and Ilakkumipillai of Navaly, Jaffna. He was well educated in Tamil and traditional Hindu culture, during his early years under able scholars, Arunachalam Ramalingam and others. He made a special study of the Saiva scriptures and started composing verses at the age of fifteen. He also acquired a good knowledge of English.
He commenced teaching in 1899, at a humble village School at Sithankerni, which later became Vaddukkoddai Hindu English School. He taught there for nearly forty years.
During this period he composed prodigious number of verses dedicated to the deities enshrined in the temples at Nallur, Kandavanam, Kadirkamam and at other places where he venerated. Some verses were on common everyday subjects and these are found in the school textbooks of today. Many of his compositions are of special appeal to children. He wrote a few drafnatic works and had them staged, by the students of his School. His style of composition closely resembled that of the Indian poet Subramaniya Bharathi. He passed away on 7th July 1953, at the age of seventy five.
Somasunthara Pulavar married Sinnammah, daughter of his uncle Velupillai. His eldest son Pundit Ilan Muruganar was a teacher
and has prepared a massive and well recognised composition on the history of a Hindu temple in Karai Nagar. The second son Nadarasa B. A (Hons) in Sanskrit, also a poet, was Chief Translator in the Languages Dept.
VSoosaipillai 1877-1955 Mathurai Kavi Pulavar:
Pulavar Soosaipillai was the son of Vaithiyampillai of Mathakal, who was a staunch devotee of the Roman Catholic Church.
He worked in the Soosai Maha Munivar Printing Works for a long time. He had made several compositions of a devotional nature.
The Mathurai Sangam awarded him the title of “Mathurai Kavi Pulavar”.
L.P.Spencer 1867 -..... School Principal
Levi Ponniah Spencer, one of eight children of Kathiresu Spencer of Sanguveli, was born in 1867.
After his education in Jaffna, where he passed his F.A. Examination, he proceeded to Calcutta University and graduated in Arts.
On his return, he joined the Jaffna Central College, where he functioned as Vice-Principal. Later, he was appointed Principal of Kilner College Jaffna, which position he held for a long time.
L.P.S.Spencer married Emily Rasammah, daughter of Sabapathipillai of Arali, and had three sons and a daughter. One of his sons, W.G.Spencer became District Judge Jaffna.
Dr.C.Sri Kantha 1872-.... . Doctor of Literature
Sri Kantha was a son of Advocate P. Coomaraswamy, elder brother of Sir P.Ramanathan. He was born in 1872 and had his early education at S.Thomas College, Colombo. Afterwards, he went to England and had his higher studies at Christ's College Cambridge.
Returning to Ceylon he occupied a high position in the Mercantile Bank of Colombo.

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He married a daughter of Subramaniam, son of Mudaliyar Thambiah and had two sons Ponnambalam and Srinivasan and two daughters Visalakshi and Annapoorani.
M.Sri Kantha 1913-1982 B.A(Lond)., C.C.S., Permanent Secretary, O.B.E.
Sri Kantha, born on 17th September 1913, was the son of School Master Mylvakanam of Alaveddi.
After his graduation he entered the Ceylon Civil Service in 1937, and held many positions in the service. He was Asst.Govt.Agent Puttalam in 1948, Government Agent N.P in 1954 and Government Agent Jaffna District from 1955 to 1961. He has been highly praised for his projects involving the settlement of educated unemployed youths and the development of the Kilinochchi region.
He then held the positions of Permanent Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Lands and later to the Minister of Irrigation and Power, until his retirement in 1969. He passed away on 4th February 1982.
M.Sri Kantha was a keen social worker. He pioneered several Youth Settlement Schemes to relieve unemployment in Jaffna. He was a devout Hindu and observed the traditions of Hindu culture. He was largely responsible for getting a statue of Arumuga Navalar made and having it erected at Nallur. He respected Yoga Swamykal with great veneration. He was awarded the O.B.E in 1954.
He married Maheswari, daughter of Kasturiar K.Muttucumaru * and had two sons: Yogalingam who is an Accountant and Jnanakan and one daughter. Malini, who is married to Dr.V.Rasanayagkam Orthopaedic Surgeon.
R.Sri Pathmanathan 1930-93 Eminent Dental Surgeon.
Sri Pathmanathan, born 30th July 1930, was the son of K.Ramanathan, a businessman of Manipay, who was later associated with the Majestic Theatre Colombo. Sri Pathmanathan had his education at St.Peter's College, where
he was a rugger player.
Later, he entered the University at Peradeniya and obtained the LDS qualification in 1955. He played rugger for the Varsity and the C R & F.C.
After being a District Dental Officer at Vavuniya for some time, he proceeded to U.K and commenced as a Clinical Assistant at the Guy's Hospital, London. Very soon he bettered himself becoming an eminent Dental Surgeon, with high qualifications: FDSRCS (Eng), FDSRCPS(Glas), LRCP, MRCS DLO(Eng).
He worked in Saudi Arabia and in Scotland. He was a Lecturer in the University of Sri Lanka and finally held the position of Consultant Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon in London. He passed away on 7th November 1993. He married Sheila Perera in 1954 and had two sons: Rohendra Ph D in Medical Science and Gehan an Engineer and two daughters: Channthal a Doctor and Alithal an Accountant.
K.Sriskandan 1930B.Sc (Lond)., F.I.C.E. F.I.Struct.E., F.I.H.T., C.Eng.
Sriskandan, born on 12th August 1930, is the second son of Dr.K.Kanagaratnam of Kandarmadam Jaffna. He had his early education at Jaffna Central College and later at Royal College Colombo.
He graduated from the Ceylon University College and joined the Public Works Department as an Asst. Engineer, in 1953.
Relinquishing that service, he proceeded to U.K in 1956, where he was engaged with leading Engineering establishments. He joined the service of the Department of Transport in 1968 and in 1980, was appointed Chief Highway Engineer, becoming the first non-white officer of the Under Secretary Grade in the British Civil Service.
He was a member of: the team adjudicating on proposals for the Fixed Channel link, the Anglo-French Safety Authority for the Channel Tunnel, a Council of the British Standards Institute, the Council of the Institution of Civil Engineers, and many National and International Scientific Committees. He has contributed many papers and lectured on Bridge

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Design, Construction and Maintenance.
Retiring from that service he functions as Director of a leading Engineering Company. Sriskandan married Dorothy and has two sons: Dr. Kumar and Ranjan and a dughter Dr. Shirani. vn
P.Sri Skanda Rajah 1905 - 1968 B.A (Lond)., Advocate, Supreme Court
Judge.
Sri Skanda Rajah was the son of Ponnuduraiswamy and Katpakam, daughter of Murugupillai Vidane of Thondaimanar.
He was born on 8th February 1905 and had his early education at Jaffna College and Central College, where he distinguished himself in sports. Later he Matriculated, in the First Division, from Ananda College Colombo. Graduating in Arts from the Ceylon University College, he entered Law College. Passing out as an Advocate, he was called to the Bar in 1932.
Entering the Judicial Service in 1938 he held several positions. He was Magistrate Colombo, then District Judge Batticaloa in 1947, District Judge Jaffna in 1954 and Commissioner of Assize in 1960. He was Judge of the Supreme Court 1962-1967. He was held in high respect, due to his well considered judgments.
On retirement, he spent his time in social and religious activities. He was President of the All Ceylon Hindu Congress from 1965 until his demise on 24th December 1968. His wife's demise followed immediately after.
Sri Skanda Rajah married Kanmani
daughter of M. Visu valingam and had two daughters and two sons. The elder daughter Suseela, Barrister (Gray's Inn) Attorney-at-Law, is married to A.T.Moorthy of the Overseas Service who was High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in London 1981-1984. Second daughter Indra, F.R.C.S Consultant Eye Surgeon, is married to Dr.S.Sivayoham. The elder son Sri Bavan Ph.D is with the Asian Development Bank and the younger Sri Gugan is with the Canadian Federal Board.
A.Subramaniam 1913-1976 Prop. Mascons Hardware Stores, Chm. Asbestos Cement Industries Ltd.
Subramaniam, son of Ariacutty of Manipay, was born on 15th December 1913. After his general education in Manipay, he was employed in an upcountry tea estate for a short time.
He then moved to Colombo and became an apprentice in a hardware establishment, thus commencing a long and lucrative career.
By hard work, careful observation and his own intelligence, he acquired a good knowledge of hardware commerce. Very soon he was able to set up his own commercial establishment named Mascons Hardware Stores, which was later floated as a company named Mascons Ltd.
The new Company rapidly grew to become a large establishment dealing in import and sale of hardware.
Later, when indigenous industrial ventures were encouraged by the State, he, in association with others, ventured into manufacture of building materials locally. They floated the Asbestos Cement Industries Ltd. in 1955. The Group became well known for the production of wire nails, barbed-wire for fencing, asbestos building materials, etc. Besides a factory in Ratmalana Colombo, another was established in Puttur Jaffna.
Subramaniam achieved an industrial activity of phenomenal growth from a small beginning. He was a meticulous person of high principles and was deeply religious. He gifted a set of class rooms for the Manipay Girls' College and renovated the Manipay Maruthadi Pillaiyar Temple, providing it with a new bell and bell-tower. He passed away on 7th April 1976.
He married Pakiawathy and had two sons: Sathiamoorthy and Mahenthiran, who are continuing the parental business establishments with great success and five daughters: Raji, Subathra, Mallika, Saro and Saku.
C.Subramaniam 1902-1994 ( “Orator” ), Principal, Skanda Varodaya College Kanterodai, 1944- 1962.

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C.Subramaniam, better known as Orator Subramaniam, was born on 18th October 1902. He was the son of P. Chittampalam and Parvathi of Kaddudai who were farmers, and had two brothers and two sisters.
When he was three, he was adopted by his father's brother Sabapathipillai, who married Moses Velupillai's daughter. Orator's early years were spent with his uncle. He studied at Manipay Hindu, when his uncle was Principal there and later went with him to India. He was very popular at Jaffna Hindu College, earned the name of "Orator', and was a member of the foot-ball eleven.
In the 1920's, he was in the Inter Arts class of Jaffna College, receiving special tuition in English from J.V.Chelliah*. It was then that he distinguished himself as an able communicator.
The Youth Congress Movement, initiated at Jaffna College then, provided scope for his hidden talent.
Being a good communicator, he chose to be a teacher. In 1925 he taught at Matara for a time. He was then a School Master at Manipay Hindu College and afterwards at Jaffna Hindu College.
The call for his life's major task came in 1944, when he was appointed Principal of a not so well known village School at Kanterodai, situated off Chunnakam.
By hard work, diligence and outstanding ability he improved the School almost beyond recognition. He is given the credit for raising Skanda Varodaya College, from a “village school to a Special Grade institution, hitting headlines with the highest number of entrants to the University' from the Jaffna Peninsula.
Several outstanding achievements of the School were recorded during his tenure as Principal. H.S.C and Varsity Entrance Classes were commenced in 1947; the School was raised to Grade 1 in 1947; the School's Diamond Jubilee was celebrated at the Jaffna Esplanade in 1954; the Inter-Collegiate Soccer Championship was won in 1958. On top of these, the School won the distinction of being classified as a "Super Grade School, becoming a leading educational institution in the North. The number
of pupils rose from 291 in 1944, when he took charge to 2045 at the time of his retirement
Orator Subramaniam's popularity and influence was not confined to his School only. He was President of the Northern Province Teachers' Association, the President of the Jaffna Schools Sports Association and later the President of the Northern Province School Principals’ Association.
He retired in 1962 after being Principal of “Skanda', for 18 years. He however retained an abiding interest in the welfare of the College. In appreciation of his work, he was honoured by being appointed "Emeritus Principal Skanda Varodaya College". He was a good writer , selecting his words with ease. While speaking, he had the art of holding the attention of his audience with his witty comments and anecdotes. After retirement, he was involved in having Manipay Maruthadi Vinayakar Temple declared a public trust. He passed away in 1994, at the age of 92.
He married Annarethinam from Arally and had three sons: Kandasamy an Accountant in Canada, Sitsabesan a Marine Engineer in Canada, Vasanthan a Doctor in U.K., and two daughters: Jnanaranjini University Lecturer, married to Puvanarajan and Pathmasini married to Dr.P. Kandiah, who passed away in 1992.
Mudaliyar G.Subramaniam 1882-..... Maniyagar, Jaffna Town.
G. Subramaniam was Kachcheri Mudaliyar, Mullaitivu, and was later appointed Kachcheri Mudaliyar and Maniyagar, Jaffna Town.
He was a Member of the Provincial Road Committee and a Director of the Jaffna Hindu Board.
The titular rank of "Mudaliyar' was conferred on him in 1933.
Hon.M.M.Subramaniam c 1870-1945. Crown Proctor, M.S.C.
Subramaniam son of Mailvagana Mudaliyar of Trincomalee, was a wealthy person,

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who owned several coconut estates in Sambativu, Trincomalee.
He was Crown Proctor and member of the Trincomalee District Local Board. In the 1920's he was elected to represent the BatticaloaTrincomalee constituency in the Ceylon Legislative Council. He retained his seat later in the Ceylon State Council, as well.
Subramaniam had three sons and three daughters. His eldest son Alagarajah was Chief Shroff at the Trincomalee Naval Office His second son Tharmarajah is a Barrister. and Proctor Manicarajah, his third son, was Chairman Trincomalee Urban Council and later Member of the State Council.
Dr.S.Subramaniam J.P., O.B.E
1878-1964. L.M.S. (Cal)., L.R. C. P & S, Provincial Surgeon, "Physician, Philanthropist & Philosopher'.
The retired Provincial Surgeon Dr.S.Subramaniam, familiarly known as "P.S.", was an outstanding doctor in Jaffna, during the 1940's and 1950's,.
PS, born on 27th September 1878, was the son of Sinnatamby of Kanterodai, a descendant of Villava raya Mudaliyar
He and his cousin Kandiah (later Kandiah Upathiyayar, founder Kanterodai English Institute which later became, Skanda
Varodaya College), were known to have studied in Page's School in Manipay. Later he joined the Jaffna Central College from where he passed the First in Arts Examination.
He then proceeded to Calcutta for his Medical studies . Obtaining the M & S qualification, he joined the Medical Service in Ceylon in 1902 as Sub-Asst. Colonial Surgeon. He was Medical Officer Beruwela in 1906. He worked at many stations, distinguishing himself as an able Physician. Proceeding to Edinburgh, he got the L.R.C.P qualification and was promoted to Grade 1 of the Service. He functioned as Chief Physician, Galle Hospital for several years. He was Provincial Surgeon Eastern Province in 1926 and was at Jaffna, in the same capacity, in 1930. He resided at the Bungalow known as "Octagon', situated by the
beach in Jaffna Town. Several patients gathered there for consultation. To all he prescribed free. After retirement, he set himself up in private practice, which was a great success. Patients flocked there for his treatment. Long queues were a daily feature. He maintained a laboratory for examination of blood and urine specimens.
He was a great thinker; he read many books on religion and philosophy. He had a good library of books.
Dr. Subramaniam was a great philanthropist. He contributed liberally towards the development of Skanda Varodaya College, a School founded by his cousin in his own village. He gave large donations to many other institutions. The Ramakrishna Mission, the Catholic Church and others, all benefited by his liberal donations. He gave good support to the Hindu Board of Education, of which he was the President. He built the "Thangammah Maternity Home' at Kurunagar in Jaffna Town, in memory of his wife. With a large donation received from him, the Jaffna Urban Council constructed a Public Park, opposite the Jaffna Court House and called it the “Dr.S.Subramaniam Park.
He kept abreast of the times by constant reading of Medical Journals. Even at his 86th year, he was an alert figure, with a very good memory who worked from eight in the morning. On 12th January 1964, he worked till ten in the morning and broke off and passed away in the afternoon.
Dr. Subramaniam married a niece of Adigar Naganathan; there was no issue. He adopted his nephew Dharmalingam, who later became a Member of Parliament.
R.Sundaralingam 1930Senior Dep. Inspector General of
Police, etc.
R.Sundaralingam, born 16th November 1930, is the som of K. Ramachandra*, Editor Publisher of "Religious Digest' and a brother of Dr. Pararajasegaram *. When he was at St. Joseph's College Colombo, he played badminton for Ceylon. At the University of Ceylon Peradeniya, where he graduated in Arts in 1955, he was President of the Strudents Union.

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He joined the Police Dept. as Asst. Supt. of Police in 1956 and was promoted Supt. of Police in 1977, Deputy Inspector General of Police in 1977 and Senior I.G.P in 1982. In 1985, he accepted an assignment overseas and later joined Interpol at the Secretariat -General in France. He now holds a Senior position there, as a Specialist on Drug Criminality and has earned International recognition.
Sundaralingam married Yasoda nee Subramaniam of Arali, and has a son Dr. Radhakrishnan B.D.S., M.S. Orthodontics.Philadelphia.
V.Sundharalingam 1930B.B.C. Representative, South India.
Sundharalingam, born 5th Nov. 1930, is the son of R.Veerasingham and Parasakthy (nee Kandiah) of Chavakachcheri. He had his education at Drieberg College Chavakachcheri and Central College, Jaffna.
After being an Audit clerk for some time, he became an Announcer and News Reader in Radio Ceylon. Afterwards, he was Press Officer, Dept. of Information Ceylon and then Simultaneous Interpreter, Parliament of Sri Lanka. Later he was Producer (Tamil), B.B.C., World Service, London. He had served ON ATTACHMENT at Inter Parliamentary Union.Geneva, and at the House of Commons, Westminster, London. He is now the Representative for the Tamil Service of the B.B.C World Service London, for South India.
Sundharalingam married Parasakthy, a graduate teacher and daughter of S. Aiyadurai of Aththiyadi, and has a daughter Subhadra.
C.Suntharalingam 1895-1985. B.Sc, MathsTripos (Oxon), Professor of Mathematics. M.P for Vavuniya 1947-1956.
Suntharalingam, Professor and politician was born on 19th August 1895. His father was Chellapah and mother Meenachchi of Urumpirai."
He had a brilliant school career at St.John's College Jaffna and St.Joseph's College Colombo. Proceeding to England as a Scholar,
in 1914, he obtained the B.Sc(Lond) degree with Honours in Mathematics and Double First Maths Tripos from Balliol College Oxford.
Though selected for the Indian Civil Service, he preferred the Ceylon Civil Service and commenced work in 1920. Resigning his post, he was appointed the first Professor of Mathematics in the Ceylon University College; he was also the Warden of Union Hostel. He was a friend of the student community and critic of authority.
Becoming interested in politics, he retired in 1940 and entered the political arena. After initial unsuccessful attempts in the 1943 & 1944 by-elections, he won the Vavuniya seat as an Independent candidate, in the General Elections for the first Parliament in 1947. He accepted office as Minister for Trade and Commerce, but however resigned in 1948, due to differences in matters of policy.
Afterwards he retained his seat with comfortable majorities in the Elections held in 1952 and 1956. During this period, he vacated his seat twice, on matters at issue at that time, and won the by-elections that ensued.
He was a Barrister, having been called tohe Bar from Gray's Inn in 1920, and practised as an Advocate in Ceylon.
In later years, he led a quieter life, residing most of the time in Vavuniya, from where he passed away on 11th February 1985. He married Kanagambikai Ambal , daughter of M. Kanagasabai Sub Collector H.M.Customs Jaffna, and had two sons and four daughters. The elderson Gnanalingam, born on 10th June 1924, graduated with Honours at the University of Ceylon. Proceeding to Cambridge, he distinguished himself as a Fellow of Trinity College in Research. Returning to Ceylon, he held a Senior position in the Ceylon Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research for several years, before proceeding to the States. The second son Sathyalingam is a talented musician and businessman in Singapore. The eldest daughter Lingambikai was married to K. Satchithananda, Lingavathy the next daughter to K.Chelvadurai, Lingamani to R.C. Raja Rayan and Lingeswari to Samy Pasupathy.

