Highly dominant forward Caste See also main article Maravar
Maravar (Tamil: மறவர்) also "Maravan" (meaning "Grateful Warrior", "Punisher") are one of the oldest social groups in India. The writers of the Sangam Age place them in rural settlements withdrawn from cities. Maravars are the courageous breed and were involved in all the major wars that Tamilnadu witnessed. Kottravai(Durga), the goddess of Maravars worshipped in Palai region prescribed in Silapathikaram. The Kingdom of Ramnad was a Maravar kingdom and was ruled by the Setupati Kings[8]. Ramanathapuram and Sivagangai districts are Maravar homeland from ancient times and the entire Southern districts of Tamilnadu is Maravar stronghold.
Maravars are very brave, warlike, fierce martial group and were involved in almost all the major battles and wars that ancient Tamilakkam witnessed. Maravars are found predominantly in the Southern districts of Tamilnadu viz., Tirunelveli, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Sivagangai, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, Pudukottai, Virudhunagar, Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu. The Southern martial arts of Kalarippayattu, Silambam, Varma Kalai have been practiced primarily by Maravars, Kallars, Gounders and Nairs of South India. But during the 18th and 19th centuries, most of the Maravars were assimilated in to the Tamil Padam Nair subcaste of the Nair community. The Maravar regiment of the Travancore army was known as "Maravar Padai", which supplemented Nair Pattalam, the larger indigenous military unit.[9] Tamil Padam Nair is recognized as a part of the Malayala Kshatriya social grouping.
There are 7 major subdivisions among the Maravar community. There are Appa Nattu Kondyankottai,Chembiya Nattu Maravar,Agathu Maravar,Uppu katti Maravar,Kurinchi katti Maravar,Vanikutti Maravar,Oru nattu Maravar. The Kondyan Kottai Maravars are still maintaining "Killai"(branches) as their sub sects. According to the list given by Fawcett(1903) (belongs to British East India Company), there are seven different Killai (sub castes of Maravars). They are Maurvidu, Viramuditanki, Setar, Akatiyar, Seyankondar, Nattumannar, and Alakar Pandiayan. Also, Its found that "Kotthu" (main branch of tree) being higher order unit of Killai. There were four kothu as follows, 'Milagu' (Pepper), 'Vetrilai' (Betel Leaf), 'Mundiri' (Cashew Nut), and 'Sirakka' (Cumin/Fennel). The Killai is inherited from mother. So a boy or girl will not marry in their same Killai. It is assumed that they are brother & sister. Such a practice is no longer prevailing amongst other maravars. The married women of kondyankottai maravers wear "Thali" (Thirumangalyam) in the shape of Shiva lingam. So it is called "Linga Thali". Most of the Tamil castes wear the same type of "Linga Thali".
The Chembiya Nattu Maravars are Surya vamsam. They are historically from Thanjavur. Kondayan kottai maravars women were having habits of maruthalli. But Chembiya Nattu Maravars women were having habit of Udankattai yeruthal. And 6 martial suicides are Practising by Maravar community and its called avipillai. The Fame of maravars are written in Nattrinai,kurunthogai,Agananooru,Puranaanooru,Kalithogai and many pathu pattu collection. Among maravars Chembiya marvar belong to chola dynasty,Tamil padam marvar belong to chera later become thiruvithangur. But most of maravars belong to pandyan dynasty the major soldiers of pandiyan are only marvars at the end of 15th century Kondayan kottai marvars involve in the partition of pandyan kingdom and took over the major zamins from pandyas mentioned in "Kula vamsam".
The sure name of Maravars are
All the maravar has a common tittle called Thevar.
Maravan
Valangai maran
Vilangu Thevan
Vetchi
Karanthai
Thevan
Puli maran
Gora maran
Madurai Thevan
Thumbai
Komban
Vallai Thevan
Neela maran
Pattamkatti
Thalumban
Purayar
Kottravaien Sayon
Alakiya Pandiyan
Maran
Veyyon
Ninkondan
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Introduction to mukkulathor
Total population
11,950,000 in Tamil Nadu [1]
Regions with significant populations
Tamil Nadu, North Eastern Province, Malaysia, Singapore, Canada, Cen. Province, Chattisgarh
Languages
Tamil, English, Indian Languages
Religion
Saiva Siddhantam, Hinduism
Related ethnic groups
Kshatriyas, Tamil people
Contents[hide]
1 Thevar/Mukkulathor
2 Kallar
3 Maravar
4 Agamudayar
5 Recent Scientific study
6 Freedom fighters
7 Surnames and Titles
8 Religion
9 Feudal/Caste System
10 Inscriptions
10.1 Current Status
11 The code of Predatory Warfare and Self-sacrifice by Maravars and warrior Tamil castes in ancient Tamilnadu
12 See also
13 References
14 List of prominent Mukkulathors
15 External links
16 Internal links
//
[edit] Thevar/Mukkulathor
The Thevar/Mukkulathor (English: the three clans) are a Kshatriya warrior group, native to the southern districts of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The name "Mukkulathor" alludes to the three roughly designated groups, Kallar, Maravar and Agamudaiyar, which make up this wide endogamous social group. The Mukkulathors are of Chola, Pandya and Pallava lineage. [2] Mukkulathors are also collectively known as Moovender.
Mukkulathors are found all over the southern and central districts of Tamil Nadu, North-east Sri Lanka and amongst Tamil expatriate communities in South-East Asia and America. There is also a small community in Chattisgarh where they had migrated during British rule. The Royal houses of Sivagangai, Ramnad and Pudukkottai belongs to the Thevar community. They were people of high valour and strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them.
[edit] Kallar
Kallar (Tamil: கள்ளர்) also known as "Kallan" comes from the Tamil word Kallam meaning "Thief, Robber, One who steals" . Kallars are one of the three related castes which constitute the "Mukkalathor" confederacy. "A fearless community shows many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation". The Kallars socially reformed by the religious and spiritual movement of South India later became "Temple Priests" (பூசாரி). Kallars are people of high valour and strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them.
Kallars are largely found in the Southern districts of Thanjavur, Madurai, Pudukkottai, Trichy, Ariyalur, Theni, Dindigul, Sivaganga,Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Ramanathapuram districts of Tamil Nadu. They are also present in Karur, Kanchipuram, Perambalur and Villupuram districts. One of their popular deities is Kallazhagar who is a warrior incarnation of "Lord Thirumala or Venkadavan".
The "Pandi Temples" (Muni Koil) found in Madurai and Southern regions of Tamilnadu were originally the Tombs of the Early Tamil Kings and Rulers. Pandiyar Kudavarai which is found in Aritapatti (near Melur) has been built for the Siddhars by the Pandya Kings.
The Kallars are quintessentially a feudal society, with feudal classes such as the Ambalakarar. They are found mainly in the Madurai, Tirchuripalli, Ariyalur and Sivaganga districts. In these districts, each village is headed by an "Ambalam" (president of an assembly) and the Ambalam took upon themselves the power to adjudicate disputes that arose among the inhabitants in the Nadu. The term "Nadu" is an ancient political and administrative system found wherever Kallar populations migrated.
Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi is a book about Ambalakarars and it was also made into a Television serial broadcasted over Sun TV Network and music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. [3]They used to hear complaints, hold inquiries and punish the offenders. They wielded considerable powers to intervene in any kind of transaction or transfer of property among the people. No land could be alienated from one man to another without the permission of the Ambalams. The sur-name "Ambalam"is given to them, because of their Administration in their Villages. So they are mostly called as "Ambalam".
Another important Kallar subcaste is the Piramalai Kallar. They are a highly traditional people and have preserved their ancient customs to the present day. They are also believed to be the oldest inhabitants of the Tamil country with reports of their presence going back to Tamil literary works of the 4th century B.C. They are found mainly in the districts of Madurai(Usilampatti), Dindigul and Theni. Their popular deity is Amman, the Mother Goddess. A recent scientific research showed that Piramali Kallars to be the ancient inhabitants of South Asia. Piramalai kallars are the people still they are living fearless. They were contributed big share in freedom fight. Perungaamanallur people near usilampatti were fought with british people and died still they have Thiyagigal thoon (Pillar of freedom fighters) are there. Piramalai kallars were also given big contribution in Nethaji's INA force when Subash chandra bose had calling for the INA force from the submarine radio lots of people from this community were joint and fought with british for India. They are keep alive of our ancient culture.
Some of the other feudal classes include Koothappar Kallars, Periyasuriyur Kallars, Gandarvakoatai Kallars and Esanattu Kallars found largely dominated in the Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Sivagangai & Trichy Districts.
Some of the surnames are seen in Tamil copper-plate inscriptions of Chola was also mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan (Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy).
Paluvettaraiyar(பழுவேட்டரையன்)
Malayaman(மலையமான்)
Vallavaraiyar(வல்லவரையன்)
Muniaraiyar
Nilakkilar
Kaliyaraiyar
Puvaraiyar
Velar(வேளார்)
Vanataraiyar
Thondaiman(தொண்டைமான்)
Significant Kallar population also found in Srilanka and Malaysia, Samy Vellu, Ex-Works Minister (lost in 2008 election) and Leader of Malaysian Indian Congress, S. Thondaman, Leader of Indian Tamils of Sri Lanka are notable persons outside Tamilnadu.
