1. By T Shanmugaratnam ( V Thambiah Son)
The Ninaivumalar (Book of Memories) is a cherished tradition unique to the Ceylonese community. My father, who was deeply involved in temple activities, weddings, and funerals, would often bring me along to the funerals of relatives and friends. We would also attend the 31st-day prayers, where families would distribute the Ninaivumalar in remembrance of their loved ones.
I always appreciated how these publications celebrated the lives of those who had passed on. They not only preserved precious memories but also brought family members and friends together in a spirit of remembrance and gratitude.
For my family and me, producing a Ninaivumalar for our father, V. Thambiah, was a meaningful way of preserving his legacy and honouring his memory. We loved him dearly, and this was our tribute to the hard work, sacrifices, and unconditional love he gave us throughout his life.
As the years pass, life inevitably becomes busy, and we each move forward with our own commitments. However, the Ninaivumalar serves as a timeless reminder of our roots, our family values, and the many wonderful moments we shared while growing up. It allows future generations to connect with their heritage and better understand the lives of those who came before them.
We also produced a Ninaivumalar for our mother, K. Paramaswary. These treasured publications can now be passed on to our children and their families, ensuring that the stories, memories, and values of our parents continue to inspire generations to come.