The Journey from France to Ponnappur Village ” In the Remembrance Ceremony of Late Sri V Paneer Selvam Father of Mr. P Sanjai Gandhi, IPR Attorney

[27/11, 19:37] sekarreporter1: http://youtube.com/post/UgkxU7a31MeJQBz-7Nj6igeCaBkEe7r_wklO?si=zy1nGaiWVdi6a0He
[27/11, 19:38] sekarreporter1: “The Journey from France to Ponnappur Village ”
In the Remembrance Ceremony of Late Sri V Paneer Selvam
Father of Mr. P Sanjai Gandhi, IPR Attorney

(Photo: From the left to right,)
Husband of Ms. Delphine, Late Sri V. Paneer Selvam, Ms. Delphine Marie, Mr. P Sanjai Gandhi. (Picture taken on 19th July 2007, taken in front of the famous, Pandurangan Temple, ‘Thiruvasal’)

On July 19, 2007, Ms. Delphine Marie-Vivien, the Deputy Director of the research unit of CIRAD, a French agricultural research organization, and her husband, a renowned scientist, had the opportunity to visit the hometown village of Mr. P. Sanjai Gandhi, IPR Attorney and Advocate of the Madras High Court. This village, situated 25 km from Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India, offered them a unique and meaningful cultural experience.
The visit was part of their research on Geographic Indications, being a part of CIRAD, which became much more than a professional journey. Immersing themselves in the vibrant traditions of Tamil Nadu, they explored the rich heritage of the region. A highlight of their visit was exploring Mr. Sanjai Gandhi’s ancestral home, a 200-year-old house that showcased the charm and simplicity of their village life. It was their first encounter with a traditional village home, quite different from the houses they were accustomed to.
During their stay, Ms. Delphine and her husband embraced local customs with grace and curiosity. They enjoyed a traditional Tamil meal served on banana leaves, an experience that was both new and delightful. In a gesture of respect for Indian culture, they also sat on the floor to share the meal, a practice that left a lasting impression on them.
One of the most cherished memories is the visit to the village and the warm interaction with the late Mr. V. Paneer Selvam (aged above 70 years), father of Mr. P. Sanjai Gandhi. The hospitality and kindness extended by the family made the experience truly special. This visit was not only an enriching cultural exchange but also a journey that left lasting memories. The photo for the same is attached below.
In light of the passing of the late Sri Paneer Selvam on November 14, 2024, this memory holds even greater significance. Despite not having a formal education and only being able to sign his name, Mr. Paneer Selvam’s dedication and hard work shaped the future of his family. His efforts enabled his son, Mr. Sanjai Gandhi, to become a successful advocate who not only serves his community but also extends his expertise to assist others, even across borders. It is a moment of pride that Ms. Delphine, a researcher from France, sought guidance from Mr. Gandhi, a testament to the values and perseverance instilled by his father. This legacy of determination and resilience continues to inspire and will remain a treasured memory for everyone involved.

Authored By,
Ms. Harini Venkatesh
Assistant Researcher
IPR division