[edit] Maravar
Maravar (Tamil: மறவர்) also "Maravan" (meaning "Grateful Warrior") is one of the oldest warrior (Kshatriya) caste of ancient Tamilakam to be mentioned in the Sangam Tamil literature. The Maravar are popularly given the feudal title Thevar / Devar. The caste term Maravar is derived from the archaic Tamil term Maram meaning Brave, Warrior(Kshatriya). The Maravar/Maravan are related to the Kallan/Kallars of the South India. This indicates an association with the Tamil land which is at least 2,000 years old. The name Maravar was made eternal by Lord Rama who famously exclaimed in good Tamil Maraven (I will never forget) to the Maravar padai for their noble help in assisting Lord Rama to unite with the Goddess Sita Devi.
Maravars are courageous breed and were involved in almost all the major battles and wars that ancient Tamilnadu witnessed. Maravars are found predominantly in the Southern districts of Tamilnadu viz., Madurai, Theni, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Virudhunagar, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu. They ruled the vast land mass of Tamilnadu. The coastal rulers called as Paravars (Paravans) are related to Maravars. Both these tribes seems to have same origin and they are famous throughout South India for their courage and valour. The Southern martial arts of Kalarippayattu, Silambam, Varma kalai have been practiced primarily by Nairs, Kallars, Thevars and Villavars of erstwhile Travancore areas.
The Maravar have close relation with Kalabhars even though they Maravars are a non-aryan, non-Kalabhar group. They were ancient rulers of Pandya kingdom from the First Sangam Tamil age. Another fishing caste called the Paravars and Maravars were collectively called as Meenavar and Villavar of the past. They both share a common origin and they had control over the Early Pandya Kingdom. Their leaders were given the title "Meenavan" or "Pandyan". Edgar Thurston (1855-1935) a British museologist and ethnographer identified the use of the boomerang by Kallars and Maravars.
Large number of Maravars served in the armies of many princely states of Kerala. But during the 18th and 19th centuries, most of them were assimilated in to the Tamil Padam Nair subcaste of the Nair community. The Maravar regiment of the Travancore army was known as "Maravar Padai", which supplemented Nair Pattalam, the larger indigenous military unit. [4] Tamil Padam Nair is recognized as a part of the Malayala Kshatriya social grouping. The Ramnad Zamindar's are accorded the title Sethupathi (protector of the Sethu bridge) even to this day.
There are 2 major subdivisions in the Maravar community. One is Appa Nattu Kondyankottai Maravar and another one is Chembiya Nattu Maravar. The Kondyan Kottai Maravars are still maintaining Killai[branches]as their sub sect. The Killai is inherited from mother. So a boy or girl will not marry in their same Killai. It is assumed that they are brother & sister. Such a practice is no longer prevailing amongst other maravars. The married womens of kondyankottai maravers wear "thali"[thirumangalyam]in the shape of shiva lingam. So it is called "linga thali".
The Chembiya Nattu Maravars are Surya vamsam. They are historically came from Thanjavur. Kondayan kottai maravars women were having habits of maruthalli. But Chembiya Nattu Maravars women were having habit of Udankattai yeruthal (Sati but now banned and not in practise).
[edit] Agamudayar
Agamudayar(Tamil: அகமுடையார்) meaning "Landlords" are also known as Thuluva Vaellalars are one of the three castes that make up the Mukkulathor confederacy. Agamudayars also famously bore the title Servai - "A fearless community show many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation". They were land prince or expert soldiers, warriors and constituted the bulk of Chola and Pandya armies. The legendary Marudu brothers' come from the Agamudayar (Servai) community. The Agamudaiyars also known as Thuluva Vellalars are the original landlords of the Southern Tamilnadu and are related to the Vellalars of Tamilnadu, who migrated out of the Chola country to other parts of the South India. The Lands they own are rewarded for their loyal and valuable service by the Kings and Emperors for the cause of the nation.
Agamudaiyars are found all over in Southern Tamilnadu in Sivagangai, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari, Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Trichy, Ariyalur and Tiruvannamalai districts. "[5].
The word Agamudaiyan or Ahamudaiyan is derived from the root Aham which in Tamil means Land and also House.[6] Signifying that Agamudaiyars are Landlords and Householder ; the suffix Udeiyar indicating ownership. The word is also used in another form, Ahampadiyar, derived from another meaning of the same root, i.e., inside. And, in this derivation, it signifies a meaning of a particular profession, whose office it was to attend to the business in the Interior's of the King's Palace or in the Pagoda".[6] The name," Mr. J. H. Nelson writes, "is said by the Rev. G. U. Pope, in his edition of the Abbe Dubois' work to be derived from aham, a temple, and padi, a step, and to have been given to them in consequence of their serving about the steps of temples. But, independently of the fact that Madura pagodas are not approached by flights of steps, this seems to be a very far-fetched and improbable derivation of the word. Or, perhaps, the name comes from aham in the sense of earth, and pati, master or possessor."[6][7][8] The ordinary title of the Agamudaiyans is Servaikkaran, .[8] In Pudukkottai, Trichy, Sivangagai, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari districts Agamudaiyans are also called Terkittiyar ("Southerners").[8].
The Agamudaiyans are divided into the following sub-sects: Aivali Nattan, Kottaipattu, Malainadu, Nattumangalam, Rajaboja, Rajakulam (Rajakulam and Parvatha Rajakulam), Rajavasal, Kalian, Sani, Thuluva Vaelalar(Tholuva), Maravan, and Servaikkaran. The Agam Udaiyars slowly migrated towards the Northern part of Tamil Nadu, settled there and became Thuluva Vellalars. Thuluva Vellala and Agam Udayar are one and the same and are also classified as same by the Tamil Nadu government, India.
[edit] Recent Scientific study
There are diverse theories with regard to the origin of Mukkulathors.
Dr Spencer Wells and Dr. Pitchappan have found the ancient DNA marker M130 in the blood of Piramalai Kallar that links them to the very first modern humans who migrated out of Africa and travelling through the southern coastline of Asia that eventually reached Australia.
[edit] Freedom fighters
British colonisation of India was strongly resisted in the South especially in Mukkulathor country.
Puli Thevar from the eighteenth century is remembered as the first Indian king to have fought and defeated the British in India. His exploits have since become legendary.
Resistance to British rule was also offered by Padal Vellaiya Tevan who fought the British along with Kattabomman. His son Desakaval Senbaga Tevan is also remembered for his exploits.
Rani Velu Nachiar, Queen of Sivaganga, is another noted personality who fought with the British during early British Era.
The Maruthu Pandiyar brothers are notable for their role in the Polygar Wars. They were eventually captured by the British and hanged in 1801.Golden Words for Servai People "Paayavum Theriyum Pathungavum Theriyum Bayapada Theriyathu"
Valukku Veli Thevan, a very strong Kallar Ambalakkarar rulled Paganeri Nadu in present Ramanatapuram District, who opposed the British rule.
[edit] Surnames and Titles
The surnames used by the Mukulathor people are Ambalakarar, Servai, Kalapadiyar Vandaiyar, Veeramundar, Paluvettaraiyar, Malayaman, Vallavaraiyar, Etrandaar, Mannaiyar, Nattar (not Nadar), kumarandar,Annuthipiriyar,Rajaliyar etc. It is a general practice in Tamil Nadu to address a Thevar woman as "Nachchiyaar". The Kallars of Dindigul, Trichy, Thanjavur, Theni, Madurai, Sivaganga, Pudukottai and Ramnad Districts have very distinct surnames. Some of the most common names are Papudaiyar, Kadampurar, Anjathevar, Olivarayar, Vanathirayar, Sendapiriyar, OOnayaar, Alathondamar, Ambalam, Aarsuthiyar, Kaadavaraayar, Kalingarayar, Vandaiyaar, Veeramundar, Sepillaiyar, Vallundar, Thanjaraayar, , Kandiyar, Pursaar, Vaanavaraayar, Mazhavaraayar, Payer, Kommatti, Mootar, Patti, Kannakkarar, Irungular, Singilaar, Ponnapoondar, Pullavaraayar, Servai, Karaimeendar, Vanavarayar, Vairayar, Ponpethiar, Gopalar, Thevar, Kandapillai, Vayaadiyar, Nattaar, Vallambar, Alankara Priyar, mavaliyar, Munaiyatriyar, Keerudayar, Saaluvar, Manraayar, Madhavarayar, Mudaliyar, Onthiriyar, Servai, Serumadar, Sethurayar, Vambaliar, Thenkondaar, Mankondaar, Moovaraiyar etc. There are over 700 surnames in use.
Some of the surnames are seen in Tamil copper-plate inscriptions was also mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan (Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy).
[edit] Religion
They are traditionally Hindus of Saiva Siddhanta margam. Today they constitute a significant part of the Tamil community in India, Sri Lanka, and in other parts of the world. Payer
[edit] Feudal/Caste System
Caste status of the Thevar community is martial status, Hindu Kshatriya. The 1891 Census of India listed them as a part of the Martial Races. The Thevar community are accused of intimidating and attacking Dalits throughout Southern districts of Tamil Nadu.
[edit] Inscriptions
An inscription, from 1655, records an accord between the Sthanathar, a Chetti merchant community, and the Nattar to contribute fifty Kalanju of gold to the Elunattu Mutt at Chidambaram.[9]
[edit] Current Status
Although a great many of the members are still agriculturalists, many have also progressed up the social ladder as doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, politicians and civil servants.Especially in entertainment field this community is still has the dominating position. This community people are spread allover in the media world like Cinema, television etc. They are well placed in Politics as well. A large number of people from the community are serving the nation as military men. A large number of people are serving the Tamil Nadu police department.
