the good-hearted Bharathi Mess - helping the poor students in a great manner !!

Thiruvallikkeni [from the sacred pond containing lilies] of Sri Parthasarathi Swami Temple fame  was crudely rolled and twisted out of shape by the English tongue as Triplicane.  It is a place where religion, nationalistic fervour, patriotism, sports, education and the individual dignity have interspersed for the benefit of the State and the larger interests of the Nation.  Triplicane houses some best historic educational institutions driving home the point of scholastic excellence for centuries. 

The iconoclastic freedom fighter  from  Ettayapuram on  who by his  songs and concerted actions,  stirred  the masses making the aware of the need for freedom struggle – Sri Mahakavi Subrahmanya Barathiyar lived here.   He was a Genius, Extrovert, Patriot, Poet,  Thinker, man who dreamed beyond his time,  an eternal Optimist, man with die-hard spirit, motivator, man capable of uniting great minds, natural leader – all rolled one. Most unfortunate thing was his age – his life was too short - he lived for only 39 years.  In one of his songs, he thundered that   ‘it is crores of goodness to educate a poor child, more sacred than creating hundreds of free choultries’

There are so many Mansions and lodges in the lanes and by-lanes of Triplicane as this place is a ‘bachelor’s paradise’. One reason for their flourishing business and continued occupancy is Triplicane being well connected with all business points of Chennai; another important aspect is the availability of good Hotels – a la ‘Mess’ providing to the taste buds at reasonable costs.  There are so many and I had recently posted something of the ‘Messes’ [the eateries] – the more famous ones  - Rathna Café, Murali Café.  Sydoji Cafe and Kasi Vinayaka Mess, Ambal Mess, Bharathi Mess, Neo Mitra Bhavan, Vadivelan mess and there are so many smaller ones without even name boards…….. all providing quality food which never affects the stomach of the eaters.

This is no post on the food – but the goodness of a man running ‘ Bharathi Mess’ at 10/286 Pycrofts Road [Bharathi Salai], Triplicane, Chenai 600005.  It was by chance that about an hour ago, returning from a dinner, I noticed a big flexboard at Big Street junction.  I became too inquisitive, followed it to the Bharathi Mess – where score of people were having their dinner.  Met its Proprietor Sri Kannan, appreciated him for the great cause and participated in a small measure too !

In May 2015, I had posted about SYMA Growth free tuition centre students coming out with flying colour in 10 +2 examinations of the State.  There are some students in the State, who have secured very high marks, but would find it too difficult to pursue their education, as they hail from poor families with no support at all.  The story of such students in ‘ Aval Vikadan’ impacted Mr Kannan, who runs the Mess.

Overwhelmed by his desire to do something, he immediately announced that he would provide at least Rs.5000/- to six students and did not stop with that.  He placed flex boards inspiring  his customers and others in the locality to contribute their mite.  Saw this board only now, met Mr Kannan appreciated him and now posting on this on my blog.  Till 3^rd of June, he has mobilised Rs.82480/- - 5^th is the last date, as stated in the board…………

There are still many Kannans in the Society !  His Mess is named after the great poet ‘ Mahakavi Bharathiyar’  is another news !!

With regards – S. Sampathkumar

4^th June 2015.