From Exile to Esteem
My Journey Embracing the Honour of Knighthood
As I reflect on being anointed as a Knight of Alba, emotions flood in—a mix of gratitude, pride, humility and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. This honour is not merely a personal achievement; it is a testament to a journey marked by resilience, transformation and the unbreakable spirit of my heritage. For a Tamil immigrant, now a knight, it feels surreal yet deeply validating—a reminder that our roots and struggles shape us, but they do not limit us.
This honour is a bridge between past and future, connecting the history of a people who have faced hardship with a vision of boundless potential. It nods to the strength of my ancestors who endured and to the courage of my community, who rose above stereotypes with pride. Becoming a Knight of Alba is more than a title; it is recognition that the Tamil story has a place in global narratives of honour and achievement. I stand here with the weight of those before me and the hopes of those who will follow, expanding what is possible for generations to come.
Embracing the Legacy of Knighthood
For centuries, knighthood has symbolized honour, valour and a commitment to higher ideals. Historically, knights embodied chivalry, bound by courage, justice and an unyielding duty to protect the vulnerable. They were warriors and guardians, upholding values that defined society. Today, knighthood transcends the battlefield, honouring those who contribute significantly in arts, sciences, philanthropy and cultural preservation. To be counted among such ranks is a profound honour, a bridge between tradition and modernity.
In a world where traditions often fade, knighthood endures as a reminder of values that transcend time and place. It represents an invitation to contribute to society with integrity and to inspire others to pursue excellence with purpose. As a Knight of Alba, I feel the weight of this legacy—to uphold these values in every endeavor, to serve as a cultural ambassador and to be a living testament to the ideals that knighthood represents.This honour calls not only for personal achievement but for a lasting impact that upholds both heritage and hope.
The Knight of Alba and the Langhe Region
Being anointed as a Knight of Alba connects me deeply to the enogastronomic heritage of Italy’s Langhe region, celebrated for its iconic Barolo and Barbaresco wines and the prized white truffles of Alba. The Langhe is more than a place; it’s a region that embodies centuries of tradition and craft. As Knights of Alba, we serve as cultural ambassadors, preserving and promoting the rich culinary heritage and customs that define this remarkable land.
This role resonates with me far beyond titles or accolades. It’s about more than exquisite wines and culinary delights; it’s a commitment to embrace, preserve and share a culture steeped in history, craftsmanship and a profound connection to the land itself. It’s about building bridges, fostering appreciation across cultures and nurturing understanding that transcends borders. To serve as a steward of this legacy is an honour I accept with deep respect and a sense of purpose.
A Culinary Journey: Bridging Cultures Through Food
My passion for cooking and my deep appreciation for Sri Lankan cuisine have been integral to my journey. Growing up, food was more than sustenance; it was a powerful connection to my roots, a reminder of home and a celebration of our heritage. The rich flavours, aromatic spices and meticulous techniques of Sri Lankan cooking became not just recipes but expressions of identity, love and cultural legacy shared across generations.
As I immersed myself in culinary arts, I found parallels between the traditions of Langhe and my own. Both cultures place a strong emphasis on authenticity, local ingredients and preserving time-honoured recipes. This shared philosophy became a bridge, allowing me to connect two distinct worlds through the universal language of food. Cooking has become my medium to share stories and celebrate heritage, playing a significant role in my path to knighthood.
From Immigrant to Honoured Ambassador
Reflecting on my journey, I can’t help but recall the tumultuous path that led me here. As an Eelam Tamil from Sri Lanka, my early years were marked by conflict and displacement. The civil war forced many of us to seek refuge in distant lands, where we arrived as immigrants, often met with misunderstanding and prejudice. Labels and misconceptions clouded perceptions and we were unjustly viewed through the lens of terrorism rather than recognized for our rich cultural heritage.
I remember vividly one such moment in 2009, while working at a bulge bracket Investment Bank on Bay Street. My fellow Tamils had taken to the Gardiner Expressway in a desperate protest, attempting to bring the plight of Tamil civilians to the forefront as Sri Lankan government forces launched their final assault against the LTTE. Thousands of civilians were caught in the crossfire, trapped in a nightmare of indiscriminate shelling. The protest was an urgent plea—a cry for the Canadian government’s attention, for a ceasefire and a desperate demand to stop the bloodshed back home.
For many in Toronto, it was simply an inconvenience. The protest disrupted traffic, frustrating those who didn’t understand its gravity. I remember a colleague’s dismissive remark: “Arrest them all.” That moment pierced through me—a harsh reminder of how misunderstood our community’s desperation was, even to those who worked alongside us. For them, it was a traffic jam; for us, it was life or death—a cry to save our people, to be seen.
Rising Through Adversity
My journey has been fraught with such moments—moments of doubt, setbacks and obstacles that seemed insurmountable. Adapting to new environments, overcoming language barriers and confronting discrimination were constant challenges. Yet, through perseverance and a steadfast commitment to our values, we began to reshape our narrative. We rose, driven by the weight of our history and a vision for a better future.
Over time, I realized that these struggles did not define us; they strengthened our resolve. Every hurdle overcome became a testament to our resilience, a step toward changing perceptions and claiming our rightful place in society. Being anointed as a Knight of Alba stands as a powerful symbol of this journey. It represents not only personal recognition but the resilience and dignity of a people who, despite immense hardship, continue to rise, transcend barriers and contribute meaningfully to the world.
