“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”
Aptly, the launch of “The Sona Story” on April 2nd, 2025, at Hotel Radisson, Salem, was more than just a book unveiling; it was a celebration of legacy, family, and the remarkable journey of a visionary.
The program commenced with a divine aura, beautifully established by the ceremonial lighting of the kuthuvilakku, setting a tone of reverence and auspiciousness.
Mr.Chocko Valliappa, Vice Chairman extended a heartful welcome to the guests and he detailed the phenomenal growth of the SONA Group over the years Adding a personal touch, he shared joyous and fun-filled moments with his father, Sri. C. Valliappa, which resonated deeply with the audience.
The occasion was made even more special as the book was unveiled by his beloved family, who have journeyed alongside him in all his endeavors. Smt.Seetha Valliappa, Mr.Chocko Valliappa, Mrs.Vishalakshi Chocko Valliappa and Mr.Varun Chockalingam launched the meticulously knitted tapestry of memories, reflecting the life’s journey of Chairman Sri. C. Valliappa now rendered in ink and paper, which will stand as a testimony to his enduring legacy.
The program further unfolded with a thought-provoking and brilliant interaction between Mrs. Chitra Narayanan, the Author of “The Sona Story,” and Chairman Sri. C. Valliappa. This interaction beautifully captured the Chairman’s out-of-the-box thinking and exceptional presence of mind, as he answered questions with unique flair, leaving the audience awe-inspired.
Mr. Lena Narayanan enriched the gathering by sharing insights into the spiritual and divine services rendered by Chairman Sri. C. Valliappa and the Nagarathar Community, adding another dimension of him.
The esteemed guests of the day – Dr. Mrs. Uma Kannan (Educationalist, Author, Philanthropist), Dr. K. Arthanari (Medical Entrepreneur, Educationalist), and Mr. Tharanipathy Rajkumar (Industrialist, Educationalist) – shared their profound perspectives on the book and illuminated the innate qualities of Chairman Sri. C. Valliappa, both as an accomplished industrialist and a dynamic entrepreneur.
Adding a vibrant and youthful energy to the event, students from Thiagarajar Polytechnic College, Sona College of Technology, and Sona College of Arts and Science shared their thoughts, reviews, and how the book inspired them to cultivate leadership skills. Their reviews added a powerful layer of impact, showcasing the book’s relevance across generations.
Chairman Sri. C. Valliappa, in his address, shared his vast experiences spanning from Textiles to Technology, and elaborated on the various spiritual services he has undertaken. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his beloved family for their relentless support, to Mrs. Chitra Narayanan, Author, Dr. G.M. Khadar Nawaz,Principal and the faculty team of Sona College of Arts and Science for their invaluable contributions in writing the book.
Echoing the sentiment that “it’s not an end, it’s just a beginning,” Mr. Varun Chockalingam’s heartfelt expression of love for his grandfather and grandmother (appatha) and his reflection on “The Sona Story Continues…”, delivered a powerful message on the next generation carrying forward the legacy of Sona.
The event culminated in showing gratitude to the guests and the contributors to the book.
Director, Principals, and faculty members of Sona Institutions reciprocated their thankfulness to the Chairman by presenting mementos, followed by a delicious dinner, fostering a sense of community and shared appreciation.
