K.V. Raman,,
INVC,,
Tuticorin-Tamil Nadu,,
The Union Minister of Shipping, Thiru G.K. Vasan inaugurated a function to rename Tuticorin Port at a function at S.A.V. School Ground in Tuticorin today. Tuticorin Port is an icon and an engine for the economic growth of South Tamil Nadu.
A galaxy of dignitaries including State Ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of State Legislative Assembly, captains of Industries and senior Government officials graced the occasion. A large number of general public were also present at the function.
The descendants of Thiru V.O.Chidambaranar and other legendary freedom fighters like Thiru Subramaniya Bharathiyar, Thiru Vanchi Nathan, Thiru Subramania Siva were honoured on the occasion by the Union Minister of Shipping.
The Union Minister of Shipping inaugurated a Museum at the venue of the public function. V.O.Chidambaranar Memorabilia like historical documents, paper cuttings of V.O.Chidambaranar era, books, articles, songs on V.O.Chidambaranar, etc. are displayed at the Museum. Panels on the growth of the Port have also been showcased for information of the public about the developments and future growth potential of the Port.
It may be mentioned that Thiru. V.O. Chidambaranar took immense efforts to start a Swadeshi Shipping Company in 1907 to fight the British. In spite of many odds he was very successful in operating two Swadeshi ships S.S. Gaellia and S.S. Lawoe by the overwhelming support of the people. The seeds sown by Thiru Chidambaranar blossomed into a people’s movement in Tuticorin resulting in a mass upraisal against the British and boycott of foreign goods. The mighty British who were rattled by the fiery oratorical skills and mobilization of people by the Thiru Chidambaranar imprisoned him. Chidambaranar lost his health, wealth and his beloved son for the cause of freedom movement. He was also a great literary figure.
