Hindu High School, Triplicane - Master Mr V Ramaswamy

Those who have had the fortune of living in Triplicane (Thiruvallikkeni) would not have missed wondering the  imposing structure at 149 Big Street, Triplicane, Chennai 600 005.  It’s board would read :

“Be Proud of Your School – Let your School be proud of you (by your deeds)”

A landmark by itself – an imposing structure - bricks and saffron coloured walls with Indo-sarsenic architecture has inspired many and created many worthy students.  Hindu High School founded as Dravida Patasala for tamil boys which later amalgamated with The Hindu Andhra Balura Patasala for telegu boys that were in existence in 1852. The school was for long, considered as one of the best schools in the Madras Presidency and was once the feeder school to Presidency College, another institute of formidable repute of yore. The School could boast of many an illustrious personalities  and has had great teachers shaping the destiny of hundreds of students. 

I consider myself fortunate to have studied in this Great Institution.  Joined 6^th Standard in the year 1974; completed X Standard (SSLC) in 1979.  Joined Commerce Group (10 + 2 was the scheme after abolition of PUC and we were the 2^nd batch of +2 scheme) and passed out +2 in 1981.

The school was known not only for imparting  good quality  education; but also for its discipline and erudite Teachers.   Life has changed a lot now – as parents cry hoarse on punishments to their wards.  Those days canning was so common; as also physical slaps to the mischievous and wrong-doers.

Hindu High School has long wide corridors and students were not allowed to loiter on the verandahs.  There was this man, clad in white, who was a terror to late-comers and those who loitered around. This gentleman, Mr V. Ramaswamy was even known as ‘verandah Ramaswamy – in local parlance, would sound as varanda (there comes…)  [Sir, with due respect and apologies as this is not meant to disrespect you now !]

Mr Ramaswamy, who taught us Economics,  was a strict disciplinarian (so also most others were) – was a man known for his values, ethics and personal discipline.   People like him would never come late to class nor miss any class – persons like him always put behind their personal appointments and had only the Teaching uppermost. 

Mr V Ramaswamy retired during 1988 and yesterday during Garuda Sevai purappadu at Thiruvallikkeni had the pleasure of meeting him.  He is 82 +, very active and remembers people with passion. 

Sure, my classmates and all others who studies in Hindu High School would be happy in reading this post and seeing his photo.  

Wishing Mr Ramaswamy, continued healthy life.

With regards – S. Sampathkumar.