History of Generations of Telugus in Malaysia
'This paper is dedicated to the first and second generation Telugus
for their boldness, bravery, strength, dedication, benevolence and love'
- by Sri Adari Appanna Naidu
The estimated 353,000 proud Malaysian Telugus, who form a significant portion of the Malaysian Indian population, is a community to be reckoned with for their history, hardship, determination and their socio-economic progress. This article will provide some insight on topics such as Telugu migration, language, Associations, population, Publications and also on achievements of Malaysian Telugus.
Telugu Migration
The Telugu migration to Malaya and later Malaysia took place during four periods of historical times. The first Telugu migrants from Kalinga came during the 7th to the 16th centuries as traders. According to the article ‘Telugus Through Ages’ by a reknowned historian Sri Devulapally Ramanuja Rao there were strong trade links between the Kalinga region (Pithapuram in the Godavari district of central Andhra to the bank of the Mahanadi in the north) with Rome and the eastern lands. Ramunujam says “The Kalingas were an adventurous people. They braved the seas and traded with Burma, Malaya, Java, Sumatra and other distant places. The kings of the Sailendra dynasty, who ruled Java during the eighth, ninth and tenth centuries, hailed from Kalinga”. It was during this period Buddhism was spread extensively in Andhra region and subsequently to Java and even to Malaya. According to historians Andhra was home of Mahayana Buddhism and the structures of Borobodur in Central Java also reflect recent similar structures excavated in Andhra. t is evident that this period and the later centuries witnessed traders from Kalinga trading with Kedah and Melaka. Places such as ‘Tanjong Keling’ provides evidence that there have been settlements of Telugu people from Kalinga region in Malaya. The Telugus who came to Malaya during these period, could have over centuries, assimilated with local communities through inter-marriages and have lost their original identity.
The second phase of Telugu migration from the took place in the 19th Century between 1832 to 1900 and this migration took place on a voluntary basis. It is estimated that about 5000 Telugus came from the then Madras state (present Tamil Nadu, Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema) during this period and settled in places such as Penang, Taiping, Ipoh and other parts of West Malaya as traders, business community and administrative staff. They have also played significant roles in the promotion of Indian community in Malaya. According to Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Khoo Kay Kim in his article ‘Leading Telugus in Early Malaya’ has stated that “the first Indian Association was initiated by a Telugu, Mr, A,Subbiah Naidu in Penang in 1892. Prof Khoo also writes that The Indian Association in Taiping, established in 1894, was initially headed by Mr.M.A.C.Rao and subsequently by Mr Raju Naidu in 1906. J.Apparao and V.Rajagopal Naidu were its Committee members. The Kinta Indian Association was formed in 1906 and Mr Sengalrayan Naidu contributed significantly to the association. The latter has also a road in Ipoh in his name in recognition to his community service. Another prominent Telugu of the yester years was Mr. S.H.Veerraswamy who was a prominent lawyer and graduate from Oxford university served in the Federal and State Council under the British Administration of Malaya. There were also a number of Government officers of Telugu origin who served under the British rule. These prominent Telugus were a pride to Malayan Indians. Historical records also indicate that a number of Gold smiths of Telugu origin from Madras State have migrated to Malaya during these period. There were also hundreds of Telugus who first migrated from Madras state to Sumatra have subsequently moved to Malaya during this same period.
The third and perhaps the largest migration of Telugus took place with the opening of plantations by the British East India Company in the Federated Malay States between 1844 and 1940.The British targeted India for their workforce as it was administratively easier to get the required man-power from a British territory. The poor economic conditions at home also acted as a push factor for Telugus from the port town of Vishakapatnam, to seek for greener pastures. Most of the Telugus were from villages surrounding Vishakapatnam, Anakapalli, Srikakulam, and Vijayanagaram. It is also interesting to note that some of the Telugus who decided to migrate to Malaysia were those who had working experience in either South Africa or Burma. Most migration of these Telugus took place under the ‘Kangany or the Thandelu System’ where the British planters sent the Kanganies to their respective villages to recruit the work-force for which they were compensated. It is evident that the Kanganies found it easier to convince their own relatives or people of their own-caste or village to travel thousands of miles, beyond wide seas for their livelihood. They had to travel form Vizag port by ship for 7 days to reach the West Coast of peninsular Malaysia. Most of the Telugu population settled in estates around Kedah, Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Johore'
It is interesting to note that the settlement pattern is almost like resettling a village in Andhra to an estate in Malaysia. This is evidenced by Kapus settling in Kuala Perak Estates (25th Mile), Bagan Datoh II, Kuala Bernam Estate, Teluk Buloh Estate, Strathmashie, Spynie, Gomali, Scarborough Estate, the Velamas in Kuala Perak Estate (21st mile), Bagan Pasir Estate, Torkington Estate and the Gavaras settling in Bagan Datoh Estate, Blenhiem Estate, Pelam Estate, Waterfall Estate and so forth.
