Karunanidhi, Stalin condole death of Jeppiaar

A close associate of former Chief Minister MGR, the 85-year-old Jeppiaar died here on Saturday night after a massive heart attack. Karunanidhi, in his condolence message, said he was grieved and anguished to hear about the death of Jeppiaar.  The DMK president said Jeppiaar started the Jeppiaar Educational Trust and through sheer hard work, had started several educational institutions and ably administered them. 

Karunanidhi expressed deep sorrow and grief over his death and offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members. His son and DMK Treasurer M K Stalin, accompanied by former Mayor M Subramaniam, visited the House of Jeppiaar and paid his last respects. Later, talking to reporters, Stalin said Jeppiaar earned the trust of MGR and served as the Government Chief Whip in the then Tamil Nadu Legislative Council (since abolished) and had later served as Chairman of the Madras Water Supply and Sewerage Board (Metro Water). 

Stating that his death was an irreparable loss, Stalin offered his condolences to the bereaved family members. MDMK General Secretary Vaiko also condoled the death of Jeppiaar.  In 1988, Jeppiaar started the Sathyabama Engineering College, which later became the first technical institution in Tamil Nadu to be awarded the deemed university status, he added. 

Jeppiaar, who is also the founder-chancellor of Sathyabama University, also established Jeppiaar Educational Trust that runs several wellknown engineering colleges in and around Chennai. The South Indian Film Artistes Association has condoled the sudden demise of Jeppiaar. In a press statement, the association has mentioned his memorable contribution. “He was fond of every actor and activities of the association. 

When the association election took place, he gave full support and assured all assistance in future too. He promised to help in the construction of a new building in the premises of the association. Besides, he extended his helping hand towards the aged, ailing and indigent artistes of the association,” the statement said.