PM Modi Mourns Eminent Tamil Scholar Prof Gnanasundaram’s Demise

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow over the death of eminent Tamil scholar Prof  T Gnanasundaram.

He remembered him as a towering figure whose lifelong dedication enriched Tamil literature and culture.

In a condolence message on X, PM Modi said he was deeply pained and emphasised that the scholar’s work would continue inspiring generations of readers and researchers.

Recalling a personal interaction at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tiruchirappalli, in January 2024, the Prime Minister praised Prof Gnanasundaram’s exceptional knowledge of the Kamba Ramayanam.

He described the meeting as both memorable and intellectually enriching.

Prime Minister Modi conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family and admirers, concluding the message with ‘Om Shanti’.

Prof Gnanasundaram (84) passed away on January 25 at a private hospital in Chennai following age-related ailments.

A respected academic, literary researcher, and eloquent speaker, he recently received Tamil Nadu’s prestigious Ilakkiya Mamani award for his outstanding contributions.

Academic Journey & Achievements

Born in Kuzhaiyur village near Thirasaandur, Mayiladuthurai, Prof Gnanasundaram completed his undergraduate studies at Government College, Kumbakonam.

He earned a diploma in Sanskrit from the University of Madras and a doctorate in Vaishnava literature.

He began teaching at Pachaiyappa’s College, Chennai, eventually serving as Head of the Tamil Department and Acting Principal.

Post-retirement, he became the first Kamban Chair professor at Pondicherry Central University for two years.

He later served as Vice President of the Central Institute of Classical Tamil Studies, enhancing research and institutional development.

An authority on Vaishnava literature, he authored over 20 books, including Kurunthogai Thasthi and Karpaga Malar.

His studies on the Ramayana, Kamba Ramayanam, Divya Prabandham, and Vaishnava traditions gained widespread acclaim.

He also helped establish Kamban Kazhagam and was a disciple of Prof  M Varadarasanar.

His work earned recognition from 14 organisations, including Sekkizhar Research Centre, Kamban Kazhagam, Raja Sir Muthiah Foundation, and Bharati Sangam, Kolkata.

Prof Gnanasundaram is survived by his wife Manimekalai and sons Senthan, Arunmozhi, and Madhavan.

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