Almost 90 % of the Telugus who came to work in the plantations were illiterates and as such they had to settle for low wage employment. Those who were educated too had only primary Telugu education which was useful for villagers to communicate with their folks in their villages, back home in India. The mind-set of these Telugus was to earn enough money and return home to their villages in Andhra. As such their full allegiance was towards India and their relatives back home. Generally the first generation Telugus were quite disappointed with housing conditions, working hours, incomes and the nature of their work. They were housed in long terraced houses with open space in the ground floor and one or two rooms on the first floor. They had to use common areas for bathing and toilets. Their work involved clearing jungles to plant coconut or rubber plants. The Telugus in the estates were receiving wages less than RM 10 per month. There were no proper medical facilities. Neither were there any schools to educate their children. Some of the first generation Telugus had to undergo additional hardship having been forced to work on laying the railway track or the ‘Death Railway’ between Thailand and Burma during the Japanese Occupation in Malaya from 1941 to 1945 . A lot of them have lost their lives while working on this track.
The first generation of the 3rd wave of migrants were very closely knit and their marriages took place amongst close cousins. They also got married very young i.e. between 10 to 18 years of age. Their only entertainment for the first generations will be singing traditional Telugu bajans based on Ramadas Keertanas in small temples built in the estates. Almost all of first generation Telugus did not even have a radio for their listening pleasure. Majority of the first generation Telugus depended on their two legs for or at best had bicycles to move from place to place. We can confidently say that 99.9% of the first generation Telugus did not own a car or even a motor-cycle for their transport.
The first generation of Telugus could only speak Telugu and it is not surprising to see them communicating in Telugu with Tamils and even Chinese shop keepers. Incidentally, wherever there were majority Telugu employees, Tamil employees and even some Chinese shopkeepers and Estate Managers who were Europeans could understand and even speak the Telugu language. It was in late thirties a handful of Telugu Teachers such as Sri Netheti Duragaiah, Mr.Timothy, Mr. Vishnubatla Bapu Naidu, Mr. B.Simanchalam and Mr.Alluru Kannaiah Naidu, Mr.Manikya Rao, Mr.Munukooti Subbarao, Mrs.Kunda Shanthamma and Mr.Betha Ramasamy were brought in from Andhra to meet the demand for Telugu education.
The second generation Telugus did not see much progress in terms of employment, incomes nor education in the first half of the century. Majority of Telugus remained as labourers as they had no access to education. It was only in the late thirties the above mentioned Telugu teachers provided primary Telugu education to a number of second generation Telugus. Mr.Koruvada Vengkappa, Mr.Madhini Somu Naidu, Mr.Adari Appala Naidu, Mr.Boddi Samudram, Mr.Koribilli Appalanaidu, Mr.Nysetti Rama Murthy, Mr.Kaseena Ramaniah, Mr.Dwarapudi Somu Naidu, Mr.Ennala Ramulu, Mr.Achanna and Mr.Paradesi Simanchalam were amongst these Telugu students who later became Telugu teachers in estates with Telugu population. Mr Yellapu Krishnamurthy who was a Telugu teacher was educated in India. The schools comprised of one room wooden building which accommodated all primary standards. Every Telugu school had generally only one teacher or maximum of two teachers depending on the total number of students. The young teachers who were between 15 to 20 years will have to teach Telugu, Arithmetic, Geography and History for all six standards. The Telugu teachers were generally untrained until the sixties. However, it cannot be denied that the Telugu Teachers were truly dedicated and laid a foundation for the future of the Telugus in Malaysia. These Telugu teachers were also the prime-movers for the formation of the Telugu Association of Malaysia in 1956, with the support of standard seven Telugu students at Simpang Ampat, Lower Perak. Some of these Standard Seven Telugu students such as Mr.A.Subramaniam, Mr. B.K.Samudram, Mr.B.K.Simanchalam, Mr.Gummadi Appalanaidu, Mr. Appalanarasiah, Mr.Balakrishna, Miss Sarammah, Miss V.B.Paapa, Miss Elizabeth, Mr.Bangaru, Mr.Dhuppatla Chinnayya, Mr.Gorli Dhemudu, Mr Veerasamy, Mr.D.V.Sree Ramulu, Mr. Yellapu Apparao, Mr.Gopisetti Sreeramulu, Mr.Polamarasetti Ramulu, Mr. Polamarasetti Laxmana became Telugu teachers. Mr.Karri.Atchutha Ramaiah taught Telugu at Sri Satya Sai school after retiring from RTM. Amongst the Standard seven students Mr.K.Abraham and Mr.Mande Laxamana became trained English language teachers while Mr.T.M.Apparao and Mr.Bodetti Deimudu became graduate teachers. With these developments, more Telugu schools were built throughout Peninsula Malaya which benefited the third generation Telugus. The biggest Telugu school was at Palem estate with six Telugu teachers.
