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Avadai Dhanam | |
---|---|
3rd Spouse of the President | |
In role 23 October 1981 – 28 March 1985 | |
President | Devan Nair |
Preceded by | Yeo Seh Geok |
Succeeded by | Koh Sok Hiong |
Member of Parliament for Moulmein SMC | |
Preceded by | Lin You Eng |
Succeeded by | Sia Khoon Seng |
Personal details | |
Born | Avadai Dhanam Lakshimi 1925 Singapore |
Died | 18 April 2005 Hamilton, Ontario, Canada | (aged 79–80)
Political party | People's Action Party |
Spouse | |
Children | 4; including Janadas, Janamitra Devan, Janaprakash Devan (deceased) and Vijaya Kamari Devan (deceased) |
Parent(s) | Avadai Thevar (father) Anjalaiammal (mother) |
Avadai Dhanam Lakshimi (1925 – April 18, 2005) was a Singaporean former politician who served as the Member of Parliament (MP) representing Moulmein SMC from 1963 to 1968 and the 3rd First Lady of Singapore as the Spouse of the president of Singapore, Devan Nair, President from 1981 to 1985.[1]
Dhanam became the first female MP of Indian origin, when she was elected as the MP for Moulmein SMC in 1963.[2] In her role as an MP she was known for her public health advocacy.
Serving in the role for 5 years, she retired in 1968, continuing to serve in the public service. She married Devan Nair in August 1953, who later became the President of Singapore.