 A Mylaporean who devoted his retired years to children, to exposing them to the wonders of science has passed away.M. Narayanaswamy, former honorary secretary of the Children’s Club Society, Mylapore died on February 24.He was, till some years ago a permanent fixture at the Club campus which lies in a quiet, leafy space off V M Street opposite Jammi Buildings’ eastern face.The club offered a variety of activities for children and in another time and age, was the hub for school-going Mylaporeans where they played cricket and TT, were coached in chess and had the opportunity to sit for lectures on science. Since the late 1980s when he took charge of the Club, Narayanaswamy got the best minds at IIT, MatScience and city engineering colleges to spare an hour and lecture to Club members on the latest in science and tech. The small attendance did not dampen his spirit for the little ones who did sit for the lectures went on devote study and carry our research in science. Narayanaswamy was a economics and political science graduate from Loyola College. He got admission to Harvard University but could not take it up for personal reasons. He went on to work for national bodies like the National Council for Applied Economic Research (NCAER) and the National Transportation Planning and Research Centre (NATPAC). And on retirement, chose to help guide the fortunes of the Children’s Club Society which was formed in 1947 by family and well wishers in Mylapore. The science lectures were held every weekend and often students were also provided notes for references. It was probably a one-of-its-kind programme for children in this city. He retired after taking his time to place the Club’s plans in capable hands. His brother is M. Ramji, who heads key assignments at the P S Educational Society which runs schools in Mylapore. Narayanaswamy was 94. His family can be reached at 28474140. |
Tribute to M. Narayanaswamy: he made Children’s Club hub of science, tech lectures
I used to attend the science and math lectures he conducted from 1999 to 2002. He invited good professors from Vivekananda college, IIT Madras and other places to deliver lectures to young students in class IX,X,XI and XII. My life and career to a large extent was shaped by those classes and lectures I attended at the Children’s club. He was a true inspiration for me and will be truly missed. May his soul rest in peace.
I used to attend the science and math lectures he conducted from 2001 to 2003. He invited good professors from Vivekananda college, IIT Madras and other places to deliver lectures to young students in class IX,X,XI and XII. My life and career to a large extent was shaped by those classes and lectures I attended at the Children’s club. He was a true inspiration for me and will be truly missed. May his soul rest in peace.