‘Telugu language was given a lot of importance by the second generation Telugus. This is partly because most of them had Telugu education. This propelled numerous Telugu magazines and Books to be printed. Telugu monthly/Bimonthly magazines which were circulated in Malaysia were as follows:-:-
1958: Andhra Jyothi (Monthly) Editor - Mr.John Lalaiah
1960 :Andhra Sangha waarthalu (Monthly) Editor -Mr.Madini Somunaidu
1961 : Andhra Ranjani (monthly) Editors Mr.Madini Somunaidu and Mr.Alluri Kanniah Naidu.
1963 : Vidhesaandhra-1963 (Fortnightly News paper) Editor Mr.S.B.Reddy, Sub-Editor Mr.Achutha
1965 : Andhra Sanga charyalu (Monthly) Editors Mr. M.D Somunaidu. Andhra Sanga Charyalu later changed its name to 'Malaysia Telugu Sangamu' Editor Mr.D.V.Sree Ramulu .
1972 'Telugu Thalli' (Bimonthly)Editor Mr. D.V. It was released as printed news paper in 1976 –
Mr.D.V. Sree Ramulu .and Mande Laxmana were it's editors.
1977 'Malaysia Telugu Vaani' –Editor Beesetty .Nokiah .
1986 – Thelugu Vidhya – Edited by Mr.Madhini Somunaidu
1990 Sangha Charyalu – Editor Mr.P.S. Ramu Naidu
Telugu Books and Articles released in Malaysia were as follows:-
1965- ‘Ugadhi’ –Edited by Mr. Karri Achutha Ramaiah and Mr. D.V. Sree Ramulu (First Telugu book printed in Malaysia)
1967- Muripinche Muvvalu – Edited by Mr. Beesetti Nokiah
1969- Malaysia Telugu Bhashaa Bhothini - By Telugu Teachers.
1972- Theeksha – Edited by Mr.G.V.Subramaniam
1975- Telugu Thalli – Edited by Mr.Karri Achutha Ramaiah
2000- Malaysia Thelugu Vari Valasa written by Mr Yellapu Krishna Murthy
2000- Theluguvaru Thelugu Bhasha written by Mr Madhini Somunaidu
2006- Malaysia Thelugu Sangha charithramu by Mr Dhadi Sree Ramulu
Apart from the fortnightly Telugu newspapers, magazines and books published in Malaysia, Telugu magazines such as Chandamama and Vijayachitra cinema magazines also helped the Malaysian Telugus to be close to their language. Sri Muripindi Vengkataswamy Naidu was the first Telugu to bring in Telugu magazines and newspapers to Malaysia in the late 40’s followed by Mr.Munukooti Subbarao and Mr.Koruvada Subramaniam in early 50’s. Telugu Pastors such as Pastor Jeevaratnam, Pastor Samudram and Pastor Joseph helped in preserving the sanctity of the Telugu language by bringing in a beautiful health magazine called ‘Maargha Dharshi’.
The second generation Telugus only saw some light after the sixties with the Telugu teachers obtaining training and estate workers receiving marginally higher wages. Approximately 50 % of second generation Telugus had Telugu education with a small percentage able to communicate in English. Most second generation had bicycles as their main mode for transport. It was still rare to see second generation Telugus owning cars but having a Radio was not rare any more. Less than 50 second generation Telugus owned cars. The love for Telugu language was at its height amongst this generation Telugus. Dr.C.Apparao, Dr.Vijayan Sannasy and Dr.D.Dayananda were amongst the many prominent second generation Telugus who had excelled in education and had contributed significantly for the progress of TAM.
