The Story of My Wife Latha’s Great-Grandfather – Inspired by Memories Shared by His Granddaughter Chitra Shankar from Mumbai

In the heart of Kumbakonam, my native town, lived a man whose name is etched in history as a beacon of vision and service. His name was Mahalinga Iyer, affectionately known as Bank Mahalinga Iyer, the full-time Managing Director of Kumbakonam City Union Bank (KCUB), which today thrives as City Union Bank (CUB).

This extraordinary man was the grandfather of Chitra Shankar from Mumbai and my wife Latha Ganesh’s great-grandfather. His life wasn’t just a story of professional triumph but a journey filled with devotion, perseverance, and the profound belief that education and service were the pillars of a strong society.

Part 1: Humble Beginnings in Tiruvaiyaru

Mahalingam was born in 1889 or 1890 in Tiruvaiyaru, a town nestled along the serene Cauvery River. Life was modest; his family struggled to make ends meet, and Mahalingam, as the eldest of four brothers, bore the weight of responsibility from a young age.

He owned just two sets of clothes, but his dreams were limitless. As he walked to Sir Sivaswamy Iyer School, passing the vast green fields, he often paused to admire their beauty and imagined a brighter future. He would tell himself, “One day, I will rise above my circumstances and own fields like these.”

Years later, Mahalingam fulfilled this dream by acquiring a 50-acre fertile property called “Chudamani.” This wasn’t just a piece of land; it symbolized his unyielding determination and belief in the power of ambition.

Part 2: Early Loss and Resilience

Tragedy struck early in Mahalingam’s life when his father passed away, leaving his widowed mother to care for the four boys. The family moved to Kumbakonam, seeking divine guidance and blessings at the temple of Goddess Mangalambika.

Despite their struggles, Mahalingam remained resilient. He juggled school, tutoring, and family responsibilities, embodying strength and maturity far beyond his years. These early challenges molded him into the steadfast leader he would later become.

Part 3: A Marriage That Changed His Course

Mahalingam’s perseverance and dedication caught the attention of a well-respected family in Kumbakonam, and he married Dharmambal, the eldest daughter of a wealthy and influential household.

With the support of his father-in-law, Mahalingam pursued law, a decision that would define the course of his life. He continued working as a teacher and tutor to support himself and his family, proving that hard work and education were his strongest allies.

Part 4: The Birth of Kumbakonam City Union Bank (KCUB)

After establishing himself as a reputable lawyer, Mahalinga Iyer encountered a pivotal moment when a client managing a chit fund or pawn broker business sought his expertise. Recognizing an opportunity to create lasting impact, Mahalinga Iyer took over the business and transformed it into a financial institution

Thus, Kumbakonam City Union Bank (KCUB) was born—a bank built on trust, service, and integrity.

In 1926, Mahalinga Iyer was appointed Secretary of the Bank, and by 1929, he became its first full-time Managing Director, holding the position until 1963. During his tenure, the bank expanded steadily, opening branches across the Thanjavur Delta region and earning a reputation as a trusted financial partner for communities.

Part 5: A Visionary in Education and Philanthropy

Mahalinga Iyer wasn’t just a banker—he was a man who believed in uplifting society through education. As the Secretary of the Town High School in Kumbakonam, he introduced groundbreaking reforms to ensure that higher education was accessible to all, especially students from rural and underprivileged backgrounds.

He also co-founded the Shrimath Kalyanavalli School, providing countless children with opportunities to learn and thrive. His motto was clear: “Education is the strongest foundation for a nation.”

Part 6: A Life of Dharma and Compassion

Mahalinga Iyer’s life was deeply rooted in dharma. Every morning, without fail, he performed Shiva Puja, drawing strength and clarity from his devotion.

During the grand Mahamaham festival, he organized annadanam, feeding thousands of people from all walks of life. His generosity broke barriers of caste and creed, embodying his belief in equality and service.

On his birthday every year, Mahalinga Iyer ensured that annadanam was conducted, spreading blessings and joy to all around him.

Part 7: A Scholar and a Patriot

Mahalinga Iyer’s intellectual pursuits were as remarkable as his professional ones. He authored a book on WEALTH, CAPITAL, MONEY AND CREDIT which received acclaim from great leaders like Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajaji.

Two years ago, this book was republished in the presence of His Holiness Pudhu Periyava, facilitated by Mr. Kamakodi of City Union Bank, ensuring that his insights and contributions continued to inspire future generations.

Though a staunch RSS follower, Mahalinga Iyer’s respect for others transcended political ideologies.

When Mahatma Gandhi visited Kumbakonam, it was his home that hosted his stay, showcasing Mahalinga Iyer’s broad-mindedness and patriotism.

Part 8: The Final Chapter

In March 1972, Mahalinga Iyer attained the lotus feet of God, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations. The bank he nurtured grew into City Union Bank (CUB), a trusted name in Indian banking.

A Story to Inspire Generations

To the next generation in the family, this tale is not just history—it is a legacy of courage, determination, and selfless service.

• Dream big, like the boy who wished to own the fields of Tiruvaiyaru.

• Work tirelessly, like the lawyer and teacher who built a bank and a school.

• Serve others, like the man who fed thousands during Mahamaham.

And remember, as Thatha believed: “Education and service are the pillars of a strong society.”

May his story inspire you to carry forward his legacy of compassion, excellence, and purpose. His light continues to shine through all of us.

Appendix

The Legacy of Mahalingam Iyer: A Visionary Leader and Philanthropist

He was instrumental in starting Sri Matha School, initially housed in an asbestos shed at Town High School before moving to a new building. Mahalingam Iyer also took up community leadership by conducting informal courts at Nageswaran Temple, providing swift and affordable resolutions to the public’s grievances.

His dedication to service extended to religious and cultural realms. An ardent disciple of Maha Periyava, his efforts for the Srimadam and public welfare were widely praised. He also founded the Advaita, Visishtadvaita & Dvaita Sabha in Chennai, fostering philosophical and spiritual discussions.

Despite challenges, including conflicts with major shareholders, Mahalingam Iyer magnanimously relinquished his position at the bank, showcasing his selflessness. His legal victories, like securing fair compensation for shares undervalued by new management, further reflect his resilience.

A humble yet towering personality, Mahalingam Iyer was deeply respected for his reverence toward his mother and his legacy of prostrating before her before leaving home, a trait that exemplified his values. His services were fondly remembered during the 150th Year Celebration of Sri Matha School, where his contributions were lauded by dignitaries such as Sethuraman, the founder of Sastra University.

His memory lives on through the bank he helped build, the institutions he founded, and the countless lives he touched with his wisdom and generosity—a true example of a visionary leader whose contributions resonate to this day.