[edit] The code of Predatory Warfare and Self-sacrifice by Maravars and warrior Tamil castes in ancient Tamilnadu
Avippali, Thannai, Verttal, Vallan pakkam, Pun Kilithu Mudiyum Maram and Marakkanchi: the forms of martial self-sacrifice and suicidal battle of the warrior as the ultimate expression of honour and his loyalty to his King. These six forms of martial self-sacrifice are defined as described by the works referred to above.
Pulla Vazhkai Vallan Pakkam – the martial attitude of the warrior who goes forth into suicidal battle is mentioned by Tholkappiyam. The other works refer to it as Thannai Verttal. Duarte Barbosa describes the practice among the Nayar(of the Chera kingdom). It was later noticed by British officials as well. It was also prevalent among the Maravar (of the Pandya kingdom) from whom the Aapathhuthavi bodyguard was selected. Thannai Verttal also refers to the self-sacrifice of a warrior on hearing that his king or commander has died (Purapporul Venpa Malai). Punkilithu Mudiyum Maram is the martial act of a warrior who commits self-sacrifice by tearing apart his battle wound.
Another form of martial self-sacrifice mentioned by all the works except Veera soliyam, is Avippali. Tamil inscriptions speak of it as Navakandam. Inscriptions found in many parts of Tamilnadu provide greater information on the practice. Navakandam is the act of a warrior who slices his own neck to fulfil the vow made to korravai – the Tamil goddess of war – for his commanders’ victory in battle. The Kalingathu Parani(10) – a work which celebrates the victory of the Chola king Kulotunga and his general Thondaman in the battle for Kalinga, describes the practice in detail. “The temple of korravai is decorated with lotus flowers which bloomed when the warriors sliced their own necks”(106); “they slice the base of their necks; the severed heads are given to the goddess”(111); “when the neck is sliced and the head is severed, the headless body jumps with joy for having fulfilled the vow”(113).
The epics of Chilapadikaram (5: 79-86) and Manimekalai (6: 50-51) mention the practice. To ensure the complete severing of the head, the warrior tied his hair to a bamboo bent taut before he cut his neck. Hero stones depicting this practice are found all over Tamil Nadu, and are called Saavan Kallu by locals. The warriors who thus committed self-sacrifice were not only deified in hero stones (saavan kallu) and worshipped but their relatives were given lands which were exempted from tax(11).
An area handbook (Tharamangalam) of the Tamilnadu archeology department notes that “the Nava Kandam sculpture which is found widely all over Kongu Nadu (Coimbatore, Salem) is to be seen at the Tharamangalam Kailasanathar kovil also. The people call it Saavan Kallu. “The practice of Nava Kandam existed in Kongu Nadu till the early part of this [i.e., 20th] century.”(12)
A Saavan Kallu at Thenkarai Moolanatha sami Kovil in Madurai, depicting the act of a warrior holding his hair with his left hand and slicing his neck with his right – 14th century – is said to be annually worshipped by the Conjeevaram Mudaliyars.(13) The Conjeevaram Mudaliyars are Kaikolar, a presentday weaving caste which was militarized under the Chola empire and was made into a special military body; there are indications that Kaikolar warriors practiced Nava Kandam(14).
Apart from these codified forms of martial self-sacrifice, a method called Vadakkiruththal is mentioned in Tamil heroic poetry. It is the act of a warrior king fasting to death, if some dire dishonour were to come upon him(15). The Tamil teacher, and the Dravidian propagandist, turned the song of the legendary Chera king Irumborai who committed self-sacrifice when he was taken captive by his enemies into a compelling theme in Tamil renaissance.
The Avippali form of martial self-sacrifice as the ultimate expression of loyalty to one’s commander, is deeply embedded in the Tamil psyche. Senchorru-kadan (the debt of red rice) is a phrase that is widely used today by Tamils as an expression of loyalty. One frequently hears of it in a popular Tamil song. The phrase sands for the ritual of partaking of rice by which Maravar and other Tamil military caste warriors bound themselves to their king or commander to die in suicidal battle for him, or to commit self-sacrifice on the day he was slain. Of Avippali, the Puraporul Venba Malai ([verse] 92) says, “thinking of nothing but the red (blood) rice the Maravar give their life as offering in battle.”
The ritual of red or blood rice was described by two Muslim travellers who had visited the Tamil country in the 9th century. “A quantity of cooked rice was spread before the king, and some three or four hundred persons came of their own accord and received each a small quantity of rice from the king’s own hands, after he himself had eaten some. By eating of this rice, they all engage themselvesto burn themselves on the day the king dies or is slain; and they punctually fulfill their promise.”(16) In modern times it has been observed that “when a Maravar takes food in the house of a stranger, he will take a pinch of earth and put it on the food before he commences his meal.”(17) This act freed him from the debt of blood rice.[1]
[edit] See also
Forward Castes
Martial Race
Puli Thevar
Maruthu Pandiyar
U. Muthuramalingam Thevar
Kallar (caste)
[edit] References
^ http://www.ambedkar.org/chandrabhan/Secularismor.htm
^ http://books.google.com/books?id=iCZuAAAAMAAJ&dq=pandyan+thevar
^ Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi
^ http://www.completemartialarts.com/information/styles/indian/silambam.htm
^ " Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 5
^ a b c Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 6
^ Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 7
^ a b c Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 8
^ http://www.hindu.com/2004/06/28/stories/2004062803670600.htm
Thurston, Edgar; K. Rangachari (1909). Castes and Tribes of Southern India Volume I - A and B. Madras: Government Press.
On Tamil Militarism- The suppression of Tamil military castes
Genetic structure of four socio-culturally diversified caste populations of southwest India
[edit] List of prominent Mukkulathors
See also: List of Mukkulathors
[edit] External links
http://www.thevar.in
http://www.thevarcommunity.com/
http://www.devaronline.com/
http://devarcaste.wetpaint.com
http://kallar.weebly.com
http://www.kallarsangam.com
Vallambar Official Website
http://thevarcommunitymumbai.com
http://www.thevaryouth.com/
http://pasumpontrust.com/
http://WWW.MUTHURAMALINGATHEVAR.COM
Matrimony site for mukkulathor
Devapattu Kallars
11,950,000 in Tamil Nadu [1]
Regions with significant populations
Tamil Nadu, North Eastern Province, Malaysia, Singapore, Canada, Cen. Province, Chattisgarh
Languages
Tamil, English, Indian Languages
Religion
Saiva Siddhantam, Hinduism
Related ethnic groups
Kshatriyas, Tamil people
Contents[hide]
1 Thevar/Mukkulathor
2 Kallar
3 Maravar
4 Agamudayar
5 Recent Scientific study
6 Freedom fighters
7 Surnames and Titles
8 Religion
9 Feudal/Caste System
10 Inscriptions
10.1 Current Status
11 The code of Predatory Warfare and Self-sacrifice by Maravars and warrior Tamil castes in ancient Tamilnadu
12 See also
13 References
14 List of prominent Mukkulathors
15 External links
16 Internal links
//
[edit] Thevar/Mukkulathor
The Thevar/Mukkulathor (English: the three clans) are a Kshatriya warrior group, native to the southern districts of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The name "Mukkulathor" alludes to the three roughly designated groups, Kallar, Maravar and Agamudaiyar, which make up this wide endogamous social group. The Mukkulathors are of Chola, Pandya and Pallava lineage. [2] Mukkulathors are also collectively known as Moovender.
Mukkulathors are found all over the southern and central districts of Tamil Nadu, North-east Sri Lanka and amongst Tamil expatriate communities in South-East Asia and America. There is also a small community in Chattisgarh where they had migrated during British rule. The Royal houses of Sivagangai, Ramnad and Pudukkottai belongs to the Thevar community. They were people of high valour and strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them.
[edit] Kallar
Kallar (Tamil: கள்ளர்) also known as "Kallan" comes from the Tamil word Kallam meaning "Thief, Robber, One who steals" . Kallars are one of the three related castes which constitute the "Mukkalathor" confederacy. "A fearless community shows many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation". The Kallars socially reformed by the religious and spiritual movement of South India later became "Temple Priests" (பூசாரி). Kallars are people of high valour and strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them.
Kallars are largely found in the Southern districts of Thanjavur, Madurai, Pudukkottai, Trichy, Ariyalur, Theni, Dindigul, Sivaganga,Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Ramanathapuram districts of Tamil Nadu. They are also present in Karur, Kanchipuram, Perambalur and Villupuram districts. One of their popular deities is Kallazhagar who is a warrior incarnation of "Lord Thirumala or Venkadavan".
The "Pandi Temples" (Muni Koil) found in Madurai and Southern regions of Tamilnadu were originally the Tombs of the Early Tamil Kings and Rulers. Pandiyar Kudavarai which is found in Aritapatti (near Melur) has been built for the Siddhars by the Pandya Kings.
The Kallars are quintessentially a feudal society, with feudal classes such as the Ambalakarar. They are found mainly in the Madurai, Tirchuripalli, Ariyalur and Sivaganga districts. In these districts, each village is headed by an "Ambalam" (president of an assembly) and the Ambalam took upon themselves the power to adjudicate disputes that arose among the inhabitants in the Nadu. The term "Nadu" is an ancient political and administrative system found wherever Kallar populations migrated.
Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi is a book about Ambalakarars and it was also made into a Television serial broadcasted over Sun TV Network and music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. [3]They used to hear complaints, hold inquiries and punish the offenders. They wielded considerable powers to intervene in any kind of transaction or transfer of property among the people. No land could be alienated from one man to another without the permission of the Ambalams. The sur-name "Ambalam"is given to them, because of their Administration in their Villages. So they are mostly called as "Ambalam".
Another important Kallar subcaste is the Piramalai Kallar. They are a highly traditional people and have preserved their ancient customs to the present day. They are also believed to be the oldest inhabitants of the Tamil country with reports of their presence going back to Tamil literary works of the 4th century B.C. They are found mainly in the districts of Madurai(Usilampatti), Dindigul and Theni. Their popular deity is Amman, the Mother Goddess. A recent scientific research showed that Piramali Kallars to be the ancient inhabitants of South Asia. Piramalai kallars are the people still they are living fearless. They were contributed big share in freedom fight. Perungaamanallur people near usilampatti were fought with british people and died still they have Thiyagigal thoon (Pillar of freedom fighters) are there. Piramalai kallars were also given big contribution in Nethaji's INA force when Subash chandra bose had calling for the INA force from the submarine radio lots of people from this community were joint and fought with british for India. They are keep alive of our ancient culture.
Some of the other feudal classes include Koothappar Kallars, Periyasuriyur Kallars, Gandarvakoatai Kallars and Esanattu Kallars found largely dominated in the Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Sivagangai & Trichy Districts.
Some of the surnames are seen in Tamil copper-plate inscriptions of Chola was also mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan (Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy).
Paluvettaraiyar(பழுவேட்டரையன்)
Malayaman(மலையமான்)
Vallavaraiyar(வல்லவரையன்)
Muniaraiyar
Nilakkilar
Kaliyaraiyar
Puvaraiyar
Velar(வேளார்)
Vanataraiyar
Thondaiman(தொண்டைமான்)
Significant Kallar population also found in Srilanka and Malaysia, Samy Vellu, Ex-Works Minister (lost in 2008 election) and Leader of Malaysian Indian Congress, S. Thondaman, Leader of Indian Tamils of Sri Lanka are notable persons outside Tamilnadu.
[edit] Maravar
Maravar (Tamil: மறவர்) also "Maravan" (meaning "Grateful Warrior") is one of the oldest warrior (Kshatriya) caste of ancient Tamilakam to be mentioned in the Sangam Tamil literature. The Maravar are popularly given the feudal title Thevar / Devar. The caste term Maravar is derived from the archaic Tamil term Maram meaning Brave, Warrior(Kshatriya). The Maravar/Maravan are related to the Kallan/Kallars of the South India. This indicates an association with the Tamil land which is at least 2,000 years old. The name Maravar was made eternal by Lord Rama who famously exclaimed in good Tamil Maraven (I will never forget) to the Maravar padai for their noble help in assisting Lord Rama to unite with the Goddess Sita Devi.
Maravars are courageous breed and were involved in almost all the major battles and wars that ancient Tamilnadu witnessed. Maravars are found predominantly in the Southern districts of Tamilnadu viz., Madurai, Theni, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Virudhunagar, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu. They ruled the vast land mass of Tamilnadu. The coastal rulers called as Paravars (Paravans) are related to Maravars. Both these tribes seems to have same origin and they are famous throughout South India for their courage and valour. The Southern martial arts of Kalarippayattu, Silambam, Varma kalai have been practiced primarily by Nairs, Kallars, Thevars and Villavars of erstwhile Travancore areas.
The Maravar have close relation with Kalabhars even though they Maravars are a non-aryan, non-Kalabhar group. They were ancient rulers of Pandya kingdom from the First Sangam Tamil age. Another fishing caste called the Paravars and Maravars were collectively called as Meenavar and Villavar of the past. They both share a common origin and they had control over the Early Pandya Kingdom. Their leaders were given the title "Meenavan" or "Pandyan". Edgar Thurston (1855-1935) a British museologist and ethnographer identified the use of the boomerang by Kallars and Maravars.
Large number of Maravars served in the armies of many princely states of Kerala. But during the 18th and 19th centuries, most of them were assimilated in to the Tamil Padam Nair subcaste of the Nair community. The Maravar regiment of the Travancore army was known as "Maravar Padai", which supplemented Nair Pattalam, the larger indigenous military unit. [4] Tamil Padam Nair is recognized as a part of the Malayala Kshatriya social grouping. The Ramnad Zamindar's are accorded the title Sethupathi (protector of the Sethu bridge) even to this day.
There are 2 major subdivisions in the Maravar community. One is Appa Nattu Kondyankottai Maravar and another one is Chembiya Nattu Maravar. The Kondyan Kottai Maravars are still maintaining Killai[branches]as their sub sect. The Killai is inherited from mother. So a boy or girl will not marry in their same Killai. It is assumed that they are brother & sister. Such a practice is no longer prevailing amongst other maravars. The married womens of kondyankottai maravers wear "thali"[thirumangalyam]in the shape of shiva lingam. So it is called "linga thali".
The Chembiya Nattu Maravars are Surya vamsam. They are historically came from Thanjavur. Kondayan kottai maravars women were having habits of maruthalli. But Chembiya Nattu Maravars women were having habit of Udankattai yeruthal (Sati but now banned and not in practise).
[edit] Agamudayar
Agamudayar(Tamil: அகமுடையார்) meaning "Landlords" are also known as Thuluva Vaellalars are one of the three castes that make up the Mukkulathor confederacy. Agamudayars also famously bore the title Servai - "A fearless community show many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation". They were land prince or expert soldiers, warriors and constituted the bulk of Chola and Pandya armies. The legendary Marudu brothers' come from the Agamudayar (Servai) community. The Agamudaiyars also known as Thuluva Vellalars are the original landlords of the Southern Tamilnadu and are related to the Vellalars of Tamilnadu, who migrated out of the Chola country to other parts of the South India. The Lands they own are rewarded for their loyal and valuable service by the Kings and Emperors for the cause of the nation.
Agamudaiyars are found all over in Southern Tamilnadu in Sivagangai, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari, Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Trichy, Ariyalur and Tiruvannamalai districts. "[5].
The word Agamudaiyan or Ahamudaiyan is derived from the root Aham which in Tamil means Land and also House.[6] Signifying that Agamudaiyars are Landlords and Householder ; the suffix Udeiyar indicating ownership. The word is also used in another form, Ahampadiyar, derived from another meaning of the same root, i.e., inside. And, in this derivation, it signifies a meaning of a particular profession, whose office it was to attend to the business in the Interior's of the King's Palace or in the Pagoda".[6] The name," Mr. J. H. Nelson writes, "is said by the Rev. G. U. Pope, in his edition of the Abbe Dubois' work to be derived from aham, a temple, and padi, a step, and to have been given to them in consequence of their serving about the steps of temples. But, independently of the fact that Madura pagodas are not approached by flights of steps, this seems to be a very far-fetched and improbable derivation of the word. Or, perhaps, the name comes from aham in the sense of earth, and pati, master or possessor."[6][7][8] The ordinary title of the Agamudaiyans is Servaikkaran, .[8] In Pudukkottai, Trichy, Sivangagai, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari districts Agamudaiyans are also called Terkittiyar ("Southerners").[8].
The Agamudaiyans are divided into the following sub-sects: Aivali Nattan, Kottaipattu, Malainadu, Nattumangalam, Rajaboja, Rajakulam (Rajakulam and Parvatha Rajakulam), Rajavasal, Kalian, Sani, Thuluva Vaelalar(Tholuva), Maravan, and Servaikkaran. The Agam Udaiyars slowly migrated towards the Northern part of Tamil Nadu, settled there and became Thuluva Vellalars. Thuluva Vellala and Agam Udayar are one and the same and are also classified as same by the Tamil Nadu government, India.
[edit] Recent Scientific study
There are diverse theories with regard to the origin of Mukkulathors.
Dr Spencer Wells and Dr. Pitchappan have found the ancient DNA marker M130 in the blood of Piramalai Kallar that links them to the very first modern humans who migrated out of Africa and travelling through the southern coastline of Asia that eventually reached Australia.
[edit] Freedom fighters
British colonisation of India was strongly resisted in the South especially in Mukkulathor country.
Puli Thevar from the eighteenth century is remembered as the first Indian king to have fought and defeated the British in India. His exploits have since become legendary.
Resistance to British rule was also offered by Padal Vellaiya Tevan who fought the British along with Kattabomman. His son Desakaval Senbaga Tevan is also remembered for his exploits.
Rani Velu Nachiar, Queen of Sivaganga, is another noted personality who fought with the British during early British Era.
The Maruthu Pandiyar brothers are notable for their role in the Polygar Wars. They were eventually captured by the British and hanged in 1801.Golden Words for Servai People "Paayavum Theriyum Pathungavum Theriyum Bayapada Theriyathu"
Valukku Veli Thevan, a very strong Kallar Ambalakkarar rulled Paganeri Nadu in present Ramanatapuram District, who opposed the British rule.
