Chennai: Andi Chinnathambi in nearby Pamban is among the most active fishermen even though he is 108 years old. Several of his sea mates have died over the years and three of his sons are no more even as his family of over 35 includes several great grandchildren.
The old man now owns 12 fishing boats that are almost always engaged at sea. “Chinnathambi can accurately read the wind and tide, based on which he would decide what kind of nets his boats should use and in which direction they must set off for good catches. He makes good money but then, he works very hard even at this age”, said X. Alvin, fisherman of Pamban, adding, “He has been a great teacher of the art of handling the boat even in the toughest of situations at sea”.
“At times, I climb into the boat along with the boys to set out to sea for fishing. The feel of the boat speeding above the tossing waves is a thrill that I cannot shake off.
I feel young at such times. And when the nets yield a big catch, I can’t help bursting into a laughter and an old song”, Chinnathambi told DC.
When asked how he keeps so fit, he replied, “I do not have any tiffin in the mornings.
My lunch must have fish curry. Also, playing with my great grandchildren has always been a tonic”. Wife Ramayi is sure her old man has seen 108 summers by the sea but she is not sure how old she herself is. “I know I am in my 80s, going by the count of my children and their age”, she said with a wide toothless grin.
