Our Founder

Arcot Narrainswamy Mudaliar was a pioneering businessman, philanthropist, and social reformer whose life story embodies the values of equality, education, and social justice. Born in Arcot in 1827, he moved to Bangalore as a child, shouldering the responsibility of his family after his father’s demise. His entrepreneurial acumen led him to establish successful businesses, including Mysore Hall and Bangalore Agency, making him one of the wealthiest merchants of his time.

Despite his business success, what set Mudaliar apart was his progressive vision for society. Deeply influenced by the idea that wealth was a trust for the upliftment of the needy, he dedicated himself to philanthropy, particularly in education. In 1873, he founded the Free English Primary School in Bangalore Cantonment for non-white students — an assertion of equality at a time when education was a privilege of the elite.

He also championed gender and caste equality. In 1883, he founded the Thirukulatar School for marginalized communities, defying social hierarchies. In 1886, he established the Govindammal Girls School, recognizing education as the key to women’s empowerment.

In 1897, Mudaliar established one of Bangalore’s earliest technical schools, breaking barriers of hereditary professions. His response to the famine of 1876–1878 revealed his humanitarian spirit — he established feeding centers and an orphanage that evolved into a permanent hostel for the underprivileged.

As a follower of the Brahmo Samaj, he opposed caste discrimination and ritualistic practices. His descendants continued his legacy through reformist movements and the Indian independence struggle, even supporting Mahatma Gandhi’s South African campaign.

Rai Bahadur Arcot Narrainswamy Mudaliar’s reformist ideals — equality, compassion, and education for all — remain the guiding principles of RBANMS institutions today.