Among Sri Lanka’s business elite, one name stands out as a source of inspiration and innovation – the late Deshamanya Arulanandam Yesuvadiyan Samuel Gnanam.

St. Anthony’s Group commemorates the birthday of its revered founder and it is not merely a celebration of a calendar date – it’s a tribute to an extraordinary legacy that continues to shape the country’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Born on 5 May 1922 in Soukyapuram, Tamil Nadu in India, Gnanam’s journey began with humble roots. His early years were marked by determination and a thirst for knowledge – traits that would define his journey and feats in the years to come.

At the tender age of nine, Gnanam embarked on a journey to Sri Lanka, joining his family in Horana. Despite facing the challenges of being in a new country, he seized every opportunity for growth, balancing work with his brother in a family store and focussing on a relentless pursuit of gaining education. Even with limited means, he dedicated himself to mastering English, recognising its importance in the evolving world of business.

It was against the backdrop of Sri Lanka’s struggle for independence during World War II that Gnanam took his first bold step into entrepreneurship. With minimal resources but boundless courage, he ventured into the business world, initially relying on resourcefulness and resilience to navigate the turbulent times.

His journey truly began with scavenging for scrap metal – a humble start that laid the foundation for future success.

The turning point came when British ships offered him goods at favourable prices, providing the opportunity to establish his own business. From this modest beginning emerged St. Anthony’s Hardware, a venture that would evolve into one of Sri Lanka’s leading business conglomerates under Gnanam’s visionary leadership.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Gnanam expanded his enterprise, diversifying into various industries and introducing globally renowned brands to the Sri Lankan market.

His foresight and innovation were evident as he pioneered product advancements including the introduction of uPVC pipes – a groundbreaking achievement that showcased his dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing change.

Throughout his illustrious career, Gnanam encountered challenges that tested his resilience and adaptability. From navigating shifting government policies to revolutionising struggling enterprises, he approached each obstacle with a blend of creativity and determination, ensuring the continued success of his ventures amid changing economic landscapes.

Yet amid his many achievements, Gnanam remained grounded, never forgetting his roots or the importance of giving back to society. His enterprises became not only engines of economic growth but also sources of social responsibility, creating employment opportunities, and championing causes such as women’s empowerment and community development.

This month, we honour the founder’s legacy and celebrate not only his extraordinary achievements, but also the enduring impact he left on Sri Lanka’s business landscape and beyond.

Through St. Anthony’s Group’s ongoing efforts in education, healthcare and social welfare, Gnanam’s vision lives on, inspiring future generations to dare to dream and strive for greatness. We pay homage to a true visionary whose legacy continues to shine through all endeavours undertaken by St. Anthony’s Industries Group.

– Compiled by Tamara Rebeira
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