Lourdunathan Statue - Palayankottai

If you've been to Palayankottai or call this town home, you've likely noticed the prominent Lourdunathan Statue. But have you ever delved into the backstory of this statue? Who exactly is Lourdunathan? Let's take a closer look...

It all traces back to a distressing incident involving two professors from St. Xavier's College who faced severe attacks at the Palai Police Station. After learning this news the following day, the students initiated the strike. They decided to proceed with a complaint to the District Collector, and as they embarked on a procession towards his office, they encountered a police barricade at Sulochana Mudaliar Bridge.

The situation escalated, and the police initiated a harsh lathi charge on the students. In the midst of this turmoil, Lourdunathan, one of the students, jumped into the deep waters of the Tamraparani River from the right side of the bridge, ultimately losing his life.

In a solemn procession, the students carried Lourdunathan's lifeless body back to the college. At the college gates, the police took custody of the deceased Lourdes Nathan's remains. This tragic incident galvanized college teachers and students across Tamil Nadu, leading to widespread protests.

The date etched in history is 21st November 1972, a day when the life of student Lourdunathan was tragically cut short. In commemoration of this event, a statue of Lourdunathan was unveiled by Shri Kamaraj at Palai South Bazar, serving as a poignant reminder of the student who met an untimely demise due to the professor's assault.

In close proximity to this statue, you'll come across a prominent portrait of Shri M.S. Maharaja Pillai, unveiled in 1972. He held the position of Municipal Chairman of Palayamkottai for an impressive 15-year term, from 1952 to 1967. During his tenure, he dedicated himself to serving the people of Palayamkottai, pioneering numerous initiatives that laid the groundwork for Tirunelveli's transformation into a corporation today. In recognition of his outstanding service to the residents of Palayamkottai, the town of Maharaja Nagar, situated near Palayamkottai, was named in his honor.

In the small park situated behind the statue, there stands a remarkably aged and exquisite lamppost, likely dating back to the British colonial era.

Happy travelling.