pdf.souvenir for mahan

8/14/2019 PDF.souvenir for Mahan

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THANK YOU

The Familyof

Mr. Sinniah Thambiah Muthucumarasamy Mahendran[28.08.1937 30.11.2009]

wish to thank

all his relatives, friends and colleagues

who visited him in Hospital during his last few days

all those who attended his

Funeral in London

on 06.12.2009

all those who telephoned us

to enquire, encourage and console us

all those who sent us emails, oral and postal messages

all those who brought or sent floral tributes

all those who spoke and wrote about him

at the Funeral and in this Souvenir

all those who thought about him and felt sad

but could not do any of the above

and all those who heard of his demise

rather too late.

May His Soul Rest In Peaceat the Feet of Lord Siva!


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PROFESSOR KOPAN MAHADEVAS ORATION ON 06.12. 2009

MAHAN WAS MY BROTHER-IN-LAW. MY WIFE SEETHAS BROTHER. ONE OF FOUR. TWO

OF THEM HAD PREDECEASED HIM. MAHAN WAS MY ONLY IN-LAW LIVING IN THE U.K.

AND IN ORDER TO LIVE NEARER TO HIS TWO ADORABLE SONS PRATHA AND RUBAN,

AND TO US, HE AND AMBAL SOLD THEIR HOUSE IN MANCHESTER, WHERE THEY HADLIVED FOR FORTY YEARS OR SO, AND MOVED TO PINNER, JUST THREE YEARS AGO.

OUR FAMILIES MET OFTEN AFTER THAT MOVE; ALMOST MONTHLY IF NOT WEEKLY.

AND LAST YEAR, MAHAN ALSO JOINED THE LITERARY GROUP THAT SEETHA AND I

RUN, CALLED ELAB: EELAVAR LITERATURE ACADEMY OF BRITAIN. HE STARTED

WRITING FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HIS LIFE AND DID A REALLY GOOD JOB OF IT. FOUR

OF HIS ARTICLES, TWO IN TAMIL AND TWO IN ENGLISH, PRESENTED BY HIM AND

ACCLAIMED FOR THEIR MERITS, ARE TO BE PROUDLY PUBLISHED IN OUR VERY NEXT

ANTHOLOGY.

AS A TEXTILE ENGINEER, MAHAN EXCELLED BOTH IN SRI LANKA, AT VEYANGODA

STATE MILLS, AND HERE IN THE PRESTIGIOUS COURTAULDS LTD., OF MANCHESTER.

WHEN HE RETIRED, HE STARTED A SMALL FACTORY OF HIS OWN, RAN IT FOR A FEW

YEARS, AND THEN SOLD IT. OUR FAMILY STILL USES SOME TOWELS PRESENTED BYMAHAN DURING THOSE YEARS. THEN HE BEGAN HELPING TAMIL REFUGEES IN

MANCHESTER. BY ASSISTING THEM TO GAIN RESIDENT VISAS, TO REGISTER FOR

NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES, AND IN SETTLING DOWN. HE ACTED AS INTERPRETER

TOO, FROM TAMIL TO ENGLISH & VICE VERSA. THEREBY HE BECAME VERY POPULAR

INDEED.

MAHAN WAS A GREAT SPORTSMAN, AS MANY OF YOU KNOW. HE EXCELLED IN

FOOT BALL AND TENNIS. HE WAS FOOTBALL CAPTAIN OF ST. JOSEPHS COLLEGE, AND

AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CEYLON, COLOMBO. HE WAS THE TENNIS CHAMPION OF

MANCHESTER, NOT LONG AGO. AND HE TAUGHT THOSE GAMES TO HIS SONS PRATHA

AND RUBAN. HAPPILY, THEY ARE NOW IN LONDON TEAMS IN BOTH THOSE GAMES.

WHEN HE COULD NO LONGER GET OUT AND PLAY, HE BECAME A TV VIEWER, OF ALL

TYPES OF SPORT. NOW, HOW DID SUCH A SPORTSMAN DEVELOP A WEAK HEART? I DO

NOT KNOW. WE MAY NEVER KNOW.

THE WAY THAT AMBAL AND MAHAN LIVED THEIR MARRIED LIFE IS A CLASSIC

EXAMPLE OF DEEP LOVE AND ROMANCE. NO WONDER THEY ENDORSED THE LOVE

MARRIAGES OF PRATHA AND RUBAN WITHOUT ANY HESITATION WHATSOEVER.

YES, MAHAN WAS A TRULY LIBERAL MINDED PERSON, A REAL GENTLEMAN. I HAVE

NEVER IN 55 YEARS OF KNOWING EACH OTHER, EVER HEARD HIM UTTER A SINGLE

HARSH WORD TO, OR ABOUT ANYONE.

AMBAL AND MAHAN TOGETHER MADE HUNDREDS OF FRIENDS IN MANCHESTER &

LONDON. HE WAS ELECTED AS PRESIDENT DESPITE HIS QUIET, SOFT SPOKEN NATURE;

OR, MORE LIKELY BECAUSE OF IT. HE HELPED ANYONE AND EVERYONE AS BEST AS

HE COULD. HE BOUGHT A CAR FOR HIS SISTER ALL ON HIS OWN, IN 1978, EVEN

BEFORE I ARRIVED BACK IN U.K. WITH OUR FOUR CHILDREN UMA, USHA, LAVAN ANDULA. THEY SIMPLY ADORED THEIR MAHAN MAAMAS CAR, AND EVEN GAVE IT A

NAME--RHODA. WE PAID HIM BACK, ONLY MONTHS LATER. HE HAD ALSO HELPED ALL

HIS OTHER SIBLINGS. HE USED TO EVEN REMIT REGULAR SUMS TO HIS SURVIVING

YOUNGER BROTHER RAJE IN MANIPAY, UNTIL RECENTLY. HE WAS THAT GENEROUS.

THE CLOSEST PERSONS WHO WILL MISS MAHAN MOST, ARE PERHAPS HIS FOUR

GRANDCHILDREN, SONNY, ROSIE, KAELEN & RIAN, I.E. WHEN THEY REALISE WHERE

GRANDDAD HAS REALLY GONE. MAHAN LOVED PLAYING WITH THEM, AND EVEN

BATHING AND CARING FOR THEM UNTIL HIS LAST. HE WAS JUST REPEATING WHAT

HE DID WITH PRATHA AND RUBAN: BRINGING THEM UP WITH NO REPRIMANDS, ONLY

LOVE, ENCOURAGEMENT, AND MORE LOVE, AS I KNOW HOW HIS OWN MOTHER, MY

MOTHER-IN-LAW, BROUGHT UP MAHAN AND HIS SIBLINGS.

NOW, MAHAN HAS SUDDENLY LEFT ALL OF US, AGED JUST 72. I HAVE NO DOUBTWHATSOEVER THAT HIS SOUL WOULD GO STRAIGHT TO HEAVEN, TO THE FEET OF

LORD SIVA. LETS REMEMBER HIM, AND LEARN FROM HIS CHARMING NATURE AND

LIFE OF QUIET, UNASSUMING AND COMPASSIONATE SERVICE. THANK YOU.


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A ShortA ShortA ShortA Short----Lived Interaction but a LongLived Interaction but a LongLived Interaction but a LongLived Interaction but a Long----living Impressionliving Impressionliving Impressionliving Impression[A few months with late Mr. M Mahendran (Mahan) atCROFTE]

We in our life meet with many people either by accident or by

intention. We talk to them and interact with them. This interaction isshortened or lengthened, depending on how a situation permits. But intheir absence only a few stay in our memory, via the qualities andattributes they had displayed when alive and the beneficial lessons wehave learned from these attributes.

Mahan was introduced about four months ago by his beloved wife,Ambal, to the Cultural and Recreational Organisation for Tamil Elders(CROFTE) a Day Centre which serves to meet the varied needs ofTamil elders living in and around the London Borough of Barnet.

Mahans membership with CFOFTE was shortened by his suddendeath and this caused a great deal of sadness to his peers at theCentre. However, during his short membership, Mahan and theCentre had mutually benefited from each other.

Within a short space of four months, Mahan, together with Ambal,integrated well into the Centres routines and thereby forged a healthyrelationship with other centre members. This was partly because ofhis experience of interacting with a wide variety of people elsewhereand his ability to grasp the needs and sentiments of other people in a

manner free of any prejudice. Mahans deeper association with theCentre became more evident when he engaged himself in everyaspect of its activities; this included attending the Centre on a regularbasis, playing games with others, being part of the luncheon club, andgiving a helping hand wherever appropriate. When Mahans conditionbecame a great concern to us, all celebrations at the Centre weresuspended, and this could be seen as a tribute to how Mahan hadwon the affection of others within a short span of four months.

To sum up, Mahans association with our Centre sadly lasted only

for a short period of time, but the impression he had left behindcontinues. He will be remembered for the contributions he had made,the selfless affection he had shown towards others and the willingnesshe had displayed to be an active member. We all pray for his soul tobe in peace.

Dr. Sella D. Gunasingam(on behalf ofCROFTEmembers)

December 10, 2009 Workin for Elders


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MANCHESTER MEMORIESPratha

I remember when I had left Southampton University after a term, asthe course and experience had not been what I had expected. My

parents were obviously worried about what I was going to do next,and I was nervous about returning home to Manchester. But Dad wasfine. After a trip to America and Canada with my Mum, Dad gave me a job in his business. I worked with Dad before starting back at myUniversity, and I worked with him for most of the summers whilst I wasat university.

I remember driving with him from Didsbury, through Burnage,Levenshulme and Droylsdon---the streets becoming more and morelike Coronation street, the closer we got, to get to Ashton Under Lyne,

where he had his factory. I can picture him sliding open the woodengate of the factory and seeing the big embroidery machines amidstthe boxes of clothes and threads. One half of the factory was darkand the other light under the glass concertina roof.

