Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India, in Washington DC, Sripriya Ranganathan, has praised the Tamil diaspora in the United States for their remarkable achievements and contributions.
The Tamil Sangam of Greater Washington (TSGW) hosted a farewell reception for Ambassador Ranganathan on February 14, 2025, at the Reston Community Center in Virginia. Speaking at the reception, Ranganathan expressed her admiration for the community’s success. Mukund Santhanam, Ambassador Ranganathan’s husband, also accompanied her at the event.
“I have been very proud of what the Tamil community has achieved, and that is completely independent of any connection with the Embassy,” she noted.
She highlighted the diaspora’s dedication to preserving and promoting the Tamil language in the education system. “I know the efforts you have made to keep the language alive – not just teaching Tamil to your children but also integrating it into the school system. By doing so, you have accomplished something extraordinary, and I must commend you for that.”
Ranganathan also applauded the community’s commitment to celebrating Tamil culture through music, dance, and traditions. “You have ensured that these art forms remain vibrant by encouraging young people to stay curious and engaged.”
She described the relationship between the Tamil community and the Embassy as “extraordinary,” thanking the diaspora for their unwavering support.
“For us, building bridges with different segments of our community has been one of our greatest strengths, and we have truly valued it,” she said. “I take great pride in having connected with the Tamil community. It gives me immense satisfaction – not only have we built strong ties, but I have also developed deep friendships with many of you.”
State Senator Kannan Srinivasan praised Ranganathan’s leadership, stating, “It was wonderful to know you. We will certainly miss you.” He emphasized that her contributions had strengthened both the Tamil community and US-India relations.
Past President of TSGW, Rajaram Srinivasan reflected on coordinating the welcome reception for Ranganathan at the University of North America, Virginia, on October 21, 2022.
“It was a successful event. I can’t believe three years have passed so quickly, and now we are here at your farewell. I had the privilege of coordinating several Tamil diaspora events at the Indian Embassy and India House with Madam’s support, ensuring greater representation for our community,” he added.
Srinivasan also noted Ranganathan’s consistent support whenever the Tamil diaspora needed assistance.
Past President TSGW of Balagan Arumugaswamy compared Ranganathan to Vijayalakshmi Pandit, the first woman Indian Ambassador to the US and sister of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and wished her continued success in serving India.
First Secretary (ITOU) at the Embassy of India, Jigar Pradipkumar Raval, stressed that he admires the Tamil culture, music, and tradition, echoing Ranganathan’s sentiments about the community’s lasting impact on future generations. Counsellor (Space), N. Lakshmi Narasimhan, and Sriram Vasudevan from the Administration wing of the Embassy also shared their thoughts at the event.
Past President of TSGW, Hemapriya Ponnuvel spoke about Ranganathan’s unwavering support for Tamil diaspora events. She also highlighted that many Tamil women look up to her as a role model.
President of TSGW, Senthil Kumar; Past President of FeTNA, Sundar Kuppuswamy; Past President of TSGW John Benedict and other former leaders of the Tamil diaspora also praised Ranganathan’s leadership and her contributions to the India-US relations.
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