Page 57 - Memorial Book Thilaga Mylvaganam

Mrs Kanagalingam, who is 96 years old and lives with one of
her daughters in England, demonstrates the deep friendship
between the two.

When we migrated to Australia in 1985 there were very few Sri
Lankan families in Sydney, and everyone knew everybody.
When we started the Homebush Tamil School, Mylvaganam
aunty was one of the first group of teachers and she also taught
both my children Karthiga and Kavita. At school she was a
strict disciplinarian and an outspoken teacher whose quick wit
could keep her young students on their toes. She continued to
teach at the school for many years. She also taught the Religious
class at Homebush Primary school. She was well liked and
respected by the parents, fellow teachers and students. Without
fail, she would attend the Friday Bajans conducted by Saiva
Manram at Strathfield Girls High School. She was also a
committee member of the Tamil library.

Mylvaganam aunty was a person who was ever ready to help
others. She taught several refugee boys and girls in their
English language skills. I am also aware of her assistance to
some of her disadvantaged kith and kin from Sri Lanka. She
also encouraged her children to send money to their relatives in
need. I found that Mylvaganam aunty never hesitated to speak
her mind whenever she felt injustice was done.

Mrs Mylvaganam was a devoted wife, mother and a
grandmother, a well-respected community member. She will be
missed by all, but her memory will live on in us forever.

Bala Balendra CPA
Former Deputy Mayor of Auburn Council

Late Mrs. Tilakavati Mylvaganam 49