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C.Suntharam S.O. 1858-1924. C.C.S., Chief Appraiser; H. M. Customs, Colombo.
Suntharam, born in 1858, was the son of Candiahpillai (....-1890) and Sinnachchipillai (....-1938) of Nallur. Manicka Ammaiyar wife of Sabapathy Mudaliyar was his younger sister and Periyathamby his elder brother.
He was introduced to H.M.Customs Service by his brother-in-law M.Kanagasabai, father-in-law of C. Suntharalingam.
By his diligence and ability, he rose to the high position of Chief Appraiser, and was promoted to the Ceylon Civil Service. A grand function was held, when he was invested with the Imperial Service Order (I.S.O) by the Government. At the function F.Bowes, the Principal Collector of Customs, spoke very highly of Sundaram's work in organising the work at Chalmers Granaries in Colombo.
He was a very popular figure in Colombo, who contributed to many charitable causes. He helped his sister Manicka Ammaiyar in re-building the Kailaya Pillaiyar Temple at his birth place Nallur.
He married Annalakshmi and had two sons: Nadarajah and Thiyagarajah and five daughters: Meenambikai who was married to S.Somasunderam, Saraswathi who was married to Dr. Sivaretnam, Manon mani who was married to District Judge Ramachandran, Maheswari who was married to C.Thiagalingam Q.C and Kamalambikai who was married to Dr. Rajaretnam.
He passed away on 12th May 1924, at the age of 66.
A.R.Supiramaniam 1877-1960. Advocate, District Judge.
A.R.Supiramaniam District Judge of Trincomalee , was the Son of Ramanathar Ambalavanar, who was a teacher for a long time in Karai- nagar, Jaffna.
Supiramaniam was born on 9th May 1877. He received his early education under his father and later attended the Mission School at Tellipallai. He passed the Calcutta University Entrance Examination.
Continuing his studies at Vaddukoddai, he graduated in Arts in 1903. He passed out as an Advocate and was called to the Jaffna Bar in 1910 where he built up a steady practice.
In 1923, he entered the Judicial Service and functioned as District Judge Trincomalee for over five years.
A.R.Supiramaniam married Miss William and had two sons and a daughter who was married to S.Rajanayagam, Telecommunication Engineer.
S.Supiramaniya Sasthrikal 1875-1950. Scholar; Printer & Publisher:
Sasthrikal, scholar, astronomer and publisher, was the son of Sabapathy Iyer of Thumpalai, Puloly, Point Pedro. His grandfather was a very eminent scholar in Tamil and Sanskrit Supiramaniyam was born on 17th February 1875, and received his education from his grandparents and uncles.
He taught for a short time and then took to computing and publishing a Tamil Calendar, called the "Panchangam', annually. This "Panchangam from Point Pedro,” as it was commonly referred to, was very popular. He also became known as "Sasthrikal', because he computed this astrological publication.
Sasthrikal was soon able to set up a printing press of his own, which he did at his residence, and improved it gradually. He also established a free library at his residence.
He published several Tamil books, besides the annual Panchangam. Among his publications are also five volumes of "Kanthapuranam', with notes and explanations.
S.Suppiramaniam 1870-1934 J.P.U.PM, Crown Proctor, Pt. Pedro.
Suppiramaniam, a prominent figure in the legal circles of Pt. Pedro, was the son of Vairavanathar Sinnathamby of Udupiddy. His mother was from Thirunelveli, Jaffna.
He had to abandon his engineering studies in India, due to an epidemic there and returning to Ceylon pursued a legal career. He commenced practising as a Proctor in 1897.

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He very soon built up a leading practice in the Pt.Pedro Bar and was held in highesteem. He was appointed Crown Proctor and acted for the Magistrate on various occasions.
As a person of high standing of that time, he was also entrusted with the management of a local Vidyalayam.
S.Suppiramaniam married Katpahapillai, daughter of Poothathamby Sabapathipillai, who had a distinguished ancestry and was from Madduvil.
He had nine daughters and an eminent progeny:- Eldest daughter Yogambal married Ratnasingam, Secretary District Court, Kanagammah married Sinniah and their son Thanikasalam was Director of Education, Muthammah married Proctor Subramaniam of Tellipallai and their son Thayanithi was an Economist with the IMF and Vithiananthan who became Vice-Chancellor of the Jaffna University, Sakuntala married K.S. Arulnandhy Dep. Director of Education and had successful children, Nesammah married Nadarajah Supt. of Surveys, Maheswari married Sabaratnam of the Govt. Stores, Puvaneswari married Kanagasabai, Vijayalakshmi married Viyages. Somasunderam V.T.President, and Chithra Lakshmi married Kulasekaram Irrigation Engineer,
C.Suriyakumaran 1922B.A. (Cey)., B.Sc Econ. Hons.
Suriyakumaran, son of Gate Mudl. Canaganayagam and grandson of Adigar Naganathan of Kopay, was born on 19th January 1922.
He had a brilliant school career winning prizes and Gold Medals and at the University was the first Sri Lankan to obtain B.Sc Econ. Hons. Second Class Upper, London. His publication "Ceylon, Beveridge and Bretton Woods', on Ceylon Economics, was widely acclaimed. Proceeding to U.K, as a Govt.Scholar, he was awarded the Masters Degree in London. He entered the Local Government Service of Sri Lanka, as an Asst. Commissioner in 1945. Afterwards he was Senior Research Officer in the Planning Secretariat in 1959.
Joining the U.N later, he was Deputy Executive Secretary of the ECAFE, Director for
Education, Training and Technical Assistance of UNEP and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, being the first Sri Lankan to hold these positions.
He was later, a Visiting Professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he conducted a series of postgraduate lectures on Development, International Co-operation and Environment.
At the U.N., he was directly involved in the creation of the Asian Development Bank, the Asian Highway Network etc. The South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme was among his achievements in Environment.
He has lectured widely and written extensively. Among his publications are: The Wealth of Poor Nations, sponsred and published by the LSE in 1984 and widely read, The Methodology of Environment and Development Management, which has become a path finder, The Anguish of '83 and Hinduism for Hindus and Non-Hindus. Its Religion and Metaphysics. He was conferred the honour of Knight Commander of the Most Noble Order of the Crown, by the King of Thailand, for outstanding service to Asia. In 1995, he was awarded the Sasakawa World Environment Prize.
Suriyakumaran married Vallipillai, daughter of Advocate Sangarapillai of Point Pedro. She was a post graduate in Economics and Education of Presidency College Madras and Colombo and Vice-Principal and Principal of schools. They have four children: Ravishankar Suriyakumaran, Mangala Mylvaganam, Darshini Yogasundaram and Bakathavadchalam Suriyakumaran.
Sri La Sri Swaminatha Thambiran Swamikal 1918-1981. Incumbent, Nallur Jnanasampanthar
Atheenam.
Swamikal, born on 8th February 1918, was well known to the Jaffna public from his early days as Mani Iyer. He had acquired good proficiency in the art of narrating puranic stoies in lyrical style, termed Katha Prasangam .
His preachings were a common event at most of the temple festivals in Jaffna. At the Nallur Kandaswamy temple, the meetings held

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by him after the festivals, were a usual feature. On these occasions he would recite puranic episodes and speak on the exploits of God Skanda.
Eventually, with the help he received from his listeners in Malaysia and India he established a religious centre near the Nallur Kandaswamy temple. This soon developed into a well organised institution and was named the Nallur Jnanasampanthar Atheenam.
On the death of Swaminatha Swamikal on 10th April 1981, his disciple Somasundara Thesiga Swamykal succeeded as incumbent of the Atheenam.
T
A.E.Tamber 1904-... . B.Sc (Lond), Principal, Jaffna Central College.
Alfred Edward Tamber, born on 26th October 1904, was the son of George Washington Tamber, who was associated with Jaffna Central College for a long time. A.E.Tamber was educated at Central College and graduated in Science from the Ceylon University College, in the mid 1920's.
After graduation, he joined the staff of his old College and served for several years. He identified himself with the Youth Congress Movement (1925-1930) in Jaffna. With his sense of sharing concern and togetherness, he was always popular with the pupils and the staff. He was President of the All-Ceylon Union of Teachers for three years.
Later, he was appointed Principal and took charge, on the retirement of Dr.D.T.Niles. He held that position with acceptance till retirement in October 1962. It is said that the name Tamber is long remembered in the annals of Central College, as between father and son, the Tambers had served Jaffna Central for more than eighty
years.
A.E.Tamber married Miss Asirvatham and
their daughter was married to K.Kandaswamy,
Deputy Principal of Jaffna Central College.
Deshamanya Dr.H.W.Tambiah 1906
L.L.B., Ph.D (Lond)., LL.D(Lond)
Supreme Court Judge.
Henry Wijeyakone Tambiah, born in Jaffna on 28th May 1906, is the son of David Tambiah, a surveyor who had connections in Puloly, and Thangamma Paul, eldest sister of Dr.S.C.Pau II*.
He had his early education in several Schools in Jaffna and passed the London Matriculation in the First Division and the Interscience, from the Jaffna Central College. Entering University College Colombo, he obtained B.Sc (Hons) degree in Physics in 1925. He then joined Law College and obtained his Attorneys-at-Law with a prize for being first in the examination. He secured the London LL.B with Honours in 1934 and functioned as Lecturer and Examiner of the Council of Legal Education . 1938-1953. Later, he was honoured by being made a Queen's Counsel. He obtained his Ph.D (London) in 1949. Thereafter, after functioning as Commissioner of Assize for some time, he was appointed Judge of the Supreme Court in 1960 and served for twelve years.
After retirement, he had an assignment as Supreme Court Judge in Sierre Leone and as Appeal Judge in Gambia.
Returning to Sri Lanka in 1975, he commenced the Tamil section of the Law Faculty in the University of Colombo. He then functioned as High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Canada, for over two years and on his return was appointed chief member of the Law Commission.
On his retirement, he spends his time in historical research, specially concerning Law and the Tamils. He has written the following books: Law of Insolvency (Jointly with E.R.S.R. Coomaraswamy), Landlord and Tenant in Ceylon, Laws and Customs of the Tamils of Jaffna, 1950, Laws and Customs of the Tamils of Ceylon, 1954, Dominion of Ceylon (Jointly with Sir Ivor Jennings), Sinhala Laws and

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Customs 1968, Principles of Ceylon Law, The Judicature of Sri Lanka in its Historical Aspects. Several other works are under preparation.
He was awarded the National Honour of "Desamanya' in 1993.
Thambiah married Leela, daughter of C.D.A.Sherrard of Point Pedro and has four children: Gulendran LL.B, legal Adviser in South Africa, Rajendran Jeyanathan who is in U.K., Rajeswari who is married to Dr.Sritharan, and Anthony Sudir an Accountant in Jamaica.
E.R.Tambimuttu c. 1890-..... Advocate, Member of the State Council, for Batticaloa-Trinconnalee, - 1932-.
E.R.Tambimuttu was a leading Lawyer of Batticaloa in the 1930's. His ancestors were originally from Nallur Jaffna, who had later settled in Batticaloa.
Tambimuttu was an Advocate by profession and a very fluent speaker. He represented the Batticaloa-Trincomalee constituency in the Legislative Council and continued to do so in the first State Council of Ceylon.
His name is well remembered by the Batticaloa people for the very strong case he made in the Council, for the development of his backward electorate. In particular, he agitated for a bridge in South Batticaloa, and the Kalladi Bridge now stands in memory of him.
His daughter Laurel was married to
Engineer Casinadar of the Public Works Department.
M.J.T. Tambimuttu 1915-1983. Founder-Editor of London's Popular Literary Journal "Poetry London".
Tambimuttu's name was closely associated with English Poetry of the 1940's and was well known in London. Meary James Thurairajah Tambimuttu was born on 15th August 1915, in Jaffna. His grandfather S.U.J.Tambimuttupillai has a genealogy descending from the Tamil Kings of Jaffna. His parents Henry Thambithurai Tambi muttu and Mary Ponnammah Santhiapillai had seven children.
Rev. Father Francis was the eldest, Meary James second and Paulinus third .
He had his early education at St.Joseph's College Trincomalee and later at St.Joseph's Colombo. He won an Exhibition in Botany and entered the Ceylon University College, but did not complete his course there.
After a short attempt at working in Colombo, he emigrated to London in 1938, at the age of 23. He has been described there as having “a seraphic smile and a long loose silky mane of hair'. He came in contact with eminent poets and the literati of London. Befriended by them, he commenced editing his well known literary journal "Poetry London', in 1939. It was artfully illustrated and copiously contributed by several literary persons of the day. He was well supported by T.S.Eliot and others. He did this quite successfully for over ten years, in spite of wartime conditions. He may not have been a great poet himself; but he brought out the poetry in others.
Later however, he took to Bohemian ways, associated with the pub life of Soho. His newly coined word "Fitzrovia' was said to have been based on the Fitzroy Tavern.
He later migrated to the States and while there published Poetry London-New York. But he was not happy there. He returned to Britain in 1970 and started a new publication Poetry London Apple Magazine and founded an Indian Arts Council in London. He married more than once He passed away on 22nd June 1983.
It is learnt that "Poetry London' has since been made available as a reprint in five volumes. Recently, a book entitled "Bridge between two Worlds', containing memorial contributions about him by sixty persons, has been published by Peter Owen, priced at £25.
A very touching Memorial Concert in remembrance of the poet and distinguished Editor of "Poetry London' was held in London in 1984, when poets, friends, relatives and admirers were present. The events concluded with his daughter Shakuntalasinging her father's favourite song.
S.U.J.Tambimuttupillai 1857-..... Registrar and Divisional Officer.

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Santiagupillai Udaiyar Joseph Tambimuttupillai, grandfather of the London poet M.J.T.Tambimuttu, was the son of Santiagupillai, who was Udaiyar of Atchuveli in 1861. He was born on 6th August 1857 and grew up in affluent surroundings.
He was educated at the Atchuveli Mission School and learnt English in the Puthur Mission School.
At a young age, he commenced helping his father in his work as Registrar and rapidly became familiar with all the work of a Registrar and Udaiyar. Eventually on his father's demise in 1898, he took over the job of “Registrar and Divisional Officer, under the Government.
He led an exemplary social life. He founded a Post Office, Hospital and the American Mission English School at Atchuveli. He was the President of the Co-operative Credit Society of Atchuveli. He had a Printing Press and published a religious journal called the Sanmarka Pothini. He wrote and published dramas, poems and religious hymns and was appointed "Mooppu' of his church.
Tambi muttupillai married Annamuthu, daughter of Gardiner Chittampalam, in 1878 and had four sons and three daughters.
PTambiraja, J.P.U.M. 1887-1972 Proctor S.C., Chairman, Kurunegala
Urban Council, for 12 yrs.
Ponnosamy Thambirajah, son of Ponnosamy of Colombo, was born on 18th April 1887. He was educated at S.Thomas College Colombo and Trinity College, Kandy.
He passed out as a Proctor S.C in 1909. He then commenced his long period of practice at the Kurunegala Bar, eventually becoming its President..
He was the first Chairman of the
Kurunegala Urban Council ( elected uncontested), and held that position for 12 years. He was a founder member and President of the Kurunegala Public Library for over two decades. He was responsible for the installation of electricity and pipe borne water to the town. He was founder member and President of the Kurunegala Lawn Tennis Club and the Saiva Maha Sabai, for several years.
He celebrated his Golden Jubilee as a Proctor of the Kurunegala Bar and continued his practice thereafter for ten years and passed away on 13th December 1972, at the age of 85. In memory of his services to Kurunegala Town, a street there has been named " Thambiraja Lane'.
Tambiraja married Sellakannu, daughter of Kathiresapillai of Koddadi Jaffna and on her demise married her younger sister Nithiyalakshmy and had eight daughters: Mrs. Pathma wathy Anandappa, Mrs. Selva Yoganathan, Mrs. Parameswary Sabaratnam, Mrs. Thangalakshmy Dharmalingam, Mrs. Rajalakshmy Subramaniam, Mrs. Indrani Jeganathan, Mrs. Rohini Shanka, and Mrs. Prakash Sivacolunthu.
A.McGowan Tampoe c 1885-1965 M.A (Cantab)., I.C.S
A.McGowan Tampoe was the son of T. Tampoe, Magistrate at Chavakachcheri and Harriet, daughter of Rev.N. Niles*.
After his education at S.Thomas College in Ceylon,Tampoe proceeded to Cambridge University, as a scholar, and graduated in languages, in the first class.
He was selected for the Indian Civil Service and served there for about thirty years. He eventually settled down in Cambridge, as a lecturer and an examiner in Tamil and Telugu. He also contributed items in Tamil to the B.B.C. Tampoe married Isabel, daughter of John Phillips, a brother of Mrs.John Hensman, and had two sons: Lionel and Ronald and three daughters : Rasammah, Beva, and Saraswathi.
A.Thambiah ....- 1986. Senior Registration Officer & Social Worker; Malaysia.
Born and brought up in Jaffna Ceylon, Thambiah lived most part of his active years in Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. He was holding the post of a Senior Registering Officer, when he retired from Government Service.
He dedicated his life to humanitarian and socio-religious work. His name is closely associated with the setting up of "The Tamils

