Noble Contributions
The Chinna Mudaliar family has made remarkable contributions to Pondicherry’s religious and cultural and educational development:
• Victor Jeganatha Mudaliar grandfather of the correspondent.
• Louis Gnana Pragassa Mudaliar (1860–1920) was a Councillor, dubash, deputy mayor was taking initiatve to bring first electricity to Pondicherry in 1907.
• The family, originally from an agricultural and textile mill background in 1909 Nellikuppam, owned and cultivated eight villages, lands for sugarcane production.
• Karnendran Mudaliar (1886–1963) was great grandfather of correspondent one of the signatories when Pondicherry gained independence from French rule and was the Finance Minister of Pondicherry.
• Louis Gnana AROKIASAMY Mudaliar and Karnendran Mudaliar were honored with the Chevalier title by the French Government.
• Contributions to places of worship include significant donations to churches and temples.
• Immaculate Heart of Mary SCHOOL LAND was donated in 1927 by Lady Saradha Kannaiya Mudaliar to promote education, and missionary space was provided.
• Victor Vijayraj built the grand Mahaveer Lawspet Vijayavardharaja Perumal Temple, housing ancestral Lord Vishnu and other deities.
• The family converted to Christianity in 1809 and played a significant role in promoting education and social welfare.
• The historic Glass House, once a monument and tourist attraction in Pondicherry, was built by the family with Belgian glass shipped from Europe in 1927. It was inaugurated by Lord Wellington,
the then Viceroy of India, and was originally known as Eden Garden in Karuvadikuppam.
• The Copper Flag House, Where our ancestors lived still standing today, was a significant landmark and symbol of their contributions across generations under French rule.
• A historic bridge across Canal Street was constructed to connect the family’s residences across the canal.
• Nearly 13 huge properties were given under acquisition to the Government of Pondicherry since the 1970s for internal infrastructure development, benefiting the city’s progress.
Soorya International Hr. Sec. School stands as a testament to a legacy of education, social contribution, and cultural heritage, ensuring that the future generations continue to benefit from its noble mission.
