K.Malathi
The Story Behind the Trust – From Pain to Purpose
Malathi, the Principal and Trustee of Thaimai Anbu Karangal Special School for Children with Intellectual Disabilities, comes from a middle-class family. In 1998, while pursuing her B.Sc. in Microbiology, she had the opportunity to learn about the inspiring social service of Mother Teresa. The dedication and compassion shown by Mother Teresa, who served the poor and needy even in the most challenging situations without thinking about herself, deeply touched Malathi.
This powerful inspiration gradually shaped her desire to serve society. From that moment, she began to develop a strong commitment to helping people in need, which later led her to dedicate her life to supporting and caring for children with intellectual disabilities through her service at Thaimai Anbu Karangal.
After completing her B.Sc. in Microbiology, Malathi went on to earn her M.Phil. degree in the same field. Inspired by the compassionate social service of Mother Teresa, she developed a deep interest in working for children with intellectual disabilities. Motivated by this calling, she completed a B.Ed. in Special Education for Children with Intellectual Disabilities.
Following her academic journey, Malathi served as a teacher for three years, training students who were pursuing a Diploma in Special Education for children with special needs. This experience strengthened her commitment to supporting and empowering children with intellectual disabilities through education and care.
Our Work and Impact
In 2007, Malathi, together with her family members, founded Thaimai Anbu Karangal Special School for Children with Intellectual Disabilities. Since then, she has been serving as a Trustee and Principal, dedicating her efforts to the development and well-being of children with special needs.
Under her leadership, the school provides various training programs such as speech therapy, writing skills, cognitive development activities, vocational training, and daily living skill training to help children become more independent in their everyday lives. Most of the students studying at the school stay in the residential facility and benefit from continuous care and support.
Through her dedicated service, more than 800 students have benefited from the training, care, and educational support provided by the institution over the years.
Recognition & Achievements
In 2008, Thaimai Anbu Karangal received official recognition from the Government of Tamil Nadu and was registered under the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Act. By 2025, the organization successfully completed 18 years of dedicated service in the disability sector.
TAK has also made remarkable achievements in sports, with students participating and winning at District, State, and National level events. More than 50 students have proven their talents in various sports competitions and received appreciation from district officials and state-level leaders.
Overall, nearly 30,000 people have benefited from various government schemes, rehabilitation programs, and livelihood development activities through the dedicated efforts of K.Malathi and Thaimai Anbu Karangal Team.
From Thaimai Anbu Karangal to National Glory
In 2025, Ms. G. Sri Priya, a student of Thaimai Anbu Karangal, achieved a remarkable milestone by winning a Silver Medal in Basketball at a national-level event held in Odisha, representing the Tamil Nadu Para Sports Team.
Her achievement stands as a proud moment for Salem and a shining example of determination, discipline, and perseverance. In recognition of her outstanding performance, she received appreciation and honors from Dr. Brindha Devi, IAS, the District Collector of Salem, along with other respected district-level officials. This recognition not only celebrates her success but also inspires many children at Thaimai Anbu Karangal to pursue their dreams with confidence and courage.