The major change amongst the Telugus only took place with the emergence of the third generation Telugus. The second generation of Telugus was determined to see their future generations are released from the clutches of poverty. They took advantage of the available primary Telugu education and the English education (primary/secondary). Most third generation Telugus managed to get primary Telugu education and had access to secondary education in English through Remove Classes. Those who were near English schools had both their primary and secondary education in English. A small percentage of Telugus managed to obtain tertiary education while majority of the third generation Telugus ended up with Lower Certificate Education or Senior Cambridge Certificate. In this era we saw the emergence of more English teachers of Telugu origin, Telugu PhD’s, Scientists, doctors, lawyers, engineers, planters, bankers, managers, Insurance professionals and in many other professions. As places for tertiary education was limited in the 60’s and 70’s all those who could not get accommodated in Malaysian universities went abroad, largely to India to pursue their education. YB Dato K.R.Appala Naidu (senator), Late Dr. Muthyalu (Educationalist), Dr.A.Krishnamoorthy (Ex-president of MMA, TAM), Dato Dr.Appala Naidu (Gynocologist and Social worker), Dato Bala Ram (Ex-senator), Mr.B.Moorthy (ex-president TAM and Lawyer) Mr.Nook Naidu (President Sujana Co-op, ex-vice president TAM, Mr.Abdul Rahman Said (Income tax Consultant and Consumer activist), Dr. Rajah Naidu (Scientist) , Dr. Appanna (Scientist) and Appanna Naidu (Senior Civil Servant) were amongst the many third generation Telugus with tertiary education, social conscience and status. Insurance Industry has also elevated hundreds of Telugus who have elevated themselves to senior positions. Prominent amongst them were Mr.Malla Nookaraju, Dr.Paul Naidu (president TAM and main initiator of TSN), Mr. A.M.Naidu, Mr.Paidi Naidu, Mr.Jaganatham and Mr.Konathala Ramunaidu. Other third generation Telugus who made it big in life were former MAS Frankfurt Station Manager and late Mr.Adari S.Krishnamurthy,
Migration from estates amongst the better educated third generation Telugus became imminent. The younger Telugus started moving from estates to nearby towns and metropolitans, in seek of employment. Though initially the third generation Telugus had to manage in rented premises, gradually they acquired enough financial strength to own their own residences. By the beginning of this millennium we can proudly say that most third generation Telugus who had migrated to urban areas have a good standard of living with their own residences, cars or a minimum a motor-cycle, a TV and a reasonable amount of savings. All those who remained in rural areas, began owning small-holdings and elevated their financial positions. We can proudly say that it will be hard to find the third generation Telugus to have a house-hold monthly income of less than RM 1000. My estimate is that that there will be at least 20 % of Telugu families with more than RM 3000 house-hold income. Currently the estimated 250 Telugu millionaires emerge largely from the third and fourth generations. As Telugus became more educated and broad-minded they were more open to marry outside their own caste and at times out of their own-ethnic community.
It is also pertinent that the third generation also strived to preserve Telugu culture by organizing numerous cultural activities during Telugu functions. Amongst Telugus who have participated in Telugu arts such as chirathalu, Dhatu Bajanalu and Burra Kathalu include Telugu enthusiasts such as Gavara Dhemudu, Apparao with help from veterans such Yellapu Venkatratnam, Mallu Naidu and Yellapu Krishnamurthy.
The fourth generation Telugus excelled in education, and was well endowed with better living and educational conditions. This is a proud generation for Telugus in Malaysia. It is very common to see at least one tertiary educated Telugu in each family. There are a number of families where every child has obtained tertiary education. With the fourth generation, we can easily say that there are an estimated 500 Doctors, 250 lawyers, 250 Engineers, 150 IT graduates and another 2000 with degrees in various fields. Most of them have landed properties with good employment and household income above RM 3000. Almost all Telugus of this generation own cars for their transport. Most of the Telugus are concentrated in urban areas of Klang Valley, and the cities and metropolitans of peninsular Malaysia. Amongst the emerging Telugu business community include Subra Paidithally, Gopisetty Lechumana, N.B.Ledchumana, Kala Thirumoorthy , Jami Kanniah, Sulu/Kamala, Sannasi naidu and JS Maniam. The third and fourth generations are 100% born in Malaysia and have Malaysian citizenship and their total allegiance is for Malaysia. Most have no communication with their relatives in India.
The third and fourth generation Telugus have a considerable number of Medical practices owned by Doctors such as Dato Appala Naidu, Dr.Vijayan, Dr.Soorian, Dr.Krishnamoorthy, Dr S.A. Naidu, Dr.Sathyanada Rao,.Dr.Subramani, Datuk Dr.Achiah Kumar, Datuk Dr.Praksh rao, Dr.R.Daya, Dr.Jami Krishnamoorthy, Dr.T.M.Appala Naidu, Dr.Nanda, Dr.Dhadi Haranatha Rao , Dr Jagga rao, Dr.Nagayya, Dr. Manohar, Dr.Ranga Raju, Dr. Venkateswara Rao, Dr. Jaya Ram and many others.
The fourth wave of shift of about 5000 Telugus from India came in after 1970’s and they are largely IT and engineering professionals and Academicians as well as Medical specialists. Prof Gangadharam, Prof. Dhandayudham, Dr.Subrhmanyam, Mr. Sharma, Mr.Cherla Shastri, Mr.Ali Khan, Mr.Nambu Satya, Mr.NVB Reddy and Mr. UP.Raju who had close ties with TAM, fall in this category.