The first thing he would do, was to switch on the radio and thenmake us both a cup of tea. Then wed start work. Wed work throughuntil mid morning, having brief conversations through the day aboutthe orders, and that sort of thing. He would offer me a Bakewell tart orsome other snack at around midmorning. And then at lunchtime, hed

give me some money and I would go for a wander around Ashton.After lunch, wed work some more, and have a few more cups of tea,before finishing around five, when wed go and pick Mum up beforereturning home.

Dad had a quiet calm about him, and I can picture him peeringat the machine with his glasses at the end of his nose as he tried torethread a machine or change the design on the computer. Heseemed happy in his factory getting on with his business. I didnt knowit at the time, but he was looking after me; making sure I was all right.

I can see ourselves walking through the streets of NorthManchester, in the rain, after wed been to see one of his clients. Hehad a walk, which was his own, and I remember him taking me to acanteen, where they served cheap but delicious Indian food, whichwarmed me up from the cold and wet.

Dad loved tennis, and started playing when he was in his 40s.We played together while I was still at school and at university. Iremember driving with him through Withington onto Princess Road

past the playing fields through Whalley Range to the Darley TennisClub.


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The summers seemed hotter than they should have been forManchester, and I can remember his chaotic tennis bag, and alsosliding around on the red shale courts. We sometimes played inLeague Matches together, and I can see myself having a drink withhim at the bar afterwards. There was one time we played in an

evening league match, and it was Dads turn to organise the post-match tea. He made Cornish pasties, oven chips and baked beans foreveryone, which went down as a treat.

Mum and Dad had lots of friends in Manchester, and they had afull social life. So I had my doubts when they said they were moving toLondon. Dad wasnt in the best of health over the last couple of years.But seeing him with his grandchildren, especially Kaelen and Rian,who he saw nearly every day, I couldnt doubt at all, that the movehad given him a new lease of life.

He was a lovely Dad, who never shouted at me. He had aneasy, kind manner, and he gave me the confidence to be who I am. Iwill indeed miss him greatly.

MAHAN, THE GENTLE GIANTPaakkiyakkaa: His Elder Sister-in-Law

Everybody knew Mahendran, The Gentle Giant, as Mahan. True to

his name, he proved himself to be a real Mahan by his gentle ways,soft speech, and helping nature. He lived a high life, earning therespect of everyone whom he met in his life. His inborn nature urgedhim to be enthusiastic to help anyone, at any time. Although hesuffered many illnesses, he never complained of them, but was everready to help anyone. People never heard his voice. He spoke softlyand was gentle with everyone. Neither did he utter harsh words, norspeak ill of others. He helped all his friends in Manchester in someway or another, and assisted many refugees from Sri Lanka. With

heavy hearts, Mahan and Ambal moved out of Manchester---after asuccessful life of forty long years. They moved to Pinner near theirson Ruban, and kept themselves busy looking after their grand-children in the evenings. Mahan also kept himself busy tending thevegetable garden in Rubans house and supplied a few for others too.He enjoyed playing scrabble with Ambal and me. Almost every day weplayed scrabble, either in their house or my flat. Until he won, hewould ask us to play again and again. Even then, we would not haveheard him speak aloud. Such was our Gentle Giant. Mahan.

May his Soul Rest in Peace!


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DADRuban

As I sit down at my desk and write this tribute to my Dad the firstthought that crosses my mind is, How do I justify in words the love he

showed us, and the invaluable lessons in life he taught us all? Aseveryone who knew Dad knows, he was a man of few words, and astime went by he became more and more reticent. But his actionsspoke louder than any words could.

I have many fond memories of growing up in the family home inManchester. Dad was a devoted husband and father, and he dideverything to ensure that our childhoods were carefree and happy.One thing I will be eternally grateful for is that he instilled a love forsport into his sons. As soon as we could walk, Dad would take us to

play tennis in the local park, kick a football around in the back gardenwith us, and play cricket against a tree. He would take my brother andI to the local leisure centre every weekend, to practice our swimming,and to play badminton.

As well as playing sports, he also loved watching sport on TV.Cricket test matches, football games, tennis tournaments, snooker,golfIf there was sport on the box, then Dad would settle down on thesofa, remote control in hand, with a cold beer and a bowl of peanuts.Hed watch tiddlywinks world championships, if they were televised!

Also, Dad could build or repair just about anything. He wasextremely resourceful, practical and intelligent. He would set himselfpersonal challenges and thrive on meeting them. Around 25 yearsago he installed, from scratch, a complete central heating systemwith pipes, radiators and all in our house in Manchester. And as far asI know, it is still going strong, keeping the house warm to this day.

He wrote a complex formula to solve the Rubik Cube, and I canstill remember the notebook that he used to record his workings and

findings. He enjoyed solving puzzles, and loved playing Scrabble andSu Doku. In his later days he took up personal computing as hishobby, and he would spend time in his study, browsing the Internet,learning programs and installing software.

Throughout my life I always knew that I could at any and everytime depend on Dad. He exuded such confidence and trust with hisquiet and unassuming manner, and I always knew he would be thereto help out and take care of us. He never let me down, not once. Hewould never refuse a request to drive me into town on a Friday night

when I was a difficult teenager, and he would even slip me an extra10 when I got out of the car!


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It must have been a daunting ordeal for Dad and my Mum whenthey moved down to London in early 2008. They were well settled inManchester, after spending most of their lives there. They hadestablished a large and close circle of friends there, of whom theywere very fond, and who helped them lead a very active social life. My

wife Sonal and I were worried that Dad would miss his life inManchester, and would struggle to keep himself occupied in London.

Those initial worries were soon allayed, however, when hededicated his life to his grandkids. Everyday, without fail, he wouldturn up at our house to look after Kaelen and Rian, who he loveddeeply. He became a new person when he was around his grandkids,and would come out of his shell to entertain and play with them, withsilly laughs and funny voices. He spoilt them with books and toys, andthey played with them in the garden when the weather allowed it. He

grew a fantastic vegetable patch in our garden this summer, andKaelen and Rian would follow him around, helping him out with theirlittle spades and forks.

He would give them baths every evening, and allowed them tostay in the water for far too long and splash water everywhere, andplay with their bath toys. He would dry them and put them in theirnappies and pyjamas. By the time Sonal and I got back from workthey were ready for bed. Bath times will not be the same without him.

Kaelen and Rian loved their granddad, and they would wait onthe windowsill at 5.00pm every evening, in anticipation of his arrival.They would jump up-and-down in excitement when they saw Dadsbattered old Nissan pulling up outside the house, and Rian wouldshout Appah, Appah. Even now, he still does that, when the doorbellrings in the evening, expecting his Appah to walk through the door.

If you asked Dad what his greatest accomplishment in life was,he would answer, My children and grandchildren. Many menmeasure their successes by the size of their bank accounts, their

possessions, or social standing. Dad measured his success by howwell he had instilled good values, and work ethic, into his children. Hisphilosophy in life was to treat others as equals, no matter what theirbackground, class, religion or race. He took tremendous satisfactionin helping others, and would never turn down a request for help, be itlarge or small. I have heard many stories, and seen at first hand, howhe would reach out a helping hand to a friend, neighbour, or strangerin need. What he had, he was willing to share with others. Im stillamazed at the number of people who turned up for his funeral, but it

should really be no surprise, as here was a man who had spent his lifehelping, loving and caring for others.


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NEPHEWS & NIECES MOURN THEIR CHINNAIAH

Hamsa, Hari, Dharmini, Kiruba and their Families

When my brother and I first landed in England as students, itwas a great comfort for us, and a relief for our parents that MahanChinnaiah was there to meet and greet us at Manchester Airport.Though he was a man of few words, he made us very welcome intohis home. We lived with him and Ambal and our two cousins for nearlytwo years before we ventured out into the wide world on our own.

Being a great sportsman, Chinnaiah fully occupied himself withsporting activities, including playing tennis regularly in a local club formost of the weekends. In addition to this, he distinguished himself as

a DIY person. He single handedly installed the central heating systemin his house in Manchester. Adding to his repertoire of achievements,how can we ever forget the delicious apple crumble that he used tomake from the apples in his back garden?

Having moved to London to be nearer to his sons, Chinnaiahbecame very fond of his grand children. He would volunteer to lookafter them at every opportunity he got. For him, his grand childrenbecame the focal point of his existence. I am sure the feeling wasmutual, judging by how they looked out eagerly for his arrival as theirchief playmate.

Despite his quiet nature, Chinnaiah entertained his visitors well.During the forty years he spent in Manchester, and more recently inLondon, he helped several persons in need, without regard to howdifficult the problem, or how inconvenient the time.

Although his death was unexpected, the fact that he left thisworld after attending the birthday celebrations of our beloved Baba,the previous evening, probably indicates that his services are required

for a higher power.We pray that his soul rests in peace, and take comfort in the

knowledge that he will be looking out for all those close to him evenmore vigilantly from his abode above. [Article written by Hamsa]

THREE MORE SCENES FROM MAHANS LIFE & ALBUMS


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OUR UNCLE, MAHAN MAMA

Ula Mahadeva [also on behalf of Uma Mahadeva, UshaMoran (ne Mahadeva) and Lavan Mahadeva]

I write this as the youngest of the four children of Mahan Mamas onlysister, Seethadevi. In modern life we are faced with an extraordinaryproliferation and embellishment of job titles, so it is reassuring that thetitles of mother, father, child, aunt and uncle remain unadulterated.