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Relief Fund' and the endeavour he made for its support by the Malaysians.
He also spared no pains in collecting funds for the restoration of Thiruketheeswaram Temple in Ceylon. Due to his effort, the Malaysian Branch, of which he was President, sponsored the erection of the Ambalshrine and the Malaysia Pilgrim Hall, at Thiruketheeswaram temple.
His passing away after a brief illness in 1986, was a great loss to all the devotees of the temple.
H.D.Thambiah, 1926-1992
Chief Justice.
Justice Herbert Dharmarajah Thambiah, born on 14th October 1926, was the son of C.R.Thambiah, the Jaffna lawyer.
He was educated at Central College Jaffna and S.Thomas College Colombo. He graduated in Economics, with Honours, at the University of Ceylon and taught for some time at Hartley College.
Entering Law College, he secured a First
Class at the Final Examination. He took his oaths as an Advocate in 1954 and had a wide practice.
Entering the Judicial service, he rose rapidly to important positions on the Bench. He was appointed Judge of the Court of Appeal in 1978 and a Judge of the Supreme Court in 1984. He was appointed Chief Justice in 1990. He passed away on 4th October 1992.
Justice Thambiah, a brother of Professor S.J.Thambiah and Mrs. Sathyavathy Anandanayagam married Ranji Appathurai and had one daughter, Savithri, who is married to Rajan Wijeyaratnam.
Captain Dr.Thambiah c 1880-..... Prof. of Medicine, Madras University.
Dr.Thambiah was from Karainagar, in Jaffna. He proceeded to Madras for higher studies and choosing the Medical profession had a brilliant career in Madras, specialising in skin ailments. ܥ
He functioned as Professor of Medicine at the University and was honoured by being appointed Physician to the Governor of Madras.
His son has followed his father and is a
Dermatologist.
Miss Mabel Thambiah 1916-1987 Principal, Vembadi Girls" High School, 1950- 1970.
Mabel Thambiah, born on 23rd February 1916, was the daughter of J.A.Thambiah and Mary Pooranam Thambiah and grand daughter of Rev. Vellupillai of Atchuveli. Her brother Sebaretnam was a University Lecturer in Library Science.
Miss Thambiah had her early education at Kandy High School and later at Chundikuli Girls' College. She entered University College Colombo and obtained her B.A. degree in 1937. She was appointed a teacher at Vembadi Girls' High School in 1938. In 1950 she was appointed its first national Principal.She held this position with great eminence for twenty years, till she retired in 1970. During her tenure, teaching of Science subjects was commenced in the S.S.C Classes. In 1952, H.S.C and Varsity Entrance classes were commenced. With a view to preserving the cultural traits of the Tamils, she commenced celebrating Saraswathi Puja at Vembadi. The School improved vastly and became a 'Grade 1, Girls All-Island School' In 1971, she went to Japan and taught English Language, under the sponsorship of the East Asia Christian Conference, for three years. In 1974 she proceeded to Tongo and taught in Queen Salota College for another three years.
She was a keen Methodist, one of ten national Vice-Presidents of the Y.W.C.A and President of the Y.W.C.A.Jaffna Branch. She was keenly interested in women's education and was the President of the University Women's Association Jaffna, for several years. She passed away on 17th December 1987.
A.L.Thambiayah Виsinessтат & Member of Parliament for Kayts - 1947
Alfred L. Thambiayah was from Kayts in Jaffna. From his early days he took an interest in maritime transport.
Launching out in Colombo, he very soon gained a sound knowledge of Landing,

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Shipping, Clearing and Forwarding.
He became a Managing Director of the Cargo Boat Dispatch Co., Ltd. and soon held controlling interests in many of Colombo's large business establishments.
In 1947 he contested and won the Kayts seat in the State Council defeating the Tamil Congress candidate and the Speaker of the House.
He married Rajeswari daughter of Adigar Sellamuttu and had two sons Shivantha and Ravi and two daughters Subodhini and Indu.
On his demise his business interests were looked after by his children. The eldest son Shivantha was Chairman of the Cargo Boat group of companies. He improved them to cope with the changing conditions in Colombo, but unfortunately died in May 1991.
S.Thambimuuttu Pulavar 1857-1937 Poet and Publisher.
Thambimuttu Pulavar was from Achchuvely, Jaffna. He was a friend of Rev. Father Gnanapiragasar of Nallur.
He was instrumental for setting up a Society called the "Sanmarka Viruthi Sangam' at Achchuvely and was the Editor of the Society's Journal the Sanmarka Pothini.
A Printing Press was also established under the Society's auspices. Among his publications printed there, were: Sanmarka Anthathy and Sanmarka Sathakam.
S.T.Thambimuttu 1932-1990 M.P for Batticaloa
Samuel Thavarasa Thambi- muttu, often referred to as "Sam Thambimuttu', was a grand -nephew of veteran politician and State Councillor E.R.Tambimuttu.
Sam was a successful lawyer of the Batticaloa Bar, a long standing member of the T.U.L.F and Member of Parliament for the Batticaloa constituency.
He adjusted himself to the difficult years of the 1980 decade, which saw several political changes in the country.
Later, Sam took on full time work of Chairman of the Citizens Committee of
Batticaloa and did yeoman service for the people.
He intended entering Parliament again but met with an untimely end, in 1990.
He was a Methodist Christian. He married Kala, daughter of P. Manickam, T.U.L.F. Senator. She was known to have been a great campaigner for the Party. She too died soon after him.
Dr.T.Isaac Thambyah 1869-1941. Scholar; Lawyer, Theologian & Author.
Dr.Isaac Thambyah, an eminent scholar and an able theologian, was born on 19th August 1869. His father Arumugam Thambipillai, a School Master from Manipay, was the grand son of Semba Udaiyar of the locality.
Young Isaac had his early education at St.John's College, Jaffna. Later, when he was at S.Thomas College, Colombo he distinguished himself by winning the Divinity Scholarship and the Liturgy Prize. He was the Editor of the College Magazine. At a young age, he published two books of Poems "Garland of Ceylon Verses' and "By the Bridge'.
At the Law College, he was Editor of the Law Students' Magazine. He was called to the Bar in 1899 and practised in Colombo till 1901 and afterwards at Jaffna. He was a member of the English Bar (Gray's Inn) and had a leading practice in Malaya.
He was the founder of the “Ceylon Review', and the "Ceylon Law Review'. He compiled "Thambyah's Law Reports' and wrote his “Digest of the Law of Contract and Commentary on the Ceylon Penal Code'.
His main interest however, was Theology, which he took up seriously in the 1920's. He was appointed Vicar of Holy Trinity Church and Principal Divinity School; he was ordained Deacon in 1924.
He strove for a better inter-religious understanding. This is evident from his two 1925 publications: Gleams of God, being a comparative study of Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity, and Translations of Psalms of a Saiva Saint, being a Christian's endeavour to understand a great Hindu Saint. These two books created great interest for several years.

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He was a Member of several learned Societies: The Royal Asiatic Society, the Royal Society of English Literature, the Society of Biblical Archaeology and an Associate of the Philosophical Society of Great Britain, etc. He passed away on 18th February 1941 at the age of 72.
Isaac Thambyah married Mangalanayaki, daughter of Mudaliyar J.W. Barr Kumarakulasinghe* of Telli-pallai.
Murugesar Thambyah .... - 1944. Landed Proprietor, Broker &
Philanthropist
Murugesar Thambyah founder of “Thambyah Chathiram' Pilgrims' Rest in Colombo, was the son of Murugesar and grandson of S.Thambyah Mudaliyar of Manipay, a well to do businessman of Colombo.
He was a Broker attached to Messrs. Freudenberg & Co, who dealt in coconut products and shipping. He was a landed proprietor and was living in a large property called “Villula', in Torrington Place. He was a member of the Colombo Municipal Council.
He was a noble person who contributed liberally to charity. He founded a Pilgrims' Rest in Colombo, where pilgrims were housed and fed free. It is now known as “Thambyah Chathiram' and is a haven of retreat to the many who seek its shelter even today.
He married Sivanandam, fourth daughter of Sir P. Arunachalam; the wedding took place at the ancestral residence known as "Ponklaar'. They had four children: Mahadevi, Nadarajah, Mangaleswari and Murugesar. On his demise, Mrs. Sivanandam Thambyah* continued to maintain the many charitable works, her husband had commenced.
Their son Nadarajah M.A.,Ph.D., LLD, was Professor of Law at the Colombo University and after retirement has been made Emeritus Professor. He also functioned as Vice-Chancellor of the Jaffna University for some time. He married a daughter of Sir A.Mahadeva.
Mrs. Sivanandam Thambyah 1894-1975. Social Worker and Philanthropist
Sivanandam, fourth daughter of Sir P. Arunachalam and Lady Sornambal Arunachalam, was born in 1894.
She received her education at Ladies College Colombo. At home she was brought up in an environment of art and culture. It is said that she would read many of her father's books on Hindu culture and Tamil civilisation. She won prizes for art and painting.
She was married to M.Thambyah* and ably supported him in his many activities.
She lost her husband in 1944, when she was fifty years old. She spent the rest of her life working for the well-being of the Tamil community.
She made several donations to many deserving undertakings. Endowments were made to assist the people living in Manipay in Jaffna. An additional ward was built to relieve congestion at the Hospital in Vathiri. A Hall was built at the Saiva Mangaiyar Kalagam School for Girls in Colombo, of which she also functioned as President.
She was a devout follower of Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and was instrumental in instituting a branch of the Swami's Divine Life Society, in Sri Lanka.
She passed away in 1975, at the age of 81. Her life has been praised as a striking example of all that is best in Hindu womanhood.
Dr.T.Thambyahpillai 1925-1984. Astrophysicist.
Thambyahpillai, born 21st September 1925, was the son of Saddanathar Thamotharampillai and Nallanayagi of Vannarpannai Jaffna, and nephew of Dr.T.Nallainathan. He had his early education at St.Patrick's College Jaffna and proceeded to the University of Ceylon where he graduated in Physics with First Class Honours in 1949.
Proceeding to Manchester University in U.K., as a scholar, he did postgraduate work in cosmic rays and got his PhD in 1953. Returning to Sri Lanka he was Lecturer in Physics at the Ceylon University 1953-1968.
He was then appointed as a Research Fellow at the Imperial College of Science and

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Technology London and worked on the relationship between cosmic rays and solar and geomagnetic activity. His work was also involved in the elucidation of the difficult problems of sidereal variation of cosmic rays. He figured at several International conferences, contributed over thirty papers on his work and won world wide acclaim.
He was a Founder Member of the London Tamil Sangam and its President 1977-78. He passed away on 4th December 1984.
Dr.T.Thambyahpillai married Meenalosani, a graduate daughter of School Principal Thilliampalam of Chulipuram and had two daughters Sivakamasundari and Shyamalanayagi.
S.Thambydurai 1906-1991 District Judge, Vice-President T.U.L.F.'
Thambydurai, born 9th August 1906, was the son of Sinnappoo of Thirunelveli North and a brother of Dr.S.Sivagnanam of Malaysia. He was educated at St.John's College Jaffna and chose the legal profession.
After practising as an advocate for some time, he entered the Judicial Service and served as a judge at Several stations including Chilaw, Avissawela, Jaffna, Point Pedro, Batticaloa etc, for over twenty years.
After retirement he was actively involved in the events of the time. He was elected a member of the Jaffna University Court. He was a keen supporter of the F.P and later of the T.U.L.F of which he was a Vice President for several years. He continued his active service to the public till his demise in December 1991, at the age of 85.
Thamby durai married Maruthapiraveekavalli and had two sons and six daughters who are holding high positions in Law, Medicine, Engineering and Education.
Mrs.E.S.Thambyrajah 1901-1977 School Principal.
Elizabeth Selvapooranam, the youngest daughter of Rev. and Mrs.C.D. Velupillai of Atchuveli, was born in 1901. She graduated from Women's Christian College Madras.
She was married to Rev.K.E.Thambyrajah, worked in Punguduthivu and in Tellippalai. After his death, she commenced teaching and was at Chundikuli Girls College and later at Uduvil Girls' College. Proceeding to U.K, on a Cadbury Scholarship and bursary in 1938, she completed her post-graduate studies at SellyOak College Birmingham.
On her return, she became the first lady Inspectress of Schools in Jaffna and worked in the Point Pedro circuit for two years. She was then appointed the first national Principal of Girls' High School Badulla and later of Women's Training College Batticaloa. She then functioned as Principal of Muslim Women's Training College Alutgama and later of Sangamitta Vidyalaya Galle, serving for thirty five years in all, in the field of education.
She was one of two Tamil ladies to be
President of the Sri Lanka Federation of University Women. She contributed articles to the Morning Star and the Manai Malar of Madras. She translated two well known Christian books The Soul's Sincere Desire and I will lift up Mine Eyes, into Tamil and wrote the book The Life Of Christ according to St Mark. Her talks over the radio on religion and education were interesting and inspiring.
Mrs.Ambika Thamotharam 1934 - Exponent of Carnatic Vocal Music.
Ambika is the eldest daughter of Sivasubramaniam, an official in the Railway Department. She was educated at the Saiva Mangaiyar Vidyalayam, Colombo.
She studied Carnatic music at the Isai Kalai Mantram in Colombo and became very proficient in Tamil vocal music.
She was selected as a Radio Artistand gave several recitals. She excelled in Hindu devotional songs in particular and won a Gold Medal for it. Ambika was a teacher at the Colombo Hindu College for some time.
She has given recitals in many countries: Malaysia, Singapore, the UK, France, U.S.A and Canada and has been honoured with the title of “Kalai Vani” and Gaana Bhooshanam.
She married Accountant Thamotharam and has a son who is a doctor and capable flutist,

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and a daughter who also is a doctor, Bharatha Natyam dancer and teacher.
C.J.T.Thamotheram 1918School Master, Journalist &Social
Worker.
Charles Jayam Thambyrajah Thamotheram, was born on 19th September 1918. "CJ T “ or “Jayam”, as he is familiarly referred to, grew up in an environment of education and scholarship, being the eldest son of the distinguished school principal C.P..Thamotheram (1883-1944). His mother Huldah Thangamma Arulampalam was the grand daughter of Rev.T.P.Hunt.
He had his early education at St.John's College Jaffna and Hartley College Pt.Pedro. He then continued at St.Joseph's College, Colombo. Proceeding to the University College, he graduated in Science with Second Class Honours.
He started life as a School Master at Hartley College, at the age of 20. But after three years of teaching, he relinquished it for varied experience. under Government and in commerce. He then renewed his teaching interests for a year at St.Patrick's College, before proceeding to Wesley College Colombo.
While there, he re-vitalised the Colombo Teachers Association, becoming its President. He went to the States on a Smith-Mundt Scholarship. He formed the Ceylon Teachers' Travel Club and organised tours to India, Australia, Israel, UK, U.S.S.R and China.
With the onset of communal differences, he left Sri Lanka for U.K. in 1961. Arriving in Great Britain, he was teaching at a Grammar School in Luton for a few years. He was then a Master at the Latymer Upper School for nineteen years, and has since retired.
He is a very active social figure in Great Britain. In 1966 he founded the Association of Commonwealth Teachers in the U.K, which became very popular, with Members from all the Commonwealth Countries. “Jayam' is also a very active social worker. He was a Founder Member and Vice-President of the Standing Committee of Tamils (S.C.O.T.) in 1977. He was the Founder-Headmaster of the West London
Tamil School, 1978-1982. The School was commenced for imparting knowledge of their own language to the Tamil children of London. He was the Founder and Managing-Director of the Journal "Tamil Times', a monthly Journal in London for the Tamils to air their news, views and wants. He functioned as both its Circulation Manager and Editor, through its difficult teething period 1981-1987. Now it is a very successful Journal with 12 years of unbroken publication and fills a very useful need of the community.
In 1988, he initiated a more challenging move in commencing the elite "International Tamil Foundation'. The Foundation has been meeting every month regularly ever since, to consider problems affecting the Tamils of Sri Lanka. "Jayam' is its Founder President and steers its activities.
He is a leading social personality and a fountain of knowledge of the Sri Lankan Tamils in Great Britain, It has been aptly said that "C.J.T has kept the fires of Tamil consciousness alive in the hearts of the Tamil people living away from their homeland.
In 1945 he married Florence Thiviamalar, daughter of Rev.N.K. Nalliah and has three sons and three daughters.
C.P..Thamotheram 1883-1944. B.A., Principal, Hartley College 1915-1943.
C.P..Thamotheram, the distinguished Principal who built up Hartley College, Pt.Pedro , was born on 3rd September 1883. He was the second son of Rev.D.V.Thamotheram and Mrs. Thamotheram mee Niles.
Young "C.P.T' had his early education at the Pt.Pedro Boys' School and the Jaffna Central College. He then proceeded to Wesley College in Colombo. Later he graduated in Madras.
He was Principal of Batticaloa Central College and member of the staff of St John's and Jaffna Central Colleges, before assuming Principalship of Hartley College in 1915.
A new phase commenced in the history of Hartley College, under “C.P.T's regime. In spite of difficult conditions due to World War I, new class rooms, halls and boarding houses were built. With new Science Laboratories it was very

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soon recognised as a leading educational establishment in the North. Emphasis was then made on the teaching of Mathematics and Science.
It was during his regime that the School gained its present name of Hartley College, after Rev Marshall Hartley, Secretary of the Methodist Mission.
The College excelled even in the field of sports, winning the Inter Collegiate Football Championship in 1923 under the Captainship of K.C.Praesoody*.
C.P..Thamotheram and his dedicated staff were responsible for producing scholars of exceptional ability, who held eminent positions. Among them are K.Alvapillai, Dr. C.J.Eliezer, Prof.K. Kanapathipillai*, Dr.R.K.Kandiah*, C. Loganathan *, S. Nadarasar,
A.S. Navaratnarajah*, Dr.S.Sunderalingam,
Thuraiswamipillai and several others.
He was a firm disciplinarian, an able administrator and a dedicated teacher. He retired in 1943, at the age of 60, leaving his VicePrincipal K. Poornampillai to succeed him and continue the good work he had done. He passed away soon after on 15th June 1944.
Thamotheram married Huldah Thangammah, daughter of A.S. Arulampalam of Kodikamam and had ten children. The eldest was Jayasothy, the first lady Science graduate (1930) of the Ceylon University College. “C.J.T was the fifth child and the eldest son.
Rev.D.V.Thamotheram 1856-1922 Minister; Pt. Pedro.
Rev. Daniel V..Thamotheram was born on 29th September 1856, in Alvai Pt.Pedro.
He entered the Ministry in 1886 and worked at several stations; he was at Kaddaively, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Jaffna and Pt.Pedro. He has been referred to as "a fine Minister of the Gospel' and his work, especially in the Pt. Pedro circuit was highly commended. He passed away in 1922.
Rev. Thamotheram married Charlotte Niles and had three sons and three daughters. The eldest son Nathaniel Nalliah a Gate Mudaliyar married Alagamma Niles, the second Charles Ponniah* a School Principal married
Huldah Thangamma Arulampalam, and the third James Chelliah a School Master married Penny Sabapathy. The eldest daughter Nesamma was married to R.T. Niles, Annamma to Dr. H.C. Samuel and the last daughter Muththamma to Rev.N.K.Nalliah.
Dr.T.P.Tham Otheram 1897-1978.
L.R.C.P.M.R.C.S. M.B.B.S, M.R.C.G.P(Lond).
Thambu Ponnusamy Thamo- theram, born 30th October 1892, was the son of V.Thamotherampillai, founder Chavakachcheri Hindu College, and grandson of Velauthar Murukar.
After his general education, he qualified as a doctor and entered the Ceylon Medical Service in 1925 and worked in many stations. He was House Surgeon Kandy in 1926, J.M.O. Colombo 1935, School Medical Officer Jaffna 1946 and finally Supt. Health Services Ratnapura 1954-1957 before retirement.
He functioned as a Visiting Physician at the Green Memorial Hospital in 1959 and eventually was in charge of the Arasa Dispensary in Chavakachcheri from 1968 until his demise in 1978.
He and other members of the family took interest in improving the school founded by his father.
Thamotheram married Naga- retnam Saravanamuttu of Sandilippai in 1919 and had four children: Kamala, married to Mandaleswaran (Principal Chavakachcheri Hindu College), Sara a Teacher, Pathma married to Dr.V.P.Amarasingam and Meena, Consultant Microbiologist married to Dr. C.C.Mahendra.
Vincent T,Thamotheram 1915B.A (Lond)., LL.B, Supreme Court Judge.
Vincent Thambinayagam Thamo- tharam, born 12th October 1915, is the son of Gate Mudaliyar N.N.Thamotheram.
He had his early education at Jaffna Central College and later at S.Thomas College, Colombo. Passing the London Inter-Arts Examination from the Ceylon University

