The depth of Amma’s actions is profound and often beyond human comprehension. Amma’s vision extends far beyond what ordinary people can easily grasp and the establishment of Matrusri Oriental College is a testament to that vision.
Although the college officially came into existence in 1971, the idea had been planted much earlier. In 1963, during an interaction with Dr. Pannala Radhakrishna Sarma, who was then a Telugu Pandit at Appikatla School, Amma asked him if he would be willing to serve as the principal if a college were to be established in Jillellamudi. Dr. Sarma dismissed Amma’s suggestion as a light-hearted jest for two reasons: first, Jillellamudi was a small, remote hamlet lacking even basic infrastructure, making the idea of establishing a college seem impossible and second, he did not possess the necessary qualifications to be a college principal.
However, as events unfolded, Amma’s words proved prophetic. Dr. Sarma went on to acquire the necessary qualifications and became the first principal of the college.
Thus in 1971, the college came into existence through the relentless efforts of Sri Adharapurapu Seshagiri Rao and a few other dedicated individuals with Dr Pannala Radhakrishna Sarma, as its first principal. The curriculum focused solely on Sanskrit and Telugu languages, without including modern vocational courses. At that time, the college was not recognized by the government, nor did it receive any grants due to the lack of necessary infrastructure.
The college had no permanent buildings-only thatched huts. Students with very modest educational and economic backgrounds enrolled, motivated primarily by the promise of free education, food, and accommodation. They were content with the simple meals provided, often consisting of rice with tamarind chutney and buttermilk.
These students pursued their studies in Oriental languages with little expectation for their future prospects, yet their commitment to the institution was unwavering. They loved the college, respected their teachers and revered Amma and Nannagaru, under whose Graceful guidance the institution progressed.
Running the college was no easy task, especially in the early days when it lacked government grants. Dr. Sarma faced a herculean challenge, often traveling far and wide to secure funds to keep the institution afloat. After nearly a year and a half, the financial strain became overwhelming and he contemplated closing the college. But Amma was resolute. She declared, “We did not start this college just to close it eventually.”
At this critical juncture, Amma’s grace became evident. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the late Sri Adharapurapu Seshagiri Rao, Sri Kondamudi Ramakrishna (who was Amma’s personal assistant) and a few others, the college eventually received grant-in-aid. From that point onward, the institution thrived, and there was no looking back.
Permanent classrooms were established in the 1980s, thanks to the support of philanthropic groups. Since Jillellamudi did not offer courses beyond graduation, many students who completed their studies at Matrusri Oriental College went on to pursue further education elsewhere. Graduates of Matrusri Oriental College were known for their brightness and intelligence, earning accolades, rewards, and awards from various quarters.
In fact, it is a matter of pride that the students who emerged from the College later occupied prestigious posts like University Registrars, Professors and Principals etc.
The journey of Matrusri Oriental College, which began in 1971, has evolved into one of the premier educational institutions for Oriental languages. Thousands of students have graduated from the college and even today, education remains free-no fees are charged for tuition, food, or accommodation.
In addition to permanent college buildings, separate hostel accommodations are now available for both boys and girls with modern facilities. While Matrusri Oriental College has established its reputation among institutions of Oriental education, its recent accreditation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with a B++ grade is a significant achievement in the college’s history. NAAC, an autonomous institution of the University Grants Commission, recognizes the quality of education provided by the college.
Buoyed by this recognition, Matrusri Oriental College plans to further expand its educational offerings by introducing vocational courses that align with modern educational demands. The college intends to start a four-year degree course, B.Sc. (Hons) in Computer Languages, while continuing to offer courses in Oriental languages.
Amma’s vision is now reaching its full potential, with Matrusri Oriental College evolving into a formidable institution with diversified courses.
Today’s NAAC accreditation is only a natural sequel to Amma’s accreditation Gracefully accorded decades ago.
– D V N Kamaraju Mother