I first met Mahan Mama in the early 1970s, as a small child inSri Lanka, when he used to bring his young family from England tosee their grandparents and other relatives. At that age, my memories

centred around my cousins, Ruban (with his comfort blanketpermanently screwed up his nose) and Pratha, rather than MahanMama and Ambal Mami.

However, after we emigrated to Birmimgham, England, in thelate 1970s, they became our closest relatives on my mothers side, inour new foreign home.

We spent many a school holiday at their house in Manchester---the days playing outdoors with Pratha and Ruban, and the evenings

relishing Ambal Mamis delicious Sri Lankan cookery (with yoghurtand a glass of water close at hand), and trying in vain to beat MahanMama and Ambal Mami at Scrabble. Mahan Mama would often takeus to play badminton at Moss Side Leisure Centre; unfortunately, theMahadeva side of the family was never going to emulate theMahendran side at sporting prowess.

For the last 20 years or so, Mahan Mama has been our onlyuncle in this country. So, in my mind, the term has become almostsynonymous with him. After Ruban and Pratha a few years ago

wisely helped Mahan Mama and Ambal Mami move to London, westarted to see more of them. It was touching to see Mahan Mama,frail though he had become, caring for and playing with hisgrandchildren, Sonny, Rosie, Kaelen and Rian.

My over-riding memory of Mahan Mama is of a gentle man anda gentleman. At his funeral, the crematorium was overflowing withwell-wishers, many of whom had made the journey from Manchesterto be there. It appears that in his quiet and unostentatious way, hehad moved mountains.

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PERUMALPILLAIS AND THEIR YOUNGEST UNCLE

Mahan chinnaiah became the youngest of our maternal uncles whenhe married Ambal, our mothers youngest sister. We vividly rememberthe day he was introduced to the Gnanasundaram family atChelvacot, our ancestral family residence in Kokkuvil, Jaffna, and atthe subsequent registration ceremony. We were all caught up inAmbals excitement when he made many visits of familiarization prior

to the wedding.

Chinnaiah was, especially amongst us noisy Gnanasundarams, thequietest and most reserved. He was a great observer, and would onlygive his opinion when asked. He was always generous with his time,

always offering assistance when required. [His contribution to Man-chesters Tamil society, is well known and documented elsewhere].

He was a perfectionist when it came to cooking---especially meatand fish curries. His cooking style exemplified his leisurely, unruffledpersonality--- a slow and steady simmer, to achieve maximum flavour!

Chinnaiah was the sportiest of our uncles. Not only was he anarmchair enthusiast, but also played football and tennis. In fact, hetook Ravi (the eldest of us) to his first Manchester United match at OldTrafford in the early 70s and also both Ranjit and Usha to our first

football matches in England; travelling to Bolton to see Chelsea playin 1974. His enthusiasm for cricket was highlighted by his visit toJeeva and her family in Pakistan to attend the 1996 World Cup final inLahore. For a quiet man, he certainly made his presence felt when SriLanka won! That was indeed a proof of his wholesome patriotism.

Usha was fortunate enough to get to know Chinnaiah more thananyone else in the Perumalpillai family, during her undergraduatestudies at Salford University. She is most thankful for his kindness andselfless concern when she first arrived in Manchester, when Ambal

was hospitalized for Rubans birth. In the first few days he would dropher off at Salford and pick her up after classes; his familiar facepeering through the glass pane of the door to the physics laboratorywas always a welcome sight. Chinnaiah took it upon himself to ensurethat she settled in quickly to the new environment, and helped herlearn the ropes to function within the Mancunian society.

He was a great companion to Ambal. Together they saw much ofthe world, including the many music festivals in Chennai, but theirplanned trip to Australia, to visit Usha and family, sadly nevermaterialised.

He will always have a special place in our hearts/!/!/!/! !


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DAUGHTER-IN-LAW SONAL PATEL RECOUNTS

When I first met Rubans Dad, I called him Uncle. However, I willforever remember him as Appah. During most of my married years,they lived in Manchester. I considered Appah quiet, considerate and

kind. He always made me feel welcome; nearly always cracked agood joke at Rubans Mums expense. There were never any airs orgraces about him. I dont think I really got to know him until he camedown to live in London.

When I remember Appah, I will remember his adoring andeverlasting devotion to his grandsons, our Kaelen and Rian. How heloved to get involved! So much so, that nappy changes, feed times,play times, bath times and bedtimes were never a chore for him. I feltthat he enjoyed every minute of it. I will remember him for his ever-

readiness to baby-sit Kaelen and Rian, which allowed Ruban and I toescape for a few hours. Ill remember the new and interesting recipeshe used to cook in his new and interesting tangine cooking pots. Illremember him insisting on baking Kaelens 2nd birthday cake, and howhe decorated it with chocolate Minstrels in the shape of the number 2.There are many other ways he cared for us, loved us and was therefor us. It all seemed to come so naturally to him, and it was never toomuch visible effort.

When I remind Kaelen about his Grandpa, I will tell him about the

number of times I found him in Grandpas car---Kaelen in the driversseat, hooting the horn, clicking and pressing all the buttons, andwinding the window down for a short time to say Hi and Bye toMummy, whilst Grandpa was in the passengers side. I will tell Kaelenabout the lovely times they spent in the garden, playing with cars,bikes, bouncy castles, sticks, stones, mud and buckets, and planting,digging and growing their own vegetable patch. I will tell him about thewalks to the nearby farm, the times they spent throwing leaves andtwigs in the river by our house, and sometimes disappearing, leaving

us all a bit worried, and sending out search parties to find them.Kaelens wish was Grandpas command.

When I describe Appah to Rian, I will pass on the fact that Appah---that was how Rian called his Grandpa after copying Grandma, woulddo everything and anything for him. Appah wanted to be involved allthe way from nappy changes, feed time, to bath and bedtime. Appahwanted to do it all for Rian. I found it amazing, the number of timesAppah would be up and down the stairs to check on the boys whilstthey were sleeping. There was no task that was too much effort when

it came to both boys, especially for Rian, happily world-gazing onAppahs lap or in his arms.


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They had the most amazing bond, which makes me think that theywere destined to touch each others lives.

I will tell them both, of the times that they would wait at the frontwindow at 5pm for Grandpas car, then run and get their shoes,bypassing Grandma on their way, to get to Grandpa. In our house,Grandpa followed them everywhere, and they followed Grandpa.Grandpa would spoil them, allow them to do anything, and he wouldcover for them when they had been naughty, and never allowed themto get into trouble. I only understand now, that Grandparents have aright to do that, for their love is like no other love. Their love is unique,special.

Most of all, I thank Appah. I wish to thank him for all the love anddevotion he showered on Kaelen and Rian, and for enriching their

lives so much. I thank him for taking such a big step when movingfrom Manchester to London, so we were all able to spend timetogether, and I was able to get to know him much better. Appahbecame such an important part our lives, and he will be greatlymissed by us all.

A bedtime conversation between Kaelen and his Mummy a

couple of weeks after losing Appah: ME AND MY GRANDPA

Mummy: Kaelen, whats you favourite farmyard animal?Kaelen: Cow..one day I went to see cows with my Grandpa.Mummy: Did Grandpa take you to see the cows at the back of thehouse?Kaelen: Yes..and when I saw them, I started crying because I wasscared.Mummy: Oh dear. What did Grandpa say to you?Kaelen: He picked me up and carried me home. I knocked on the door.Mummy: Who opened the door?Kaelen: Grandma.Mummy: What was Grandma doing?

Kaelen: Looking after Bhai (Rian).Mummy: What was Bhai doing?Kaelen: Looking for Kaelen.Mummy: What did Bhai say?Kaelen: Appah! Appah! Appah!Mummy: What did Grandpa say?Kaelen: Yes my Son (which is a phrase that Appah used, when Riancalled him Appah)Mummy: Lets go to bed.Kaelen: Mummy, can you tell me another story about my Grandpa.

(.and so, I told him that story about when he and Grandpa plantedstrawberries in the garden.)


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khd;nr];uwpy; ,Ue;J W}gp Njth vOJfpwhHmdmdmd md;gpd; jpUTUtkhd kNfd; mz;zhitAk; mk;ghs; mf;fhitAk; ;gpd; jpUTUtkhd kNfd; mz;zhitAk; mk;ghs; mf;fhitAk; ;gpd; jpUTUtkhd kNfd; mz;zhitAk; mk;ghs; mf;fhitAk; ;gpd; jpUTUtkhd kNfd; mz;zhitAk; mk;ghs; mf;fhitAk;Kjd;Kjyhf tljkpo;r; rq;f tpohtpy; jhd; re;jpj;Njhk;. md;W Kjy;Kjd;Kjyhf tljkpo;r; rq;f tpohtpy; jhd; re;jpj;Njhk;. md;W Kjy;Kjd;Kjyhf tljkpo;r; rq;f tpohtpy; jhd; re;jpj;Njhk;. md;W Kjy;Kjd;Kjyhf tljkpo;r; rq;f tpohtpy; jhd; re;jpj;Njhk;. md;W Kjy;

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xUNghJk; Nfhgkhf mtiuxUNghJk; Nfhgkhf mtiuxUNghJk; Nfhgkhf mtiuxUNghJk; Nfhgkhf mtiu ehk; ghHf;fNtapy;iy. mjpfk; fijf;f ehk; ghHf;fNtapy;iy. mjpfk; fijf;f ehk; ghHf;fNtapy;iy. mjpfk; fijf;f ehk; ghHf;fNtapy;iy. mjpfk; fijf;fkhl;lhH. VJk; Nfl;lhy;> ,uz;nlhU thHj;ijfs; jhd; NgRthH.khl;lhH. VJk; Nfl;lhy;> ,uz;nlhU thHj;ijfs; jhd; NgRthH.khl;lhH. VJk; Nfl;lhy;> ,uz;nlhU thHj;ijfs; jhd; NgRthH.khl;lhH. VJk; Nfl;lhy;> ,uz;nlhU thHj;ijfs; jhd; NgRthH.