Population of Telugus in Malaysia
Historical records indicate that the Telugu population was 39,986 in 1921. With the average 2 % annual growth, population would have doubled every 35 years. Based on this assumption, Telugu population would have doubled to 79,972 by 1956. However during 1921 and 1956 there was an additional 40,000 in-migration of Telugus to this country, under the Kangany or Thandelu system. Conservatively even if take a 30, 000 net in-migration (less out-migration) Telugu population in Malaya in 1956 would have been 79,992 + 30,000 i.e. 109,992. After 1956 almost all Telugus have decided to make Malaysia their permanent country except during 1969 about 1000 Telugus decided to leave the country. Based on these facts, the Telugu population would have doubled in 1991 to 219,984 and in 2013 the population with an annual increase of 2 % would have increased to 353,766.
Milestones of Telugus in Malaysia
7th to 14th Century- Advent of Kalinga traders to Malaya
1832 to 1930- Migration of Telugu professionals, administrators and artisans from Madras State
1885-1950 – Migration of Telugus from Largely Vishakapatnam District to Malaya
1892 Mr, A,Subbiah Naidu initiated the first Indian Association in Penang.
1894 Mr.M.A.C.Rao formed and headed the Indian association in Taiping
1906 Mr Sengalrayan Naidu contributed significantly to the Kinta Indian Association. The latter has also a road in Ipoh in his name in recognition to his community service
Early 1900- Mr. S.H.Veerraswamy who was a prominent lawyer and graduate from Oxford university served in the Federal and State Council under the British Administration of Malaya
1937 – First Telugu school at Kuala Perak Estate
1937 – Mr.D.Duragiah – The first Telugu teacher brought from India
1937 to 1960 – Establishment of Telugu schools
1940’s-Mr.Muripindi Venkatasamy- First Telugu to bring in Telugu Newspapers and Magazines from India
1955- Madhini Somu Naidu -First Pro-term Secretary Andhra Association of Malaya
1956 –Formation of Andhra Association of Malaysia Mr.Siddhayya- First elected President AAM and Mr.D.Duragiah –First elected General Secretary of AAM
1958: Andhra Jyothi (Monthly) Editor - Mr.John Lalaiah
1960- TAM-Sitiawan and Sungai Patani Branches formed
1961: TAM- South Perak Branch formed
1964: TAM- Neg. Sembilan, Central Perak, Teluk Anson, Simpang Ampat and Selangor Branches formed
1965: TAM-Taiping, Tanjomg Malim, Kulim, Sabak Bernam and Sungai Siput Branches formed
1963 : Vidhesaandhra-1963 (Fortnightly News paper) Editor Mr.S.B.Reddy, Sub-Editor Mr.Achutha Ramiah
1965 : Andhra Sanga charyalu (Monthly) Editors Mr. M.D Somunaidu. Andhra Sanga Charyalu later changed its name to 'Malaysia Telugu Sangamu' Editor Mr.D.V.Sree Ramulu
1965 –AAM’s acquisition of 10 acres of land at Simpang Ampat, Perak
1962- Dr.K.M.Reddy – First Telugu Medical Doctor
1965 –Launch of ‘Muripinche Muvvalu’ Editor –Mr. Beesetty Nokiah
1960’s –Dr.Vijayan – First second generation Telugu to qualify as a Medical Doctor
1960 :Andhra Sangha Vaarthalu (Monthly) Editor -Mr.Madini Somunaidu
1961 : Andhra Ranjani (monthly) Editors Mr.Madini Somunaidu and Mr.Alluri Kanniah Naidu
1965- Ugadhi – Edited by Mr. Karri Achutha Ramaiah and Mr. D.V. Sree Ramulu
1965 -1975 – Telugus acquiring land with the fragmentation of Estates
1965- TAM Simpnag Ampat Branch celebrated Gurajada Apparao contributions to Telugu Language and Poetry
1968: TAM Klang Branch formed
1969- Malaysia Telugu Bhashaa Bhothini - By Telugu Teachers
1970- Formation of Sujana Co-operative Society
1970’s- Dr.Soorian – First Telugu to be elected to Parliament
1970’s – Mr.Appalanaidu Bendiah- First Telugu qualified as a Chartered Accountant
1973- Launch of Thelugu Thalli - Edited by Mr.Achutha Ramiah & Mr.D.V.Sree Ramulu
1970’s – Dr.A.AppaRao –First Malaysian Telugu to be conferred a Phd.
1972 - 'Telugu Thalli' (Bimonthly)Editor Mr. D.V. It was released as printed news paper in 1976 – Mr.D.V. Sree Ramulu .and Mande Laxmana were it's editors.