This honour is more than a title; it’s a reminder that, even in the face of misunderstanding and adversity, our voices and contributions matter. It’s a tribute to those who marched on the Gardiner that day, to all who have fought to be seen and to every Tamil who has stood resilient against immense challenges. The knighthood is proof that we are more than our struggles—that through courage and commitment, we can transform pain into progress and be recognized for our true worth.
Breaking Barriers with Kindred Spirits
What makes this honour even more special is sharing it with two remarkable individuals—Thomas Savundra and Suthan Sukumar—fellow Tamils who have forged their mark in their respective fields, each embodying the resilience, strength and dedication of our community. Their accomplishments not only reflect their own journeys but serve as powerful symbols of our collective potential as a people who have persevered through adversity.
Being knighted alongside Thomas and Suthan is not mere coincidence or luck; it’s a testament to our collective journey and the barriers we have overcome as a community. Together, we represent a powerful example of Tamils breaking into spaces that were once considered beyond our reach—spaces in tech, finance and beyond, where resilience and innovation meet impact and influence.
Our anointment as Knights of Alba is a significant milestone not only for us but for the Tamil community at large. It symbolizes our ability to transcend stereotypes and rise to prominence, not by abandoning our heritage but by honouring it in every achievement. It showcases our capacity to contribute meaningfully to the societies we are part of and to be recognized for our efforts and accomplishments on a global stage.
In sharing this honour, we carry forward the legacy of our people—proof that despite immense hardship, Tamils continue to rise, creating a new narrative filled with success, pride and impact.
A Tribute to Friendship and Guidance
I am profoundly grateful to my dear friend, Bahi Kandavel, who has been the single most influential person in my journey into the world of wine. Bahi, himself a Knight of Alba, ignited my appreciation for the Langhe region's rich heritage and brought this world to life in ways I never anticipated. His deep passion and unwavering dedication opened doors and revealed paths I had never imagined possible.
Last year, Bahi curated a trip of a lifetime to Piedmont, immersing us in the heart of this revered region. Every detail of the journey was carefully planned, each experience thoughtfully selected to showcase the depth and beauty of Langhe. Walking through the vineyards, tasting wines that carried centuries of craftsmanship and meeting the artisans whose families have cultivated these lands for generations—it was truly an awakening. The trip didn’t just enhance my understanding of wine; it was a transformative experience that deepened my connection to the region and instilled a profound respect for its traditions.
Through countless conversations, shared culinary experiences and a mutual love for Tamil food, Bahi has guided me with a generosity that I hold dear. His friendship has made this journey rich and fulfilling and his influence continues to shape my path as I embrace my role as a Knight of Alba. I owe much of this honour to Bahi, whose spirit of sharing, patience and passion will always inspire me to explore, learn and connect cultures through the art of wine and food.
Embracing Responsibility and Looking Ahead
With this honour comes a profound sense of responsibility. Being a Knight of Alba is not just a title but a commitment to upholding the values that knighthood represents—honour, service and the preservation of cultural heritage. I am driven to live up to these ideals, understanding that they call for more than personal recognition. This role is about creating pathways for others, especially those from underrepresented communities, to step into spaces of influence and impact. It’s about using this platform to amplify voices, break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of Tamils and other marginalized communities to find their rightful place in the world.
My journey to this honour has been one filled with both triumphs and trials, each experience teaching me that obstacles are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth and transformation. This knighthood stands as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when we persevere, stay true to our values and strive to leave a positive mark. It reminds me that resilience and commitment are forces capable of reshaping narratives and opening doors where they once seemed permanently closed. As I move forward, I am inspired to use this honour not as an endpoint, but as a stepping stone—continuing to uplift, empower and build a legacy of meaningful change that transcends my own story.
Future of Hope and Determination
As I embrace the mantle of a Knight of Alba, I carry with me the legacy of my heritage and the lessons of my past. This honour reflects not only my personal journey but also the collective strides of a community that has risen above adversity. It symbolizes the possibilities that emerge when we hold steadfast to our values and strive toward excellence, paving the way for future generations to inherit a world enriched by understanding and unity.
Being connected to the Langhe region is a beautiful convergence of traditions and passions. Langhe, with its deep roots in winemaking and culinary excellence, embodies the profound link between food, culture and identity. Each bottle of Barolo or Barbaresco, each meal, tells a story of dedication and care. For me, there is no better way to amplify and honour this heritage than through sharing both Tamil and Langhe traditions. Food has become a bridge—a way to celebrate our unique strengths and shared beauty.
This journey, from challenge to honour, has been extraordinary and I am deeply grateful to all who have been part of it—my family, friends, fellow knights and the community members who have supported and believed in me. This honour is as much theirs as it is mine. To my fellow Eelam Tamils and all who have faced adversity, I hope my journey serves as an inspiration. Let us continue to break barriers, challenge misconceptions and contribute positively to the world.
Together, as Knights of Alba and as a community, let us build bridges, foster understanding and strive toward a more inclusive and compassionate world—one conversation and one shared experience at a time.