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College, he entered Law College and qualified as an Advocate.
He was called to the Bar in 1942. Entering the Attorney General's Department, he functioned as Crown Counsel from 1944 to 1968. He also acted for the Solicitor General. He was appointed Commissioner of Assize and then Judge of the Supreme Court in 1970. He was also a Member of the Judicial Service Commission. He retired in 1980.
Proceeding to Australia in 1983, due to the holocaust in Sri Lanka, he has been called to the Barthere, in 1984.
V.T.Thamotheram married Bala- devi, daughter of Kanagasabai and has a son Nirmal Nandakumar, a Chartered Accountant who married Kamini daughter of Nadarajah and three daughters: Vasantha, a Zoology graduate, who is married to G. Brito-Babapulle Professor of Veterinary Science, Chandira, Dental Nurse who is married to Dr. Hendrik Kroone and Manjula, a graduate in Nutrition, who is married to Alfred Lawton a graduate in Arts.
Rao Bahadur C.W.Thamotharampillai 1832-1901 B.A.B.L., High -Court Judge, Eminent Scholar.
A Jaffna Tamil Scholar who gained great recognition in India was Thamotharampillai, son of Wairava- mathapillai of Chirupiddi.
Born on 12th September 1832, he mastered the Tamil classics from his father and other scholars, when he was young. He then acquired a knowledge of English at the American Mission School at Tellipallai; afterwards he entered the Vaddukkoddai Seminary in 1844, where he was a distinguished pupil for eight years.
He was appointed Editor of Rev. Percival's Journal “Thina vartha - mani”, which was published in Madras. When a University was inaugurated in Madras in 1857, he was one of the first to obtain the B.A degree from there. It is said that his portrait can still be seen in the Senate Hall of the University.
He passed the B.L. Examination of the Madras University and was appointed HighCourt Judge in 1882. On retirement in 1897, he
was honoured with the title of "Rao-bahadur'. It is said that the Ponnambalam brothers (later Sir P.Ramanathan and Sir P.Arunachalam) were his wards when they were undergraduates at Presidency College Madras.
After retirement, he spent his time in Tamil research, redeeming ancient Tamil works with the collaboration of J.M. Velupillai. He was responsible for instituting a leading position for the Tamil language in University education. He was a great admirer and contemporary of Arumuga Navalar. Some rare ancient Tamil classics were published by him. He also wrote a few publications. He passed away on the 1st of January 1901.
Thamotharampillai married Nagamuthu Ammaiyar and had five sons. Alagasuntharam, later known as Francis Kingsbury was their third son.
The Sri Lankan Government honoured him by issuing a postage stamp, value -/50cts., in his memory on 1st October 1983.
C.Thanabalasingham 1905-..... District Judge, Jaffna.
Chelliah Thanabalasingham, elder brother of C. Loganathan, was born on 29th November 1905.
After his school career he enrolled as a Law Student and passed out as a Proctor in 1928. He was called to the Bar in 1950.
Entering the Judicial Service, he was District Judge Negombo in 1955 and Additional District Judge Jaffna in 1960.
After his retirement he identified himself with the social and religious affairs of the community.
He married a daughter of Advocate Subramaniam. She is a Tamil Pandit; Jaydevan, their eldest son is a businessman and Upendran, the second son is a doctor. One of his daughters is married to Civil Servant S.Kathirkamanathan.
K.C..Thangarajah 1907-1987 Business Entrepreneur, Co-founder
Colombo Hindu Education Board.
Kandapillai Chinnathamby Thangarajah,

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the Colombo business entrepreneur who founded the Saraswathi Hall in Bambalapitiya, was born on 20th June 1907. His father Chinnathamby was an Ayurvedic Physician of repute in Vannarpannai, Jaffna.
He had his education at the Jaffna Hindu College and at St.Benedict's College Colombo. After a short time in the Government Clerical Service, he functioned as Asst. Rubber Controller, under P.Saravanamuttu for a few years.
He then turned to the private sector and commenced his career as an enterprising businessman. He held leading positions in several ventures. While working for A.Sangarapillai, as Manager of the Times of Ceylon Newspaper Office, he was instrumental in commencing the Daily Mirror - a morning tabloid and also another Sinhala newspaper.
He was a Managing Director of Ceylon and Foreign Trades Ltd., a Company dealing with export of rubber, tea etc, and agency for Renault Motor cars.
He accepted the Chairmanship of the "Eastern Paper Mills Corporation” in the 1950's at a time when it was on the verge of being closed and ably steered it into a flourishing mammoth organisation.
He was a keen social elite , who worked quietly and achieved far-reaching results, without any publicity. He was the prime mover in forming the Colombo Hindu Education Board and several other social and religious Societies. He was responsible for founding and building up Colombo Hindu College and Saraswathi Hall. He was Managing Director of the Times of Ceylon. In Jaffna he commenced the prodction of the Tamil daily newspaper Eelanadu” and later the English weekly Saturday Review.
All this activity imposed a heavy strain on him and he succumbed to an ailment and passed away on 20th June 1987.
As a permanent monument to his laudable effort stands "Saraswathi Hall', a frequently used place of assembly of the Tamils of Colombo, on all their social and cultural occasions.
He had five sisters and two brothers, one of whom was Ayur. Dr. K.C.Shanmugaratnam,
a specialist in Children's diseases and Registrar of Births and Deaths, Jaffna.
S.Thangarajah c 1910-.... . Advocate., Legal Draftsman.
S.Thangarajah of Chetty St. Nallur Jaffna was the son of Proctor Saravanamuthu, who practised at Kandy. He was an elder brother of S.Selvarajah, Attorney at Law.
After graduating, Thangarajah chose the legal profession and passed out as an Advocate.
After practising at the Colombo Bar, for some time, he joined the Legal Draftsman Service. He functioned there for a long time.
He married a daughter of Sir W. Duraiswamy.
Mrs.T.Thangarajah .... - 1992 School Principal.
Thangaratnam was a daughter of Postmaster Sinnathurai of Thunavi. From her childhood days she had displayed a talent for art. So, after her School education she underwent a course in Art and Drawing at the Technical College and became a teacher at Ramanathan College, Chunnakam.
Later, she proceeded to Calcutta and graduated in arts. On her return she was appointed Principal of Sri Shanmuga Vidyalaya, Trincomalee. She was later Principal of Navaly Maha Vidyalaya for a long time, before retirement.
Thangaratnam married A.W.Thangarajah of the Social Services Dept. and had three children: Manohari who was married to Sivashanmugam, Dr.Maheswaran who married Bhavani, and Nimalarajan who married Githanjaly,
Dr.V.Thangarajasingam 1925D T M d& H., D.C.H (Lond).
Thangarajasingam, born 30th April 1925, is from Vannarpannai Jaffna. His father was “Maniampathiar Santhathimurai' Kandappasagara Mudaliyar Murugesar Kandappar Vythialingam J.P and his mother Thillaimmah, a daughter of Veerasingampillai

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brother of Lexicographer Dr.A.Mootootamby Pilai *.
Thangarajasingam had his early education at Jaffna Hindu College and entering the Medical College passed out as a doctor. He served in Ittapana and Anuradhapura in Ceylon and proceeding to U.K, obtained British qualifications. He was a private Medical Practitioner and Registrar of Births and Deaths in Jaffna for ten years. Later he was a Clinical Medical Officer in U.K before retiring
He married Punithavathy, daughter of Shroff S.Kanagasabai.J.P and has five children: Civil Engineer Kawser who is married to Dr.Mohanarathy, Kiruba who is married to Solicitor Sri Shanmuganathan, Dr.Vakees who is married to Dr.Sasithara, Kethees to Sivasothy and Sibi.
Father X.S.Thani Nayagam
1913-1980. D.D (Rome)., M.A., M.Litt (Madras)., Ph.D (Lond). Saintly patriotic Scholar.
Father Xavier S.Thani-Nayagam, founder of the "International Association of Tamil Research', was from Nedunthivu (Delft), an Island off the Jaffna Peninsula. He was born on 2nd August 1913.
He had his early education at St.Patrick's College Jaffna, where he was a very bright pupil. Even when he was young, it was decided that he should dedicate himself to the service of the Church. In due course, he was ordained and took on the robes.
When he was in the Tuticorin Diocese, he came in contact with others engaged in Tamil Studies. He also took to Tamil Studies and Research at Annamalai University.
On his return to Sri Lanka after obtaining the Master's Degree, he was engaged as a Lecturer in the Faculty of Education of the Ceylon University College.
After some time he proceeded to Kuala Lumpur as Professor of Tamil Studies at the University of Malaysia. While there, he was able to do extensive research on Tamil Language, as a subject by itself. He contributed several articles to research journals and also made some publications. He edited the Journal Tamil
Culture, which was published in Madras from 1952 to 1966.
He is remembered today for founding the International Association of Tamil Research in 1964, linking the world's foremost Tamil scholars and enabling them to meet and discuss. These conferences have been held in Kuala Lampur, Madras, Paris, Jaffna, Mauritius, etc. He was the driving force behind the conferences, held during his lifetime He passed away at the age of 67, on 1st September 1980.
Foremost among his writings are his contributions on Tamil Culture, its past and its future, with special reference to Ceylon and A Bibliographical Guide to Tamil Studies: Sources for the study of the History of Jaffna", both of which appeared in the Journal Tamil Culture, in serial form. The proceedings of the symposium on “Tamil Studies abroad' was edited and published by him in 1968.
In April 1980, he delivered two "Chelvanayagam Memorial Lectures', under the auspices of the "Thanthai Chelva Memorial Trust'. A large assembly, including several scholars, was present. The first lecture was in Tamil and on "Tamil Culture and its Characteristics'. The second "Research in Tamil Studies' was in English. In these, which were his last speeches, he reminded the people of their great cultural heritage and uttered a beacon call to generations to come with the conclusion "Under God, May the future be even more glorious than the past".
Thani Nayaka Mudali 14th Century Settler
It is on record that one Thani Nayaka Mudali from Thondai Mandalam, in South India, colonised Nedunthivu (Delft). He is also referred to as Seiyur Ramapuranthuiya Thani Nayakan. He came after the time of the Singai Aryans. He came in eighteen boats. accompanied by his feudal retinue.
Dr. K.Casinathar of Sithankerni Jaffna has written a book in Tamil entitled “Uttar Uravinar', in which he traces the progeny of the above.
S.Thanjayarajasingam 1933University Lecturer

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Sabaratnasinghe Thanjaya- rajasingam was born on 1st January 1933, at Vannarpannai, Jaffna.
After his early education, he obtained his B.A(Hons) degree in 1956. He got the M.Litt degree of the Annamalai University in 1961.
He made a special study of the phonetic aspects of the Tamil language. He was appointed Lecturer in Tamil Language at the University of Ceylon.
He has contributed a publication on "Some Phonological features of the Jaffna dialect of the Tamils”.
Dr.S.A..Tharmalingam 1908 -
Dr.S.A..Tharmalingam is a younger brother of the well known Dr. S.A.Vettivelu of Jaffna. He was educated at St.John's and St. Patrick's Colleges. He chose a medical career and passed out as a doctor, like his elder brother, in 1933. He served as a Medical Officer under the Government of Ceylon at Angoda, Kolonne, Kurunegala, Mannar, Mullaitivu and Rakwana.
On retirement in 1950, he set up as a private practitioner in Jaffna and was a very popular person of the community. His interest in the welfare of his patients led to his involvement in politics.
He was elected a member of the Jaffna Municipal Council and there he was chosen as Mayor for 1962-63.
He was closely associated with the Tamil Eelam Liberation Front, a group which was not satisfied with the policies followed by the Tamil Parliamentarians of the time.
After a “Hartal' in Jaffna in 1983, he and a few others were taken and held in detention. He was eventually released in November 1983, after experiencing many difficulties. He then took up residence in England.
Dr.Tharmalingam married Sundaravalli, daughter of Dr.Saravanamuthu of Kaddudai and has four daughters: Tharmambal married to Dr.Navaratnam, Dr.Tharmavalli married to Dr. Sathiyamurthi, Dr.Tharmasothy married to Dr.Balarajah, and Dr. Tharmarani married to Dr. Vignaraja.
S.Thayanithi ...-1990. B.A(Hons) Ceylon, M.Sc(Econ), Economist, Central Bank & I.M.F.
Thayanithi was the son of Proctor Subramaniam of Tellippalai. Professor Vithiananthan, Vice Chancellor of the Jaffna University, was one of his younger brothers.
After his school education, Thayanithi graduated from the University of Ceylon obtaining the B.A (Hons) Degree in Economics, in 1951 and worked in the Central Bank of Sri Lanka as an Economist till 1971. He did his post graduate work at the London School of Economics and obtained the Master's Degree in Economics.
Later, he accepted the post of Economist in the Asia Department of the International Monetary Fund and held a senior position there. In 1990, he had an assignment with the Central Bank of Gambia, where he took ill and passed away in London on 11th November 1990.
He has contributed several articles on the economics of Sri Lanka consequent to recent political developments. His last work was the compilation of “Eelanadduth The varamThirupukal', containing garlands of sacred verses offered by the Hindu Saiva Saints to the deities installed in the temples of Sri Lanka.
S.Theagarajah 1888-..... Broker, Delmege Forsyth & Co.,Ltd. Philanthropist of Manipay.
S.Theagarajah, who sponsored many festivals at Hindu Temples, was the son of S. Sivagurunathar and Sellammal of Manipay. He was born on 24th May 1888. His father Sinnathamby Sivagurunathar was a descendant of Mathiaparana Mudaliyar, Ganga- kularethina Mudaliyar, Kanagasabai Mudaliyar and Karala Udaiyar.
Young Theagarajah had his early education at St.John's and Central Colleges in Jaffna and later at Wesley College Colombo.
Like many of his colleagues of the time, he chose a Mercantile career and was associated with many reputed Mercantile establishments in Colombo. He functioned as Broker with Messrs.

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Delmege Forsyth & Co., Ltd. for a long time.
Theagarajah was a cultured and pious person, who made large donations to charitable and religious institutions. He sponsored some of the important festivals held in Manipay: at Veerakkai Pillaiyar Temple, Maruthadi Pillaiyar Temple, Seerani Nagammal Kovil, etc. He also contributed towards the re-building of the temples at Maviddapuram and Keerimalai.
Theagarajah married Rasammah, daughter of Dr.K.Muttucumaru, a medical practitioner in Penang for over 25 years, and had four sons: Dr.Nagendra who married Anna- poorani, Ramachandran who died early, Pushpananthan who married Maheswari, and Rajendra who married Ratnavalli a grand-niece of Sir PArunachalam and two daughters: Naguleswari who married Somaskandar, and Pathmavathy who married Sivasankaran.
Theva Mallavan Pioneer 14th century settler
Theva Mallavan was an early settler in Jaffna. He came from Keel Koddam in South India and colonise Kalvallai in Sandilippai, Jaffna.
Theva Rayan Pioneer 14th century settler:
Theva Rayan came from Pullur with much pomp and glory and colonised the Koyilakandi area. No trace is known of his descendants.
C.Thiagalingam Q.C 1900- 1982 Advocate.
Chellapah Thiagalingam, born on 25th March 1900, was a younger brother of C.Suntharalingam M.P for Vavuniya. He had his education at St.Joseph's College. Like his eldest brother C.Nagalingam, he also chose a legal career and became an Advocate in 1924.
He practised in the Courts in Colombo. Very soon he earned a high esteem in his profession. He would often take on most difficult cases and had a reputation for making a success of them.
He was made a Queen's Counsel and at
the time of his demise was the most senior "Silk' of the Bar. He passed away on 5th June 1982. He married Maheswari daughter of C.Suntharam. and had five sons: Parathalingam, Jeyalingam, Nirmalalingam, Jothilingam and Vijyalingam and four daughters: Theageswary, Karuneswari, Shanteswari and Tharmeswari.
Lt. Col. A.Thileepan 1963-1987 High Official of the LTTE.
Amirthalingam Thileepan, born on 29th November 1963, was the son of a School Principal.
In the events that followed the 1983 disturbances in Sri Lanka, Thileepan held high Office in the political wing of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam movement. It is said that he contributed largely towards making it astrong effective movement.
However by 1987, he became disillusioned by the turn of events and commenced a campaign for a non-violent solution. To impress this on every one, he undertook a “fast unto death'. In consequence of which he died on 26th September 1987.
According to a Newspaper insertion of 30th August 1991, the Jaffna University has offered a Research Fellowship in his memory. The winner of the award is required to undertake research in plant tissue and genetic engineering.
Dr.(Miss) E. M. Thillayampalam c1900-1976 M.Sc., M.A (Columbia), Principal Chundikulli Girls’ College.
Evangelise Amutham Thillayampalam was from Allaipiddi, (near Velanai) in the Jaffna Peninsula.
She obtained her Master's degree in Science from the Allahabad University, a research doctorate from Columbia University and was a lecturer in Isabella Thoburn College, Lucknow. In 1941 she returned to Ceylon and took charge of Chundikuli Girls' College Jaffna, as its first national Principal, from 1943. She held that position with great eminence for several years till her retirement. Encouraged by her lead, more girls took to studying science subjects.

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During her regime the School commenced staging a Tamil and an English drama, in alternative years.
She then functioned as Principal, Isabella College. Later, she was Manager of the Womens Centre organised by Miss Bookwalter, at Maruthanamadam and passed away on 23rd November 1976.
Her publication on the Dog Fish, was an f indispensable textbook for Biology students, for
a long time.
Dr.Rajani Thiranagama 1953-1989 Head of the Dept. of Anatomy, Jaffna University.
Rajani was the daughter of Alvapillai Rajasingham of Puloly Point Pedro, who was Vice-Principal of Jaffna College and later Hospital Administrator, and Mahilaruppiam. Rajani had three sisters: Nirmala, Sumathi and Vasuki.
Nirmala, her eldest sister completed her education in the States and married Nithyanandan, who was a lecturer in Economics in the Jaffna University.
Rajani was a student in Jaffna with a brilliant record and entering the Faculty of Medicine Colombo, passed out as a doctor, early in life. She then married Dr.D.Thiranagama, a Geography Lecturer at Kelaniya University.
After her internship, she worked at Haputale. She was then appointed to the staff of the Department of Anatomy, in the University of Jaffna. She proceeded to Liverpool University and obtained her post graduate qualifications. Her excellent performance brought her to the position of Head of the Department of Anatomy, Jaffna University, at the young age of 36 years. Rajani was at one time a keen supporter of the LTTE. She had leftist ideals, was committed to the welfare of the common man and was a strong upholder of human rights. She was shot dead by unknown assailants, while cycling home from the University, on 21st September 1989.
She had two daughters: Narmadha aged 11 and Sharika aged 9, at the time of her death.
She and her colleagues Dr. Rajan Hoole,
Dr. K.Sri Haran and Dr. Daya Somasunderam as co-authors, have published a book titled Broken Palmyrah in 1987. It is a narrative of events that happened in Jaffna, during the critical 1980 decade.
Thirujnana Sampantha Upathiyayar 1839-1906.
Sampantha Upathiyayar was a Tamil Scholar of repute from Chulipuram, Jaffna.
He received tuition from the eminent Arumuga Navalar*. He was well known for his discourses on religious subjects.
The following are among his Tamil publications:
Manika Pillaiyar Thiru Arulpa and Kathirgama Velar Thiru Arulpa.
TThirunavukarasu ....-1982. T.U.L.F M.P for Vaddukkoddai.
T.Thirun avukarasu WaS from Vaddukoddai. He contested the Kankesanturai seat in Parliament as a Tamil Congress Party candidate and lost.
When the Federal Party formed the new Tamil United Liberation Front, Thirunavukarasu became a Member of the Front and was appointed as its Joint Treasurer.
As a T.U.L.F candidate, he won the Vaddukkoddai seat with a very large majority. at the Elections held in 1977.
He died of a heart attack in 1982.
Thirunavukarasu, reputedly a sincere worker, was always welcome in every household.
M.S.Thiruvilangam 1898-1950 Asst. Controller of Establishments,. Exponent of "Bajanai Recitals".
Moothathamby Subramaniam Thiruvilangam was born on 15th April 1898.
After his early education, he entered the Government Clerical Service in 1917. In 1934 he was appointed Investigation Officer of Office Systems and was made an Asst. Controller of Establishments in 1939. He held that position till his demise in 1950.