1972-‘Theeksha’ – Edited by Mr.G.V.Subramaniam
1973 –Mr. Appanna Naidu- Presents paper on ‘The Three Generation of Telugus in Malaysia’ at USM
1975:TAM Segamat and Kluang Branches formed
1976:TAM Rawang Branch formed
1976- Mr. Adari Appanna Naidu –First Malaysian Telugu to present a paper on G.S.P. at UNCTAD
1970’s- Mr.Mariah Naidu – First Telugu Athlete to represent the country in 400 meters
1977 –Launch of Malaysia ‘Thelugu Vaani’ edited by Bheesetty Nokiah
1979: TAM Pahang Branch formed
1979 –TAM’s acquisition of Telugu Bavanamu at Ipoh road, KL
1970 to 2005- Purchase of properties by the Telugu association and its branches
1970 to 1990 – Migration of Telugus to urban areas
1981- Second World Telugu Conference –Organising Chaiman:Dr.C.Apparao
1981- Telugu Exhibition at National Museum-Project Chairaman-Mr.V.N.ramachandran
1981- Dr.D.Dayananda–The first president of SOMGRIM and the first Malaysian Telugu Radiologist
1980’s- Dato Dr.Appala Naidu -First Telugu Medical Doctor to start a Medical Center
1982-Dr.C.Apparao conferred with a Phd (Kalaprapurna title) by the Andhra University
1984-Ralph Neeraj Business Director of Asia Pacificfor Sachi and Sachi Worldwide
1986- Mr.Madhini Somu Naidu – started editing and distributing Telugu Vidyai news letter
1993 –Dr.A.Krishnamoorthy-First Telugu elected as President of Malaysian Medical Assn.
1995 –Dato Balaram –First Telugu appointed to senate and the first Telugu Dato.
1995 –Prof Dr Ramani Vijayan–First Telugu to become a Professor of Medicine at University. Malaya
1997- Increase of Telugu programming on RTM
1997 – Launch of the First Web Page by TAM –Selangor Branch
1997 – TAM Selangor Branch recognizes parents through ‘Thallidhanrula Sanmana Sabha’
1997-TAM Kulim branch acquisition of Building
1997- Ralph Neeraj appointed editor for Business trends, the Golfer and Executive Today magazines
1990’s- Dr.Rajah Naidu – First Telugu scientist to become an Int. consultant in Palm Oil Development
1990’s – Dr.Tarini Soorianarayana- First Telugu to be Geography professor at University Malaya
1990’s – Dr.Subramaniam Arjunan- First Telugu Phd in Income tax law and consultant in Income Tax
1990’s- Dr.Paul Naidu –First Telugu to be elected as the President of NAMLIA.
1990’s –Dr.Ranga Mohana Rao –First Telugu Doctor from UKM and recipient of double gold medal
1990’s Dr C. Apparao was awarded with ‘Kala Prapurna’ by Andhra University for his service to Telugu Culture and Society
2000 – Purchase of Land and Building for Samskruthi Nilayam –Prime Mover:Dr.Paul Naidu
2000- TAM Selangor/Wilayah launched Telugu Calender-Chairman Mr Sree Ramulu
2000-Launch of Sangha Charyalu-Editor P.S.Ramunaidu
2000- Mr.Kala Venu Ramadas- First Telugu to be part of Malaysia Cricket team
2001-Tam participated in SEA Games Totch launch
2001- Formation of Telugu Intelectual Society –Founder members: City Maniam and Beesetty Nokiah
2002-TAM Sel/Wilayah launched Telugu Sampradayamulu Book-Smt Parvathy Mohan, Mr. Nambu Satyanarayana and Mr.Sree Ramulu
2003- TAM Rawang and Klang branches acquisition of their respective buildings
2003- Formation of Telugu Youth and Telugu Mahila
2003-TAM launched annual Keerthanalu, Bhajanalu, Kavithalu, Story telling &Chirathalu competition
2004- TAM Kinta District acquisition of Building
2004-TAM launched annual Muggulu competition
2004- Beesetty Nokiah – The first to launch a Telugu Musical album
2004-Appointment of Dato K.R.A.Naidu as the second Telugu Senator
2005- Increase of Telugu programming on Astro
2005- Launch of MiTV, the first Telugu Channel in Malaysia
2006- TAM Golden Jubilee.- Organising Chairman : Dr.Achaih Kumar Rao
2006- First local Telugu production broadcasted on astro-Prime mover TYM-Venkat
2009- Dato Edmund Santara Ramunaidu, CEO Masterskill.
