 Adyar and ‘Arivoli Iyakkam’
 Even today, Adyar continues to be the locality of the affluent. This is evident from from the very appearance and grandeur of the shops in this area. The poor occupy the area along the seashore and the Buckingham Canal in an area called Damodarapuram. It was in these areas, the literacy mission program, ‘Arivoli Iyakkam’, was initiated in
Chennai.
These Canal bank residents are in for a different kind of experience in the near future. That is the Mass Rapid Rail Transport System in Chennai. The pillars can be seen standing erect all along the sides of the canal. This will, indeed, be a great turning point for Adyar residents. This rail network will have a strong impact on the surroundings. To begin with, this network will democratize the environment, bringing about equality. Secondly, there will be increased employment opportunities by way of small shops in the area. But there are also chances for new additions to be unpleasant rather than pleasant. Caution should be the watchword.
 But to what extent can anybody be cautious? The founders of the Theosophical Society themselves, who were known for their careful nature, had some experiences which brought them discredit. To be honest, certain untoward incidents have occurred in the 100-year-old institution. Let us not get into any major incident. I shall narrate a small incident to you.
The most important post in the Theosophical Society is the post of the ‘Recording Secretary’. The founder, Madam Blavatsky herself held this post till she passed away. She was known for her speed and energy. In the 70s I used to visit the library frequently. Jean Raymond was the recording secretary then. She used to be all smiles. She was a storehouse of love and affection. Jean used to love dogs and would pick up any puppy even though people used to caution her against it. Unfortunately, she died of rabies contracted from one of her beloved puppies.
Ashokamitran
(Translated by Sujatha Pradeep)
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