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He is well remembered for his excellence in reciting Hindu Saiva Bajanai or Chorus Singing and religious verses to large audiences.
This talent was revealed quite accidentally when he was in Vavuniya, in August 1948. In response to an invitation by a local gathering, he tried reciting and was himself amazed at his ability. Commencing that day, he held several "Bajanais', in Colombo and outstations. From that time, "Bajanai' singing became a regular feature at most Hindu temples in Sri Lanka.
Mrs.Lily Thomas cl907Time-honoured Music Teacher; Western Music.
Mrs. Lily Thomas is the daughter of Daniel M.Joseph, the veteran planter of Matale.
She had shown a keen aptitude for music from her young age and commenced learning Western music, piano and violin, from qualified teachers. Very soon she passed various public examinations in music.
As a successful musician , she commenced teaching music to children, when she was eighteen years old. Her first appointment
as a qualified teacher was at C.M.S Girls College
Chundikuli, where she taught for seven years.
After her marriage, her music teaching was confined to giving lessons at the various places where her husband Dr. Albert Thomas was stationed.
She was music teacher at Bishop's College Colombo, for ten years from 1959, etc. Eventually, she had over fifty years of music teaching experience.
Lily Thomas is a Founder Member of the Association of Teachers of Western Music set up in 1960 and an examiner of music teachers from 1971.
Alfred T.Thuraiappah 1926-1975 Mayor of Jaffna 1961 & 19óó.
Alfred Thangarajah Thuraiappah, born 15th July 1926, was the son of well known Thuraiappah pioneer Ice and Aerated Water manufacturer of Vannarpannai, Jaffna.
After his education at St.John's College Jaffna, he entered Law College and became a
Proctor S.C at the age of 22 years.
Taking to Local Government politics, he was elected Deputy Mayor of the Jaffna Municipality at the age of 23. Later, he was chosen as Mayor in 1961 and also in 1966. He was very popular with the common man and was known as the “People's Mayor'. He founded a political party known as the "Suthanthiran Party' and was elected to the Jaffna seat in the House of Parliament in 1960.
He was a staunch devotee of the Maha Vishnu Temple at Punnalai. On the 27th of July 1975 when he went to worship there. he was assassinated by unknown persons.
Thuraiappah married Dr. Parameswari, daughter of Irrigation Engineer Coomaraswamy and had a daughter Rochana. Dr. Parameswari later served in the Public Health Department, Brunei holding a high position there and passed away in 1993.
Pavalar T.A.Thuraiappah Pillai
1872-1927. Founder; Mahajana College,
Tellippalai.
T.A.Thuraiappah Pillai, son of Arulampalam of Tellippalai was born on 20th October 1872.
He was well educated and was a leading literary person. He was a poet, journalist and a good prose writer.
His great work was the establishment of a School, called the "Taylor School' at Tellipalai, in 1910. He taught there for a long time. Some eminent persons of later years, received their education there. Later, it was improved, upgraded and named Mahajana College Tellipalai, during the tenure of his son T.T.Jayaratnam as Principal. He passed away on 24th June 1927.
In appreciation of his services the title of "Pavalar' was conferred on him. Among his works were (Tamil):-
"Siva Mani Malai”, “Kalpana svathesa Kummi”, “Geetha rasa Manjari” etc.
He married Thayalnayagam and had a son Jayaratnam and a daughter Ratnammah who was married to Nadarajah of the Postal Service.

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Prof.A.Thurairajah 1934-1994. Vice Chancellor, Jaffna University.
Thurairajah, born 10th November 1934, was the son of Velupillai Alagiah and Sellammah of Imaiyanan, Vadamarachchi. He had his early education at Udupiddi American Mission College and later at Hartley College Point Pedro. He graduated in Civil Engineering from the Ceylon University 1953-1957, where his performance was of the highest. He was an Instructor there for a brief period.
He proceeded to Cambridge University as a University Scholar, and was engaged on research work on shear properties of soils under Prof.K.K.Roscoe. He designed and developed a model simple shear apparatus, which was later regarded as a milestone in the history of geotechnical equipment. He got his PhD in 1962. After a short period in London with Terresearch Ltd., Thurairajah commenced his professional teaching career, as Lecturer University of Sri Lanka and was appointed Professor of Civil Engineering in 1971. He served as Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Peradeniya Campus in 1975-1977 and again in 1982-1985. He was Dean of the Faculty of Engineering of the Open University of Sri Lanka in 1987.
He was a foremost educator, being a natural and gifted teacher. He loved his students and they in turn adored him.
In 1988, Thurairajah assumed office as Vice Chancellor of the Jaffna University and performed yeoman service. The Faculties of Agriculture and that of Fisheries were established; preparations were made for a Faculty of Engineering. He was the founder President of the Jaffna Science Association, established in 1992. A Vice Chancellor's Welfare Fund was established to assist needy students and has benefited many. He created "Ootru", an organisation for the development of villages, utili sing assistance offered by Non Governmental Organisations (NGOO) and was its Chairman. Because of his unassuming humble nature, many of his achievements have not been attributed to him or publicised.
He was actively involved in many academic institutions, being Fellow of the
Institution of Civil Engineers London, the National Academy of Sciences, Sri Lanka, the Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka, of which he was President in 1986 etc.
He had been associated with several Universities abroad. Earlier in the 1970's, he had spent a year at the University of Waterloo, Canada, as Asst. Visiting Professor and another year at the University of Columbia, Canada. Later, in 1992, he visited the Uppsala and Tromso Universities in Norway. The visit was made on the invitation of the Vice Chancellors of those Universities and in his capacity as Vice Chancellor of the Jaffna University. The purpose was the consideration of widening the link programme of academic exchange between those and the Jaffna University. -
Medical reasons forced him to resign the Vice Chancellorship in 1994 and move to Colombo, to receive treatment. There, he rejoined the Open University, once again, but Succumbed to his ailment and passed away on 11th June 1994, at the young age of 59. His young widow Rajeswari, whom he married in 1967 and three children, survive him.
V.S.Thurairajah 1927AA Dip, FRIBA, FIA, FRAIA, FIA (SL), Chartered Architect.
V.S.Thurairajah, born 8th August 1927, is the son of P.W.D Overseer V.Suppiah of Navaly, Jaffna. He has five brothers: Dr.V.S. Ponnuthurai, V.S.Selva nayagam a Businessman, Dr.V.S. Karunagaran Dental Surgeon, V.S.Gananathan a Businessman and two sisters. He had his early education at the Green Memorial School Manipay and Matriculated from Manipay Hindu College.
Entering the Sir J.J. School of Arts Bombay, he followed a course in Architecture and obtained the Diploma. Returning to Ceylon, he functioned as Junior Architect in the P.W.D. Later, he proceeded to U.K, as a Colombo Plan Scholar, and obtained the A.A Diploma from the London School of Architecture, specialising in Tropical Architecture. He then continued his service in the P.W.D till 1964.
He is a Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects and of the Australian, Indian

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and Sri Lanka Institutes of Architects. He retired due to changes in Government Policy and set up private practice as "Thurairajah Associates'.
The undertaking has steadily progressed into a large concern, with a Branch Office in Main Street Jaffna, established in 1968. Innumerable number of buildings, all over the country, have been designed by him. Among them, those in the North include: The Medical Faculty, Science and Mathematics and Computer Centre Buildings of the University of Jaffna, Vaddukoddai Technical College, Veerasingham Hall, Selvanayagam Memorial Column, Navalar Hall, New Municipal Market, Public Library and Stadium, etc.
In the South: Holiday Inn Hotel, Saphire Hotel, Brighton Hotel, Nugegoda Housing Scheme consisting of about 400 houses, University of Colombo Administration Block, Hindu Congress Building Colombo, Pharmaceutical Factory for Warner Hudnut, Anton P.V.C. Factory, Nagindas Textile Factory, New Kathiresan Temple Bambalapitiya, the Cardio Thoracic Building and Cancer Block for the General Hospital Kandy, Tissamaharama Hospital, Hindu Pilgrims' Rest Kataragama etc. V.S.Thurairajah is the Secretary of the Ananda Coomaraswamy Cultural Society, who were responsible for having a road in Colombo re-named and causing a postage stamp issued, in honour of Dr.Ananda K.Coomaraswamy. He is also one of the Secretaries of the International Association of Tamil Research, and was Chairman of Elanadu, a Tamil daily Newspaper published in Jaffna 1975, and a Deputy District Governor of the Lions International Sri Lanka District 1981. He edited and published a quarterly journal "Architecture and Arts in Sri Lanka' 1975-1981. He has contributed several articles to newspapers and delivered several Radio and TV talks.
He married Selvaranee, daughter of TThirunavukarasu, Govt.Analyst Dept. and has a son Surendran and three daughters: Vathsala, Manjula and Sashikala. Surendran is a highly qualified Engineer, Vathsala a graduate, is married to T.Nishakaran a high Bank official, Manjula also a graduate is married to Kumar Sri Pathma an Accountant, and Sashikala is a Dental Surgery student.
A.Thurairatnam 1927B.Sc., Lecturer School of Agriculture.
Thurairatnam, son of S.Arumugam. owner cultivator of Kaithadi Navatkuli, was born on 27th March 1927. He had his education at Jaffna Hindu College and St. Joseph's College Colombo.
After following a medical course for two years, he graduated in agriculture at the Ceylon University in 1950. Entering the Dept. of Agriculture, he was engaged in the production of pure line paddy for a few years at Maha Illupalama before being appointed to the Soil Conservation Division from 1962. In 1975, he was appointed Lecturer (Tamil) at the School of Agriculture, Peradeniya. After retirement at the age of 52, he functioned as Project Co-ordinator in the Palmyrah Development Board for some time.
Thurairajah married Buaneswari, daughter of R.N.Thambithurai M.B.E, of Mallakam and Secretary of the Sanitary Board at Kuala Lumpur and has two daughters, one a doctor and the other an acCOuntant.
I.P..Thurairatnam c1902-1985 B.Sc(Lond)., Principal Union College, Tellippalai, 1935-64.
Isaac Ponniah Thurairatnam had his early education at St. John's College. He then continued at Jaffna College, where he was one of a group of students who became eminent in later life. He was a great sportsman.
He proceeded to University College Colombo in 1923 and obtained his degree in Science. He then joined the staff of Jaffna College where he taught for ten years.
In January 1935, he was invited to become the Principal of the newly instituted Union College, formed by amalgamating Tellippalai Bilingual School and American Mission English School there. He served with great eminence for twenty nine years. With his ceaseless energy, and administrative ability, he was able to put up more buildings and effect various improvements.
The new institution was brought to a standard

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quite comparable to other leading Colleges in Jaffna, before he retired in 1964. He passed away on 27th April 1985.
Thurairatnam married Miss Hitchcock sister of Rev. L.N. Hitchcock. One of his sons, Bala, is an Engineer in Zimbabwe and a daughter is married to C.K.Kunanayagam of the Bank of Ceylon.
S.K.Thuraisingham 1905-1971. B.Sc (Lond). Dip, in Agriculture,
Dep. Director of Agriculture.
Sanmugom Kathiravelu pillai Thuraisingham, born 20th May 1905, was a brother of S.K.Wijeyaretnam Crown Proctor and Estate Proprietor, Negombo.
Thuraisingham, after his general education and graduation in Science, proceeded abroad and followed a course leading to Diploma in Agriculture.
He entered the Agricultural Service in 1935, and worked at several stations in Badulla, Peradeniya, Tirunelveli etc. He was Divisional Agricultural Officer Northern Division in 1949 and District Agricultural Extension Officer Jaffna in 1960 and eventually promoted as Dep.Director of Agriculture. He retired in 1965.
Later he had an assignment with the Sugar Corporation for some time. He passed away in 1971.
He married a daughter of Dr.Saravanamuttu of Kaddudai and had seven children: Vadivambikai who was married to Dr. Kandasamy, Dr. Ketheeswaran who married Vadivambikai Muthiah, Thevakai who was married to Karunakaran, Dr.Yasothai who was married to Dr.K.Sivathondan, Theivayani who was married to Rudramoorthi, Sathiapama who was married to Dr. Ganeshanayagam and Nandapalan who married Urmila Nadarajah.
M.Tiruchelvam Q.C. 1907-1976. B.A (Hons)., L.L.B Solicitor General, Cabinet Minister:
Murugeysen Tiruchelvam eminent Lawyer, Solicitor General, and Cabinet Minister, was born on 18th November 1907. His father Murugeysen, was from Vaddukkoddai,
and served in the Postal Department, Malaya. His brother M.Rajendra C.C.S., was Land Commissioner.
Tiruchelvam was a History Honours graduate, who chose a legal career. He was called to the Bar in 1933. He often appeared as Junior to S.J.V.Chelvanayagam Q.C.
In 1942 he joined the Judicial Service and was appointed Crown Counsel in 1947. He became Deputy Solicitor General in fo54 and Solicitor General in 1957.
On retirement he entered the political arena. He became a foremost member of the Federal Party and was elected to Parliament . He was Cabinet Minister for Local Government and Justice, in the 1965 Dudley Senanayake Government. As Minister he was responsible for the District Councils Bill and the Tamil Language Regulations of January 1966. However he resigned from his Ministerial position in November 1966, due to differences of policy.
He was very much involved in the Tamil University movement and his endeavours resulted in Universities being established later in the North and the East. He was a Public official and a political figure. He passed away on 22nd November 1976.
Tiruchelvam married Punitha- Vathy, daughter of Proctor V.Canagaratnam of Chavakachcheri and had two sons and two daughters; his son Neelan is a leading lawyer and politician.
Mrs Punithavathy Tiruchelvam 1918-1981 Social Worker:
Punithavathy, born on 22nd October 1918. was the daughter of V. Canagaratnam, a leading Proctor of Chavakachcheri. She was educated at Chundikuli Girls School and later at the University College Colombo.
She married M.Thiruchelvam Q.C in April 1938. She was a keen social worker, especially engaged in the well being of blind people (nationally and internationally). She took an active part in promoting Tamil culture, drama, music and dancing. She was President of the Junior Red Cross Society and of Kalalaya (Sri Lanka Tamil Women's Union). She was Vice

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President of the Red Cross Society, National Council for Deaf and Blind, and the Sangeetha Natiya Sangam. She was Chairman and Founder of Talking Books Project for the Blind and member of several social organisations.
She passed away on 19 May 1981. In 1982, a “Punithavathy Tiruchelvam Memorial Lecture', was delivered under the auspices of the Tamil Women's Union, Kalalaya, Colombo, by Prof. K.Kailasapathy. The subject was "The Cultural and Linguistic Consciousness of the Tamil Community in Sri Lanka'. It has been reprinted in the form of a booklet. It is a masterpiece of local literary content, as it traces the cultural history of the Tamils of Sri Lanka and is a valuable addition to any library.
J.Tyagarajah 1895-..... M.A (Cantab)., LLB, Barrister:
Jaganathan Tyagarajah (TJaganathan) was born on 18th October 1895. He was the son of Namasivayam Tyagarajah*, a wealthy landed proprietor of Colombo.
After receiving his early education at Royal College Colombo, he proceeded to Cambridge, where he obtained his Masters Degree and the LLB Degree from Christ's College. He was called to the Bar and was also received by Royalty at Buckingham Palace.
Returning to Ceylon, he interested himself in the welfare of the Tamil community. On the demise of Sir.P.Ramanathan, he contested the
vacant seat in the Legislative Council but without
success. Later he contested the MannarMullaitivu seat and won. He made representations before the Donoughmore Commission on the subject of Reforms to the Constitution.
He was Manager of the State Mortgage Bank and also held office in several Cultural and Historical Associations. Tyagarajah married Padmawathi daughter of Namasivayam.
Mudaliyar Namasivayam Tyagarajah 1859-...... . Landed Proprietor
Tyagarajah was the son of Mudaliyar Sivagurunathar Namasivayam, Landed
Proprietor and a leader of the Tamils in Colombo. His ancestors were from Muhamalai in Jaffna.
He received his education at S.Thomas' College Colombo; he then proceeded to Christs College Cambridge in 1881. In 1888 he was called to the Bar.
Returning to Ceylon, he practised as an Advocate in the Colombo Bar. He owned several coconut estates in Negombo and Puttalam and a spacious house in Ward Place Colombo, with a garden of four acres. Jaganathan M.A., LLB., Barrister-at-Law, was his son.
U , V
Ulaha Kavala Mudaliyar c15th century
The Mudaliyar, a well to do respectable nobleman, “Karkathan Vellan Pirabu”, came from Karaikal in S.India and settled in Jaffna.
His descendant was Ambalavanarpillai of Vannarpannai. His son was Notary Seenivasagam Pillai who married a descendant of Arulampalam of the Uduvil Vanniyar Clan. Their son was Thambaiyahpillai, who was responsible for rebuilding the ancient Nallainathar temple at Nallur in about 1815. The temple had been looted and destroyed by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Thambaiyahpillai re-built and performed the inauguration ceremony. It is now known as Saddanathar Kovil.
Thambaiyahpillai's son Siva- pragasapillai studied medicine under Rev. Green of Manipay. He became a leading medical practitioner in both the Western and Eastern medical systems. He had two sons and four daughters.
The eldest son was Proctor Thambaiyah who took much interest in the temple. He married
Sivakami pillai daughter of Puttur Muttusami pillai and had three sons: Dr.Nallainathan *, Crown Advocate
Muttusami pillai and Harbour Engineer and University Lecturer Sivapragasapillai and a

