Bio

Early Life

Maha's journey commenced in 1929 in Karampan, Kayts, Sri Lanka.

In 1952, he sailed to England to study architecture at Nottingham University, setting the stage for a remarkable career that spanned several continents and cultures.

Returning to Sri Lanka in 1958, Maha married Ranee, his partner in life's journey. He was a Hindu who married a Christian, a decision that defied the norms of the 1950s. A god-fearing man, he never discriminated; instead, he embraced and celebrated family and friends from all religions, races, and cultures throughout his life.

Maha and Ranee started their family life in Colombo, welcoming their first child. In 1961, a new chapter began as they moved to Ghana. Here, Maha's professional life as an architect flourished, and he embraced the challenges and opportunities of working in a new environment. It was in Kumasi, Ghana that they welcomed three more children, completing their family.

Maha's time in Ghana was professionally rewarding on the architectural front where he designed numerous government buildings using appropriate technology and innovative sustainable architecture methods.  His life in Ghana was also deeply enriching on a personal level. He developed a profound connection with the land and an extended group of colleagues and family friends, a bond that he cherished throughout his life.

In 1983, seeking broader horizons for their children's education and futures, Maha and his family moved to Davis, California, where his mother, sister, brother in law and family were living. This decision, inspired by his deep commitment to his family, showcased his foresight and dedication to providing the best possible opportunities for his children.

Maha and Ranee raised Lally, Vijitha, Nirmala, and Vim in a nurturing environment, imbued with love, cultural values, humor and a deep sense of community responsibility.  He was proud to have brought his children to Davis which he considered “the best place in California” for the family.  

His pride in his family's achievements, both immediate and extended, was a source of great joy for him.  Inspired by a trip to Cameroon, he continued his architectural pursuits by creating new designs through his early 90s.   

His legacy lives on through his eight grandchildren - Shermila, Shanthi, Kamala, Mina, Lingan, Alena, Mila, and Maksim, and three great-grandchildren - Surasi, Maira, and his namesake, Maha. Each of them embodies the essence of his spirit, wisdom, and loving guidance.

Maha was a lifelong sports enthusiast, reflecting on his days as the Captain of the Jaffna College #1 basketball team in Sri Lanka with fondness. His passion for sports extended to being an avid follower of soccer, football, and basketball throughout his life.

He also enjoyed playing card games like 3-0-4 and bridge for hours, activities that mirrored his interests and love for social engagement.

25 years ago, Maha chose to donate his body to science, registering with the University of California, Davis body donation program. This decision underscored his altruistic nature and his desire to contribute to the advancement of medical science in Davis.

As we say goodbye to Mr V. Mahadevan, we celebrate a life that was a rich mosaic of experiences, love, and enduring wisdom. His influence, akin to a mighty tree, provided shelter, strength, and inspiration to all who knew him.