Coimbatore : Mariappan, an 82-year old veteran clock maker hails from Pattanamputhur in Coimbatore.
Coimbatore : Mariappan, an 82-year old veteran clock maker hails from Pattanamputhur in Coimbatore.
He has been lauded for making clocks using Tamil numerals and presents it to deserving individuals to help foster Tamil pride. A simple labourer in a 'pandal' shop in the city, Mariappan finds time and with his meagre earnings sources parts for the clock making process. .
Mariappan's clocks have two distinct features. One is that the numerals are in Tamil instead of the usual Roman numerals. He also adds uniqueness by inscribing riddles in Tamil and presents the clocks to the ones who answer right. Mariappan has made over 96 clocks till now and has presented several clocks to educational institutions, offices and even presented them to leaders like M Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa.
"The moment when M Karunanidhi appreciated my efforts was the most happiest moment of my life. The present generation feels inferior speaking in Tamil. I am working toward spreading the pride of Tamil through my work. I will continue to do so until my death. Thank you for recognizing this small contribution of mine toward popularising Tamil and coming here to meet me," said the emotional humble genius.