2010- 150 years of Telugu Heritage gathering of an unprecedented 15,000 Telugus at Putrajaya Convention Centre for which the chief Guest was the Malaysian Prime-Minister Dato Seri Nazib Abdul Razak. Organising Chairman- Mr Gopisetti Lechumana and Presided by the President TAM Datuk Dr. Achiah Kumar Rao.
2010-Telugu Foundation under the umbrella of TAM was formed to assist primarily Telugus in their pursuit for higher education
2011- Formation of Telugu Welfare and Cultural Association-President Datuk Dr Prakash Rao
2011- Formation of Association of Pyramid Meditation - President –N.B.Ledchumana
2012- Mahila Convention at PWTC- Mahila leader-R.Dhanalaxmi
2012- Telugu Youth Malaysia Convention at Port Dickson- Youth Leader
2012- Reconstruction of Venkateswara Alayam at Sungai Sumun, Perak
2012- Ms Malini – conferred with a Phd for her thesis on Telugu migration in Malaysia
Telugus who have contributed significantly for the progress of Telugu Association, Telugu Culture and Telugu Language
First Generation Telugus:Netheti Duragaiah, Alluru Kannaiah Naidu , Timothy, B.Simhachalam, Kunda Sidhayya, Kothapalli Ranga Rao Choudhry, K.V.Swamy
Second Generation Telugus: Dr.C.Apparao, Madhini Somanaidu, Boddi Samudram, Adari Appalanaidu, Pothala Mariah, Murupindi Veeru Naidu, Tarini Varahalu, T.A.Appalasamy , K.Vengkappa, Tarini Sannibabu N.Ramamurthy, Kaseena Ramanaiah, Tarini Sannibabu, Dwarapudi Somunaidu, Dwarapudi Subramaniam, Dwarapudi Appala Naidu, K.R.Raju, D.V.Sree Ramulu Yellapu Krishnamurthy, Parasaramulu, Koruvada Subramaniam, Mande Laxamana Dwarapudi Applanaidu, Dr.Vijayan, Dr.Dayananda, , , Beesetty Nokiah, Allu Subramaniam, Allu Simhachalam, Kalidas, Dhuppatla Chinnayya, Bangaru, Gummadi Appalanaidu, P.S.Ramu Naidu, R. Apparao, K.R.Raju, S.B.Reddy, K.Atchutha Ramaiah, A.L.Mariah Rao, R.Paidi Naidu, M.S.Sharma, Ramalaxmanas, Juval, Yellapu Appa Rao, Budha Appalanaidu, K.Abraham, Mr.V.N.Ramachandran, Paramaguru, Narayanasamy, John Lalaiah, Buloka, V.G.V.Naidu, K.Badhrachalam, Madhini Samudhram, Guntapalli Ramunaidu, Polamarasetti Mallu Naidu, Koribilli Gangu Naidu, B.Appannah, B.K.Sinnaiah, Nagireddy Ramulu, S.Appala Naidu, M.E.Appala Naidu, G.V.Subramaniam, Kanniah Naidu, Madhini Samudram, Sannasy Naidu, Appanna (TA), S,B.Reddy, Mrs.Kasturbai Swamy, Mrs. Ramulamah Soma Naidu, Mrs. Savithri Cheetaramiah, Mrs.Laxanammah Krishnan, Mrs.Krishnakumari Kalidas, Ramakrishna, P.Gangu Naidu, B.R.Simhachalm, Mr.Lechumanan (ASP) Mr.Achanna, .K.Simhachalam, Stephen Ramulu, Appalasamy (Jend).,
Third Generation Telugus : Dr.A.Krishnamoorthy, B.Moorthy, Dr.Paul Naidu ,Abdul Rahman Syed Ali, Adari S.Krishanmoorthy, Konathala Ramunaidu, Sree Ramulu, , Venkatesulu Juval, Venkatesan, Veera Rao, J.S.Maniam, Adari Appanna Naidu, Akiah Appalanaidu, Nook Naidu, Dr. Nagayya, , Ramulammah, Devi, P. S. Ramunaidu, Malla Appalanaidu., Sree Ramulu, Dr.Nanda, Mr.Seethapathy, Gopisitti Lechumana, M.E.Subramaniam, Gorli Themudu, Madhini Ramunaidu, S.Ramunaidu, Adari Apparao, Soorithemudu, Gavara Dhemudu, Subra Padithally, T.M.Appalasamy, Mari Naidu, R.Ramadas, City Maniam, T.M.Apparao, Appalasamy (UP), M.S.Maniam, Sundram, Sannibabu, Koribilli Suranarayana, , N.B.Ledchumana, , Dr.Isparudu, I.S.Maniam, Dr.Yellapu Rao, Subba Rao, Mrs Dr.Buloka Rao, Jami kanniah, Yelaga Muniandy, Neeraj, G.T. Appalasamy, S.Ganesan, R.Soorinarayana, Krishnamoorthy, S.Malla Naidu, G.E.Appala Naidu, B.A. Sooria Themudu, A.Paidithallie, Krishna Rao, G.Nagendran, Ramachandran, Apparao, S.Ramanaidu, R.S.Subramaniam, Sri Ramana Dr.K.Vengkateshwara Rao, Sri Kailasam, G.T.Sri Ramulu, Bala( Appalanaidu), Thirumoorthy,
Fourth Generation Telugus : Dato Dr.Achiah Kumar, R.Krishnamoorthy, Dato Dr Prakash Rao, Adari Adhinarayana, Krishna Kumar, S.Subramaniam, B.Parames Rao, Dato Dr. Kantha Rao, K.R.Ramu Naidu, Dato Edmund Santana Ramunaidu, Venkataramana, Vengkatesan,
The 21st Century -Golden Age of Malaysian Telugus
The dawn of the new millennium and the 21st Century has witnessed the resurgence of the Telugu pride in Malaysia. The factors leading to the bright future of Malaysian Telugus is as follows:-
i. The foundation laid by the first three generations is so solid and strong that there is no turning back for our future generations in terms of education, wealth, recognition, pride and prosperity.
