Veteran Congress Leader Kumari Ananthan Passes Away at 93
Chennai, April 9, 2025 – Senior Congress leader and former Tamil Nadu Pradesh Congress Committee (TNCC) President Kumari Ananthan passed away on Tuesday at the age of 93, marking the end of a long and illustrious chapter in Tamil Nadu’s political history. A respected statesman and freedom fighter, Ananthan was known for his unwavering commitment to the Congress ideology and his decades-long service to the state’s people.
Family members and political associates confirmed his demise. He had been ailing due to age-related complications and was under medical care for the past few weeks.
A Life of Public Service
Born in 1932, Kumari Ananthan entered public life at a young age and was associated with the Indian National Congress during the early years of independent India. He gained prominence as a powerful orator and grassroots leader who connected deeply with the masses.
He served as a Member of Parliament and Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) multiple times during his long political career. He held various organizational roles within the Congress party, including a stint as President of the TNCC. He was considered a bridge between the Congress high command and the party’s grassroots in Tamil Nadu.
Ananthan also held the distinction of being a freedom fighter, having participated in anti-British movements as a teenager. His early life was steeped in Gandhian principles, and he continued to be guided by those values well into his political career.
An Influential Political Legacy
Kumari Ananthan was one of the earliest leaders from the Kanyakumari region to rise to state and national prominence. He played a crucial role in strengthening the Congress party’s base in southern Tamil Nadu and was widely admired for his inclusive politics and secular stance.
Throughout his career, he remained a staunch critic of divisive politics and worked tirelessly to uphold the ideals of unity, democracy, and justice. His speeches often reflected his deep knowledge of Tamil literature, Indian philosophy, and political thought.
He is also remembered for mentoring a generation of young Congress workers in Tamil Nadu, many of whom went on to become key party leaders. His disciplined lifestyle, honesty, and dedication made him a respected figure across political lines.
Political Career Highlights
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Served as President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee.
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Elected as Member of Parliament from Nagercoil constituency.
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Represented Kanyakumari district in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
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Known for participating in the Tamil Nadu Congress (Organisation) during the party split in the 1970s.
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Played a pivotal role in promoting inter-faith harmony and social justice.
Though his active political participation waned in recent years due to age, Ananthan remained an important voice of wisdom within the Congress party. His insights were often sought during state-level strategy discussions.
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Tributes Pour In
Political leaders from across the spectrum expressed their condolences on Ananthan’s passing.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge issued a statement mourning the loss:
“Kumari Ananthan was a true Congressman and a selfless servant of the people. His contributions to Tamil Nadu and the Congress party will never be forgotten.”
Rahul Gandhi shared his tribute via social media, writing:
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Kumari Ananthan ji. A stalwart of Congress, his life was dedicated to truth and justice. My condolences to his family and followers.”
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin also paid homage, stating:
“Though we belonged to different political ideologies, I have always respected Ananthan for his honest politics and commitment to public service. His demise is a great loss to Tamil Nadu.”
Funeral Arrangements
Kumari Ananthan’s funeral is expected to be held with full state honours in his native Kanyakumari district, where he spent most of his life. His body will be kept at his residence for the public to pay their last respects. Political leaders, party workers, and common citizens are expected to attend in large numbers.
His family has requested that well-wishers respect the occasion’s solemnity and remember him for the values he upheld throughout his life.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Kumari Ananthan’s passing leaves a void in Tamil Nadu’s political and social landscape. He was not just a politician but a symbol of old-school Gandhian ethics, honesty, and discipline. He remained rooted in simplicity and service in an era of fast-changing political dynamics.
Generations will remember his contributions and his values will continue to inspire young leaders who believe in clean and constructive politics.
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