Smt. Kamala Peri, affectionately known as Kamalakkayya to countless individuals across generations, embodied a life of quiet service, boundless compassion, and infectious joy. A pillar of the Andhra Balananda Sangham for many decades, she dedicated herself to nurturing Telugu-speaking children through cultural and artistic activities, fostering creativity in an environment filled with warmth and encouragement.

Alongside her respected husband, Suribabu Garu, Kamalakkayya extended support far beyond organizational roles. The couple became informal mentors to numerous young people navigating life's challenges. In the early 1970s, their evenings often turned into open gatherings where aspiring individuals sought guidance, career advice, and emotional support. At a time when opportunities remained limited for many, their wisdom drawn from rich life experiences helped steer youngsters toward fulfilling paths in education, professions, and personal growth. With unwavering resilience, wit, and humor, the pair taught others to face difficulties with grace and inner strength, turning potential setbacks into stepping stones.

Kamalakkayya possessed a remarkable ability to create comfort in any setting. No matter the occasion or gathering, her presence transformed moments into ones of laughter, shared happiness, and genuine connection. Free from any airs of superiority tied to her background or standing, she welcomed everyone equally, making people feel valued and at ease.

Her humor stood out as legendary. In one memorable instance, a young bachelor employed in a public sector company approached her with an exhaustive list of specifications for an ideal bride. Without missing a beat, Kamalakkayya replied, “Ok Ra factory ki order isstha!”—promising to place an order at a factory as if commissioning a product. Such quick-witted responses lightened hearts and offered perspective amid serious pursuits.

Inspired by figures like Durgabai Deshmukh, who championed women's empowerment in Madras during earlier eras, Kamalakkayya actively assisted women in achieving financial independence. She recognized the importance of self-reliance and quietly facilitated opportunities that enabled many to build secure, autonomous lives.

Her affection for children knew no bounds. Kamalakkayya often immersed herself fully in their world, playing games, sharing stories, and participating in activities as if age held no relevance. She became a beloved companion to the young, blurring generational lines through pure, playful engagement.

For Kamalakkayya, the core of a meaningful existence lay in leading a contented life filled with love, laughter, caring, and generosity toward others. She lived this philosophy daily, prioritizing relationships and communal well-being over personal acclaim.

Her contributions left an enduring mark on families, communities, and institutions like Andhra Balananda Sangham, where her legacy of nurturing talent and kindness continues to inspire. Though she has passed on, Kamalakkayya remains vividly alive in the memories of those she touched—the guidance she offered, the smiles she sparked, and the quiet strength she exemplified.

Goodbye, Kamalakkayya. Your spirit endures in the lives you shaped, the joy you spread, and the love you so freely gave. Generations will carry forward the lessons of resilience, humor, and compassion you so gracefully demonstrated.

Smt. Kamala Peri (06.12.1933-27.01.2026) (Nyayapati Raghava Rao Annayya niece)

W/o Late Sri Peri Suribabu (Nyayapati Kameswari akkayya brother)

Ex-Treasurer & Executive member 

Andhra Balananda Sangham (Estd 1940)

Kameswari (Papa), Lakshmi, Raghav (Babi) and family Balanandam Executive members