Donating Homes to War Widows in Sri Lanka's North

As the Thirukural beautifully states, "In the hands of a generous man, Wealth is like a medicinal tree whose healing gifts help all."

War widow home donated by Mr. Paramalingam.

(JAFFNA, Srl Lanka) - One generous man in Sri Lanka has created a small village, building 98 houses for war widows in Iyakkachchi (a village located between Elephant Pass and Palai on the Jaffna A9 Road). Each house cost around $20,000 US dollars, and in the middle of the building complex, there is even a community center.

The benefactor's name is Mr. Paramalingam. I had never met him but had heard through Dr. Aru Thirumurugan, that he was a very humble, spiritually-minded person who was born and raised in Jaffna and who is a businessman in the Middle East. I was told that this was not the first time Mr. Paramaligam had been involved in such philanthropic activities; he had previously built similar housing projects in Batticaloa and Upcountry.

Mr. Paramalingam is a devotee of Swami Ramdas (1884–1963) and he had created a trust in his guru's name, and is doing all these wonderful services with his own wealth. The trust also runs three Children's Homes and a few other charities in Sri Lanka. The trust carefully selected the deserving widows who received these houses. Mr. Paramalingam also plans to provide employment opportunities to these mothers and educational facilities for their children.

Early this year the houses were ceremonially opened. The head of Nallai Adheenam Swami, Swami Chitrupananda, Dr. Aru Thirumurugan, I and a few other dignitaries attended a very simple event at the newly built village. Being such a humble man and not desiring to draw attention to himself, Mr. Paramalingam did not attend the ceremony, but members of his family including his wife, son and brother were there with rest of us. It was a great joy for not only those who received homes, but also for all those who witness such generosity.

As the Thirukural beautifully states, "In the hands of a generous man, Wealth is like a medicinal tree whose healing gifts help all." May God bless Mr. Paramalingam and his family to continue their loving service to humanity.

Herewith, I am enclosing some photos from the opening ceremony for you to enjoy.

In Peace,

Rishi Thondunathan