[edit] Surnames and Titles
The surnames used by the Mukulathor people are Ambalakarar, Servai, Kalapadiyar Vandaiyar, Veeramundar, Paluvettaraiyar, Malayaman, Vallavaraiyar, Etrandaar, Mannaiyar, Nattar (not Nadar), kumarandar,Annuthipiriyar,Rajaliyar etc. It is a general practice in Tamil Nadu to address a Thevar woman as "Nachchiyaar". The Kallars of Dindigul, Trichy, Thanjavur, Theni, Madurai, Sivaganga, Pudukottai and Ramnad Districts have very distinct surnames. Some of the most common names are Papudaiyar, Kadampurar, Anjathevar, Olivarayar, Vanathirayar, Sendapiriyar, OOnayaar, Alathondamar, Ambalam, Aarsuthiyar, Kaadavaraayar, Kalingarayar, Vandaiyaar, Veeramundar, Sepillaiyar, Vallundar, Thanjaraayar, , Kandiyar, Pursaar, Vaanavaraayar, Mazhavaraayar, Payer, Kommatti, Mootar, Patti, Kannakkarar, Irungular, Singilaar, Ponnapoondar, Pullavaraayar, Servai, Karaimeendar, Vanavarayar, Vairayar, Ponpethiar, Gopalar, Thevar, Kandapillai, Vayaadiyar, Nattaar, Vallambar, Alankara Priyar, mavaliyar, Munaiyatriyar, Keerudayar, Saaluvar, Manraayar, Madhavarayar, Mudaliyar, Onthiriyar, Servai, Serumadar, Sethurayar, Vambaliar, Thenkondaar, Mankondaar, Moovaraiyar etc. There are over 700 surnames in use.
Some of the surnames are seen in Tamil copper-plate inscriptions was also mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan (Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy).
[edit] Religion
They are traditionally Hindus of Saiva Siddhanta margam. Today they constitute a significant part of the Tamil community in India, Sri Lanka, and in other parts of the world. Payer
[edit] Feudal/Caste System
Caste status of the Thevar community is martial status, Hindu Kshatriya. The 1891 Census of India listed them as a part of the Martial Races. The Thevar community are accused of intimidating and attacking Dalits throughout Southern districts of Tamil Nadu.
[edit] Inscriptions
An inscription, from 1655, records an accord between the Sthanathar, a Chetti merchant community, and the Nattar to contribute fifty Kalanju of gold to the Elunattu Mutt at Chidambaram.[9]
[edit] Current Status
Although a great many of the members are still agriculturalists, many have also progressed up the social ladder as doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, politicians and civil servants.Especially in entertainment field this community is still has the dominating position. This community people are spread allover in the media world like Cinema, television etc. They are well placed in Politics as well. A large number of people from the community are serving the nation as military men. A large number of people are serving the Tamil Nadu police department.
[edit] The code of Predatory Warfare and Self-sacrifice by Maravars and warrior Tamil castes in ancient Tamilnadu
Avippali, Thannai, Verttal, Vallan pakkam, Pun Kilithu Mudiyum Maram and Marakkanchi: the forms of martial self-sacrifice and suicidal battle of the warrior as the ultimate expression of honour and his loyalty to his King. These six forms of martial self-sacrifice are defined as described by the works referred to above.
Pulla Vazhkai Vallan Pakkam – the martial attitude of the warrior who goes forth into suicidal battle is mentioned by Tholkappiyam. The other works refer to it as Thannai Verttal. Duarte Barbosa describes the practice among the Nayar(of the Chera kingdom). It was later noticed by British officials as well. It was also prevalent among the Maravar (of the Pandya kingdom) from whom the Aapathhuthavi bodyguard was selected. Thannai Verttal also refers to the self-sacrifice of a warrior on hearing that his king or commander has died (Purapporul Venpa Malai). Punkilithu Mudiyum Maram is the martial act of a warrior who commits self-sacrifice by tearing apart his battle wound.
Another form of martial self-sacrifice mentioned by all the works except Veera soliyam, is Avippali. Tamil inscriptions speak of it as Navakandam. Inscriptions found in many parts of Tamilnadu provide greater information on the practice. Navakandam is the act of a warrior who slices his own neck to fulfil the vow made to korravai – the Tamil goddess of war – for his commanders’ victory in battle. The Kalingathu Parani(10) – a work which celebrates the victory of the Chola king Kulotunga and his general Thondaman in the battle for Kalinga, describes the practice in detail. “The temple of korravai is decorated with lotus flowers which bloomed when the warriors sliced their own necks”(106); “they slice the base of their necks; the severed heads are given to the goddess”(111); “when the neck is sliced and the head is severed, the headless body jumps with joy for having fulfilled the vow”(113).
The epics of Chilapadikaram (5: 79-86) and Manimekalai (6: 50-51) mention the practice. To ensure the complete severing of the head, the warrior tied his hair to a bamboo bent taut before he cut his neck. Hero stones depicting this practice are found all over Tamil Nadu, and are called Saavan Kallu by locals. The warriors who thus committed self-sacrifice were not only deified in hero stones (saavan kallu) and worshipped but their relatives were given lands which were exempted from tax(11).
An area handbook (Tharamangalam) of the Tamilnadu archeology department notes that “the Nava Kandam sculpture which is found widely all over Kongu Nadu (Coimbatore, Salem) is to be seen at the Tharamangalam Kailasanathar kovil also. The people call it Saavan Kallu. “The practice of Nava Kandam existed in Kongu Nadu till the early part of this [i.e., 20th] century.”(12)
A Saavan Kallu at Thenkarai Moolanatha sami Kovil in Madurai, depicting the act of a warrior holding his hair with his left hand and slicing his neck with his right – 14th century – is said to be annually worshipped by the Conjeevaram Mudaliyars.(13) The Conjeevaram Mudaliyars are Kaikolar, a presentday weaving caste which was militarized under the Chola empire and was made into a special military body; there are indications that Kaikolar warriors practiced Nava Kandam(14).
Apart from these codified forms of martial self-sacrifice, a method called Vadakkiruththal is mentioned in Tamil heroic poetry. It is the act of a warrior king fasting to death, if some dire dishonour were to come upon him(15). The Tamil teacher, and the Dravidian propagandist, turned the song of the legendary Chera king Irumborai who committed self-sacrifice when he was taken captive by his enemies into a compelling theme in Tamil renaissance.
The Avippali form of martial self-sacrifice as the ultimate expression of loyalty to one’s commander, is deeply embedded in the Tamil psyche. Senchorru-kadan (the debt of red rice) is a phrase that is widely used today by Tamils as an expression of loyalty. One frequently hears of it in a popular Tamil song. The phrase sands for the ritual of partaking of rice by which Maravar and other Tamil military caste warriors bound themselves to their king or commander to die in suicidal battle for him, or to commit self-sacrifice on the day he was slain. Of Avippali, the Puraporul Venba Malai ([verse] 92) says, “thinking of nothing but the red (blood) rice the Maravar give their life as offering in battle.”
The ritual of red or blood rice was described by two Muslim travellers who had visited the Tamil country in the 9th century. “A quantity of cooked rice was spread before the king, and some three or four hundred persons came of their own accord and received each a small quantity of rice from the king’s own hands, after he himself had eaten some. By eating of this rice, they all engage themselvesto burn themselves on the day the king dies or is slain; and they punctually fulfill their promise.”(16) In modern times it has been observed that “when a Maravar takes food in the house of a stranger, he will take a pinch of earth and put it on the food before he commences his meal.”(17) This act freed him from the debt of blood rice.[1]
[edit] See also
Forward Castes
Martial Race
Puli Thevar
Maruthu Pandiyar
U. Muthuramalingam Thevar
Kallar (caste)
[edit] References
^ http://www.ambedkar.org/chandrabhan/Secularismor.htm
^ http://books.google.com/books?id=iCZuAAAAMAAJ&dq=pandyan+thevar
^ Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi
^ http://www.completemartialarts.com/information/styles/indian/silambam.htm
^ " Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 5
^ a b c Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 6
^ Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 7
^ a b c Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol I, Pg 8
^ http://www.hindu.com/2004/06/28/stories/2004062803670600.htm
Thurston, Edgar; K. Rangachari (1909). Castes and Tribes of Southern India Volume I - A and B. Madras: Government Press.
On Tamil Militarism- The suppression of Tamil military castes
Genetic structure of four socio-culturally diversified caste populations of southwest India
[edit] List of prominent Mukkulathors
See also: List of Mukkulathors
[edit] External links
http://www.thevar.in
http://www.thevarcommunity.com/
http://www.devaronline.com/
http://devarcaste.wetpaint.com
http://kallar.weebly.com
http://www.kallarsangam.com
Vallambar Official Website
http://thevarcommunitymumbai.com
http://www.thevaryouth.com/
http://pasumpontrust.com/
http://WWW.MUTHURAMALINGATHEVAR.COM
Matrimony site for mukkulathor
Devapattu Kallars
Introduction to Kallar
Total population
65,00,000 (10% of Tamil population)[1]
Regions with significant populations
Tamilnadu, Sri Lanka, Malaysia
Languages
Tamil, English, Indian Languages
Religion
Saiva Siddhantam, Hinduism
Related ethnic groups
Kshatriyas, Mukkulathor, Tamil People.
Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar The Undisputable Leader of Mukkulathor (From Subcaste – Maravar)
Kallar (Tamil: கள்ளர்) also known as Kallan comes from the Tamil word Kallam meaning "Thief, Robber, One who steals". Kallars are one of the three related castes which constitute the Mukkalathor confederacy. "A fearless community shows many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation". They are people of high valour and strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them. Kallars are found largely in Thanjavur, Trichy, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Sivagangai, Ramanathapuram, Karur and Kanchipuram districts of Tamil Nadu. The Royal House of Pudukottai belongs to the Kallar community.
