In a momentous celebration, the Suguna Family commemorated the Centenary of Founder G Ramaswamy Naidu on August 18, 2023, at Suguna Auditorium, Coimbatore. The event radiated with spiritual presence as Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, from Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Srikshetra Suttur, presided as the Chief Guest, infusing a sense of holiness into the atmosphere. B.K. Krishnaraj Vanavarayar, the esteemed Chairman of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Coimbatore, graced the event as the Guest of Honour, lending further prestige to the occasion.
Distinguished individuals from the Founder’s family, including Rajamani Ramaswamy, Trustee of Suguna Groups, V. Lakshminarayanasamy, Chairman and Managing Director of Suguna Group of Industries, L. Suguna Lakshminarayanasamy, President of Suguna Institutions, L. Anish Kumar, Director at Suguna Motors & Pumps, alongside Chandini Anish Kumar, Arun Ranganathan, and Archana Arun, congregated to pay homage to the founder’s legacy. The event spotlighted Suguna Industries’ remarkable journey and its significant contributions across various sectors.
The Chief Guest unveiled the commemorative centenary book ‘Echoes of a Century’ and presented the first copy to B K Krishnaraj Vanavarayar. Additionally, the event recognized dedicated long-serving employees and faculty members of Suguna Group of Industries and Institutions, who have devoted over half a century to the organization.
Suguna’s Centenary Legacy
Lakshminarayanasamy emphasized, “Modern technology underpins the manufacturing of all Suguna products, yet the expertise and ingenuity of our workers significantly contribute to upholding their quality. Sugunapuram, a residential initiative by Suguna Group, stands as a testament to our commitment to our workers. The Suguna Vidya Niketan School offers comprehensive free education to over 500 underprivileged students annually. Uniforms and books are provided at no cost, overseen by our successor, Archana Arun, ensuring that Grandpa’s generosity endures across generations.
To commemorate GR’s centenary, 100 blood donations were organized. Additionally, 100 students within Suguna Education Group receive free tuition education. Collaborating with farmers from 25 villages, we offer essential technical and advisory support. An Entrepreneurship Development Unit and Artificial Intelligence IOP have been established at Suguna Education Group, backed by a 5-crore investment in advanced laboratories, including cutting-edge technologies like data mining. This initiative aids not only academic students but also economically disadvantaged ones.
Suguna Group educators have provided free computer training, soft skills development, and leadership courses to 100 village students. Numerous such endeavors are ongoing, spotlighting the centenary legacy of GR.”
Connecting Hearts and Ideals
Suguna Lakshminarayanasamy vividly portrayed the profound connection between her father and Jagadguru Swamiji. She stated, “My father was a self-made man who travelled extensively, gathering invaluable experiences through interactions with people from diverse walks of life. ‘Work is Worship’ encapsulated his ethos. Dealers were like his extended family, and I extend gratitude to the dealers who’ve remained with us. Quality was his moto—this drove Suguna Motors and Pumps to prominence across all endeavours. His love for serving people was unwavering. His desire to establish the Suguna Charitable Trust showcased his commitment to giving back to society. Today, the trust oversees numerous educational institutions, including a free school for underprivileged students. Infused with an appreciation for beauty and perfection, he possessed a discerning eye and artistic sensibility.”
She acknowledged that the founder received the esteemed “Rashtriya Samman” honour from the Government of India for five consecutive years, recognizing his outstanding personal income tax contributions. A visionary, he recognized that education and industry were pivotal to the nation’s development.
Catalyst for Societal Transformation
In his address, Krishnaraj Vanavarayar highlighted that G. Ramaswamy was not only an industrialist but also a deeply committed individual to societal causes. He played a pivotal role in transforming Coimbatore into a technologically advanced city. The City’s tribute to the founder with a Centenary Celebration is befitting. Despite lacking a robust economic background, the founder was remarkably dedicated to innovation and upheld strong principles. He urged the younger generation to capitalize on India’s burgeoning economic opportunities and uphold the cherished values exemplified by Sri G. Ramaswamy. He added, “We have no control over birth and death, but in the span of life, God has granted us the freedom to live as we wish. Yet, many of us remain passive. Only a rare few venture to forge a distinctive path, exhibit courageous actions and attain success. G. Ramaswamy is one such individual who followed that unique trajectory.” Further emphasizing his point, he noted, “Running an industry is comparatively easier than running a school.”
Inspiring Greatness
Jagadguru Swamiji remarked, “As an affable social figure, he always developed deep bonds with all sorts of people such as politicians, social workers, spiritual masters, and the like. He was quick to respond to the difficulties of helpless people. As we reflect on the incredible achievements of the past years, we are reminded of the importance of mission determination and the pursuit of greatness. Ramaswamy’s journey embodies the spirit of integrity that brings humanity forward, inspiring quotes to push the limits of our potential and strive for excellence in all endeavours. In celebrating this centenary, not only honour the achievements of one extraordinary individual, but also recognize the power of collaboration, innovation, and resolute spirit as links to the future. May the legacy of this industry serve as a guiding light for generations to come, reminding us that with vision, determination, and a heart set on making a positive impact, one can shape a world of endless possibilities.”
Pillars of Strength
In his vote of thanks, Aneesh Kumar expressed heartfelt appreciation for his affectionate grandfather, highlighting his courage, righteousness, and time management skills. He thanked the chief guest and guest of honour for their presence, acknowledging their blessings and the honour they brought to the event. He extended gratitude to dignitaries and guests for their support, making the occasion a remarkable journey marker.
Aneesh praised his grandfather’s vision to aid farmers through affordable motor pumps, founding the Suguna Group, now an international leader in industrial equipment. He emphasized customer importance, lauding loyal dealers and customers as industry pillars. He closed by thanking loyal dealers, customers, and workers for their unwavering trust.
Principals, Factory Managers, Officers and the family members of Suguna Educational Groups were present at the event.
