Ambatipudi Simhachalam Panthulu Garu: A Forgotten Legend of Law
Parama Pada Vaasulu Sri. Ambatipudi Simhachalam Garu, my maternal grandfather, was born on the auspicious day of "Dola Pournami" a century and a quarter ago. He was a genius who made significant contributions in the fields of law and social life. He is my role model and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.Here is an account of him by his nephew, the late Mangu Jagannadharaogaru, popularly known as Mangu Mastaaru ,who was closelyassociated with him and his family during his childhood and who knew him well .
Early Life
Ambatipudi Simhachalam Panthulu Garu was a remarkable Indian jurist, political leader, philanthropist, social reformer, anti-colonial nationalist, and an exceptionally successful lawyer. Born into a Telugu-speaking family to Lakshmi Bhai and Lakshmi Narasimhan in the village of Baruva in the Srikakulam district, he grew up about 226 kilometers from Visakhapatnam in what was then the Madras Presidency (now Andhra Pradesh). The exact date of his birth remains unknown, but it is recorded that he was born on “Dola Purnima” (Holi Purnima) in 1897.
At the age of 11, his family moved to Brahmapuram (Berhampore, Orissa) in search of better educational opportunities. From a young age, Simhachalam Garu aspired to become a lawyer. After completing his Bachelor’s at Maharajah’s College in Vizianagaram and attending Madras Law College, he began his law practice in Berhampur. There, he emerged as a leading criminal lawyer and continued his practice with great success until his untimely death at the age of 39 in 1936. Known for his hard work, sincerity, and adherence to "Satya and Dharma," he made a lasting impact on the legal profession.
Legal Achievements
One of the most notable achievements in his career was his victory in a contempt case filed against Hon. Mr. Justice Hailsham, who was held liable for contempt of his own court. This case brought Simhachalam Garu considerable recognition. Additionally, he was one of the youngest and most successful criminal lawyers in the Madras Presidency, a distinction previously held by senior lawyers like V.V. Jogayyapantulu and British counterparts.
During a professional visit to Madras, a barrister recognized his legal acumen and suggested he become a barrister. However, as a second-grade pleader, he could not argue cases in higher courts, a privilege reserved for barristers. Although tempted, Simhachalam Garu ultimately decided against crossing the seas to England for further studies, adhering instead to Sanatana Dharma.
Contribution to Freedom Movement
Simhachalam Garu actively participated in the Indian freedom movement. When the Simon Commission visited India, he joined the public boycott with the slogan "Simon, go back." On February 3, 1928, he vociferously protested the commission’s visit to Madras alongside demonstrators led by Tanguturu Prakasam Pantulu Garu. He also took part in the historic Dandi March in 1930.
Personal Life and Legacy
Simhachalam Garu was known for his simplicity, honesty, and dedication. His hard work propelled him to great heights within a short 15-year career. A lover of classical music and a devotee of Lord Sri Krishna, he often felicitated renowned musicians and scholars like Dwaram Venkata Swamy Naidu and Harikatha Pitamaha Sri Aadibhatla Narayana Dasu.
He was a founder of the "Sanatana Dharma Samajam" in Berhampur and had the blessings of Kanchi Paramacharya Sri Sri Sri Chandrasekhara Mahaswamy. Fortunate to receive the Sri Krishna mantropadesam from the Paramacharya during a visit to Berhampur, he also conceived the idea of the ‘Berhampur Cooperative Urban Bank.and was one of the founders .
The former President of India, Sri V.V. Giri, once worked as a junior advocate under Simhachalam Garu. Despite his early death at 39, leaving behind eight children.His legacy lives on through his grandson, Vinukonda Murali Mohan, celebrated for his exceptional drafting abilities and dedication to music as both a musician and musicologist.
Sources: The information provided was shared by the late Sri Mangu Jagannadha Rao Garu, nephew of Simhachalam Garu (Assistant Headmaster at City High School), popularly known as Mangu Mastaaru, along with late Macharla Seetaa Ramayya Garu and late Yerramalli Venkata Ramayya Garu