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daughter.
A.Vaidialingam 1915-1988 B.Sc., B.A (Cantab)., Trade Unionist, Left-Wing Politician, School Principal.
Vaidialingam, born 25th May 1915, was the son of V. Ambalavanar and Sivakamy nee Muttukumaru of Araly West Vaddukkoddai. He had his education at Jaffna College and graduated from the University of Ceylon in 1936. He then proceeded to Emmanuel College Cambridge University, U.K., and obtained his B.A (Cantab) in 1939.
On his return, Vaidialingam promoted leftwing politics and communist ideals in Colombo, Ceylon. He organised Trade Unions to represent workers in the plantations and in the teaching community of Jaffna. He was a founder member of: the United Socialist Party 1939-1942, the Ceylon Federation of Trade Unions and the Northern Province Teachers Association.
He was a Teacher at Jaffna Hindu College, after which he became Principal, Urumpirai Hindu College in 1958, which position he held till retirement in 1970.
He married Annapoorani, daughter of Dr.M. Sangarapillai and Karaikalammai nee Chellapah, and had six children: Sivakamy Ambalavanar, Gopal Sangarapillai, Leela Thavakumaran, Vimala Maniwasakam, Ambika Prabhaharan, and Mohan Subramaniam.
Krishna Vaikunthavasan 1920Barrister.
Krishna Vaikunthavasan, born on 15th April 1920, is the son of A.Krishna Pillai of Alaveddi and Lakshmi Ambal of Karainagar, Jaffna.
After his early education at the local schools, he proceeded to Jaffna College from where he Matriculated in 1940. Freedom of expression was encouraged there.
Joining Government Service in 1941; he held a leading position in the Public Service Union (G.C.S.U). Leaving Government Service in 1950, he published a weekly journal called the "People's Voice", for a few years. It contained the views and news of those in Government
Service.
In 1952, he and his wife visited China and the Soviet Union as delegates to the Asian and Pacific Peace Conference.
He was admitted to the English Bar in 1960 and afterwards practised in Sri Lanka as an Advocate. In 1971; he was appointed Senior Resident Magistrate and Registrar in Zambia. Relinquishing that in 1977, he has taken up residence in England.
Krishna Vaikunthavasan is a person with very strong views about the need for a state of "Eelam', for the Tamils of Sri Lanka. In 1983, he was able to make a Surprise demonstration, for the cause, at the U.N General Assembly.
His son Gandeepan is a painter of promise. He graduated in Fine Arts from Kingston Polytechnic and came into prominence when he was commissioned, in 1885, to paint the portrait of Lord Stockton. Gandeepan has also obtained the Master's Degree in Computer Science.
M.Vairamuttu J.P. 1900-1985 Social and Religious Worker.
Vairamuttu was the son of M.Murugesu, a farmer of Alaveddi. He had his early education at Tamil schools in his locality and later at Jaffna Hindu College Jaffna.
He entered the Government Clerical Service in 1920 and was promoted as Chief Audit Examiner in 1932. He was Asst. Civil Defence Commissioner in 1942 and Private Secretary to the Minister for Home Affairs in 1948.
After retirement in 1956, he devoted himself to social and religious service for the community. He assisted existing socio-religious organisations and founded a new Manipay Hindu Religious Development Sangam. He was instrumental in establishing a Technical Academy to provide basic technical education for youths. He was also involved in many other useful religious and social activities. He conducted religious discourses and gave radio talks. In recognition of his services to the community he was made a J.P.
He married a daughter of
Dr.S.Saravanamuttu of Kaddudai in 1927. On her demise, he married Poomahaletchmi,

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daughter of Kanithasingam and had three sons: Sivakumar B.Sc (Eng), Varathakumar B.Sc (Statistics) of the Tamil Information Centre London and Niruthakumar who is in France.
Vairavanathar of Kandar Madam. c 18th century
Vairavanathar was a Maniyagar and a highly respected and religious person of the Dutch era.
His son Arumugam had a son Vairavanathar, who in turn had two sons Sinnathamby and Arumugam.
These two brothers established a flourishing business in the Kandy area and are known to have done several charitable deeds. These include a "theertha' well for Perumal Kovil, a similar gift for Keerimalai Sivan Kovil, granite stones for building work at the Nallur Kandaswamy temple, printing machinery for the Hindu Organ Printing Press, etc.
Sinnathamby’s son Sivakurunathar was a Tamil scholar and his son Kumaraswamy was a graduate.
N.A.Vaithialingam 1911B.Sc (Lond) ..., BSc (Eng) . Chief Engineer, Cey. Govt. Railway.
N.A.Vaithialingam, born 24th July 1911, is the son of Namasivayam Arumugam of the "Kasiar Clan', and Valliammai daughter of Vaithilinga Udaiyar of Pungudutivu. Both the parents were descendants of Narasimha Mudaliyar, from India. Vaithialingam had his early education in Malaysia and later at the Jaffna Hindu College. He graduated in Science and also obtained the London Special Degree in Physics, from University College Colombo. Proceeding to London, he graduated in Engineering, from Imperial College.
He then joined the Ceylon Railway as a Civil Engineer and on being appointed District Engineer worked in Anuradhapura,Trincomale and Colombo. Eventually, he functioned as Chief Civil Engineer, Railway, 1958-1966.
On retirement from the Railway, he was Senior lecturer at the Singapore Polytechnic, for about four years and later accepted an assignment
in Manila, under the Asian Development Bank, 1973-1983. He has been an honorary consultant to the All Ceylon Hindu Congress, in their sixstorey building project, for several years.
Vaithialingam married Meena, the youngest daughter of K.S.Veeravagu, Notary Public of Vannarpannai, Jaffna.
S.Vaithialingam 1911-1991 Modern Tamil Writer (Short Stories).
Vaithialingam, born on 7th January 1911, was the son of Sivapragasam of Erlalai West. He had his early education at Erlalai and later at Parameshwara College, where he Matriculated. He joined the service of the Colombo Municipal Council.
He commenced writing short stories from the early age of 17 and contributing them to the Journals: Ananda Vihadan, Kalai Mahal, and Kalai Pothini; he also contributed to the Tamil newspapers: Veerakesari, Thinakaran and Eelakesari. He translated a Russian story into Tamil. His story entitled "Moontram Pirai, won much praise in India. Ganga Keetham was another of his successful books.
In later years, he was engaged in reviewing books and other publications. In 1959, he was one of three foremost short story writers chosen to attend a Conference of Writers in India.
He married Ambikai and had three children.
Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan 1896-1965 B.Sc (Lond). C.C.S., Kt., C.B. E, Cabinet Minister, Rebuilt Thiruketheeswaram Temple.
Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan, who is remembered today for rebuilding the temple at Thiruketheeswaram, was the son of Velauthar Kanthiah of Kopay Jaffna. He was born on 23rd July 1896.
He had his early education at St.Patrick's College Jaffna, and later at St.Joseph's College, Colombo. He was at the Medical College for a while before proceeding to U.K in 1921. There he graduated in Anthropology from King's College, London and entered the Ceylon Civil

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Service in 1923.
He held several positions in the Civil Service, as Asst. Secretary and then Secretary to the State Council, Cabinet Secretry etc. He was appointed Information Officer, during the World War II years. He was Permanent Secretary to three Sri Lankan Prime Ministers: D.S.Senanayake, Dudley Senanayake and Sir John Kotalawala.
In appreciation of his services he was honoured by being Knighted in 1950. He was made a member of the Senate in 1953 and appointed Minister of Housing and Social Services, which position he held till the Parliament was dissolved in 1956. At the subsequent General Election, he contested the Mannar seat and lost.
His service to the community, for which he is honoured today, commenced when he took charge of the restoration of Thiruketheeswaram Temple in the 1950's. He took on this honorary work wholeheartedly. He even decided to live on the spot, roughing it out in a make-shift hut, called the "Kudil', erected there. The work of temple building proceeded rapidly. Great credit is given to him by the Hindu public, for this yeoman service.
Very soon he became a leading personality in social and religious circles. He was the President of the All Ceylon Hindu Congress and a chief figure in the Hindu Education Society in Colombo. He arranged for a Hindu Society in India to hold their Annual Conference at Thiruketheeswaram. After the Conference, he accompanied the visitors from India on a tour of the Island. Several meetings were addressed by them . He felt the strain, hurried back to Thiruketheeswaram and passed away there on 27th August 1965.
Sir Kanthiah married Puvaneswari, second daughter of G.Shanmugam J.P., in 1926 and had two sons: Dr.Thirunavukarasu and Barrister Mahendran and two daughters: Sundari Ponna Wignarajahand Amirthavalli Visva Selvaretnam. He published a booklet called the "Thiruketheeswaram Papers', available both in Tamil and in English. It is a compilation of valuable reports and rare papers on subjects related to that temple.
Vaithilinga Chettiyar, son of Gopala Chettiyar, c 1700-1775. Merchant of Jaffna
Gopala Chettiyar, father of Vaithilinga Chettiyar migrated to Jaffna, from Chola Nadu in India, about the year 1700. He settled in Jaffna with his wife. He is said to have worked under a Ganesa Iyer but soon set up his own business establishment.
By his integrity and reputed fair dealing, his business rapidly flourished. Even the Dutch Governor and his wife patronised his establishment.
At that time, Kulankai Thambiran, an eminent tutor, also migrated to Jaffna. He was a frequent visitor to Chettiyar's residence. When a son was born to Chettiyar, Thambiran foretold a bright future for the infant and named him Vaithilingam.
One day the youth Vaithilingam attracted the attention of the Governor's wife, while she was visiting the business establishment. This eventually led to Vaithilingam becoming very familiar with the Governor's household.
When Vaithilingam grew up and took charge of the business, he showed all the good qualities of his father. He was highly respected and his business expanded. He then ventured into pearl oyster transactions.
On the advice of Kulankai, Vaithilingam Chettiyar obtained the necessary permit from the Dutch authorities to erect a Sivan Kovil in 1787. The temple was completed and the inauguration ceremonies were performed in 1791; standing by the KKS Road at Vannarpannai, it is today the foremost Sivan Temple in Jaffna Town.
How the Chettiyar nobly went to the rescue of Nalla Mappana Mudaliyar may be read under Nalla Nachchiyar Ammai*.
K.Vaithilingam "Maddaikalapu Vaithilingathar”
c 1850-..... Shipping Magnate & Philanthropist.
Maddaikalappu Vaithilingathar also known as Sithankerni Vaithilingam, the great philanthropist of the early 20th century, was from

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Sithankerni, Jaffna. His ancestry is traceable from Maana Mudaliyar who settled in Sithankerni,Vaddukkoddai. From the Mudaliyar descended Sithamparanathar, from whom descended Kadirkamanathar. Next was Periyathamby, from whom descended Vaithilingam's father Kasinathar.
Vaithilingam was one of Kasinathar's five sons. He embarked on business early in life. He was engaged in Transport and shipping. He also did import of merchandise, mostly rice and timber, from Burma.
He owned and plied schooners and sailing vessels for the shipping business. His vessels sailed regularly between Jaffna and Batticaloa (tnere was no railway then), calling at other ports. He thus became involved in investments in Batticaloa. He owned several coconut estates there, thus gaining the term "Maddaikalappu Vaithilingathar”.
He was a person of lofty character and was very generous. He never hesitated to make contributions to charitable and religious undertakings. His name became a byword for spontaneous gifts. Large donations were given by him to Schools, Temples and Pilgrim centres
K.V. Markandu * and Soma- Sunderam were his sons; on his demise the elder son continued with the business and the deeds of charity.
N.Vaithilingam 1878-1955 Proprietor N. Vaithilingam & Co Hardware Merchants.
N.Vaithilingam, who became a leading hardware merchant, was the son of Nagamuthu and great grandson of Velauthar of Navaly, Jaffna. Born on 21st December 1878, he was educated at Jaffna College, Vaddukoddai and passed the F.A. (Calcutta) examination. Deciding on a business career, he sought employment under Messrs. Brown & Co, Colombo in 1896 at the age of 18. He was employed in the hardware section of the firm. He worked for several years there, winning recognition and receiving promotions for his diligence and hard work.
Very soon he acquired sufficient
knowledge of the various transactions involved in the import and retail of hardware.
In 1922, he ventured out and set up his own private firm N.Vaitilingam & Co, dealing in hardware, building materials and estate supplies, in 3rd Cross St Pettah. The business expanded. Abranch was set up in Jaffna and the firmentered the field of building construction as well. His brother retired Postmaster Kathiravelu, two sons, son-in-law Mudaliyar V.Mahesan and nephew N.A.Subramaniam also joined him in the management at various stages. He suffered a stroke and passed away in 1955, at the age of 77.
He had four sons: Balasubramaniam, the eldest is Chairman and Managing Director of the Company, Dr.Ramachandra is an E.N.T.Surgeon, Mahendrarajah died 1975, and Sri Skandarajah is a teacher and Lecturer, and four daughters: Rasamani the eldest was married to S.A.Nalliah, a Colombo Proctor, Ponmani to Mudaliyar V.Mahesan Manager of the Jaffna Branch, Jegatheswari to Dr. A.Nagendran, Ratnes wari to S. K. Wallooppillai and Manimekala to Dr.S.Wignarajah.
Pulolyur Vaithilinga Thesikar 1878-1946 Vidvan, Tamil Scholar; Editor & Publisher, Batticaloa.
P.Vaithilingam, who later became the celebrated Vidvan Pulolyur Vaithilinga Thesikar, was the son of Ponniah of Puloly, Point Pedro . He received a good groundwork of Tamil and Saiva Siddantha from eminent Scholars in Jaffna, when he was young. He was a pious man and desirous of acquiring more religious knowledge, he went to India and entered the Thiruvavaduthurai Atheenam, the prestigious centre for Saiva Siddantha learning. Completing a three year course he gained the title of Vidvan. Returning to Ceylon , with an Indian spouse, he elected to spend his days amidst the people of Batticaloa. He was honoured and highly respected there, because of his inspiring discourses on Saiva religion.
Eventually he functioned as Headmaster of the Saiva Padasalai at Karaitivu. He was responsible for educating and training many

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youths of the place.One of his pupils who gained great distinction in after life was Mailvaganam, who became a Pandit and was known as Swami Vipulananda later.
He prepared many poetic compositions, extolling the deities of the place. The first volume of his works consisting of: Paalai Adi Vala Vignesvara Unjal, Mandur Kandaswamy Unjal, Pathikam and Eratai Mani Malai, was oublished in 1906.
Besides his own works, he also edited and olished, with explanatory notes, earlier works great value, among which were: Thakshana Kailasa Puranam, Konesar Kalveddu, Pillaiyar Puranam, Pillaiyar Kathai etc.
After living a noble life enriching the cultural and religious life of the people of Batticaloa, he passed away in May 1946.
Vaiyapuri Iyer c 14th century Poet of the Royal Court, Composer of “Vaiya Padal”.
Vaiyapuri Iyer was the Court Poet of King Jayaweera* Singai Aryan, of Jaffna, who ruled at Nallur with the epithet name of Segarajasekaran V, from 1380 to 1410. A.C.
Iyer composed the chronicle known as Vaiya Padal ”. It is a work on the history of ancient Jaffna, earlier than the more well known “Yalpana Vaipava Malai” composed by Mailvagana Pulavar. It records the historical traditions regarding the peaceful colonisation of the Northern Vanni. It has been edited and republished recently.
Vaiyapuri Iyer's other known works are Pararajasekaran Ulla and Pararajasekaran Rasamurai.
G6
N.Vamadeva 1911-1988 Dep. Commissioner, Marketing
Department.
Vamadeva, who served in the Marketing Department for a long time, was born on 9th September 1911. He was the son of Thillaiyar Vaithilingam Nellinathar and Thaiyalammah, of Batticaloa.
Vamadeva had his education at St. Michael's College, Batticaloa. After his
Matriculation, he entered the service of the Marketing Department as a Junior officer,
By his ability, diligence and hard work he won recognition in the service and rose rapidly to higher positions. He figured prominently in several of the Trade Missions that were sent abroad to Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia and other countries.
Eventually he held the position of Deputy Commissioner in the Department, when he retired. Great credit is due to him for having risen to the top. He is undoubtedly one of Batticaloa's illustrious sons. He passed away on 5th June 1988.
He married Rasamani, daughter of Jeevaratnam of Anuradhapura; on her un fortunate demise, he married Kanmani daughter of Ponnuthurai of Vannarpannai. He had four sons: Amsadeva, Jey adeva, Chandradeva, and Srideva and three daughters: Inpajothi, Rajeswari and Vimala.
V.Vamadeva....-1987. Trade Commissioner; U.K.
Vamadeva was the son of A. Velupillai of Puloly East, who was a brother of Proctor Sivakolunthu of Anuradhapura. He had his education at Hartley College where he was Head Prefect.
He graduated in Economics with Honours from Peradeniya University, where he was the President of the Students Union.
He functioned as Trade Commissioner for Sri Lanka in many countries, lastly in Great Britain, where he passed away on 5th April 1987.
He married Jeyas othy, daughter of Duraisingham and had three children: Anusha, Jeyapalan and Geetha.
Mudaliyar Susaipillai PVanderkoon, 1864-..... District Mudaliyar, Kalpitiya.
Vanderkoon was the son of Susaipillai Mudaliyar of Mannar and Mary, daughter of S.Saverimuttu Mudaliyar of Jaffna. He was educated at St. Patrick's College Jaffna and St.Joseph's College, Colombo.
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was appointed Udaiyar Muhandiram of Mantai North in Mannar District. In 1902 he was appointed District Mudaliyar, Kalpitiya, Puttalam . He was a member of many development societies of the District.
Mudaliyar Vanderkoon married Anne daughter of Emmanuel Sinnathamby of Jaffna.
C.Vanniasingam 1911-1958. B.A (Lond)., Advocate, Federal Party Activist, M.P for Kopay 1947, 1952 & 1956.
Vanniasingam, a devoted member of the Federal Party, was born on 13th October 1911. He was a Son of Proctor V.Coomaraswamy a Tamil scholar from Tellippalai Jaffna and a brother of C.Balasingam CCS, Dep. Secretary to the Treasury.
He was educated at Mahajana College Tellippalai and later at Jaffna Hindu College. Entering the University College, he obtained the London University degree in 1933. He then chose a legal career, became an Advocate and practised in Jaffna.
In 1947 he entered the political arena, in place of P.G.Thambyappah, the Tamil Congress Party candidate for the Kopay seat, who collapsed and passed away while electioneering. Vanniasingam won the 1947 election
comfortably.
But in 1948, he broke away from the Tamil Congress Party along with
S.J.V.Chelvanayagam, to form the Tamil Arasu Kadchi also known as the Federal Party. He was a greatenthusiast and champion of the new party, which had as their policy a federal form of Government in Sri Lanka.
He was one of the few who was returned at the 1952 General Elections when the party suffered a reverse. Even their leader S.J.V.Chelvanayagam failed to retain his seat. Vanniasingam then functioned as the Leader.
He retained his seat, as M.P for Kopay, for the third time in the General Elections held in 1956. He was a consistent Federalist and promoted Federal Party's policies with all sincerity. His candour appealed to the man in the Street.
But unfortunately he passed away on
17th September 1959, when he was only 48 years old. a
Vanniasingam married a daughter of Dr.Srinivasan and had five daughters: Dr.Hemavathi Balasubramaniam and Science graduates Sathiyavathi Nellalingam, Renukathevi Sivrajan, Bahirathy Vanniasingam and Ranjini Shanthakumar.
Ms.Grace Lee Vanniasingham 1904-1987 Principal Udupiddy Girls School.
Grace Lee Vanniasingham, born in 1904, graduated from Women's Christian College Madras.
She commenced work as a teacher at the Girls' School at Uduvil. She was then appointed a teacher at the Udupiddy Girls' School, where she later functioned as Principal for several years.
On retirement, she served the Church of South India (Jaffna Diocese) at Nainathivu. Eventually she spent her last years at Vishranthi Nilayam, Bangalore, and passed away in 1987.
Varatha Kavi Rayar (Varatha Pandithar), 1656-1716. Achchuvely Tamil Scholar.
The celebrated Pandithar who composed some of the religious books in use today in Jaffna, was born in 1656. He was the son of Ranganathan from Chunnakam.
Varatha Pandithar was a learned person, well versed in Tamil grammar and literature.
He composed a "Sivarathri Puranam' and an "Eha Thesi Puranam”, narrating the story of two important Hindu festivals. The most popular book by which he is remembered to day is the well known "Pillaiyar Kathai', or the story of the Hindu deity Ganesh. The book is read or recited in every Hindu Temple, during the twenty one fast observance days. This fast usually occurs in the month of December and is known aS “Perun Kathai”.
It is said that he married in Achchuvely and settled down there. There was then a strong settlement of Brahmins in Achchuvely, as has been mentioned by the Rev.P. Baldeus in his book on Ceylon (1672).

