PM Modi, Leaders Pay Tribute as Veteran Congress Leader Kumari Ananthan Passes Away at 92

New Delhi/Chennai– Veteran Congress leader and former Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) president Kumari Ananthan passed away in Chennai on Wednesday at the age of 92. He was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments and breathed his last at his residence in Saligramam.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over his demise, stating, “Thiru Kumari Ananthan Ji will be remembered for his noteworthy service to society and passion towards Tamil Nadu’s progress. He also made many efforts to popularise Tamil language and culture. Pained by his passing away. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced that Ananthan’s last rites would be conducted with state honours, recognizing his lifelong service to public life and Tamil society.

Born on March 19, 1933, in Agasteeswaram, Kanyakumari district, Kumari Ananthan hailed from a family of freedom fighters. Deeply influenced by Congress stalwart K. Kamaraj, he carved out a distinguished political career, serving as a Member of Parliament from Nagercoil in 1977 and being elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly four times between 1980 and 1991.

He is also remembered for his Gandhian ideals and strong advocacy for Tamil language rights, including playing a pivotal role in allowing MPs to speak in Tamil in Parliament. He spearheaded efforts to rename Maniyachi railway station to Vanchi Maniyachi and campaigned for Tamil language announcements on flights.

Ananthan was the father of Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, former Governor of Telangana, and is survived by his son and four daughters. His mortal remains have been placed for public homage at his Saligramam residence in Chennai, with the funeral scheduled for later this week.

Senior leaders across political lines have paid tribute to his lifelong contributions to public service, unity, and cultural pride.