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kNfd; mz;zhtpd; gps;isfs; gpujhgd;> &gd; mtHfSk; Ngug;kNfd; mz;zhtpd; gps;isfs; gpujhgd;> &gd; mtHfSk; Ngug;kNfd; mz;zhtpd; gps;isfs; gpujhgd;> &gd; mtHfSk; Ngug;kNfd; mz;zhtpd; gps;isfs; gpujhgd;> &gd; mtHfSk; Ngug;gps;isfSk; mtUld; kpf neUf;fkhf ,Ue;jtHfs;. &gdpd; gps;isfs;gps;isfSk; mtUld; kpf neUf;fkhf ,Ue;jtHfs;. &gdpd; gps;isfs;gps;isfSk; mtUld; kpf neUf;fkhf ,Ue;jtHfs;. &gdpd; gps;isfs;gps;isfSk; mtUld; kpf neUf;fkhf ,Ue;jtHfs;. &gdpd; gps;isfs;kNfkNfkNfkNfd; mz;zhtpd; tPl;Lf;Ff; fpl;l ,Ue;jgbahy; mtHfSld; jhd;d; mz;zhtpd; tPl;Lf;Ff; fpl;l ,Ue;jgbahy; mtHfSld; jhd;d; mz;zhtpd; tPl;Lf;Ff; fpl;l ,Ue;jgbahy; mtHfSld; jhd;d; mz;zhtpd; tPl;Lf;Ff; fpl;l ,Ue;jgbahy; mtHfSld; jhd;

mtH $ba Neuj;ijr; nrytopj;jhH. Ngug; gps;isfSlk; mtUld; mtH $ba Neuj;ijr; nrytopj;jhH. Ngug; gps;isfSlk; mtUld; mtH $ba Neuj;ijr; nrytopj;jhH. Ngug; gps;isfSlk; mtUld; mtH $ba Neuj;ijr; nrytopj;jhH. Ngug; gps;isfSlk; mtUld;ghrkhf ,Ue;jhHfs;. ,ij mk;ghs; mf;fh jhd; nrhy;YthH. Mdhy;ghrkhf ,Ue;jhHfs;. ,ij mk;ghs; mf;fh jhd; nrhy;YthH. Mdhy;ghrkhf ,Ue;jhHfs;. ,ij mk;ghs; mf;fh jhd; nrhy;YthH. Mdhy;ghrkhf ,Ue;jhHfs;. ,ij mk;ghs; mf;fh jhd; nrhy;YthH. Mdhy;kNfd; mz;zh ,t;tsT nfjpahf kz;Zyif tpl;L tpz;ZyFf;Fr;kNfd; mz;zh ,t;tsT nfjpahf kz;Zyif tpl;L tpz;ZyFf;Fr;kNfd; mz;zh ,t;tsT nfjpahf kz;Zyif tpl;L tpz;ZyFf;Fr;kNfd; mz;zh ,t;tsT nfjpahf kz;Zyif tpl;L tpz;ZyFf;Fr;nry;thH vd ehk; epidf;ftpy;iy.nry;thH vd ehk; epidf;ftpy;iy.nry;thH vd ehk; epidf;ftpy;iy.nry;thH vd ehk; epidf;ftpy;iy.

mtH M];gj;jpupapy; ,Ue;jJk;> gpd; ,we;jJk; vdf;Fk; vd; mtH M];gj;jpupapy; ,Ue;jJk;> gpd; ,we;jJk; vdf;Fk; vd; mtH M];gj;jpupapy; ,Ue;jJk;> gpd; ,we;jJk; vdf;Fk; vd; mtH M];gj;jpupapy; ,Ue;jJk;> gpd; ,we;jJk; vdf;Fk; vd;fztUf;Fk; kpfTk; mjpHr;rpahf ,Ue;jJ. mtupd; G+jTly; kiwe;jhYk;fztUf;Fk; kpfTk; mjpHr;rpahf ,Ue;jJ. mtupd; G+jTly; kiwe;jhYk;fztUf;Fk; kpfTk; mjpHr;rpahf ,Ue;jJ. mtupd; G+jTly; kiwe;jhYk;fztUf;Fk; kpfTk; mjpHr;rpahf ,Ue;jJ. mtupd; G+jTly; kiwe;jhYk;

mtH Gfo; vd;Wk; kiwahJ. mtH vd;Wk; vq;fs; vy;NyhH kdj;jpYk;mtH Gfo; vd;Wk; kiwahJ. mtH vd;Wk; vq;fs; vy;NyhH kdj;jpYk;mtH Gfo; vd;Wk; kiwahJ. mtH vd;Wk; vq;fs; vy;NyhH kdj;jpYk;mtH Gfo; vd;Wk; kiwahJ. mtH vd;Wk; vq;fs; vy;NyhH kdj;jpYk;epiwe;J ,Ug;ghH. kNfd; mz;zhtpd; Mj;kh rhe;jpaila Ntz;Lnkdepiwe;J ,Ug;ghH. kNfd; mz;zhtpd; Mj;kh rhe;jpaila Ntz;Lnkdepiwe;J ,Ug;ghH. kNfd; mz;zhtpd; Mj;kh rhe;jpaila Ntz;Lnkdepiwe;J ,Ug;ghH. kNfd; mz;zhtpd; Mj;kh rhe;jpaila Ntz;LnkdehDk; vdJ fztUehDk; vdJ fztUehDk; vdJ fztUehDk; vdJ fztUk; vy;yhk;ty;y ,iwtid Ntz;LfpNwhk;.k; vy;yhk;ty;y ,iwtid Ntz;LfpNwhk;.k; vy;yhk;ty;y ,iwtid Ntz;LfpNwhk;.k; vy;yhk;ty;y ,iwtid Ntz;LfpNwhk;.

Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. ,g;gbf;F W}gp Njth.Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. ,g;gbf;F W}gp Njth.Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. ,g;gbf;F W}gp Njth.Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. Xk; rhe;jp. ,g;gbf;F W}gp Njth. !

MAHAN & AMBAL AT THEIR WEDDING REGISTRATION


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TRIBUTE TO MUTHUCUMARASAMY MAHENDRANA. Karunanithy

Mr. Mahendran who is popularly known as Mahan among closecircles, will be remembered by his family and friends as:

Soft spoken

Gentle

Incredibly caring

and, an Eminent Sportsman.

He loved sports and had played for First Eleven teams of ManipayHindu College, Maradana St Joseph College and University of Ceylon.

He was a member of the great Ceylon University Team, which

participated and competed in the South East Asian Inter-universityfootball competition in the year 1960. Ceylon University Team was thechampion that year, and the other teams that participated in thecompetition included teams from various universities from India,Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.

Mahendrans father, Surveyor Muthukumarasamy, was a publicfigure. He was the Chairman of Manipay Town council, and had donemany services to the development of that village. His mothersyoungest brother was the famous Dr. Appacutty Sinatamby, Professorof Obstetrics & Gynaecology of the University of Ceylon. Mahendransintellectual achievement, his personality, his character, and hisendurance were all derived genetically from his Mum and Dad.

When I think of Mahendran the first thing that comes to my mindare the words used by R P Sethupilaai in his book Veeramanagar,where he describes king Ravana in the epic, Ramayanam.

Mahans boldness, when he was at play on the football field,was comparable to that of Ravana during his fight against elephants.

His physical strength and diplomacy were comparable to that ofRavana when he attempted to lift the huge Mount Kailas, and thenhow Ravana played his musical instrument Veena, to pacify Lord Sivaand get out of difficulty. Mahans ability to present his argumentsconvincingly in any forum was comparable to that of Ravana when heconvinced even Narada Munivar, in many tricky arguments. Mahansprestigious heritage that he derived from his Mum and Dad iscomparable to those of the ten crowns of Ravana.

Mahans divine strength, and the gift of his gab are comparable

to the sword presented to Ravana by Lord Siva himself, when heperformed penance to alleviate the pains and misery of his race.


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As a close friend of Mahendran, I had occasion to learn abouthis conscious view of his inner life. He firmly believed that one shouldaccept and meditate on the Supreme Lord, unconditionally, acceptingHim as the one who knows everything, as the oldest, as the controller,who is smaller than the smallest but yet a maintainer of everything,

who is beyond all material conception.

We were at the University of Ceylon, Colombo, during the lateNineteen Fiftys. I can remember the times when we used to sit at theCollege House Common Room, chatting or playing Table Tennis. Icould still remember him saying the following:

When Knowledge becomes matured, it becomes Skills. WhenSkills become matured they become Wisdom. When Wisdom getsmatured, it becomes Bakthi---Bakthi, which is the culmination of all

Knowledge.Now, I want to convey a Message to his children and grand

children on behalf of my Friend Mahendran (Mahan):

To the grieving Children and the beloved wife of Mahendran, I wouldsay, While sharing your sorrow of his death, you must be proud ofyour dear Father and beloved Husbands achievements in life.

Finally I wish to bid farewell to my dear friend with the GayathriManthram, to guide him for the rest of his journey:

AUM, BHUR BHUVAH SWAH!Tat Savitur Varenyam

Bhargo Devasya DhimahiDhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat!!

MR. MAHENDRAN AS FOOTBALL CAPTAIN OF ST. JOSEPHS


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MY MEMORABLE MOMENTS WITH MAHANCumaraswamy Harichandran

My cousin Mahan was truly my friend, more than a cousin, and gave a

rare feeling in my life. Most of all, this person was generous andtruthful, and his motives are purely honest; never scheming. One thingI can truthfully say is that we never gossiped about anyone.