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Even now the place where he had resided is known as "Pulavanar Walawu'.
King Varothaya Singai Aryan King of Jaffna, 1302-1325. Segarajasekaran III
Varothaya Singai Aryan , said by some writers as the most outstanding Arya Chakravarthi King of Jaffna, began to reign on the demise of his father King Vikkrama Singai Aryan.
His reign has become known for its allround peace, happiness and plenty. He was patron of medicine, music, art and culture. He was an ardent Saivaite.
His regime is noted for considerable literary and cultural activity. As peace prevailed in the region, he was able to pursue a policy of commercial expansion.
King Varothaya Chakravarthi is regarded as a great and powerful ruler of the Singai Aryan dynasty.
It has been mentioned in recent writings that it was Varothaya the Chakravarthi King who received the famous traveller Ibn Batuta. Batuta's reference in his writings to the very successful realm in Lanka would then be that of King Varothaya.
Thondaimanar Veerakathipillai c 1860-1935 Shipping and Business Magnate.
Thondaimanar Veerakathipillai like Maddaikalappu Vaithilingathar, was a great
Shipping and Business magnate during the first quarter of this century.
Owning several Schooners, his vessels
plied between Burma, India and Ceylon, engaged in the import of timber, tiles, rice etc. He became one of the wealthiest persons of the time.
His eldest son Suppiah was employed in the Malayan Govt. Service. Dr. Duraiswamy, another son, was M.S Jaffna while Rajasekaram continued with his father's business. Yet another son embraced the Roman Catholic faith and devoted himself to the service of the Church.
Manaval Veera Narayanan
14th century Pioneer settler:
Narayanan came from Kanjeepuram and colonised the Mathakal area in Jaffna.
V.Veerasingam 1892-1964 B.A., M.B.E., J.P., M.P. Principal, Manipay Hindu College.
Veerasingam, who was earlier known as Singanayagam, was from Manipay. He was a teacher at Manipay Hindu College, and succeeded Pundit S. Mailvaganam (later Swami Vipulananda*), as Principal in April 1922.
He was a man of remarkable energy with high motivation. Within a few years, he made several improvements to the School. During his regime, the School won many laurels and became prominent.
After his retirement in 1951, Veera-singam took a prominent lead in promoting the cooperative movement in Jaffna. He was elected first President of the Federation of Co-operative Societies in the Jaffna District and held this office till his demise in 1964. It was during his regime that the multi-storied co-operative building, near the Jaffna Clock Tower was built. It has been named the "Veerasingam Hall' and houses many offices now.
He was a Member of Parliament 195256, having been elected as an independent candidate for the Vaddukkoddai constituency.
He was held in high respect, being a man who exemplified the importance of a moral code and integrity in public life. In appreciation of his services to the community, he was honoured with the award of "M.B.E. He passed away on 5th December 1964.
Veerasingam married a daughter of Lawton of Manipay.
K.N. Velan 1923-B.O.L., Vidvan
(Annamalai ), Kalanithi
K.N. Velan, whose full name is Ratnavel, was born on 6th November 1923. His father Kathirgamanathar Nallathamby, an Ayurvedic Physician of Urelu, was the Founder-proprietor of the firm Nallathamby & Sons, Dealers of

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Medicinal herbs, of KKS Road, Jaffna.
From the time he qualified as a Tamil Vidvan at Annamalai, K.N. Velan had been a : teacher at Manipay Hindu College and at Hartley College. He was also a lecturer and Principal of Kopay Training College, for a time. He retired in 1984. He now functions as a Research Officer in the Ministry of Hindu Culture, engaged in compiling an encyclopaedia of Hinduism.
Vidvan N.K.Velan is a literary cultured political orator, whose dynamic speeches for the Federal Party became well known.
He has contributed many articles and poetic compositions to journals. Among his works are (all in Tamil):- A Commentary on Kamba Ramayanam, Saiva Samaiyam, Ilakkiyathil Sila Iladchiyankal, Thirumanthiram and in English: The Message of Yogaswamy of Sri Lanka.
Velam married Vijayalakshmi Thambirajah and has a daughter Mathini, who is a talented musical artist and is married to S.Sriskandarajah, Attorney at Law.
S.Velauthapillai 1923B.A(Hons)., Chief Education Officer, Tanil Scholar & Poet.
Velauthapillai, born 23rd September 1923, is the son of E.Selladurai and Thangammah nee Thambirajah, of Kokkuvil. He had his early education at the Cherniya St. Bilingual School and then at Jaffna Hindu College.
He graduated with Honours from the University of Ceylon, Colombo and taught at the Kokkuvil Hindu College 1947-1953. He was appointed Instructor in Tamil, Official Languages Commission 1953-1958. He was then Editor, Educational Publications Dept., for two years and later was at the Curriculum Development Centre as Chief Education Officer(Curriculum Reorganising). He was also seconded to the Examinations Dept.as Asst. Commissioner of Examinations 1976-1979. He was Chief Examiner in Tamil, for the G.C.E.(O.L). Examination 1965-1980.
After retirement, he served in the Advisory Committee of the Educational Publications Dept. engaged in writing Tamil Text Books, for years 9, 10 and 11.
He was an enthusiastic member of the
the Colombo Vivekananda Society and was Hony.Secretary of the Colombo Tamil Sangam. He has composed and published several poetic compositions in Tamil, extolling the deities of the Kokkuvil Kirupakara Sivasubramaniya Swamy Kovil.
Velauthapillai married Nesamalar, daughter of K.Perambalam of Urelu West and has four children: Dr. Sivapalan M.D., Dr.Nandapalan, Dr.Manjula Jeyapragasan M.D., Sivakumar an Accountant and Nandakumar (died 1974).
Dr.S.Velumylum 1921-1981.
Dr. S. Velumylum, was a son of
Dr.Saravanamuthu of Kaddudai.
His three elder brothers held high positions. The eldest Karthigesu became Surveyor General. Cumaraswamy was a Chartered Accountant in the Postal Department and later took charge of Messrs. Sambamurthi & Co. Kandaswamy became a Proctor and practised at Cololmbo.
His four sisters were married to well known persons: One of them is married to S.K.Thuraisingam of the Agricultural Dept., a second to C.Ranganathan Q.C eminent lawyer , a third to Dr.T.Visuvalingam Superintendant Anti Malaria Campaign, and a fourth to Dr.S.A..Tharmalingam.
He functioned as Judicial Medical Officer in Jaffna, Kandy and Colombo. Retiring in 1976, he proceeded to U.K where he was Senior House Officer at the South Ockendon Hospital, till his demise in 1981.
He married Dr.Vethanayakie, daughter of Dr. Kanapathipillai of Thirunelveli and had two children: Nanthini and Nirmalan.
Rev.C.D.Velupillai 1861-1920
Mission Journalist & Historian.
Velupillai, born 20th April 1861, was the son of Canthapillai of Achchuveli. He was a bright student and was sponsored by Rev.T.S.Smith for admission to the Training School at Tellippalai; there he obtained his Teacher's Certificate at the age of 18.

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On receiving baptism in 1878, he was given the name of Daniel Velupillai. Commencing a teaching career, he taught at Thondaimanar and later at Tellippalai, where he published several school books.
He was sent as Catechist to Pandattariippu in 1891 and was ordained a minister in 1894. In addition to his pastoral work he functioned as secretary and also visited mission schools to supervise and test religious studies. He was Tamil Editor of the journal Morning Star and edited religious publications. He compiled A History of the American Ceylon Mission, his magnum opus, which was published after his death on 4th November 1920.
K.Velupillai 1860-1944. ( "Kalladi Velan'' ) Journalist, Wit and Historian.
Jaffna's most popular man of his time was K. Velupillai, familiarly known as "Kalladi Velupillai' or even more intimately as "Kalladi Velan'. It is not known how he got the prefix “Kalladi”.
Velupillai, born on 7th March 1860, was the son of Kandapillai of Vasavillan, Jaffna. He acquired a good knowledge of Tamil at his early age.
From his very young days he also cultivated the habit of readily composing verses on any subject. These invariably contained much sarcastic wit and "punch” and were very entertaining.
Numerous instances of his amusing anecdotes have been cited. Once after a theatre show, it is said he walked away with the chair he sat on. When challenged, he showed the advertisement which read - "Chair Re. 1'.
Most of his compositions were printed in a Journal called the "Suthesa Natiyam', which he published for about eight years. It enjoyed the popularity that "Punch” magazine enjoyed in England.
In his serious writings, he composed verses extolling his deity "Murukan'; he also wrote on national themes.
His most important work, however, was on the history of Jaffna, entitled "Yalpana Vaipava Kaumuthy', (1918). The title page has
the note that it was prepared in consultation with Rev. Father S. Gnanapiragasar.* The story of the Tamil Kings of Jaffna is narrated in the book. It also contains the genealogical history of many of the ancient families of Jaffna, which is very valuable. He passed away on 4th July 1944.
K.Velupillai married in Urumpirai and had two sons: Suppiramaniam was the elder, Nadarajah, the younger became a Proctor and practised with eminence in Badulla. He had two more sons, Sarangapani and Nainar, by his second marriage.
Moses Velupillai c 1880-..... Principal, Teachers' College,Madras.
Moses Velupillai was from Uduvil, Jaffna. He had his education at the Vaddukoddai Seminary and proceeded to India for higher studies.
He was among the first batch of graduates to pass out from the then newly constituted University of Madras.
Choosing a teaching career he joined the Indian Education Service and remained in Madras. He eventually functioned as Principal of the Teachers Training College, for twenty five years. He lived long after his retirement and passed away at the age of 93.
His son Masilamani Pillai was a Justice in the Indian Judicial Service.
Pothakar Vethanayagampillai 1865-.....
Vethanayagampilai was from Pt. Pedro, Jaffna. He went to Batticaloa, when he was about twenty years old, and was engaged at the Teachers' Training College for some time.
But soon after, he gave that up and became a “ Pothakar”, devoting himself to the service of the Church.
He spent much of his time in improving religious education. He published a Journal called the "Theepam', to express his views. It was very popular. Later, he published the Lanka Warthamani another weekly Journal.
Among his many compositions were ʻʻUllar Sirappuʼ and “ Malaria Kummiʼ.

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A.J.R.Vethavanam c1890-1980 Principal, Training College.
A.J.R. Vethavanam ( Ariam) was the Son of Rev.R.V. Vethavanam and Gnanamma, daughter of John Hensman. He had his education at St.John's College Jaffna and proceeded to India for higher studies.
He was a teacher at Trinity College Kandy for some time, before joining as Inspector of Schools. He was then appointed Principal of the Govt. Training College at Maharagama.
He was a keen Churchman and was a Trustee of St.James Church at Nallur.
Vethavanam married Miss Williams and had a daughter Maheswari who was married to a Hensman.
J.N.Vethavanam c 1885-1945 M.A.B.L., District Judge.
J.Navaratnam. Vethavanam (Durai) was the son of Rev.R.V. Vethavanam and an elder brother of Ariam. He was a grandson of Rev. John Hensman of the C.M.S Mission.
J.N. Vethavanam had his early education at St.John's College Jaffna. He then proceeded to India. At the Madras University, he distinguished himself by obtaining the Master's degree, with English, Latin and History as subjects.
He then decided on a legal career and became an Advocate in Ceylon. Entering the Judicial Service, he was a Police Magistrate for some time.
He was District Judge at Kandy from 1916 to 1924 and was at Avissawela afterwards.
J.N. Vethavanam always took a keen interest in the affairs of his old school St.John's College. He was also President of several societies.
He married a Hensman and had two sons and three daughters.
M.K.Vetpillai 1847-1930. Tamil Scholar.
M. K. Vetpillai was the son of Kanapathipillai Udaiyar of Madduvil, Jaffna.
He was a bright student, even when young. Recognising his talent, his father arranged for
him to have tuition in higher Tamil studies from learned scholars.
Afterwards, he was appointed Headmaster of Arumuga Navalar's School at Chidambaram. Many of his compositions were published while he was there.
He was able to understand the difficult verses found in the Tamil classics and explain their meanings to others. Because of this, he was referred to as “Utai Asiriyar'.
He married a sister of Saiva Periyar S. Sivapathasundaram. One of his sons, V.T.Sampanthan, was a School Master at Jaffna Hindu College and editor of the Tamil Journal Inthusathanam, another son Manickavasagar was a Proctor, and the third son Nadarajah a Graduate Teacher.
Dr.S.A.Vettivelu 1904-1985.
Popular Doctor, Jaffna.
Dr.S.A.Vettivelu, popular doctor of Jaffna, was the son of Sanmugam Appacuddy of Columbugam. He was born on 13th July 1904. Vettivelu had his early education at St.Patrick's College Jaffna and at Royal College Colombo. Deciding on a medical career, he became a doctor and entering the Medical Department in 1933, served in many stations. He was responsible for the eradication of "Parangi" disease, from the Batticaloa District. He laboured for it during the years 1935-36. He also worked at Trincomalee, Mannar and other places.
Retiring in 1947, he set up in private practice at Jaffna. He was very popular and the practice was highly Successful.
With a ready smile on his face, he won the hearts of all Jaffna. His services, sometimes free, were highly appreciated by the Jaffna people. They queued from Sunrise at his practice. In due course the work became very heavy and strenuous. He passed away on 15th October 1985, at the age of 81.
Dr.Vettivelu married Parasakthy, eldest daughter of C.T Kandiah, Proctor Colombo and had four sons: Dr. Jnaneswaran, Proctor Yogeswaran M.P for Jaffna, Dr.Maheswaran who is in the States, and Dr.Rajeswaran who is in U.K. He had four daughters: Kamaleswari

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who was married to Dr.Nadarasa, Balayogini to Dr.Ramanathan, Sivakumari to Dr.Thayaparan, and Dr. Jegatheswari to Dr. Jegapirakasan.
He had two brothers S.A.Nalliah an Attorney at Law, Dr.S.A..Tharmalingam and three sisters.
Vikkrama Singai Aryan King of Jaffna 1279-1302 A.C. Pararajasekaran II.
Vikkrama Singai Aryan was crowned King of Jaffna on the demise of his father King Kulattunga. He reigned as Pararajasekaran II.
Marco Polo, the great international traveller from Venice, visited Ceylon in the year 1293. In his travels he mentions that Arya Chakravarthi "Sandemain" was King., probably meaning "Singai Aryan'.
During his regime King Vikkrama successfully put down inter-communal differences and restored peace and order.
P.C.Villavarayan 1894-..... B.A (Oxon)., Barrister, Legal
Draftsman.
Ponnambalam Cumaraswamy Villavarayan, son of T. Ponnambalam of Kolumbuthurai Jaffna and brother of P.Ramalingam I.C.S, was born on 7th January 1894.
He had a distinguished school career at Royal College and proceeded to England as a scholar for higher studies. He graduated at Oxford and was also called to the Bar.
Returning to Ceylon, he commenced practising as an Advocate in 1918. He was a Crown Counsel for a short time in 1923, and also functioned as Police Magistrate and District Judge in 1930. In 1933 he accepted an appointment as Legal Draftsman. He functioned in this position for several years till his retirement.
Villavarayan married Saraswathi, daughter of Dr.M.Sinnathamby and had two sons Ananda Kumar and Sri Krishna and a daughter Vijayalakshmi.
Vinasithamby Pulavar 1887-1930. Pulavar from Mandur, Batticaloa.
Vinasithamby acquired proficiency in Tamil scholarship by studying under eminent scholars in Jaffna.
Later, he returned to Mandur, his village in Batticaloa. There he spent his time in giving tuition to the many students who gathered at his home in Thillai Mandur.
It is also known that he was very proficient in the techniques of Batticaloa folk dancing and folk-lore. These he imparted to the students with great ability.
Several of his compositions extol the praises of the Murukan deity of the well known Mandur Kandaswamy temple.
Swami Vipulamanda Adigal
(Ramakrishna Mission) 1892-1947 (Pundit S. Mailvaganam B.Sc Lond.)
The eminent Ramakrishna Mission Swamiji who contributed so much for the promotion of Tamil Language and Hindu Culture, was the son of Samithamby and Kannammai of Karaitivu, Batticaloa. He was born on 27th March 1892 and was named Mailvaganam.
Early in life, he received good ground work in Tamil classics, under eminent scholar Pulolyur Vaithilinga Thesikar and Schoolmaster Kunchuthamby. He had his English education at St.Michaels College, Batticaloa from where he passed the Cambridge Senior Examination at the age of sixteen.
After being a teacher for two years, he proceeded to Colombo to become a Trained Teacher in 1912. He got his Diploma in Science and also became qualified as a Pundit of the Madurai Tamil Sangam in 1916.
While he was engaged as a Science Master at St. Patrick's College in Jaffna, Pundit S.Mailvaganam met Swami Sharvananda of the Ramakrishna Mission in 1917. The meeting was a landmark in his life.
After obtaining the London University Degree in Science, he was Principal of Manipay