Significant Kallar population also found in Srilanka and Malasia, Samy Vellu, Ex-Works Minister (lost in 2008 election) and Leader of Malaysian Indian Congress, S. Thondaman, Leader of Indian Tamils of Sri Lanka are notable persons outside Tamilnadu.
Contents[hide]
1 Mukkulathor
2 Surnames
3 Sangam Age
4 Chola
5 Pallavas
6 Tamil copper-plate inscriptions
7 During Vijayanagar Empire
8 Notable Reformers
9 Current Status
10 See also
11 External links
12 References
//
[edit] Mukkulathor
Mukkulathor meaning Three clans (Kallar, Maravar and Agamudayar) Combinedly called as Thevar (Estimated population 1,30,00,000). The caste name "Kallar/Kallan" means "Temple Priest" (பூசாரி) in Sangam Tamil. The caste name Maravar/Maravan means "Grateful people".
Kallar, Maravar and Agamudayar are collectively known as "Moovender". Thevar means divinities or rulers. During early years the Kings were portrayed as Gods and so were known as Thevar or Devar (in Sanskrit.
[edit] Surnames
In Tamilnadu Kallars are called by various Surnames, these names comes to them during various times by the place they have ruled, the place of the battlefield and to state their strong valour and bravery in the battle with the foreign forces.
There are over 2,000 surnames in use among the community. There is no other caste in the whole of South India which have this many surnames. Some of the commonly used surnames are:
Thondaiman, Adigaman, Paluvettaraiyar, Thevar, Malayaman, Annuthipiriyar, Amballakkarar, Vaanathiraiyar, Rajaliyar, Servaar, Angarayar, Kaadu Vettiyar, Kalapadiyar, Senathipathiyar, Kandiyar, Mathurayar, Mannaiyar, Kalingarayar, Vanniyarchittachiar, Pattangattiyar (Pattukati).
Kanndapillai, Vanniyar, Vallavaraiyar, Sethurayar, Thanjaraayar, Kurusar, Pallavaraayar, Vandaiyar, Etrandaar, Vaanavaraayar, Servai, Soma Naicker, Muniyarayar (Munaiyatriyar), Thondamar, Mayrkondar, Kallathil Venrar, Nattar (not the Nadar/Shanar caste), Cholagar (Solagar), Solangadevar, Kumarandar, Anjathevar, Olivarayar, Sendapiriyar, Alathondamar, Ambalam, Aarsuthiyar, Kaadavaraayar, Kalingarayar, Vandaiyaar, Veeramundar, Sepillaiyar, Vallundar, Chozhangaraayar.
Mazhavaraayar, Kommatti Mootar, Kannakkarar, Irungular, Singilaar, Ponnapoondar, Pullavaraayar, Araimeendar, Vairayar, Ponpethiar, Gopalar, Putthi Kalindar, Manrayar, Sundayar, Vayaadiyar, Vanniar, Alankara Priyar, Mavaliyar, Keerudayar, Saaluvar, Manraayar, Madhavarayar, Onthiriyar, Serumadar, Vambaliar, Thenkondaar, Palandar, Mankondaar etc.[2]
It is a general practice in Southern Tamil Nadu to address a Thevar woman as Nachiyar.
[edit] Sangam Age
Thondaiman
The Kings (Araiyars), known as Thondaiman were then ruling Thondai Nadu (Thondaimandalam). There are hundreds of records pertaining to this dynasty. Thondai in Tamil means Kilai or Pirivu, Pallava in Sanskrit means the same, that proves that Thondaimans were the Pallava Kings who ruled the medieval Pallava dynasty and who were in fact a later offshoot of the Chola dynasty.
Malayaman
The Kings (Araiyars) ruled Tirukkoyilur during the ascendancy of the Chola empire, with the title Malayaman (which is one of the family name of the Kallar community). They were in close relation with Cholas. Sangam literature mentions of Tirumudikari, a Malayaman chief who fought alongside Perunarkilli Chola to defeat Cheral Irumporai (Irumporai Cheras).
Adigaman
The Kings were ruling Tagadur, present day Dharmapuri district. One of The Four kingdoms Mentioned in rock-edict of Ashoka. Adigaman Naduman Anji King of Tagadur is Mentioned in rock-edict of Ashoka as Satyaputras inscriptions found from Villupuram proves that stating Adigaman (which is one of the family name of the Kallar community) as Satyaputra Adhiyan Neduman Anji intha Pali.
[edit] Chola
The Chola Dynasty (Tamil:சோழர் குலம்) was a native Tamil dynasty that ruled South India and Ilangai (Ceylon) until the later half of the 13th century A.D. The other two Tamil Royal dynasties are the Pandyas and Cheras. And Pallavas are later offshoot of Cholas, In Sangam Tamil lexicon the word Chola means new country, the word Pandiya means old country, the word Chera means hill country and the word Pallava means branch in Sanskrit, proving the latter as the offshoot of Cholas.
The Chola dynasty originated in the fertile valley of the Kaveri River. Karikala Chola was the most famous among the early Chola kings, while Aditya I, Parantaka I, Rajaraja Chola I, Rajendra Chola I, Rajadhiraja Chola, Virarajendra Chola, Kulothunga Chola and Kulothunga Chola III were notable emperors of the medieval Cholas.
Kalapadiyar, Melkondar, Chozangar, Thevar, etc are now used by Kallars only shows that Cholas, Pallavas and Early Pandyas were from the Royal community of Kallars. The Bramanda puranas Puvindra puranam and Kalla Kesari Purannam also Mentions the same.[3]
Lots of marriages takes place between cholas with malavarayar[4], malayaman[5], Paluvettaraiyar[6],Melkondar[7] and Vallavaraiyar. they also belongs to Kallar community.[8] [9][10]
[edit] Pallavas
The word Pallava (Tamil: பல்லவர்) means branch in Sanskrit, denoting that they are a later offshoot (Kilai) of Cholas. The Pallava kingdom was a medieval Dravidian Tamil dynasty of South India that had its capital at Kanchipuram and ruled Northern Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh (till Northern Circars) around the 4th century CE.
They rose in power during the reign of Mahendravarman I (571 – 630 CE) and Narasimhavarman I (630 – 668 CE) and dominated the Andhra Pradesh and Northern parts of Tamil Nadu for about six hundred years until the end of the 9th century.
The word Pallava means branch in Sanskrit. The word is rendered as Tondaiyar in Tamil language. The Pallava kings at several places are called Thondamans or Thondaiyarkon. The territory of the Pallavas was known as Tundaka Visaya or Tundaka Rashtra. The Sanskrit meaning of Pallava is Kilai The Tamil Thondai means the same, it shows that Pallavas are descendants (Kilay or Pirivu) of Cholas.
Pathupattu, one of the Sangam literatures, reads that the King Thondaiman Ilandirayan ruled this town around 2,500 years ago. The Pallavas are told as the descendents of Thondaiman Ilandirayan.
They were also called by surnames like Sethurayar, Pallavarayar, Vandarayar, Kadurayar, Vallavarayar, Vanathirayar, Kaliyarayar..[11]
[edit] Tamil copper-plate inscriptions
The discovery of Indian copper plate inscriptions provided a relative abundance of new evidence for use in evolving a chronicle of India's elusive history.
During chola rule there were many small kings(Araiyar) were Ruling there Respective area under Chola. Some of the names are seen in Tamil copper-plate inscriptions was also mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan (Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy
Thondaiman(தொண்டைமான்)
Paluvettaraiyar(பழுவேட்டரையன்)
Malayaman(மலையமான்)
Vallavaraiyar(வல்லவரையன்)
Muniaraiyar
Puvaraiyar
Velar(வேளார்)
Vanataraiyar
[edit] During Vijayanagar Empire
The downfall of the Mukkulathors occurred in 1345 with the fall of Vira Pandyan IV and the subsequent conquest of Madurai by the Delhi Sultanate. However, the southern territories of the Sultanate soon asserted their independence and the Mukkulathors recovered under the Vijayanagar Empire and later under the Nayak dynasty during whose period they served as Polygars or chieftains.
The South-western parts of Tamilnadu except for Kongu Nadu was called as Kallar Nadu (Thanjavur, Trichy, Pudukkottai and part of Madurai) and was governed by Kallar Palayakkarar.
Ambalakarar is the most important people, they are feudal chiefs of the villages and towns they ruled during 18th century. They were a warlike people who strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them. They are found in Madurai, Trichy and Sivaganga districts. In these districts, each village is headed by an Ambalam (president of an assembly) and the Ambalam took upon themselves the power to adjudicate disputes that arose among the inhabitants in the "NADU", belonging to different castes. They used to hear complaints, hold inquiries and punish the offenders. They wielded considerable powers to intervene in any kind of transaction or transfer of property among the people. No land could be alienated from one man to another without the permission of the Ambalams. The sur-name "Ambalam"is given to them, because of their Administration in their Villages. So they are mostly called as "Ambalam".
Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi is a book about Ambalakarars and he was also Awarded "Raja Rajan Award" by Tamil University, Thanjavur for that book and it was also been taken as a serial in Sun TV, and music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. [12]
[edit] Notable Reformers
Although there are Many Kings, Polygors, Zamindars and Land lords the main occupation of kallar is Warrior, hence many Kallar Families struggled for income During British rule and after independence.. There were many reformers served for their Community.
Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar (முத்து ராமலிங்க தேவர்)
-Freedom fighter, Politician, a descendant of Pandyas of Ramnad and known for his close friendship with Nethaji Subash Chandra Bose.
P. K. Mookayya Thevar (1923 – 1979) (மூக்கையா தேவர் )
-Founder of the Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar college, President of All India Forward Bloc.
H. R. H. Rajagopala Tondaiman.
-Maharajah of Pudukottai (Thondaiman dynasty of Pudukkottai)
Nadigar Thilagam Chevalier C.Sivaji Ganesan (நடிகர் திலகம் சிவாஜி கணேசன்)
-Famous Actor, Legend in Tamil film History.
Navalar N.M Venkatasamy Nattar
-Tamil scholar, Tamil Activist.
Zamindar V. Gopalsamy Rajaliar (மேன்மை பொருந்திய வா. கோபாலசாமி ரகுநாத இராசாளியார்)
-Philanthropist, President Indra Kuladibar Sangam.
N.P Manicham Errthaandaar. (மக்கள் தொண்டர் ந.பா.மாணிக்கம் ஏற்றாண்டார்)
-Founder Mukkalathor Higher Secondary School and Tamilnadu Maanavar illam, Thiruverumbur, Founder Urimai murasu magazine(1954).
Late Rao Bahadur Sri. A.Veeriya Vandayar(Poondi. Vandayar)
-Leader Kallar Maha Sangam Previous to starting Mukkulathor Sangam
G.M. Premkumar Vandayar, (பிரேம் குமார் வாண்டையார் )
-Founder Moovendar Munnetra Kazhagam (MMK)
G.M. Sridhar Vandayar, (ஸ்ரீதர் வாண்டையார்)
-leader of Moovendar Munnetra Kazhagam (MMK)
DR.A.Srinivasan Vanniyar
-Founder President Tamilnadu Kallar Sangam
R.V.Swaminathan
-Freedom fighter(recipient of "Thaamarai Pattam"), Ghandhian, social reformer (worked for the upliftment of Harijans and caste people alike), ex-cabinet minister, close confidant of late prime minsters, Nehruji and Mrs. Indira Gandhi.
Late V.K.C. Natarajan I.A.S.,
-One of the first higher civil servants from the community. Co-founder of the Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar College at Usilampatti.
Late. AYYA. P.Tamilrasan Kalapadiyar. Dmk activist
[13] [14]
[edit] Current Status
Although a great many of the members are still agriculturalists, many have also progressed up the social ladder as doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, politicians and civil servants. Large number of people from the community are in the National Armed Forces of India. Large number of people serving the Tamilnadu Police Department.
[edit] See also
Malayaman
Mukkulathor
Moovendar Munnetra Kazhagam
All India Moovendar Munnani Kazhagam
[edit] External links
http://www.thevar.in
http://www.thevarcommunity.com/
http://www.devaronline.com/
http://www.kallarsangam.com
http://kallar.weebly.com
http://devarcaste.wetpaint.com
[edit] References
^ Census of India 2001
^ Kallar Marabinar in Pattapeyargal Oru Varalarru parvai, Pattangattiyar (Pattukati) By Sivabatham
^ "கள்ளர்". ta.wikipedia.org. http://ta.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%B3%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%B3%E0%AE%B0%E0%AF%8D.
^ "South Indian Inscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_23/introduction_1.html.
^ "South Indian Inscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_22/part_1/kulottunga_3.html.
^ "South IndianInscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_13/introduction_1.html.
^ "South Indian Inscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_2/no_21_north_wall_lower_tier.html.
^ Rajarajan Meikirthigal By Pandarathar
^ KalvethugalKurum Unmaigal By Pandarathar
^ "South Indian Inscriptions Volume13". Archaeological Survey of India. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_13/introduction_1.html. Retrieved 2008-11-09.
^ "கள்ளர் சரித்திரம்". www.thinnai.com. http://www.thinnai.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=20212014&format=print&edition_id=20021201.
^ Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi
^ "Kallar". www.kallarsangam.com. http://www.kallarsangam.com.
^ "Kallar (கள்ளர்)". kallar.weebly.com. http://kallar.weebly.com.
Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kallar_(caste)"
65,00,000 (10% of Tamil population)[1]
Regions with significant populations
Tamilnadu, Sri Lanka, Malaysia
Languages
Tamil, English, Indian Languages
Religion
Saiva Siddhantam, Hinduism
Related ethnic groups
Kshatriyas, Mukkulathor, Tamil People.
Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar The Undisputable Leader of Mukkulathor (From Subcaste – Maravar)
Kallar (Tamil: கள்ளர்) also known as Kallan comes from the Tamil word Kallam meaning "Thief, Robber, One who steals". Kallars are one of the three related castes which constitute the Mukkalathor confederacy. "A fearless community shows many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation". They are people of high valour and strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them. Kallars are found largely in Thanjavur, Trichy, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Sivagangai, Ramanathapuram, Karur and Kanchipuram districts of Tamil Nadu. The Royal House of Pudukottai belongs to the Kallar community.
Significant Kallar population also found in Srilanka and Malasia, Samy Vellu, Ex-Works Minister (lost in 2008 election) and Leader of Malaysian Indian Congress, S. Thondaman, Leader of Indian Tamils of Sri Lanka are notable persons outside Tamilnadu.
Contents[hide]
1 Mukkulathor
2 Surnames
3 Sangam Age
4 Chola
5 Pallavas
6 Tamil copper-plate inscriptions
7 During Vijayanagar Empire
8 Notable Reformers
9 Current Status
10 See also
11 External links
12 References
//
[edit] Mukkulathor
Mukkulathor meaning Three clans (Kallar, Maravar and Agamudayar) Combinedly called as Thevar (Estimated population 1,30,00,000). The caste name "Kallar/Kallan" means "Temple Priest" (பூசாரி) in Sangam Tamil. The caste name Maravar/Maravan means "Grateful people".
Kallar, Maravar and Agamudayar are collectively known as "Moovender". Thevar means divinities or rulers. During early years the Kings were portrayed as Gods and so were known as Thevar or Devar (in Sanskrit.
[edit] Surnames
In Tamilnadu Kallars are called by various Surnames, these names comes to them during various times by the place they have ruled, the place of the battlefield and to state their strong valour and bravery in the battle with the foreign forces.
There are over 2,000 surnames in use among the community. There is no other caste in the whole of South India which have this many surnames. Some of the commonly used surnames are:
Thondaiman, Adigaman, Paluvettaraiyar, Thevar, Malayaman, Annuthipiriyar, Amballakkarar, Vaanathiraiyar, Rajaliyar, Servaar, Angarayar, Kaadu Vettiyar, Kalapadiyar, Senathipathiyar, Kandiyar, Mathurayar, Mannaiyar, Kalingarayar, Vanniyarchittachiar, Pattangattiyar (Pattukati).
Kanndapillai, Vanniyar, Vallavaraiyar, Sethurayar, Thanjaraayar, Kurusar, Pallavaraayar, Vandaiyar, Etrandaar, Vaanavaraayar, Servai, Soma Naicker, Muniyarayar (Munaiyatriyar), Thondamar, Mayrkondar, Kallathil Venrar, Nattar (not the Nadar/Shanar caste), Cholagar (Solagar), Solangadevar, Kumarandar, Anjathevar, Olivarayar, Sendapiriyar, Alathondamar, Ambalam, Aarsuthiyar, Kaadavaraayar, Kalingarayar, Vandaiyaar, Veeramundar, Sepillaiyar, Vallundar, Chozhangaraayar.
Mazhavaraayar, Kommatti Mootar, Kannakkarar, Irungular, Singilaar, Ponnapoondar, Pullavaraayar, Araimeendar, Vairayar, Ponpethiar, Gopalar, Putthi Kalindar, Manrayar, Sundayar, Vayaadiyar, Vanniar, Alankara Priyar, Mavaliyar, Keerudayar, Saaluvar, Manraayar, Madhavarayar, Onthiriyar, Serumadar, Vambaliar, Thenkondaar, Palandar, Mankondaar etc.[2]
It is a general practice in Southern Tamil Nadu to address a Thevar woman as Nachiyar.
[edit] Sangam Age
Thondaiman
The Kings (Araiyars), known as Thondaiman were then ruling Thondai Nadu (Thondaimandalam). There are hundreds of records pertaining to this dynasty. Thondai in Tamil means Kilai or Pirivu, Pallava in Sanskrit means the same, that proves that Thondaimans were the Pallava Kings who ruled the medieval Pallava dynasty and who were in fact a later offshoot of the Chola dynasty.
Malayaman
The Kings (Araiyars) ruled Tirukkoyilur during the ascendancy of the Chola empire, with the title Malayaman (which is one of the family name of the Kallar community). They were in close relation with Cholas. Sangam literature mentions of Tirumudikari, a Malayaman chief who fought alongside Perunarkilli Chola to defeat Cheral Irumporai (Irumporai Cheras).
Adigaman
The Kings were ruling Tagadur, present day Dharmapuri district. One of The Four kingdoms Mentioned in rock-edict of Ashoka. Adigaman Naduman Anji King of Tagadur is Mentioned in rock-edict of Ashoka as Satyaputras inscriptions found from Villupuram proves that stating Adigaman (which is one of the family name of the Kallar community) as Satyaputra Adhiyan Neduman Anji intha Pali.
