Soloman Pappaiah, Veteran Tamil Scholar and Orator, Passes Away
With his distinctive voice, quick wit and knack for turning everyday questions into lively debates, Pappaiah became an integral part of how Tamils experienced and enjoyed festivals on television for decades.
Madurai: Eminent Tamil scholar, veteran professor and celebrated 'Pattimandram' (debate) moderator Solomon Pappaiah died due to age-related illness here on Friday. He was 90. He is survived by a son and a daughter. Pappaiah was associated with The American College in Madurai for more than three decades, where he taught Tamil and went on to head the department.
With his distinctive voice, quick wit and knack for turning everyday questions into lively debates, Pappaiah became an integral part of how Tamils experienced and enjoyed festivals on television for decades. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2021 for his contribution to literature and education. Pappaiah's mortal remains have been kept at his residence in Gnanaolivupuram near Arapalayam in Madurai where literary personalities, political leaders and members of the film industry are paying their last respects. Sources said Pappaiah had expressed his wish to be cremated. His final rites are scheduled to be held on Saturday.