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Hindu College in 1920.
But in 1922, he renounced all worldly pursuits and proceeding to Madras entered the Ramakrishna Mission. He was ordained a Swami of the Mission and given the new name "Vipulananda' in 1924. While there, he was the editor of the two Journals, "Ramakrishna Wijayam” and “Vedanta Kesari”.
Returning to Batticaloa in 1925, Swami Vipulananda took charge and improved the Ramakrishna Mission Schools maintained by the Batticaloa Vivekananda Society at Karaitivu, Mandur, Anaipanthi and Araipattu. He opened an English School at Kalladi Uppodai, Batticaloa called Sivananda Vidyalayam and the Hindu College was commenced at Trincomalee.
He addressed several conferences and seminars. He promoted and urged the study of Tamil language and interest in Hindu culture. He delivered the Presidential address for the "Youth Congress' annual conference held at Keerimalai Jaffna, in 1928. The theme was the revival of Tamil Literature and Art.
When a University was founded at Annamalai in South India, he was invited to the Chair of the Tamil Faculty in 1932.
Relinquishing that position later, he devoted his time to research study of “Yal', an ancient Tamil musical instrument, which was an early form of the present popular “Veena” instrument. He was deeply involved in this study. Swamiji went on a pilgrimage to Tibet in 1937, to have a distant view of Mt.Kailash, the most sacred Hindu peak of the Himalayas, from there.
In 1943, he accepted the post of Professor of Tamil at the Ceylon University; while there he participated in many educational committees.
The book on the “Yal”, on which he had laboured for fourteen years, was then published and the ceremonial release of the book took place before an august assembly in India, on 5th June 1947.
Returning to Ceylon, he fell ill and passed away on 19th July 1947.
His "Samadhi' monument now stands under a tree frequented by him, in the Sivananda Vidyalayam premises at Batticaloa. There, people pay their respects to one who had done
so much for the promotion of Tamil, within the short lifespan of fifty four years. The Sri Lankan Government has honoured him by issuing a commemoration Postage Stamp of value Rs 1/ 25, on 18th November 1979
Swami Vipulananda Adigal has contributed several articles and made many publications which have enriched Tamil literature. Some of them are :-
Pooncholai Kavalan, Vinjnana Theepam, Vannamum Vadivum. Malium Kadalum, etc. The two books published by him are Mathanga Scoolamani, which is a study of Shakespeare, and the principal research treatise Yal Nool.
Virothaya Singai Aryan King of Jaffna 1371-1380 A.C Pararajasekaran IV.
King Virothaya was crowned King of Jaffna on the death of his father King Gunapooshana Singai Aryan. The country made good progreSS during his regime.
Agriculture, industries, and education, were all improved. He kept those who tried to rebel in good check . He made the Vanni Chieftaim at Omanthai, the Chief of the Vanni Chieftains.
His regime was short, as he died early, under Suspicious circumstances.
Visuvanatha Sasthirikal ..1836 .. Astrologer & Almanac Maker from Araly, Jafna.
Sasthrikal was an Astrologer of International repute, who lived in Araly Vaddukkoddai, early in the nineteenth century. He was a descendant of a long line of nine astrologers. His ancestry may be read under Ramalinga Munivar. His father was Narayana Sasthrikal.
Even when he was young, Visuvanathar had mastered Sanskrit and the science of astrology well. He had such a high reputation that the then Chief Justice Alexander Johnston wrote about him to King George IV, the ruling King of England, and His Majesty appointed him 'Almanac Maker'.
His relatives settled in Araly, Kokkuvil,

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and Kopay. His descendants carry on the profession of astrology and the publication of the Tamil annual almanac "Panchangam', even now. Several of his pupils became astrologers of repute.
He maintained a diary notebook called the “Sambava Kurippu'. In that he had made notes of all important events, with dates. This became an important source of information to subsequent historians.
References about him and his works are found in Pavalar Sarithira Theepam by A.Sathasivampillai 1886, Tamil Pulavar Sarithiram by Kumaraswamy Pulavar 1916 etc.
As a scholar and poet, Visuvanathar has
authored Mavai Kura Vanchi, Vannai Kura
Vanchi Vakiya Karane Kirakanam” 1848, all in Tamil.
Dr.A.Viswalingam O.B.E 1890-..... Ophthalmic Surgeon.
Dr. Arumugam.Viswalingam was born in Urelu, Jaffna, in 1890. He was an elder brother of Ayurvedic Dr. Kanagaratnam.
After his general education in Jaffna, he went to Malaya and followed a course of medical studies at the Singapore Medical College. Entering the Malayan Medical Service, he had a distinguished career. His name is associated with the setting up of an Eye Department in the hospital at Kuala Lumpur.
Retiring in 1946, he returned to Ceylon and established a lucrative practice in Colombo. He was an active person socially, who held a leading position in several societies, both in Malaya and in Ceylon.
In Malaya, he was President of the
Y.M.H.A, the Saiva Siddanda Sangam, the Rotary Club etc. In Ceylon he was President of the Ophthalmological Society in 1958 and the National Association for Prevention of Blindness, till 1970. In 1977, he published a book entitled Pioneer Preventive Social Medicine in British Malaya.
Carol Visvanathapillai 1820-1880 Eminent Scholar
Visvanathapillai was the son of
Vairavanathapillai, a physician and literati of Suthumalai, Jaffna. He had his early education in Tamil and Sanskrit from a tutor Kanga Paddar.
He entered the Batticotta Seminary in 1832 for higher education. He was baptised and given the name Daniel L.Caroll, but was usually known as Caroll Visvanathapillai. Completing his course, he functioned as Instructor in Mathematics. He was there along with Arnold Sathasivampillai and Moses Velupillai. He was also an editor of the Journal “Morning Star', for a long time. The Seminary was closed in 1855.
As a University was then inaugurated in Madras, he and his friend C.W.Thamotharampillai proceeded there and were the first graduates to pass out in 1857. He remained there functioning as Translator to the Government of Madras.
Later in life, he is said to have inflicted a bodily punishment on himself to atone for his religious concept. He became a great supporter of Arumuga Navalar and Ramanathan (later Sir P.). He published several books and translations. He also assisted in the compilation of the first Tamil-English Dictionary and passed away in 1880.
Professor S. Withiananthan 1924-1989 Professor of Tamil, Vice-Chancellor, University of Jaffna, 1979-1988.
Vithiananthan, able University Lecturer, Professor of Tamil and first Vice-Chancellor, University of Jaffna for almost a decade, was the son of Proctor Suppiramaniam of Tellippalai. The I.M.F economist Thayanithi was his brother.
"Vithi", as he was popularly known, was born on 8th May 1924. He graduated with Honours from the Ceylon University in 1944. He was a lecturer there for a short time. He was Sub-Warden of Jayatileke Hall and later Warden, Wijewardene Hall at the Ceylon University.
He then proceeded to the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. for postgraduate work. He obtained his Ph.D in 1950 with a thesis on "Pattupattu - a

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Historical, Social and Linguistic Study”
On his return, he was attached to the University of Sri Lanka and made Professor of Tamil in 1952.
He was then appointed Head of the Jaffna Campus and when the University of Jaffna was set up in 1979, he was invited to be its first ViceChancellor. He held this position during a most difficult period of unrest and commotion in Jaffna. He was re-elected, at the end of each period, three times.
In the midst of turmoil prevailing in the country, he was able to effect several improvements during his tenure of office. He constantly agitated for and was successful in organising a Faculty of Medicine, and maintaining a high standard. He prepared a blue-print for a Faculty of Agriculture. He initiated steps for the establishment of an Engineering Faculty. An extent of 250 acres of land has been earmarked in Kilinochchi, for the new Faculty.
High tension and wide spread disturbances was prevalent in the country during his period as Vice-Chancellor. Much credit goes to him for having kept the institution functioning, when all other Universities in the country had to remain closed.
Professor S.Vithiananthan took great pains to resuscitate the indigenous Tamil theatre. This developed the cultural awareness of the Sri Lankan Tamils. He successfully organised the Fourth Conference of the International Association of Tamil Research in 1974.
All these made Professor Vithiananthan a much respected personality among the Tamils. Unfortunately, however, he was unmindful of his own health problems. These took their toll and he passed away on 22nd January 1989, at the age of 65.
He contributed several articles to Journals, some of which appeared in Tamil Culture, edited by Father Thaninayagam. His work entitled Tamilar Calpu'(1954) or The Culture of the Tamils, dealing with the culture and civilisation of the Sangam Tamils, is considered a very valuable contribution on the subject. It is now in the fourth edition.
Among his other works are: Ilakkiyar Tenral 1953, The Folk Songs of Batticaloa 1960,
and Mannar Folk Songs 1964.
He married Kamala and had five children: Arulnambi who married Rosita, Mahilinanjai who was married to Raj Mohan, Anbu Chelvi, Inpa Chelvan, and Siva Mainthan.
P.Vythialingam 1882-.... B.A., J.P.U.P. M Advocate, District Judge.
District Judge Vythialingam was the son of Sinnathambiyar Poothapillai from Pannalai, Tellippalai. He was a relation of Sir Ambalavanar Kanagasabai. His ancestry has been traced to Thandikai Kanagarayan, a pioneer settler.
He received his early education at the Vaddukkoddai Seminary. Afterwards he proceeded to Calcutta where he graduated.
Choosing a legal career, he became an Advocate. After practising for a short time, he was appointed a Crown Counsel and later made Police Magistrate. He functioned at Chavakachcheri and at other stations. Eventually he was appointed District Judge, which position he held for a long time.
He married Annapillai, daughter of Sangarapillai and had a son Sachithananda and
two daughters Gnanambikai and Kamalambikai.
William Wadsworth
1875-1921 First Tamil District Judge.
William, born 8th Nov. 1875, was the son of Charles M. M.Wadsworth, Principal Kopay Training Institution for nearly thirty years. "Old Castle', their residence was once part of the "King's Fortress', erected by Sangily, last King of Jaffna.
William was a student and teacher at St.John's College Jaffna 1887-1897. He passed the First in Arts examination of the Calcutta University in 1894 and obtained the B.A. degree in 1897; he was then a clerk in the Govt.Treasury

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for a short time.
He enrolled as an Advocate student soon
after and passed out in 1901. He was VicePresident of the Law Students Union. Afterwards, he functioned as Law Reader, Law Examiner, Crown Counsel etc., before being appointed Acting Additional District Judge in 1916. He held the post of Commissioner of Requests in 1917 and was appointed District Judge in 1918. He died at the early age of 46 in 1921.
He was active in social and religious affairs, being a member of the Synod of the Anglican Church, Director of the Y.M.C.A., lay preacher and Vice-President of the St.John's College O.B.A.
Wadsworth married Alagamuttu Elizabeth Edwards in 1904 and had two daughters: Lily, who was married to Dr.E.T.Saravanamuttu and Queenie to Dr. J.T. Amarasingham. On the demise of Alagamuttu in 1910, he married Miss Canagaratnam and had one daughter, Primrose, who was married to District Judge W.W.Muthurajah.
TWallooppillai c1890-.... . Proctor, Balangoda.
Vellupillai went from Jaffna and established a flourishing business at Balangoda. His son Thambipillai became known as Thambipillai Wallooppillai.
Young Walooppillai was a clever student. After his school career, deciding on a legal career, he became a Proctor.
Very soon he was a very popular personality of the Sabragamuwa Province. He was very popular with the residents of Ratnapura, where he practised.
He was elected a Member of the Ratnapura Urban Council, where he was chosen as Chairman.
Embarking on a political venture at the national level, he contested the Ratnapura seat in the State Council. He lost, but despite being a member of the minority community, he did well, which was highly creditable.
He married Thangammah, who survived him . She passed away at a ripe old age in February 1991. They had five sons: S.K, Dr.N.J.,
R,M, and V.Walooppillai. Their three daughters were married to Dr. Nithiananda, Sivanathan and Ganesathasan respectively.
W.R. Watson 1883-1943 Asst. Director of Education.
William Rasanayagam Watson was born on 25th November 1883. His father Vallipuram took on the name of Richard Watson on conversion and became a Catechist. His mother Rasammah, was the daughter of W. Nevins Sithamparapillai. W.R. Watson was educated at Hartley College and S.Thomas' College, Colombo.
He graduated in Science from the Calcutta University and was a teacher at S.Thomas' College and Royal College. He obtained the London Diploma in Education and later joined the Education Department as an Inspector of Schools. He retired as an Asst. Director of Education and passed away on 15th March 1943.
Watson married Thangamma Clara, daughter of Rao Bahadur Louis Williams Pillai, Inspector of Schools Madras and had three sons: Dr.L.R.J. Asst. Dir of Health Services, W.N.G. Dep. Dir. (Buildings), and O.J.J. Sanitary Engineer, and three daughters: Susan Anketell, Dulcie Williams and Nesam Hensman.
Dr.G.Wignaraja 1897-..... L.R.C.P (Lond)., M.R.C.S(Eng) Barrister, Bank Shroff
Dr.G.Wignaraja has the unique distinction of being a qualified doctor, a barrister at law and a Bank Shroff.
He was born on 20th November 1897 and was the son of C.Gnanasekaram J.P and grandson of the distinguished Bank Shroff and philanthropist S.Cathiravetpillai.
After his early education he entered the Ceylon Medical College and passed out as a doctor. He worked in the Medical Department for some time. He then proceeded to England and obtained higher medical qualifications.
On his return he worked in the General Hospital Colombo. Eventually he set up his own private practice. He then qualified as a barrister. Later he functioned as Bank Shroff with great

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distinction. He was highly respected.
Dr.G.Wignaraja married Muttamma; their son Dr. Ponna Wignarajah* is an eminent Economist; their daughter Neela Devi was married to M.Rajendra.
S.K.Wijeyaretnam c1890-1955 Crown Proctor; Chairman, Negombo Urban Council.
Crown Proctor S.K. Wijeya-retnam, Estate Proprietor and Chairman Negombo U.C., was the son of Kathiravelu of Karainagar Jaffna. Kathiravelu had a prosperous business establishment in Negombo.
After his studies, Wijeyaretnam became a Proctor and established his practice in Negombo. He became a popular and leading personality in Negombo Town and was Crown Proctor. He was elected to the Negombo Urban Council, where he was chosen as Chairman.
He married a daughter of Advocate Thalayasingam. One of his daughters was married to Rajendra Coomaraswamy C.C.S, another to Dr.Wijayasekaram and a third to M.Kanagasunderam Crown Counsel.
His brother S.K.Shanmuga-nathan was a prosperous Coconut Planter, who owned several copra mills in the Negombo District. His son Dr. Kanagarajah was a successful Dental Surgeon in Colombo.
Another brother S.K.Thurai -singham * was Dep. Director of Agriculture. His sister Manonmani was married to Civil Engineer Yogasundaram.
There is now a "Wijayaretnam Central College' in Negombo.
Dr. B.S.Wilson 1923-1993.
Bennet Sebaratnam Wilson, born on 15th October 1923, was the son of Kanapathipillay Wilson who belonged to a distinguished family. He was educated at Royal College, where he distinguished himselfin athletics; he qualified as a doctor from Madras. Proceeding to London in 1960, he acquired special qualifications in the treatment of Chest Diseases and Child Health. He commenced private practice in
Feltham and then in South Ealing. His wife Marie, whom he had married in 1959 and who had worked in the Middlesex Hospital for some years, joined him at Ealing.
He succumbed to a heart attack on 28th January 1993 in India, where he had gone to be
present at the wedding of his son Dilip.
Rev.Dr.D.K.Wilson 1914-1977 B.A., B.D, Ph.D. Methodist Minister, Chaplain Wesley College.
Rev.Dr.David Kanagasabai Wilson was born on 17th September 1914. He was educated at Wesley and later at Royal College, where he won many colours in sports and created several records.
He was in Serampore 1939-1942, where he obtained his B.D and later the London B.A degree. He was ordained Methodist Minister in 1944. He was in U.K 1950-1952, where he obtained his Ph.D (Lond).
He worked at Hatton, Wellawatte, Jaffna and other stations. He was Chairman of the North Ceylon Synod of the Methodist Church and Chaplain, Wesley College. He passed away in March 1977.
He married Dr. Juanita Sebastiampillai in 1954 and had one daughter Dr.Dharshini.
Dr. John R. Wilson 1911-1984. M.D., M.R.C.P., M.B.E. Director; Anti-Tuberculosis
Сатpaign.
John Rasiah Wilson, born on 17th January 1911, was the son of Kanagasabai Alfred Wilson, a contractor and engineer, and Emily Sellammah Wilson. He was educated at Wesley College and later at Royal College, where he obtained colours in athletics and sports; he was also the Head Prefect. He was afterwards at the Ceylon University College, where also, he distinguished himself in sports
Deciding on a medical career, he obtained his M.B.B.S(Lond) in 1936. He served in many stations, before becoming Senior Physician, General Hospital Colombo. He obtained the

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M.D., M.R.C.P qualifications in 1948
He then specialised in the campaign against Tuberculosis, for which he was trained at King's College London and was appointed Director TB and Chest Services, which position he held for a long time. He passed away on 31st March 1984.
Dr. J.R.Wilson married Ellen Rasamany Cooke in 1940 and had a son John Devakumar Wilson M.A., B.D (Lond) Chaplain and three daughters: Loges Arulambalam, Shanti Ph.D (Cantab), and Kalashini, a Dental Surgeon married to Dr. Kevin Miller.
Rev. David Wilson, Dr. Dan Wilson and Dr.Bennet Wilson were his brothers and Mary Samuel and Janet Wilson his sisters.
Yoga Swamykal 1872-1964. Revered Mystic of Jaffna.
Swannykal, whose “Thari- sanam ʼʼ (presence), thousands sought in Jaffna, was born on 29th May 1872. He was the son of Ambalavanar and Sinnachchi Ammaiyar of
Ma vidda - puram, who were living in
Kolumbuthurai Jaffna. Ambalavanar had
business interests in Maskeliya.
Sathasivam, Thambiayah and
Yoganathan have been mentioned as his early names. He received his early education at a Catholic Tamil School in Kolumbuthurai and studied English at St.Patrick's College.
Later, when the Iranaimadu Irrigation Scheme was under construction in 1907 - 1922, he is known to have worked there. Along with him was one Sinnathurai, who later became the Headman of the locality. Both of them worked in the Stores Section of the project. The mango trees he planted in the Stores yard, may yet be seen there.
He came in contact with a Sellapah Swamykal, who was then residing near the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple. That changed his life. He resigned his job. His superior, engineer Browne reluctantly let him go with the remark “You are a God-fearing man'. He became Sellapah Swamykal's disciple, renounced all worldly ties and commenced a spiritual life.
Eventually he matured to become a great mystic and was venerated by many. Thousands
of devotees and seekers after truth flocked to his simple residence in Jaffna, which was a mere hut. He passed away in 1964.
There are several publications containing his sayings and compositions of which "Nat Chinthanai', meaning good thoughts is the most comprehensive. A biographical publication Yoga- Swamikal has been made in 1991.
His followers and other devotees meet
at “Siva Thondar Nilayam', a madam situated on Kankesanthurai Road Jaffna and read his teachings, perpetuating his memory. His commemoration day is observed annually in the month of May.
V.Yogeswaran 1933-1989.
Attorney at Law., M.P. for Jaffna.
Yogeswaran, born 5th February 1933, was the son of Dr S.A.Vettivelu and Parasakthi, of Jaffna. He was educated at St.John's and St. Patrick's Colleges in Jaffna.
He did his law studies in U.K. While there, he was actively involved in many legal, social and International organisations. He was an Inns of Courts student, a leading activist in the Union of Students, Students' Union representative to the National Union of Students Committee, President of the Ceylon Tamil Overseas League in U.K., member of the AntiApartheid League, etc. Returning to Sri Lanka, he practised as an Attorney at Law, in the Jaffna Courts.
Politically, he was an enthusiastic
supporter of the T.U.L.F. He was a member of their Action Committee and was in charge of Youth Affairs. He contested the Jaffna seat in Parliament and won by a large majority, in July 1977. He worked hard and was responsible for many improvements in communication, housing, education and agriculture in his electorate.
He championed the cause of the Tamil youths in Jaffna and was very popular with them. In an orgy of violence and arson, his house in Jaffna was burnt in 1981. He strove hard to create mutual understanding among the Tamil organisations of the time. Along with A. Amirthalingam, he too was shot dead by assailants on 13th July 1989.
He married Sarojini Ponnambalam.

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