Dear Readers,
Within the complex history of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the story of Gopalaswamy Mahendraraja, better known as Mahathaya, stands out distinctly. His journey from the heights of LTTE leadership, where he was celebrated as the deputy leader and a charismatic figure within the group, to his abrupt and dramatic downfall epitomizes the volatile nature of power and destiny in the organization’s tumultuous narrative. Mahathaya’s life story is a vivid illustration of rapid ascension followed by an equally swift decline.
In the following pages, we delve into the captivating story of Mahathaya, which, in turn, unfolds a significant part of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam’s (LTTE) history. This organization has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern history of Sri Lanka. Mahathaya’s journey within the LTTE is not just a personal narrative; it serves as a vivid illustration of the intricate dynamics of power and destiny that permeated the organization. Through his story, we aim to unravel the complex layers of the LTTE’s history, offering insights into its influential role in the region’s tumultuous past.
Mahathaya’s story is marked by a meteoric rise and an equally rapid fall. After joining the LTTE in 1978, he quickly ascended to its zenith as its deputy leader. However, in August 1993, Mahathaya faced a stark reversal of fortune. In a shocking turn of events, the LTTE, the very group he had dedicatedly served, arrested him on grave accusations. These accusations included allegedly colluding with India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) to assassinate Velupillai Prabhakaran, the LTTE’s controversial leader, and other key members.
This feature aims to provide a balanced view of Mahathaya’s significant yet ultimately tragic role within the LTTE. While recognizing his involvement in acts marked by violence and criminality, reflecting the brutal nature of the group’s struggle, our narrative also sheds light on the leadership dynamics within the LTTE. We explore how leaders maintained relevance and proximity to Prabhakaran, often through flattery and internal politicking.
The story of Mahathaya is not just a recounting of past events but a lens through which we examine the multifaceted nature of the LTTE. We seek neither to glorify nor vilify Mahathaya or the LTTE but to present a nuanced understanding of his character and the organization he helped lead. His journey, culminating in his execution on December 28, 1994, remains a poignant chapter in the LTTE’s history.
Given the extensive scope of this article, we have divided it into two parts. The first part, presented in this issue, lays the groundwork for understanding Mahathaya’s rise and fall. The continuation, to be featured in our next issue, promises more insights into the LTTE’s internal workings and the complex legacy of its leaders.
We invite you to engage with this comprehensive examination, which we believe will offer a deeper understanding of the LTTE, revealing the often unspoken and darker sides of its history and operations.
Thank you for your continued engagement with our publication.
Sincerely,
கணியன் பூங்குன்றன்
Kaniyan Pungundran
Editor- Jaffna Monitor