Whenever we met, we enjoyed recalling the good times we hadwith our cousins. We shared similar interests in sports, films (Tamil,English or Hindi) and music.

Our temperaments coincided, in that we both exchanged veryfew words. I could sense that I felt a strange air of calmness in hispresence, a feeling of well-being.

In our recent days, when I visited him in Pinner, he was well intoretirement, living in a two-bed flat, where gardening was just minimal.When I now recall his smiles, he seems to say, Dont worry aboutanything, Achchu. Every thing is alright.

Whenever he smiled without eye contact, he appeared to say:Stop there! Dont be judgmental. You dont know what you aresaying. And when he shrugged, he seemed to say: The whole thingis no great deal. There is no need to blow things out of proportion.

You will soon feel calm, and not feel agitated or act out a drama.Having the need to express our great secrets, I like to take thisopportunity to describe my most memorable moments with Mahan.

As background information I wish to describe how I came toknow him so well. Of course Ambal knew him more than anyone else.

I knew Mahan from when I was six years old. My father wastransferred from Colombo to Jaffna, and we went to live in Manipay.

Mahan was six years older than I was, and at that time I knew

him as a very gentle, kind and caring person, and that I could get him,for instance, to make kites and take us to the rice fields to fly them, orget him to take us fishing.

I have never seen him angered by our demands. He then hadthe same personality as he had even lately, without much change.We had many cousins and other relatives of all age groups living inthe area. So we always ended up playing cricket, kiddi(the game withsticks) and football, with our own age groups.

So many times I wanted to play cricket or football with the older

set, but I was often left out of their teams and ended up watching themplay. I always admired Mahans clever manoeuvres and ploys, andtried to copy them to apply when I played with my own age groups.


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We lived in Manipay for five years, and then my father wastransferred to Andradhapura for the next four years, during which wekept contact through regular visits to Manipay.

When we came back to live again in Manipay in 1957, Mahanwas attending St. Josephs College in Colombo, captaining their firsteleven football team. But in 1958, he rejoined Manipay Hindu College(after completing his GCE A level exams in the previous year), to helpthe ailing school sports by captaining the first eleven cricket andfootball teams. He was my hero. I did not miss a single game of his.

I lived in Colombo from 1959 to 1968 with my parents at Marysroad, Bambalapitya. Our house was located close to the coastline. In1963 Mahan lived in a rented room in a house in Castle Lane, whichwas next to our road towards at the north-end. And in 1964 he lived in

a rented room in a house in Ridgeway Place, which was two roadsnext to Marys Road towards the south. At that moment of time he wasstill attending the Science Faculty of the University of Ceylon andcaptaining the Universitys football team. He used to visit us frequentlyand we played great games ofcarom and the card game called 304.

Whenever I passed the place where he lived, I stopped by tovisit for a brief chat and tea, or to go for walk along the beach or go forcinema (usually the gallerys front rows where normally all fun breaksout, with people shouting support for the hero or heroin). On one such

occasion, it was getting late (my curfew time was 7pm), I was takingmy leave, and as usual Mahan came with me to the front gate of thehouse he was living in Ridgeway Place. This house was located nextto the railway track beyond which was the beach. When they built therailways, they also built a barrier across the road to prevent anyvehicle getting on to the railway tracks. But the barrier had rusted andfallen off over a period of time and disappeared completely leavingspiky posts.

As I proceeded to get back to my home, a friend of Mahan

happen to come by, and he was talking to Mahan at the gate. It wasdark, and I was in a hurry. As I crossed over to the railway tracks, Itripped and fell over the railway line. Almost half of my body was overthe railway line. When I tried to get up, I found I couldnt move my leftleg. My left leg waist downwards was numb and paralysed. I did notfeel any pain. It was as if my left was stuck to the iron post over whichI tripped. It was quite dramatic, because I heard the whistle of the oncoming train and its front lamp visible around quarter mile away. So Ishouted loudly Mahan! Mahan! By miracle Mahan heard my voice

over the background noises of the surf breaking in the sea and thedistant on coming train. Mahan and his friend came running and Ishouted Quick! Quick! Pull off my leg!


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At first they did not understand me and tried to carry me off thetrack. I repeated, to say that my leg was stuck, and directed theirattention to my left leg. Finally they lifted my leg off the iron post, andas they pulled me off the rail track and stood up at a safe distance(against a wall) The train passed us. It was a narrow escape from

very serious injury or even death if things went wrong (as we held adiscussion at a later date that I could have pushed my body awayusing my hands against the rail and so on).

Mahan graduated and worked in a textile establishment inVeyangoda and in 1966 they sent him to India for training. I regularlyvisited him at Veyangoda during my holidays or long weekends.

-----

TRIBUTE TO OUR DEAREST FRIENDMAHENDRAN

Dr. V. Srikanthan

It gives me a great pleasure, and I consider it a privilege to write a fewlines in loving memory of our dearest friend Mahendran, whom wehad known for more than twenty years. He was a true and sincere

friend indeed, always helpful and obliging at any time of the day andnight. He gave his services willingly to all others, especially to the SriLankan community, and helped many to settle down in this country.His motto in life was Service before Self, and was always available tohelp and advise others. He did this in a quiet and dignified mannerand gave his help and advice to the best of his abilities.

There are so many occasions when he had helped us. I canquote one occasion when I mentioned to him that I was looking to buya laptop. He inquired all around, and took me to a friend of his, and

got me a good computer, on a good deal. Like this, we can go ontalking of his great qualities of selfless service to others. He andAmbal were well known and popular within the Tamil community inManchester where they lived for about forty years.

My wife always remembers him for his help in giving lifts to thetemple, cinemas and other places, all organised by his wife Ambal. Inthis manner, he had touched many lives and hearts, including ours.

Finally, let us pray for his soul to rest in peace and to be blessed

by The Almighty.----


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To Mahan: RIPNovember 30th 2009

Sylvia Harichandran

The one with the not-tightly-sealed lips

Let no one losing his tongue slip.

Let alone whispers or whispering steep

Be as a favour to slumber down.

Forsaking the never-ending clamour of dawn

Till dust reckoning the wilderness that fawnOf endearing mindfulness for spring aglow;

Be he that role model to follow.

That offspring may observe

Lest tongues are loosened

Loudness shall not prevail

Nor bashfulness by sheer arrogance;

Surely not, not serving for self-glorification.

Silent but wilful

By nods for approvals

For those who observe, honour and respect

The will of silence.

Many a good deeds for the following

All those with tributes to consolation

Till he rests in peace;

And only his silence directs

To the path that we now see

Paving the walks his spouse

With unending goodwill, unforgettable.

-----


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khd;nr];lH RNgjpdp MWKfj;jpd; ftpijkhd;nr];lH RNgjpdp MWKfj;jpd; ftpijkhd;nr];lH RNgjpdp MWKfj;jpd; ftpijkhd;nr];lH RNgjpdp MWKfj;jpd; ftpij

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fUj;jha; tprhupj;JfUj;jha; tprhupj;JfUj;jha; tprhupj;JfUj;jha; tprhupj;J vk;ikvk;ikvk;ikvk;ikfldhspfsha; khw;wpdfldhspfsha; khw;wpdfldhspfsha; khw;wpdfldhspfsha; khw;wpdQQQQH.H.H.H.

kfhd; mz;zh vd;whNykfhd; mz;zh vd;whNykfhd; mz;zh vd;whNykfhd; mz;zh vd;whNykwf;fNtkwf;fNtkwf;fNtkwf;fNt KbahJ> INah!KbahJ> INah!KbahJ> INah!KbahJ> INah!kh kdpjdha; tho;e;J ekh kdpjdha; tho;e;J ekh kdpjdha; tho;e;J ekh kdpjdha; tho;e;J eQQQQHHHHkiwe;Nj ,d;W NghdJ vq;Nfh?kiwe;Nj ,d;W NghdJ vq;Nfh?kiwe;Nj ,d;W NghdJ vq;Nfh?kiwe;Nj ,d;W NghdJ vq;Nfh?

,iwtd; cik mioj;jjdhy;,iwtd; cik mioj;jjdhy;,iwtd; cik mioj;jjdhy;,iwtd; cik mioj;jjdhy;,isg;G MWjy; mile;j,isg;G MWjy; mile;j,isg;G MWjy; mile;j,isg;G MWjy; mile;jQQQQH.H.H.H.mtdbapy; emtdbapy; emtdbapy; emtdbapy; eQQQQH jQ;rk;H jQ;rk;H jQ;rk;H jQ;rk; ---- ck;ck;ck;ck;Mj;krhe;jp Ntz;bMj;krhe;jp Ntz;bMj;krhe;jp Ntz;bMj;krhe;jp Ntz;b epd;Nwhk;.epd;Nwhk;.epd;Nwhk;.epd;Nwhk;. !

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MAHAN WITH SONS RUBAN [L] & PRATHA [R] IN 2007


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MAHA

Rasan and Rani Jegarajah

Our dear friend , Maha was born on the 28h August 1937 in Manipay.

I (Rasan) knew Maha from my childhood, because he was adistant relation of mine. Whenever he came to Kokuvil, we would playcricket on the Vairavar-Thundu, along with my other cousins. Healways thrashed us.

I later met him when we attended St Josephs College in 1958.Maha was a brilliant sportsman. He played rugby soccer, and latertennis. He was the Captain of the college soccer team. Later, Maha

went on to captain the university soccer team. Maha was an intelligentand hard working student.

After graduating, he worked in Sri Lanka, and in 1967 hemarried Ambal, my cousin. Rani and I had only been married for a fewweeks when we attended their wedding. It was the first wedding thatwe attended as a couple; so we have never forgotten it.

