Originally written on October 21, 2023, to mark the 35th death anniversary of my grandfather, Mr. V. Rajam, this post is revised today, on Engineer’s Day, September 15, 2024, as I reflect on his lasting impact.
My grandfather, Rajam Iyer—whose full name was Ramanathan—was an engineer by instinct. His approach to life and problem-solving was deeply rooted in logic, precision, and a practical mindset that shaped not only his career but also the way he viewed the world. He had an innate engineering ability that influenced everything he touched, from education to community service.
Through his guidance, I was introduced to four key subjects that formed the bedrock of my own intellectual journey:
• English Grammar – through Wren and Martin
• Mathematics – through the books of Yakov Perelman
• Physics – again, Yakov Perelman
• Engineering Drawing – through ND Bhatt
It is because of him that I developed a deep love for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering. His influence extended beyond academic lessons; he instilled in me a methodical way of thinking and solving problems, which I carry forward in both my personal and professional life. His instinctive engineering mindset became a core part of my own, guiding me to approach challenges logically and systematically.
Born on October 13, 1913, in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, my grandfather had a passion for education and engineering that began early and never faded. He founded two institutes of commerce for typing and shorthand—one for men and another for women—quickly becoming a respected figure in the region. His mastery over English, Maths, and Physics wasn’t just theoretical; it was applied, practical knowledge, which he shared generously with his students and the wider community.
At Little Flower Higher Secondary School, where he was a beloved teacher, his engineering mindset shone through in his methodical approach to teaching subjects like Physics and Mathematics. He had an uncanny ability to make complex topics simple and understandable, a skill that only a true engineer at heart could possess.
Beyond the classroom, his influence was felt in his everyday life. Whether it was repairing and maintaining typewriters or authoring books on typing and shorthand, his precision and engineering instincts were always present. He wasn’t just a thinker; he was a doer, a problem-solver who approached every challenge with logic and modern thinking.
His progressive mindset extended to his personal life, too. He challenged unscientific customs and rituals, believing in rational solutions to life’s problems. His modern outlook was far ahead of his time, and he encouraged others, including myself, to adopt a similar approach. His support for love marriages and his selfless commitment to support people from all walks of life are just two examples of his forward-thinking nature.
Though he wasn’t much of a traveler, his intellectual curiosity and sharp mind made up for any physical distance he didn’t cover. His legacy as an engineer by instinct, a teacher by passion, and a mentor by heart has left an indelible mark on my life.
As I reflect on his life, I am reminded of Oliver Goldsmith’s poem, The Village Schoolmaster, which mirrors my grandfather’s role as a revered educator and community leader. Much like the schoolmaster in the poem, my grandfather was a man whose knowledge and wisdom amazed those around him.
This blog post, in memory of my grandfather, Mr. V. Rajam, is not just a tribute to his life but also a reflection of the profound influence he had on me. His engineering mindset, his love for knowledge, and his forward-thinking approach continue to inspire me every day, especially on this Engineer’s Day.
My Grandpa, Rajam Iyer with My Grandma, Chellammal. His name is actually Ramanathan.
Chellammal was a sincere hard worker, renowned for her culinary skills and the delectable dishes she prepared with love. Her innocent and unassuming nature endeared her to everyone she met, and her kindness left an indelible mark on our hearts. Together, they created a warm and nurturing home, filled with love, laughter, and the comforting aroma of Grandma’s delicious cooking.
My Great Grandpa, Viswanathan,and my Great Grandma Meenakshi.
My Great Grandpa,I never had the opportunity to meet him. Nevertheless, his legacy paints a picture of a man deeply devoted to Ambal, Rajareshwari, and Shakthi. His reverence for these deities serves as a testament to his strong spiritual beliefs and his dedication to his faith.
On the other hand, my Great Grandma, Meenakshi, was a remarkable individual in her own right. Her abilities as a hard worker were matched only by her talent for captivating storytelling. She excelled in various forms of handwork, and her green thumb brought life to the garden that became her sanctuary. Whenever we engaged in playful games, she was always an equal match for us, displaying grace, skill, and a joyful spirit.
It is with bittersweet emotions that I recall her passing, as it occurred during a cherished game of Pallankuzhi, forever linking her memory with the joy she brought into our lives.
“Family Ethos”
This ‘signature photo,’ – featuring the iconic handprints on the wall, symbolizes the seamless transition of values and customs from one generation to the next — a continuum of our familial identity. (“Family Ethos”)
A deeply meaningful picture is from my Thatha and Patt’s housei, “Sri Nivas” is a beacon of our family’s history, now lovingly preserved by my Mama-Mami
The Poem – The Village Schoolmaster by Oliver GoldSmith
Beside yon straggling fence that skirts the way
With blossom’d furze unprofitably gay,
There, in his noisy mansion, skill’d to rule,
The village master taught his little school;
A man severe he was, and stern to view,
I knew him well, and every truant knew;
Well had the boding tremblers learn’d to trace
The days disasters in his morning face;
Full well they laugh’d with counterfeited glee,
At all his jokes, for many a joke had he:
Full well the busy whisper, circling round,
Convey’d the dismal tidings when he frown’d:
Yet he was kind; or if severe in aught,
The love he bore to learning was in fault.
The village all declar’d how much he knew;
‘Twas certain he could write, and cipher too:
Lands he could measure, terms and tides presage,
And e’en the story ran that he could gauge.
In arguing too, the parson own’d his skill,
For e’en though vanquish’d he could argue still;
While words of learned length and thund’ring sound
Amazed the gazing rustics rang’d around;
And still they gaz’d and still the wonder grew,
That one small head could carry all he knew.
But past is all his fame. The very spot
Where many a time he triumph’d is forgot.
Written as a sketch in Godsmith’s “Deserted Village”
At six years of age Goldsmith’s village schoolmaster was Thomas (Paddy) Byrne and it is thought he was the basis of the poem.
Apparently he was an ideal tutor for the future poet. He had been educated well as befits a teacher but had joined the army and seen action abroad and risen to the rank of quartermaster of a Spanish regiment. When peace broke out he swapped the swagger stick for the schoolmaster’s cane and taught at Lissoy. © by owner. provided at no charge for educational purposes
Analysis (ai): The poem portrays a village schoolmaster, highlighting his stern appearance and strict discipline. The students’ fear of his punishments is contrasted with his hidden kindness and love for knowledge. The villagers’ admiration for his supposed intellectual prowess stems from their lack of education.
Compared to Goldsmith’s other works, this poem lacks the sentimentalism and humor found in “The Deserted Village.” It reflects the Enlightenment’s emphasis on education and the social hierarchy prevalent during the 18th century. The schoolmaster is seen as a figure of authority, despite his limited knowledge. The poem’s concise and direct language adds to its realistic portrayal of a rural setting and characters.
MindsWideOpen.In - AI ⚡ AI 🚀 
Leave a comment