[edit] Chola
The Chola Dynasty (Tamil:சோழர் குலம்) was a native Tamil dynasty that ruled South India and Ilangai (Ceylon) until the later half of the 13th century A.D. The other two Tamil Royal dynasties are the Pandyas and Cheras. And Pallavas are later offshoot of Cholas, In Sangam Tamil lexicon the word Chola means new country, the word Pandiya means old country, the word Chera means hill country and the word Pallava means branch in Sanskrit, proving the latter as the offshoot of Cholas.
The Chola dynasty originated in the fertile valley of the Kaveri River. Karikala Chola was the most famous among the early Chola kings, while Aditya I, Parantaka I, Rajaraja Chola I, Rajendra Chola I, Rajadhiraja Chola, Virarajendra Chola, Kulothunga Chola and Kulothunga Chola III were notable emperors of the medieval Cholas.
Kalapadiyar, Melkondar, Chozangar, Thevar, etc are now used by Kallars only shows that Cholas, Pallavas and Early Pandyas were from the Royal community of Kallars. The Bramanda puranas Puvindra puranam and Kalla Kesari Purannam also Mentions the same.[3]
Lots of marriages takes place between cholas with malavarayar[4], malayaman[5], Paluvettaraiyar[6],Melkondar[7] and Vallavaraiyar. they also belongs to Kallar community.[8] [9][10]
[edit] Pallavas
The word Pallava (Tamil: பல்லவர்) means branch in Sanskrit, denoting that they are a later offshoot (Kilai) of Cholas. The Pallava kingdom was a medieval Dravidian Tamil dynasty of South India that had its capital at Kanchipuram and ruled Northern Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh (till Northern Circars) around the 4th century CE.
They rose in power during the reign of Mahendravarman I (571 – 630 CE) and Narasimhavarman I (630 – 668 CE) and dominated the Andhra Pradesh and Northern parts of Tamil Nadu for about six hundred years until the end of the 9th century.
The word Pallava means branch in Sanskrit. The word is rendered as Tondaiyar in Tamil language. The Pallava kings at several places are called Thondamans or Thondaiyarkon. The territory of the Pallavas was known as Tundaka Visaya or Tundaka Rashtra. The Sanskrit meaning of Pallava is Kilai The Tamil Thondai means the same, it shows that Pallavas are descendants (Kilay or Pirivu) of Cholas.
Pathupattu, one of the Sangam literatures, reads that the King Thondaiman Ilandirayan ruled this town around 2,500 years ago. The Pallavas are told as the descendents of Thondaiman Ilandirayan.
They were also called by surnames like Sethurayar, Pallavarayar, Vandarayar, Kadurayar, Vallavarayar, Vanathirayar, Kaliyarayar..[11]
[edit] Tamil copper-plate inscriptions
The discovery of Indian copper plate inscriptions provided a relative abundance of new evidence for use in evolving a chronicle of India's elusive history.
During chola rule there were many small kings(Araiyar) were Ruling there Respective area under Chola. Some of the names are seen in Tamil copper-plate inscriptions was also mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan (Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy
Thondaiman(தொண்டைமான்)
Paluvettaraiyar(பழுவேட்டரையன்)
Malayaman(மலையமான்)
Vallavaraiyar(வல்லவரையன்)
Muniaraiyar
Puvaraiyar
Velar(வேளார்)
Vanataraiyar
[edit] During Vijayanagar Empire
The downfall of the Mukkulathors occurred in 1345 with the fall of Vira Pandyan IV and the subsequent conquest of Madurai by the Delhi Sultanate. However, the southern territories of the Sultanate soon asserted their independence and the Mukkulathors recovered under the Vijayanagar Empire and later under the Nayak dynasty during whose period they served as Polygars or chieftains.
The South-western parts of Tamilnadu except for Kongu Nadu was called as Kallar Nadu (Thanjavur, Trichy, Pudukkottai and part of Madurai) and was governed by Kallar Palayakkarar.
Ambalakarar is the most important people, they are feudal chiefs of the villages and towns they ruled during 18th century. They were a warlike people who strongly resisted every British attempt to subjugate them. They are found in Madurai, Trichy and Sivaganga districts. In these districts, each village is headed by an Ambalam (president of an assembly) and the Ambalam took upon themselves the power to adjudicate disputes that arose among the inhabitants in the "NADU", belonging to different castes. They used to hear complaints, hold inquiries and punish the offenders. They wielded considerable powers to intervene in any kind of transaction or transfer of property among the people. No land could be alienated from one man to another without the permission of the Ambalams. The sur-name "Ambalam"is given to them, because of their Administration in their Villages. So they are mostly called as "Ambalam".
Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi is a book about Ambalakarars and he was also Awarded "Raja Rajan Award" by Tamil University, Thanjavur for that book and it was also been taken as a serial in Sun TV, and music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. [12]
[edit] Notable Reformers
Although there are Many Kings, Polygors, Zamindars and Land lords the main occupation of kallar is Warrior, hence many Kallar Families struggled for income During British rule and after independence.. There were many reformers served for their Community.
Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar (முத்து ராமலிங்க தேவர்)
-Freedom fighter, Politician, a descendant of Pandyas of Ramnad and known for his close friendship with Nethaji Subash Chandra Bose.
P. K. Mookayya Thevar (1923 – 1979) (மூக்கையா தேவர் )
-Founder of the Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar college, President of All India Forward Bloc.
H. R. H. Rajagopala Tondaiman.
-Maharajah of Pudukottai (Thondaiman dynasty of Pudukkottai)
Nadigar Thilagam Chevalier C.Sivaji Ganesan (நடிகர் திலகம் சிவாஜி கணேசன்)
-Famous Actor, Legend in Tamil film History.
Navalar N.M Venkatasamy Nattar
-Tamil scholar, Tamil Activist.
Zamindar V. Gopalsamy Rajaliar (மேன்மை பொருந்திய வா. கோபாலசாமி ரகுநாத இராசாளியார்)
-Philanthropist, President Indra Kuladibar Sangam.
N.P Manicham Errthaandaar. (மக்கள் தொண்டர் ந.பா.மாணிக்கம் ஏற்றாண்டார்)
-Founder Mukkalathor Higher Secondary School and Tamilnadu Maanavar illam, Thiruverumbur, Founder Urimai murasu magazine(1954).
Late Rao Bahadur Sri. A.Veeriya Vandayar(Poondi. Vandayar)
-Leader Kallar Maha Sangam Previous to starting Mukkulathor Sangam
G.M. Premkumar Vandayar, (பிரேம் குமார் வாண்டையார் )
-Founder Moovendar Munnetra Kazhagam (MMK)
G.M. Sridhar Vandayar, (ஸ்ரீதர் வாண்டையார்)
-leader of Moovendar Munnetra Kazhagam (MMK)
DR.A.Srinivasan Vanniyar
-Founder President Tamilnadu Kallar Sangam
R.V.Swaminathan
-Freedom fighter(recipient of "Thaamarai Pattam"), Ghandhian, social reformer (worked for the upliftment of Harijans and caste people alike), ex-cabinet minister, close confidant of late prime minsters, Nehruji and Mrs. Indira Gandhi.
Late V.K.C. Natarajan I.A.S.,
-One of the first higher civil servants from the community. Co-founder of the Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar College at Usilampatti.
Late. AYYA. P.Tamilrasan Kalapadiyar. Dmk activist
[13] [14]
[edit] Current Status
Although a great many of the members are still agriculturalists, many have also progressed up the social ladder as doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, politicians and civil servants. Large number of people from the community are in the National Armed Forces of India. Large number of people serving the Tamilnadu Police Department.
[edit] See also
Malayaman
Mukkulathor
Moovendar Munnetra Kazhagam
All India Moovendar Munnani Kazhagam
[edit] External links
http://www.thevar.in
http://www.thevarcommunity.com/
http://www.devaronline.com/
http://www.kallarsangam.com
http://kallar.weebly.com
http://devarcaste.wetpaint.com
[edit] References
^ Census of India 2001
^ Kallar Marabinar in Pattapeyargal Oru Varalarru parvai, Pattangattiyar (Pattukati) By Sivabatham
^ "கள்ளர்". ta.wikipedia.org. http://ta.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%B3%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%B3%E0%AE%B0%E0%AF%8D.
^ "South Indian Inscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_23/introduction_1.html.
^ "South Indian Inscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_22/part_1/kulottunga_3.html.
^ "South IndianInscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_13/introduction_1.html.
^ "South Indian Inscription". www.whatisindia.com. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_2/no_21_north_wall_lower_tier.html.
^ Rajarajan Meikirthigal By Pandarathar
^ KalvethugalKurum Unmaigal By Pandarathar
^ "South Indian Inscriptions Volume13". Archaeological Survey of India. http://www.whatisindia.com/inscriptions/south_indian_inscriptions/volume_13/introduction_1.html. Retrieved 2008-11-09.
^ "கள்ளர் சரித்திரம்". www.thinnai.com. http://www.thinnai.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=20212014&format=print&edition_id=20021201.
^ Thenpandi Singam by M. Karunanidhi
^ "Kallar". www.kallarsangam.com. http://www.kallarsangam.com.
^ "Kallar (கள்ளர்)". kallar.weebly.com. http://kallar.weebly.com.
Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kallar_(caste)"
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