Subramanian, role model of philanthropy, no more

He was 78 and undergoing treatment over the last few days. Fondly called as ‘gear man,’ Subramanian is also revered for his philanthropic activities. Shanthi Gears established a name for itself in the manufacture of geared motors in textile machineries and gears for automobiles.

After completing diploma from PSG Polytechnic in the 1960s, Subramanian established Shanthi Engineering and Trading Co in Coimbatore to manufacture small gears in 1969. In 1972, he founded Shanthi Gear Products (Private) Limited.

In a short span, the company got itself listed in the stock exchange in 1986 and rose to become the third largest player in the gears industry in the country. In 2012, a Chennai-based firm acquired the company.

Thereafter, Subramanian began to concentrate on his philanthropic work by starting Shanthi Social Service in 1996. He put in more efforts to reach out to the needy by serving lunch for Rs 10 and tiffin at Rs 5 in the canteen. It was free for the elderly.

At the not for profit hospital, the patients were charged just Rs 30 for consultation and medicines given at the pharmacy in huge discounts. Others works including diagnostic centre, blood bank, an optic care centre, radiology and dialysis services were also known for their cheap and quality services.

The foundation also runs a petrol bunk, which sells fuel at a pre-hike rate till the stock gets over. Subramanian, who was also supporting the education of underprivileged students, is survived by his three daughters.