Homage paid to senior journalist ‘Tamil Osai' Bala

Journalists and political leaders paid homage to senior journalist and ‘Tamil Osai' editor V. Packianathan alias Bala, who died here last month.

Taking part in a function to commemorate him, Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder S. Ramadoss unveiled Packianathan's portrait and extended financial assistance of Rs.2 lakh to the journalist's wife.

A commemorative souvenir was released on the occasion by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam Lok Sabha member T.K.S. Elangovan. Former Union Minister Anbumani Ramadoss received the first copy. In his condolence message, Dr. Ramadoss said, Bala's demise was a personal loss to him and his family members.

Simple man

“He was my dear friend, advisor, brother and much more than that, and his loss cannot be compensated,” the PMK leader said.

Dr. Anbumani described Bala as a simple, straightforward and cultured man, whose articles spoke about social and political issues, including the problems of the Sri Lankan Tamils and how they could be tackled at different levels.

“Even during his last days, Bala wanted us to carry out positive campaigning in the Assembly elections. We spoke about the achievements and new schemes of the ruling party. We never took a dig at the opposition,” Dr. Anbumani said.

Tamil Osai publisher and PMK president G.K. Mani recalled the late journalist's writing and editorial skills.

Former ministers, family members and journalists, including representations of media organisations such as the Chennai Press Club, Madras Union of Journalists and Tamil Nadu Union of Journalists, attended the memorial function organised by the ‘Bala Memorial Committee.'