Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan

 Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan: A Pillar of Ceylonese Society (1851-1930)

 

Early Life and Background

Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan was born on April 15, 1851, into one of the most distinguished Tamil families in Colombo, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). His family belonged to the elite Vellala caste, which had historically played a significant role in the social and religious leadership of the Tamil community in the island. Ramanathan's father, Gate Mudaliyar Arunachalam Ponnambalam, was a wealthy and influential government official. The Ponnambalam family was deeply rooted in the fabric of Ceylonese society, known for their commitment to public service and philanthropy.

Ramanathan’s education was thoroughly grounded in both Eastern and Western traditions. He attended the Colombo Academy (now Royal College), where he excelled in his studies. He later went on to study law in England, becoming one of the first Ceylonese to be called to the Bar at Lincoln's Inn in 1874. This legal training would prove to be foundational in his later career as a lawyer, politician, and social reformer.

Legal Career and Early Public Life

Upon his return to Ceylon, Ramanathan quickly established himself as a leading lawyer in Colombo. His legal acumen and oratory skills made him a sought-after advocate in the courts. His early legal career was marked by a deep commitment to justice and fairness, often taking on cases that involved complex issues of law and equity.

Ramanathan’s reputation as a lawyer soon led to his involvement in politics. In 1879, he was appointed as the first Ceylonese Solicitor General, a position he held with distinction. His role as Solicitor General marked the beginning of his long and influential career in public service. He was not only the first Tamil to hold such a high office but also set a precedent for the involvement of Ceylonese in the colonial administration.

Political Leadership and Contributions

Ramanathan's entry into politics was a natural progression from his legal career. In 1879, he was elected to the Legislative Council of Ceylon as an unofficial member, representing the Tamil community. His tenure in the Legislative Council was marked by his staunch advocacy for the rights of Ceylonese, particularly the Tamil and Sinhalese communities, against the colonial administration's often discriminatory policies.

One of Ramanathan's most significant contributions to Ceylonese society was his role in the temperance movement. The movement, which aimed to curb the consumption of alcohol, was part of a broader effort to promote social and moral reform among the Ceylonese. Ramanathan, along with other leaders like Anagarika Dharmapala, saw the temperance movement as a means of preserving Ceylonese culture and values in the face of increasing Western influence.

In 1915, Ceylon was rocked by widespread communal riots between the Sinhalese and Muslim communities. The colonial administration's heavy-handed response to the riots, which included the arrest and execution of several prominent Sinhalese leaders, was widely condemned. Ramanathan, who was then a member of the Legislative Council, took a courageous stand against the colonial government's actions. He traveled to England to personally lobby the British government for the release of the imprisoned leaders, successfully securing their freedom. His efforts in this regard earned him the admiration and respect of the Sinhalese community, and he became a symbol of unity between the Tamil and Sinhalese peoples.

Educational and Social Reforms

Ramanathan was a passionate advocate for education, believing that it was the key to social progress and empowerment. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of educational institutions for the Tamil community. He was instrumental in the founding of Parameshwara College in Jaffna, which became a leading center for higher education in the Northern Province. Ramanathan believed that education should be accessible to all, regardless of caste or social status, and he worked tirelessly to promote educational opportunities for underprivileged communities.

In addition to his work in education, Ramanathan was also deeply involved in social and religious reform. He was a devout Hindu and played a significant role in the revival of Hinduism in Ceylon. He supported the establishment of Hindu temples and religious institutions and was a strong advocate for the preservation of Tamil culture and traditions. His efforts in this regard were not limited to the Tamil community; he also supported similar initiatives among the Sinhalese and Muslim communities, believing that the preservation of cultural and religious identity was essential for the unity and strength of the Ceylonese people.

Legacy and Influence

Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan's contributions to Ceylonese society were immense, and his legacy continues to be felt today. He was knighted in 1921 in recognition of his services to the country, becoming Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan. His influence extended beyond his immediate achievements; he inspired a generation of leaders who would go on to shape the future of Sri Lanka.

Ramanathan's legacy is perhaps best understood in the context of his commitment to unity and justice. At a time when Ceylon was deeply divided along ethnic and religious lines, Ramanathan stood as a bridge between communities. His efforts to promote understanding and cooperation between the Tamil, Sinhalese, and Muslim communities laid the groundwork for the eventual emergence of a united Sri Lankan identity.

 

 

 

 

 

Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan was a man of vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people. His contributions to Ceylonese society were far-reaching, encompassing law, politics, education, and social reform. As a lawyer, he was a champion of justice; as a politician, he was a voice for the marginalized; and as a social reformer, he was a guardian of his culture and traditions. His life and work remain an inspiration to all who believe in the power of service and the importance of unity in diversity. Today, as Sri Lanka continues to navigate the challenges of nation-building, the legacy of Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan serves as a reminder of the values that can guide the country towards a future of peace and prosperity.

 

           By

Asanga Divulwewa

0760373002, 0750356145