My Beloved Chammi Mama - Memories to Treasure

Shree Gurubhyo Namaha

It is indeed a great opportunity and privilege to write about the great Sri M.A. Lakshmithathachar. I feel truly blessed to be part of this family, having grown up and spent time with my beloved Chaami Mama, as we affectionately called him.

During my younger days, we spent almost every summer holiday at our grandmother's house in Melukote. Mornings would begin with the chanting of shlokas, followed by a trip to the nearby lake, where he encouraged us to learn swimming. A visit to the Academy of Sanskrit Research was always a highlight, where we gained knowledge about the vast variety of plants and their medicinal values. I vividly remember the awe-inspiring library of manuscripts he worked tirelessly to preserve, ensuring their availability for future generations.

He was a powerhouse of knowledge. Whether it was science, technology, Sanskrit, or the Puranas, he could explain everything with such ease and clarity. Even after my marriage to Ravi, of the Ikkalakkhi family-who were also disciples of Alwarswamy we would visit at least once a year to seek Chaami Mama's or Acharya's blessings. Each visit was marked by his warm welcome and enlightening conversations. A visit to his farm in Melukote was a must. He would proudly take us on a tour, generously sharing fruits and vegetables with us, asking us to distribute them to others rather than keeping anything for himself a reflection of his selfless character.

I would like to share a cherished memory During one of our visits for the Vairamudi Festival, he took excellent care of us, even making Mysore Pak, which was absolutely delicious. On that trip, I admired a pair of brass lamps in a shop near his house. When I wanted to purchase them, Mama refused to let me pay. Instead, he bought them for me, saying, "It's my gift to you. You are my daughter." That moment was so touching. Even now, I light those lamps during Deepawali and fondly remember him.

Though he is no longer with us in physical form, his memories and blessings are ever-present. My family and I offer our humble pranams to this great soul.