Maha and Ambal lived in Manchester for many years. Their sonsPrathapan and Ruban were both born in Manchester.

After years of working in the textile industry, Maha set up hisown textiles firm, which was very productive and successful.

Throughout his life, Maha was an avid sportsman, and coachedhis sons in tennis and cricket. We lived close to Maha and Ambal andwe visited them regularly.

Maha was active in the humanitarian plight of Tamils, and wastireless in raising funds and awareness. He helped refugees, acting astheir interpreter, and providing them with a wide range of assistance.

Maha was a loving father, and his sons are a real credit to him.Prathapan and Ruban are fathers themselves now, and have had thebest role model to follow. They were encouraged and supported intheir education and careers, and have made their father proud.

Maha and Ambal were a real partnership, and their marriagewas a warm and loving union.

Maha was a dear friend; a good and decent man; and both ofus, Rasan and Rani, will miss him everyday.

----


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TRIBUTES FROM MATHURAI JEGANNATHAN

I was shattered to hear of Mr. Mahendrans sudden demise. He was agood friend. He represented my people from across the waters of thePalk Strait. I always called him Mahendra Iyya with total Tamil

respect and affection, as in our old country, the Pandya Desam. It feltso sweet on my tongue.

He moved away to London from Manchester, a couple of yearsago---to be near his children. Whenever I drove past his old place inManchester, I felt that the light had gone out, and the place held nomore interest for me.

He loved tennis, like me. We used to talk about the big GrandSlams all the time. He used to receive live tennis on his TV. I didnt,and so he very kindly recorded a few good matches for me to watch.

He was also interested in computers and in downloading music. Iused to help him to set it up for him. His eyesight was not so good, butI thought, he was fairly healthy otherwise. Hence I was shocked tohear of his passing away. Now I have no one to call Mahendra Iyya.

Sai has taken him unto Himself.

----

MAHAN & AMBAL ON A HOLIDAY


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CHERISHED MEMORIES OF MAHANRasan & Reva Gunanathan

Mahan has left us without notice plunging his family, relatives and

friends in dismal grief. Mahan was not just my next-door cousin, but adear and trusted friend since childhood. My pleasant memories of himgo as far back as my memory lane could lead me.

Mahan was always very kind hearted and soft spoken---to the

extent one had to strain hard to listen. But he was merciful, in that

one hadnt to strain long; since he rarely spoke more than a couple of

words at a time.

During our childhood, Mahan and I lived in adjacent homes

separated by a fence made of woven coconut palm leaves (gqMG).There was always a large inbuilt opening (ohim


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He took us with him on his occasional bird hunting jaunts, whichare among the most memorable events of our youth.

Mahan went to Colombo to continue his studies at St. JosephsCollege from where he entered the University of Ceylon. At St.Josephs, he captained its prestigious soccer team. After leaving St.Josephs, he captained the even more prestigious Old Joes Team. Atthe University of Ceylon he participated in most of the sports, and hadthe rare distinction of captaining the University Soccer Team for twoconsecutive years. He was honoured with the University Colours forsoccer---which was the highest award for that sport.

Mahan and I lived in the same room in Colombo, with BalendranAnnai in the adjoining room, for well over five years. Mahans youngerbrothers Theiva, and in later years Raje, were frequent visitors. Both

Balendran Annai and Theiva (my best friend) are alas, no more, andthe thought of them trigger a feeling of emptiness in my mind. Mahan,my cousin, friend and guide, will be sorely missed by me. His loss toAmbal and their sons, Prathab and Ruban, is beyond words and noamount of consolation could alleviate their profound grief. Yet, deathis inevitable!

The Tamil sage Thiru-Valluvar, whom Rev. Dr. G.U. Pope hadhailed as the Bard of Universal Man, says that the bond between thesoul and human body is akin to that between a birds embryo and its

eggshell; when the time is ripe, it sunders that bond and away it flies.Such is the Impermanence of Life (fqjzbijl)!

May Ambal, the pious Hindu, find solace in the teaching of the

Hindu scriptures which state that it is the body that perishes while the

soul survives through several rebirths, and trust that one day, all of us

will be rejoined with Mahan and our other departed loved ones!

MAHAN AND BROTHER THEIVA IN MANIPAY


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MAHAN CHINNIAH

Santha Ramachandran & Children

Mahan Chinniah, the soft-spoken, mild mannered man, passed awayon November 30

th. He died the way he lived. Quietly! Chinniah had a

good life. He also had a good wife. Ambal took care of him well, till thevery end of his life. And so did his two boys, Pratha and Ruban.

Although we were very young then, Gita and Shoba rememberAmbals wedding. It was a joyous occasion at ChelvacotMansion inKokkuvil. Most importantly, we remember the handsome man whocame to marry our aunt.

We also remember Chinniah as a well-dressed man, always.When Asha met him in September this year, Chinniah was in highspirits, absolutely enjoying his grandchildren.

Chinniah, as we all knew, and also heard at his funeral,volunteered his time for the Sri Lankan refugees. For this, his soul willbe blessed.

He spent enormous amounts of time helping these refugees inwhatever way he could. He helped them with translations, andcoached them for interviews. He will not only be missed by his family,but by the countless people he had helped in Manchester.

Shoba remembers how Chinniah picked her up at theManchester station many times during her college breaks. She alsorecalls how he made sure there were plenty of Tamil movies for her towatch, and kept her company watching movies.

Amars memory of Chinniah was his passion for Sports. Wewitnessed together, the Sri Lankan team winning the 1996 world cupin Gaddaffi Stadium, Lahore, in Pakistan.

We were wearing Shell Corporate T-Shirts, sitting right on thescreens in corporate boxes. He gave me big hug when the winningrun was scored, and said that that was the best sporting moment hehad witnessed.

When Chinniah and Ambal visited us in Philadelphia in 2003,the only two things that he wanted to shop for, were tennis racketsand tennis shoes. Anu also recalls Chiinahs passion for photography.

Chinniah will be missed for the many little things that he did for others.

Good-bye Chinniah. May God Bless Your Soul.

----


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SHANKARI PRADEEP WRITES FROM CANADA

I am Shankari Pradeep, Mahendran Sithappa's niece. The sad newsof Sithappa's sudden demise came as a shock to my family and me.However I consider myself to be very lucky since I had the opportunity

to revive my fond memories of my beloved Sithappa and his family onour recent visit to London. During our visit, he was very cheerful andhappy. And I wish to mention that he was steady enough to drive usaround. I have heard that Sithappa was a good sportsman, especiallya great soccer player. Though he was quiet in nature, his sense ofhumour is something I will always remember. When we lost my fatherMr. Balendra (his elder brother), Sithappa has been someone welooked up to, and he had helped us financially. While we share hergrief with Sinamma Ambal, Prathas family, and Rubans family, we

pray for Sithappa's soul to RIP: Shankaris Family & Mano Balendra

PASSING AWAY OF A NOBLE MAN

Dr. Siva Thiagarajah, Author

I have known Mr. S.T. M. Mahendran (Mahan) for about sixmonths, during the period both he and I had been attending themonthly ELAB meetings. He was a quiet, soft-spoken, kind-heartedgentleman who never spoke ill about anyone. Humanist ideas andideals permeated through his conversations. He was well liked andrespected by all the members of our Literary Academy.

During our conversations, I have come to know that he was abrilliant sportsman in his heyday, and this did come through in hisdemeanour and behaviour. From top to toe, he was a gentlemanemanating empathy and understanding, one of the traditional Tamilswho nowadays seem to constitute an endangered species.

Mahan never claimed that he was an academic in literary

matters, and the articles he presented at the ELAB meetings weredown-to-earth, realistic and presented a common mans outlook on lifeand events. He took the assignments seriously, and played his part.

On behalf of his friends at ELAB, I wish to convey to his wife,two sons and their families our heartfelt sympathies at this hour ofgrief, and pray that Mahans soul rests in peace with the Divine.

To appreciate Mahan is to invoke nostalgia for an era whenpopular and political culture could champion humanist ideals withoutprovoking narrow and selfish, or racial, ethnicity-based thinking.Those days have gone, and men like him now a rare breed. Mahanhas left his footprints in our hearts. We will always remember him/!/!/!/! !


