A life of service and devotion: Remembering Thangamma Appakuddi

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Events were held in Jaffna earlier this month, to mark the 100th birthday of Dr. Thangamma Appakuddi, a woman praised for her public service to the Tamil people.

Dr Appakuddi, a revered religious leader, social worker, and educator was born on January 7, 1925. She demonstrated an early affinity for Tamil culture and Saivaism. After completing her education at Ramanathan College in Chunnakam, she became a trained teacher in 1945 and later a Tamil scholar. Her academic accomplishments included the titles of Saiva Pulavar (Madras, 1958) and Pundit (1952). Over 31 years as an educator, including her tenure at Union College, Thellippazhai, she inspired generations of students before retiring in 1976.

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Dr. Appakuddi’s life took a transformative turn in the early 1970s when she dedicated herself to rebuilding and expanding the modest Durga temple in her native Thellippazhai. Under her leadership, the temple evolved into a significant religious institution, becoming a hub for social and cultural activities. Her devotion earned her the titles Sivath-thamizhch-chelvi (Lady of God Siva's Tamil) and Thurkaa-thuranthari (Servant of Goddess Durga).

Her work extended beyond religious boundaries. The Thurkaapuram Makalir Illam, a shelter for destitute girls, stands as a testament to her philanthropic vision. The temple also became a sanctuary for refugees, the elderly, and the sick during times of war and displacement. Her pragmatic approach to spirituality and her commitment to social welfare earned her admiration across the Tamil diaspora.

Earlier this month, the Thellippazhai Sri Durgadevi Temple hosted a grand centenary celebration to honour Dr. Appakuddi’s life and contributions. The event featured a procession carrying her portrait from Mallakam to the temple, followed by temple worship and a series of commemorative activities.

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Notable attendees included Northern Province Governor Nagalingam Vedhanayakan, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jaffna Professor P. Balasundaram Pillai, and religious leaders such as Maavai Atheenam Maharajasri S. Ratnasabapathi Gurus.

During the event, the Governor praised Dr. Appakuddi’s pioneering efforts in initiating social work through religious institutions. Recalling his interactions with her in the 1990s, he highlighted her dedication to community welfare during challenging times of war and displacement. “Ammaiyar initiated social work when temples were not engaged in such efforts. She was a pioneer,” he said.

The celebration also acknowledged Dr. Appakuddi’s successor, Dr. Aruthirumurugan, for his commitment to continuing her mission. Despite criticism and challenges, he has carried forward her vision, ensuring that the temple remains a beacon of hope and service. The Governor emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in temple administrations, urging support for social initiatives inspired by Ammaiyar’s work.

The event concluded with the release of a commemorative centenary booklet and the distribution of donations to various beneficiaries, including educational and medical funds.

She passed away at the age of 84, on June 15, 2008.

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