ii. We will witness the emergence of thousands of Telugu professionals and Graduates in every field. Every household will have professionals and graduates amongst them. We will see Telugu doctors in almost every hospital and every town in Malaysia. Telugus will venture into diversified businesses. Telugu millionaires will be beyond count. Increasing number of Telugu females will acquire tertiary education.
iii. Our mammoth events such as the Second World Telugu Conference 1981, The Golden Jubilee Celebration 2006 and the 150 Years of Telugu Heritage functions and the numerous cultural, religious and social activities organised by our Telugu Associations have showcased to the Malaysian population, our rich culture, heritage and organisational skills. All Telugus will be proud of their origin, language and culture.
iv. The Government has already started recognising the Telugu Community in Malaysia. The recent awarding of RM 6 million to TAM and funds for Venkatewara Alayam and for many Telugu projects indicates that we have elevated to a different level.
v. We do not anymore depend on the existing public broadcasters for entertainment in Telugu. The Internet is providing the rich Telugu culture, Telugu entertainment programmes, within the four walls of your home.
vi. The Telugus have the capacity to have decent standard of living with the required luxuries such as a comfortable house, healthy food, good education, proper clothing’s, own vehicles and Wifi facilities.
vii. We will also witness our own cultural centre in the foreseeable future. All TAM branches will gradually have their own buildings to conduct their activities.
viii. More Telugus will be able to write and read Telugu. TAM has already started its Telugu classes during December holidays through which we have generated hundreds of Telugus who are literate in Telugu.
ix. More Telugu movies will be screened in theatres of Malaysia.
x. There are about 10 Telugu Datos/ Datuks in Malaysia and many more had been honoured with other titles such as PPT, PPN, AMN, KMN, AMP and so forth. More successful Telugus will be honoured by the Royalties and the Government of Malaysia in the future.
xi. Telugu youths and Mahilas have been supporting TAM activities and they will become the backbone of the future TAM.
xii. Telugus will soon witness important roles played in the main stream politics and policy formulation in Malaysia.
xiii. With better educated Telugus we can anticipate an increase of marriages amongst Telugus and with this we can be assured of a more lasting Telugu language and culture in Malaysia.
xiv. More Telugu websites will be created and information dissemination amongst Telugus will be instantaneous through websites, network platforms such as facebook, twitter and smart phones.
Conclusion
The majority of the third wave of Telugu migrants’ journey in Malaysia has not been a smooth ride. From the hard life of clearing of jungles, working long hours in rubber, coconut and palm-oil plantations for small wages, the community has come a long way, in just over a hundred years and almost four generations, to enjoy the current comforts of life. It has been the strong determination, life-long sacrifices of parents, the migration from rural to urban areas, the right moral support from elders, teachers and leaders of Telugu Association, has made this remarkable progress possible. The present generation must always remember the past and reciprocate towards their parents, elders, leaders and teachers with kindness and benevolence to make their lives better. They also have the obligation to continue with the momentum of progress and to further elevate their next generations of Telugus to greater heights.
I wish to record my sincere appreciation to Professor Emiratus Khoo Kay Kim, Mr.Devulapally Ramanuja Rao. Mr.D.V.Sree Ramulu. Mr.Achutha Ramaiah, Late Mr.R.P.Ramulu and Mr.Beesetty Nokiah, for their valuable input and information, which has helped me in shaping this article.