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vd; ,yf;fpa ez;gdpd; gpupTj; Jauvd; ,yf;fpa ez;gdpd; gpupTj; Jauvd; ,yf;fpa ez;gdpd; gpupTj; Jauvd; ,yf;fpa ez;gdpd; gpupTj; Jau;EzhtpY}H fh. tprauj;jpdkEzhtpY}H fh. tprauj;jpdkEzhtpY}H fh. tprauj;jpdkEzhtpY}H fh. tprauj;jpdk;;;;

mmm mz;ikapy; vk; midtiuAk; tpl;Lg; gpupe;J neLe;J}uk; VfpAs;sz;ikapy; vk; midtiuAk; tpl;Lg; gpupe;J neLe;J}uk; VfpAs;sz;ikapy; vk; midtiuAk; tpl;Lg; gpupe;J neLe;J}uk; VfpAs;sz;ikapy; vk; midtiuAk; tpl;Lg; gpupe;J neLe;J}uk; VfpAs;s

rpd;idah Kj;Jf;Fkhurhkp kNfe;jpud; mtu;fs; gw;wpa xU rpy rpe;jidj;rpd;idah Kj;Jf;Fkhurhkp kNfe;jpud; mtu;fs; gw;wpa xU rpy rpe;jidj;rpd;idah Kj;Jf;Fkhurhkp kNfe;jpud; mtu;fs; gw;wpa xU rpy rpe;jidj;rpd;idah Kj;Jf;Fkhurhkp kNfe;jpud; mtu;fs; gw;wpa xU rpy rpe;jidj;Jspfis cq;fs; Kd; itj;J kd nefpo;T fhz tpiofpd;Nwd;.Jspfis cq;fs; Kd; itj;J kd nefpo;T fhz tpiofpd;Nwd;.Jspfis cq;fs; Kd; itj;J kd nefpo;T fhz tpiofpd;Nwd;.Jspfis cq;fs; Kd; itj;J kd nefpo;T fhz tpiofpd;Nwd;.

gpupj;jhdpa filrpahf ,yq;ifg; gy;fiyf; fofj;jpd;;fiyf; fofj;jpd;;fiyf; fofj;jpd;;fiyf; fofj;jpd;nfhOk;G tshfj;jpYk; cijnfhOk;G tshfj;jpYk; cijnfhOk;G tshfj;jpYk; cijnfhOk;G tshfj;jpYk; cij----ge;jhl;lf; FOf;fspy; tpUk;gp Nghl;bapl;Lge;jhl;lf; FOf;fspy; tpUk;gp Nghl;bapl;Lge;jhl;lf; FOf;fspy; tpUk;gp Nghl;bapl;Lge;jhl;lf; FOf;fspy; tpUk;gp Nghl;bapl;L,lk;ngw;W> gpd; FOj; jiytdhfTk; njupT ngw;Wf; flikahw;wpg;,lk;ngw;W> gpd; FOj; jiytdhfTk; njupT ngw;Wf; flikahw;wpg;,lk;ngw;W> gpd; FOj; jiytdhfTk; njupT ngw;Wf; flikahw;wpg;,lk;ngw;W> gpd; FOj; jiytdhfTk; njupT ngw;Wf; flikahw;wpg;gupRfSk; ngw;wpUf;fpd;whu;. ,d;Dk;> ,q;fpyhe;jpy; khd;nr];uu; efupy;gupRfSk; ngw;wpUf;fpd;whu;. ,d;Dk;> ,q;fpyhe;jpy; khd;nr];uu; efupy;gupRfSk; ngw;wpUf;fpd;whu;. ,d;Dk;> ,q;fpyhe;jpy; khd;nr];uu; efupy;gupRfSk; ngw;wpUf;fpd;whu;. ,d;Dk;> ,q;fpyhe;jpy; khd;nr];uu; efupy;nudp]; tpisahl;by; tpisahl;by;> tho;tpy;tpisahl;by;> tho;tpy;tpisahl;by;> tho;tpy;tpisahl;by;> tho;tpy;: ntw;wpAk;ntw;wpAk;ntw;wpAk;ntw;wpAk;

Njhy;tpAk;Njhy;tpAk;Njhy;tpAk;Njhy;tpAk; vd;w fUg;nghUspy; Xu; Ma;Tf; fl;Liu rku;g;gpj;J Xu; vd;w fUg;nghUspy; Xu; Ma;Tf; fl;Liu rku;g;gpj;J Xu; vd;w fUg;nghUspy; Xu; Ma;Tf; fl;Liu rku;g;gpj;J Xu; vd;w fUg;nghUspy; Xu; Ma;Tf; fl;Liu rku;g;gpj;J Xu;mupa ciu tpsf;fKk; epfo;j;jp mq;fj;jtu;fspd; ey;kjpg;igAk; ngw;Wf;mupa ciu tpsf;fKk; epfo;j;jp mq;fj;jtu;fspd; ey;kjpg;igAk; ngw;Wf;mupa ciu tpsf;fKk; epfo;j;jp mq;fj;jtu;fspd; ey;kjpg;igAk; ngw;Wf;mupa ciu tpsf;fKk; epfo;j;jp mq;fj;jtu;fspd; ey;kjpg;igAk; ngw;Wf;

nfhz;lhu;. mf; fl;Liuapy; mtu; $Wk; rpy gnfhz;lhu;. mf; fl;Liuapy; mtu; $Wk; rpy gnfhz;lhu;. mf; fl;Liuapy; mtu; $Wk; rpy gnfhz;lhu;. mf; fl;Liuapy; mtu; $Wk; rpy gFjpfs; ,itFjpfs; ,itFjpfs; ,itFjpfs; ,it:----

ehk; nty;Yk; NghJ vk;kplk; Njhw;wtupd; epiyiaAk; kdjpy;ehk; nty;Yk; NghJ vk;kplk; Njhw;wtupd; epiyiaAk; kdjpy;ehk; nty;Yk; NghJ vk;kplk; Njhw;wtupd; epiyiaAk; kdjpy;ehk; nty;Yk; NghJ vk;kplk; Njhw;wtupd; epiyiaAk; kdjpy;nfhz;L mtu;fisAk; Cf;Ftpj;jNy ju;kk;. Vnddpy; vk; ngupanfhz;L mtu;fisAk; Cf;Ftpj;jNy ju;kk;. Vnddpy; vk; ngupanfhz;L mtu;fisAk; Cf;Ftpj;jNy ju;kk;. Vnddpy; vk; ngupanfhz;L mtu;fisAk; Cf;Ftpj;jNy ju;kk;. Vnddpy; vk; ngupa

Ml;lkhfpa tho;tpd; Kbtpdpy;> Mz;ltdhu; vk; gpuahirfspd;Ml;lkhfpa tho;tpd; Kbtpdpy;> Mz;ltdhu; vk; gpuahirfspd;Ml;lkhfpa tho;tpd; Kbtpdpy;> Mz;ltdhu; vk; gpuahirfspd;Ml;lkhfpa tho;tpd; Kbtpdpy;> Mz;ltdhu; vk; gpuahirfspd;gyhgyd;fisg; gw;wp vOJk;NghJ> ehk; ntd;NwhNkh my;yJgyhgyd;fisg; gw;wp vOJk;NghJ> ehk; ntd;NwhNkh my;yJgyhgyd;fisg; gw;wp vOJk;NghJ> ehk; ntd;NwhNkh my;yJgyhgyd;fisg; gw;wp vOJk;NghJ> ehk; ntd;NwhNkh my;yJ

Njhw;NwhNkh vd kl;Lk;Njhw;NwhNkh vd kl;Lk;Njhw;NwhNkh vd kl;Lk;Njhw;NwhNkh vd kl;Lk; vOjkhl;lhu;.vOjkhl;lhu;.vOjkhl;lhu;.vOjkhl;lhu;.mtH NkYk; vOjpdhHmtH NkYk; vOjpdhHmtH NkYk; vOjpdhHmtH NkYk; vOjpdhH:


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vg;gbahf kw;iwNahiug; gw;wpAk; rpe;jpj;J> mtu;fSld; vg;gbahf kw;iwNahiug; gw;wpAk; rpe;jpj;J> mtu;fSld; vg;gbahf kw;iwNahiug; gw;wpAk; rpe;jpj;J> mtu;fSld; vg;gbahf kw;iwNahiug; gw;wpAk; rpe;jpj;J> mtu;fSld;$b xj;Jioj;Jg; nghJj; ju;kk;> tpjpfis mDruiz nra;J$b xj;Jioj;Jg; nghJj; ju;kk;> tpjpfis mDruiz nra;J$b xj;Jioj;Jg; nghJj; ju;kk;> tpjpfis mDruiz nra;J$b xj;Jioj;Jg; nghJj; ju;kk;> tpjpfis mDruiz nra;J

MbNdhkh> vd;Nw Mz;ltd; vikf; fzpj;J vOJthu;.MbNdhkh> vd;Nw Mz;ltd; vikf; fzpj;J vOJthu;.MbNdhkh> vd;Nw Mz;ltd; vikf; fzpj;J vOJthu;.MbNdhkh> vd;Nw Mz;ltd; vikf; fzpj;J vOJthu;. vd.vd.vd.vd.

NkYk; mtu; mf; fl;Liuapy; Mq;fpyj;jpy; $Wk; xU gFjpiaAk; NkYk; mtu; mf; fl;Liuapy; Mq;fpyj;jpy; $Wk; xU gFjpiaAk; NkYk; mtu; mf; fl;Liuapy; Mq;fpyj;jpy; $Wk; xU gFjpiaAk; NkYk; mtu; mf; fl;Liuapy; Mq;fpyj;jpy; $Wk; xU gFjpiaAk;fhfhfhfhz;Nghk;. ,e;jpahtpy; tho;e;J> ftpijfs; gy vOjp Nehgy; gupR ngw;wz;Nghk;. ,e;jpahtpy; tho;e;J> ftpijfs; gy vOjp Nehgy; gupR ngw;wz;Nghk;. ,e;jpahtpy; tho;e;J> ftpijfs; gy vOjp Nehgy; gupR ngw;wz;Nghk;. ,e;jpahtpy; tho;e;J> ftpijfs; gy vOjp Nehgy; gupR ngw;w

wbahu;l;fpg;gpspq;wbahu;l;fpg;gpspq;wbahu;l;fpg;gpspq;wbahu;l;fpg;gpspq; (Rudyard Kipling) vd;gtupd;;vd;gtupd;;vd;gtupd;;vd;gtupd;; IF vd;w jiyaq;ff; vd;w jiyaq;ff; vd;w jiyaq;ff; vd;w jiyaq;ff;

ftpijapd; gpd;tUk; gpurpj;jk; tha;e;j mbfisAk; nfhLj;jpUe;jhH;ftpijapd; gpd;tUk; gpurpj;jk; tha;e;j mbfisAk; nfhLj;jpUe;jhH;ftpijapd; gpd;tUk; gpurpj;jk; tha;e;j mbfisAk; nfhLj;jpUe;jhH;ftpijapd; gpd;tUk; gpurpj;jk; tha;e;j mbfisAk; nfhLj;jpUe;jhH;:

