S.N.N. Sankaralinga Iyer’s biography released in city

A book chronicling the life and legacy of S.N.N. Sankaralinga Iyer, the founder of Indo Commercial Bank and the India Cements, was released in the city on Saturday. The book traces his entrepreneurial journey, contributions to India’s banking and cement sectors, and it also highlights about his business principles.

The book was released by H.V. Hande, former Minister of Health, Government of Tamil Nadu, and Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti, Chairman of Nalli Silks, and the first copy was handed over to Gomathi Dhandapani, daughter of S.N.N. Sankaralinga Iyer.

Mr. Hande described Sankaralinga Iyer as a “polymath”, comparing him with great personalities such as Benjamin Franklin, for his ability to excel across diverse fields, rather than confining himself to a single profession. “He was farsighted and as a result he made forays into different fields,” he said.

Mr. Hande also urged the Union and Tamil Nadu government not to focus exclusively on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) but to provide encouragement to domestic entrepreneurs who generate employment.

N. Kumar, grandson of Sankaralinga Iyer and Chairman, The Sanmar Group Corporate Board, notes: “For our family, thaatha (grandfather) was a deeply reassuring anchor. He was not emotionally expressive, yet he carried an unmistakable authority that stemmed entirely from his self-discipline and dignity. He commanded respect, whether he was discussing business expansion with associates or sitting on the floor with his grandchildren. His lifestyle effortlessly bridged the unyielding standards of a hard taskmaster with the profound simplicity of a devoted family man.”

Vijay Sankar, great-grandson of Sankaralinga Iyer and Chairman, The Sanmar Group, said: “The book was done to ensure that the man who laid the industrial foundation gets the recognition. He did it without seeking any applause.”

The project was co-ordinated and facilitated by S.B. Prabhakar Rao, a veteran of The Sanmar Group, who personally assisted Sankaralinga Iyer during the final years of his life.