The Kothur Santhanam Sunku Hemalatha Charitable Trust (KSSHCT), like many enduring institutions of goodwill, was born from humble beginnings and a profound desire to serve. Registered on October 2, 2020, the Trust was established by its Author-Settlers, the elderly founder couple Dr. M.R. Santhanam and Tmt. S. Hemalatha, with an initial joint contribution of Rs. 10,000.
A Journey of Perseverance
To truly understand the spirit of the Trust, one must look at the lives of its founders. Both hailed from middle-class backgrounds, yet were inherently driven by a deep sense of social good and altruism. Dr. M.R. Santhanam, a native of Chetpet, overcame severe financial hardships during his early education in Desur. Through sheer determination, he achieved his Master’s in Economics (1960) and a Bachelor’s in Teaching (1962), launching his career as a teacher-trainer under the Government of Tamil Nadu.
His thirst for professional growth led him to take immense risks, often pursuing full-time higher education—including his M.Ed. and a Ph.D. at the M.S. University of Baroda (1972)—on leave with loss of pay. His dedication propelled his career from an Assistant Professor to a respected Professor, serving across prestigious institutions including Madras University, NEHU (Shillong), TTTI (Chennai), and the State Planning Commission, before superannuating in 1994.
Beside him stood Smt. S. Hemalatha, whom he married in 1961. A beloved homemaker, she endeared herself to her extended family through boundless affection, care, and generosity. Together, they navigated family life with mutual dedication for over sixty years.
Transforming Fate into Philanthropy
Denied the joy of begetting children of their own, the couple channeled their parental love toward their extended family, generously sharing a significant portion of their savings with relatives young and old. Driven by an unwavering sense of social responsibility, they ultimately resolved to dedicate all their remaining wealth—both movable and immovable—to create a continuing legacy of institutionalized charity.
Thus, KSSHCT was formed, combining their family lineages: 'Kothur' representing Dr. Santhanam and 'Sunku' representing Smt. Hemalatha. The Trust’s vision encompasses a wide spectrum of public good, including education, healthcare, the arts, and dedicated support for the aged, orphaned, and disabled.
Early Steps and a Tragic Loss
The Trust took its first formal steps during the inaugural Board of Trustees meeting on November 30, 2020, where Dr. Santhanam and Smt. Hemalatha assumed the roles of President and Vice-President respectively. By early 2021, operational foundations were laid, and the necessary financial frameworks were established to begin their charitable work.
Tragically, just as the Trust was in its formative stages, Founder Vice-President Smt. S. Hemalatha passed away on March 16, 2021. Her departure was a profound personal tragedy to Dr. Santhanam, then 85, leaving a void that is difficult to fill. Yet, her altruistic spirit remains the guiding light of KSSHCT, forever etched into the mission and enduring charitable works of the institution she helped build.