Friends join to remember R Venkataraman

CHENNAI: Friends and associates of former President of India, R Venkataraman, came together to celebrate the birth centenary of the great leader, by sharing anecdotes from their interactions with him, and recalling the traits that make him memorable. Governor K Rosaiah was the Chief Guest at the event. Rosaiah said, “The people of Tamil Nadu have special reason to remember R Venkataraman with admiration and gratitude. When he took charge as the industry minister, TN was largely an agricultural state with negligible industrial growth. But with his dexterity and skilful handling of affairs, he soon brought the state high on the industrial map of India.” Rosaiah also recalled his personal experience with RV, as the President was fondly known.Gopal Krishna Gandhi, former Governor of West Bengal, and grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, said, “RV did not court appreciation. He was not afraid of being who he was. He fought elections to succeed rather than to beat the opposition.” He said that RV was not afraid of owning up to his mistakes. The event was organised by Dr MAM Ramaswamy, Pro Chancellor of Annamalai University. Danseuse Dr Vyjayantimala BaliDr Padma Subrahmanyam, President of Nrithyodaya, Sarojini Varadappan, President of WIA, Era Chezhiyan, Justice S Mohan, SS Badrinath and P Murari were present.