Industrialist and educationist Palani G. Periasamy launched his book Idhaya Oli (Heartbeats).
Mr. Periasamy, chairman of city-based PGP Group of Companies, had played a key role in enabling the medical treatment of former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran in the United States.
He was born in Muthugapatti Village, Namakkal District.
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Mr. Periasamy went on to earn his Ph. D in Economics from the University of Pittsburgh, U.S. and also worked as a professor of economics and director of graduate Studies at the University of Baltimore. He later became an industrialist.
In his book, Mr. Periasamy narrates stories about his friendship with MGR and also, the hardships and setbacks he faced.
N. Ram, Chairman of Kasturi and Sons Limited, received the first copy of English version of the book. Lyricist Vairamuthu received the first copy of the Tamil version.
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Speaking about the book, Mr. Ram said it narrated the remarkable journey of a man who was born in a modest family and focussed on education.
“The book speaks about both his achievements and setbacks and places emphasis on hard work and passion for education,” he added.
Mr. Ram also said Mr. Periasamy had applied for a Ph. D in Delhi University and was turned down and that is why he went to the U.S. “If Delhi University had admitted him, the story would have been different. But that is how history develops,” he said.
He also requested the audience to contribute to the setting up of a Tamil chair at Harvard University and noted that Mr. Periasamy was playing a key role in the process.
Prominent people from all walks of life including R.M. Veerappan, Saroja Devi, H.V. Hande, Su. Thirunavukkarasar, S. Jagathrakshakan and Thangar Bachan also spoke of their association with Mr. Periasamy.