V R Muthu, past governor of RI District 3212, passed away on March 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy marked by generosity, leadership and an enduring commitment to TRF. A member of RC Virudhunagar since 1981, he became the first AKS member from his district in 2021. As End Polio Now Coordinator for Zone 5 (2025–28), he continued to champion Rotary’s global mission with dedication. A member of the Paul Harris 711 Club, he also contributed to preserving Rotary’s historic roots. To many, he was not just a leader, but also a friend and mentor. Affectionately known as ‘Muthu Annachi,’ he was widely loved for his warmth and humility. During his tenure as DG in 2022–23, his district contributed a remarkable $800,000 to TRF. The 10 district projects he promoted were largely centred on uplifting girls and youth, leaving a meaningful and measurable impact.
Through initiatives such as Project Prem Kumar, Yadhumaanaval and Project Punch, Muthu empowered hundreds of rural girls with confidence, communication skills and the ability to make informed life choices. His RYLA programmes further inspired young people to explore entrepreneurship.
As managing director of V V V & Sons Edible Oils, he made the Idhayam brand synonymous with healthy cooking in households across India and among the global Indian community.
At Rotary News, we experienced his warmth and generosity firsthand. He was a passionate supporter of the magazine — unstinting in his praise for well-written stories and advertised his products in the magazine on a regular basis.