If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster/And treat those two

impostors just the same Yours is the Earth and everything

thats in it./ Andwhich is moreyoull be a Man, my son!

md;dhu; fUiz cs;sk; nfhz;ltu;. cjtp GupAk; kdg; ghq;F md;dhu; fUiz cs;sk; nfhz;ltu;. cjtp GupAk; kdg; ghq;F md;dhu; fUiz cs;sk; nfhz;ltu;. cjtp GupAk; kdg; ghq;F md;dhu; fUiz cs;sk; nfhz;ltu;. cjtp GupAk; kdg; ghq;F

cilatu;. vk; rq;ff; $l;lk; KbTw;wJk;> rf mq;fj;jtu;fisj; jd;cilatu;. vk; rq;ff; $l;lk; KbTw;wJk;> rf mq;fj;jtu;fisj; jd;cilatu;. vk; rq;ff; $l;lk; KbTw;wJk;> rf mq;fj;jtu;fisj; jd;cilatu;. vk; rq;ff; $l;lk; KbTw;wJk;> rf mq;fj;jtu;fisj; jd;thfdj;jpy; fpl;ba Gifapuj epiyaj;jpy; nfhz;L Ngha; tpl;L cjtthfdj;jpy; fpl;ba Gifapuj epiyaj;jpy; nfhz;L Ngha; tpl;L cjtthfdj;jpy; fpl;ba Gifapuj epiyaj;jpy; nfhz;L Ngha; tpl;L cjtthfdj;jpy; fpl;ba Gifapuj epiyaj;jpy; nfhz;L Ngha; tpl;L cjtKd;te;jijAk; epidj;J ,d;Wk; ngUikailfpd;Nwhk;. rq;fj;jpy; mtu;Kd;te;jijAk; epidj;J ,d;Wk; ngUikailfpd;Nwhk;. rq;fj;jpy; mtu;Kd;te;jijAk; epidj;J ,d;Wk; ngUikailfpd;Nwhk;. rq;fj;jpy; mtu;Kd;te;jijAk; epidj;J ,d;Wk; ngUikailfpd;Nwhk;. rq;fj;jpy; mtu;,lj;ij epug;Gtjpy; ehq;fs; rq;flg;gl;Lf; nfhz;bUf;fpd;Nwhk;.,lj;ij epug;Gtjpy; ehq;fs; rq;flg;gl;Lf; nfhz;bUf;fpd;Nwhk;.,lj;ij epug;Gtjpy; ehq;fs; rq;flg;gl;Lf; nfhz;bUf;fpd;Nwhk;.,lj;ij epug;Gtjpy; ehq;fs; rq;flg;gl;Lf; nfhz;bUf;fpd;Nwhk;.

Kbtpy;> mtu; gpupthy; thb tjq;fpf; nfhz;bUf;Fk; mtupd;Kbtpy;> mtu; gpupthy; thb tjq;fpf; nfhz;bUf;Fk; mtupd;Kbtpy;> mtu; gpupthy; thb tjq;fpf; nfhz;bUf;Fk; mtupd;Kbtpy;> mtu; gpupthy; thb tjq;fpf; nfhz;bUf;Fk; mtupd;FLk;gj;jFLk;gj;jFLk;gj;jFLk;gj;jpdUf;Fk; cw;whu; cwtpdUf;Fk; MWjy; $wp> md;dhu; Mj;khpdUf;Fk; cw;whu; cwtpdUf;Fk; MWjy; $wp> md;dhu; Mj;khpdUf;Fk; cw;whu; cwtpdUf;Fk; MWjy; $wp> md;dhu; Mj;khpdUf;Fk; cw;whu; cwtpdUf;Fk; MWjy; $wp> md;dhu; Mj;khrhe;jpaila vy;yhk; ty;y ,iwia Ntz;b epw;fpd;Nwd;.rhe;jpaila vy;yhk; ty;y ,iwia Ntz;b epw;fpd;Nwd;.rhe;jpaila vy;yhk; ty;y ,iwia Ntz;b epw;fpd;Nwd;.rhe;jpaila vy;yhk; ty;y ,iwia Ntz;b epw;fpd;Nwd;. !

!

YOUNG MAHAN CONTEMPLATING COMPLEXITIES OF LIFE?


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MR.T. MAHENDRANIndran Segarajasinghe

I first met Mahendran in the playing fields of St. Josephs College at

Darley Road Colombo, Sri Lanka, in the mid 1950s. My first cousinBasil who was in the same class as him introduced me to Mahendran.He was very nice and affable, and his self-effacing charm andconvival nature came through without any effort on his part. Aftersome conversation, and a couple of hours of football, which we allenjoyed, we went our separate ways.

As we wended our way home, Basil said that Mahan was goodin both sports and studies, and should make his mark at both St.Joseph's and outside, with time. It was indeed a prophetic statement.

That was exactly what transpired later on. Mahan left St. Joseph's topursue a course in Textile Technology, and our paths did not cross forsome time. We had all three come to a temporary parting of the ways:Mahan to qualify in textile technology and take on a responsible job inthe same field in Colombo, Basil to complete his motor engineering inGermany and return to work also in Colombo, and me to finish mydegree at the Ceylon University and join a Bank as sub-accountant.

Life with its opportunities and difficulties was to take its toll, andwhile Mahan and I ended up in midlife in the fair city of Manchester,

my cousin Basil was to continue his life in Colombo. In ManchesterMahan and I, and our families, were to become good friends. Betweenus and other Tamil families, we were to found and nurture theNorthern Tamil Association; with Mahan in a difficult role as its firstTreasurer, needing to put together the funding for its various activities,while I took on the less taxing role as General Secretary.

While at that stage the Association, by and large possessed of a

membership that was essentially Sri Lankan Tamils, we did not at any

time exclude Tamils from any other country from joining us. Mahan

worked very hard, to ensure the success of this Association. Indeed

he held many different offices over the years including as President,

all of which he discharged with immense credit to himself. Needless to

say, the Association and its members also gained immensely form his

patronage. Mahan was always one who was much interested in

games. At Manipay Hindu College, he took part in the three traditional

sports of Cricket, Football and Athletics. In later life in Manchester, he

would exercise himself in good games of tennis in which, with time, he

began to excel. The cruel hand of fate, however, was to show itself

when in the 1990's he had to face up to health problems in his heart.


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A successful by-pass gave him a 17-year lease of life. He was,

from then, on what might be called borrowed time. Mahan knew the

seriousness of the situation, but faced up to it with much courage. I

know that Mahan will forever live in the hearts of his beloved family

and friends, and will also continue to do so in the hearts of others wholoved and cherished him. Mahans memories will never indeed die.

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OUR HUMBLE PRAYERS FOR YOUR SOUL

Supethini Arumuham

Your pleasing look andYour kind wordsWill last with us forever.We bid you farewell with tears!

Whenever you were calledYou were ready to respond;Your concern for usMade us indebted indeed.

Mahan Anna! Yours is a nameThatll remain long in our hearts.A life exemplary, that you led!And where did you go today?

God Almighty has called youTo grant the rest you desired,Also quiet refuge under Him!

Our humble prayers for your Soul !!

MAHAN AS A TEENAGER


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A TRIBUTE TO MAHENT. Ulaganathan

I could give this tribute in just five words. Mahen had a huge heart:

Loyal to his family and friends, Reliable at all times, With aRemarkable Sense of Humour. I have known him for nearly fortyyears going back to North West England, and lately in London.

During my early days in Bolton as a student, when I arrived inUK, he visited me together with Ambal and provided me with adviceand support, which I always treasure.

I always enjoyed his companionship, and his witty sense ofhumour. He was a unique person, and never said anything bad about

other people. He was man of few words, and a gentle giant. Mahenwas a loving and kind person. I remember the day when he came toour house with Ambal, and gave a birthday present to my eldest sonVictor, on his birthday---a tracksuit embroidered with ManchesterUnited Emblem! Even today. Victor remembers this event. And heshared this with my family, when he heard the bad news that Mahenwas admitted to the hospital.

Mahen had a good life, and was well respected by his friends,and also the whole Tamil community in the North West. He was our

Chairman of North West Tamil Association, and also Chairman ofBolton Tamil Association. He was a Director of his own company andhe looked after all his employees well. He shared his profits with hisemployees when very few employers would do that type of thing thesedays. He was such a wonderful man. I also understand that a coupleof years ago when he was in Manchester, he was a voluntary workerhelping Tamil refugees, sorting their problems and helping them tosettle down smoothly in the UK. The fact that a coach load of peopleattended his funeral shows that Mahen was not just a person butpeoples person. I am sure his wife Ambal, children and grandchildrenmust be proud about this unique man. Recently, a month ago, I cameto know that Mahen presented toys for his grandchildren on Ambalsbirthday. This event speaks itself about this practical and loving man.

While he was reserved, and a little shy by nature, he was alsoremembered for his sense of humour---which could be just be a littlewicked. He read through people quite easily, and just could not resistgetting some folks into a bit of disarray. It was for the sheer fun of itand never with any malice. He was witty, and a sharp repartee was

common when engaging in any lively exchange. As a man, he gotaway with plenty, thanks to a guileless look that he was blessed with.


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He often relied on humour to help himself to relax after a harddays work.

Mahen was gifted as he lived his life fully and happily. He broughthis wife to London about eighteen months ago and made sure she islooked after, safe and secure with her children and grandchildren. Awonderful man that filled our hearts is now gone. Mahen! You havefast-tracked the glory and success of a lifetime, in 72 years. Wecelebrate that success and will hold you close to our hearts forever.

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pdf.souvenir for mahan

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