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HISTORY 

JAWA ALTAIR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

at LKT Nagar

​

Amidst the flourishing tapestry of our nation, a community faced the tightening grip of adversity. Yet, in the midst of this challenge, a vision emerged - one of hope, of homes, and of education.

Mr. J.K. Ramamurti, a retired mechanical engineer from the esteemed weaving Sourashtra Community, envisioned a haven for weavers. Approaching Mr. A.S. Krishnamoorthy, a benevolent figure deeply ingrained in community service, they sought to secure a sanctuary for the weaving community. With the support of Major Dr. R. Ramachandran and his wife, Dr. Vijayalakshmi Ramachandran, former Director of Medical Services, Government of Tamil Nadu, a parcel of land spanning over 8 acres on the Madurai-Rameswaram Highway, nestled in Puliyankulam village, was procured in 1983 at a nominal cost. The place is established as LKT Nagar in memory of Mr. J.K.R’s grandfather, Sri L.K. Thulasiram, B.A., B.L., MLC, Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

LKT Nagar is named in honour of Sri. L.K. Thulasiram (LKT), a revered figure who fearlessly championed Bharathiar’s songs during the British regime, despite their prohibition. LKT, an Indian freedom fighter, established several significant institutions in Madurai, including the Madurai Sourashtra Sabha, Sourashtra Co-operative Bank, Sourashtra High School, and Sourashtra Club. He played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights of handloom weavers, securing permission for them to process yarn in the streets. Thulasiram also spearheaded the implementation of the underground drainage system and ensured a steady water supply in Madurai, thus contributing immensely to its modernization during his tenure as Chairman of Madurai Municipality.

Among his many contributions, Thulasiram pioneered the introduction of the "Mid-day Meals Scheme" at the Saurashtra School in Madurai, a pioneering initiative that garnered recognition from the esteemed Chief Minister K. Kamaraj. This innovative scheme, following its successful implementation at the Saurashtra School, was subsequently adopted in schools across Tamil Nadu, leaving a lasting impact on the education and welfare of students throughout the region.

For a mere Rs. 180/- per cent, Mr. Ramamurti facilitated the distribution of land among weavers, allowing them to continue their craft from the comfort of their homes. Meanwhile, Mr. Krishnamoorthy acquired 15 cents of land with the dream of establishing a school for the weaving community, a dream immortalized in a "Will" by his wife, Ms. Vijayalakshmi Krishnamoorthy, in favour of their daughter, Ms. Dhurga Jawaharlal the wife of Prof. Dr. Jawaharlal, son of the founder of LKT Nagar.

Ms. Dhurga Jawaharlal, propelled by this legacy, embarked on a journey of education. Despite her humble beginnings, she resolved to become a teacher, pursuing her graduation and post-graduation with a teaching license from Madurai Kamaraj University. Supported by her husband (Prof. Dr. Jawa), parents, children, and in-laws, she honed her skills, gaining invaluable experience teaching children from diverse backgrounds in prestigious CBSE schools abroad.

The visionaries, Mr. Ramamurti and Ms. Dhurga Jawaharlal, shared not only a dream for a school but also a temple, symbolizing their commitment to community upliftment. The "Selva Vinayagar temple," nestled amidst the streets of LKT Nagar, stands as a testament to their dedication. And adjacent to this sacred space, Jawa Altair International School was born.

As dawn breaks, the soft hues of sunrise paint the landscape of the Jawa Altair International school, casting a golden glow upon the refreshingly avant-garde nestled amidst blossoming gardens. The air is alive with the symphony of chirping birds and the gentle rustle of leaves, weaving a tranquil melody that serenades the senses.

With a motto echoing the ethos of their journey - "Learn to listen to lead," "Sincerity Secures Success," "Aim High! Achieve High!! Be brave!!" - the school stands as a beacon of education, offering not just knowledge but a pathway to empowerment and fulfilment. In this tranquil haven, amidst the whispering trees and the promise of a brighter future, the legacy of compassion, resilience, and learning continues to thrive.