Mukkulathor
The Thevar/Mukkulathor (English: the three clans) are a tamil warrior/martial group, native to the Southern districts of Tamil Nadu. They used to work as soldiers for the different Tamil Royal dynasties (they formed the backbone of their armies) and Landlords[1][2]. After the end of the ancient tamil order, they formed their own area of domination and little kingdoms[2]. The name “Mukkulathor” alludes to the three roughly designated groups,
Kallar, Maravar and Agamudaiyar, which make up this large endogamous social group. 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 Mukkulathor community.
Kallar
Kallar (Tamil: கள்ளர்) Meaning Brave Peoples maraththam izhar senai Kallars are one of the three related castes which constitute the Mukkulathor confederacy. They are described as “A fearless community shows many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation”.
Historians postulate the word Kallar Derived from Kalla means Black in Sanscrit and Tamil (கள்வனென் கிளவி கரியோனென்ப’ – திவாகரம்} Historians postulate Dravidians were called by Aryans as Kalla .[3].
Indiran or devendiaran (Devar) also Mentioned as Kalla
Thirumal is also stated Mal to meant he is Black and also Krishna means Black.[4] In olden days Black Dravidians were stated as Kalla to state their Bravery.
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 Early 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.[5] 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. They have contributed enormously in the freedom struggle for India. Perungaamanallur people near Usilampatti, fought against the british and many have died and they have a Thiyagigal Thoon (Pillar of freedom fighters) built in memory of them. Piramalai Kallars have also made big contribution in Nethaji’s INA force when Subash chandra bose made a call for the INA force from the submarine radio lots of people from the community went and joint to fight against the british for India. They are kept 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, Malayaman, Adigaman, Thevar, Mannaiyar, Rajaliyar, Vallavaraiyar, Thanjaraayar, Pallavaraayar, Vandaiyar, Thondaiman, Etrandaar, Vaanavaraayar, Servai, Amballakkarar, Sethurayar, Soma Naicker, Muniyarayar(Munaiyatriyar), Thondamar, Mayrkondar, Kallathil Venrar, , Nattar (not Nadar), Cholagar, kumarandar, Anjathevar, Olivarayar, Sendapiriyar, Alathondamar, Ambalam, Aarsuthiyar, Kaadavaraayar, Kalingarayar, Vandaiyaar, Veeramundar, Sepillaiyar, Vallundar, Chozhangaraayar, Kandiyar, Mazhavaraayar, Kommatti Mootar, Kannakkarar, Irungular, Singilaar, Ponnapoondar, Pullavaraayar, Araimeendar, Vairayar, Ponpethiar, Gopalar, Kandapillai, Vayaadiyar, Vanniar, Vallambar, Alankara Priyar, mavaliyar, Keerudayar, Saaluvar, Manraayar, Onthiriyar, Serumadar, Vambaliar, Thenkondaar, Mankondaar, etc.
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.
Maravar
Maravar (Tamil: மறவர்) also “Maravan” (meaning “Grateful Warrior”) is one of the oldest warrior caste of ancient Tamilakam to be mentioned in the Sangam Tamil literature. The Maravar are popularly given the title “Thevar / Devar”. The caste term Maravar is derived from the Tamil term “Maram” meaning “Brave”, “Warrior”. The Maravar/Maravan are related to the Kallan/Kallars and Paravan/Paravars 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 you) 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, Sivagangai, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Virudhunagar, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu. They ruled the vast land mass of Tamilnadu along with the coastal rulers,Paravars. Both these tribes seems to have common origin,tamil nagas. 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.Another aristocratic caste called Paravars are akin to Maravars. They were ancient rulers of Pandya kingdom of coastal land and inland from the First Sangam Tamil age. Their leaders were given the title “Meenavan” and “Pandyan” respectively. Edgar Thurston (1855-1935) a British museologist and ethnographer identified the use of the boomerang by Kallars and Maravars of South India.
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.[6] 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 among the Maravar community. One is Appa Nattu Kondyankottai Maravar and another one is Chembiya Nattu Maravar. The Kondyan Kottai Maravars are related to the Vellalars and are still maintaining Killai(branches) as their sub sects. 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”. Most of the Tamil castes wear the same type of “Linga Thali”.
The Chembiya Nattu Maravars are Surya vamsam[citation needed]. 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 (Sati which is now banned and hence not in practise).
Agamudayar
Agamudayar(Tamil: அகமுடையார்) meaning Landlords are also known as Thuluva Vellalars are one of the three castes that make up the Mukkulathor confederacy. Agamudayars are famously known by their title Servai – “A fearless community show many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation”. They make expert soldiers, warriors and constituted the bulk of Chola and Pandya armies. The legendary Marudu brothers’ came 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 the community owns are actually rewarded for their loyal and valuable service rendered for the cause of the Kings and 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 & Also in Karnataka state Hiriyur Taluk, Aranakatte & Maskal matti people are living. “[7].
The word Agamudaiyan or Ahamudaiyan is derived from the root Aham which in Tamil means Land and also House.[8] 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”.[8] 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.”[8][9][10] The ordinary title of the Agamudaiyans is Servaikkaran, .[10] In Pudukkottai, Trichy, Sivangagai, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari districts Agamudaiyans are also called Terkittiyar (“Southerners”).[10].
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.
Recent Scientific study
There are diverse theories with regard to the origin of Mukkulathors.
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.
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”, which loosely translated means, “We know how to pounce, how to stalk but we know not any fear”.
Valukku Veli Thevan, a very strong Kallar Ambalakkarar rulled Paganeri Nadu in present Ramanatapuram District, who opposed the British rule.
Some of the surnames are seen in Tamil copper-plate inscriptions was also mentioned in Ponniyin Selvan (Tamil historical novel written by Kalki Krishnamurthy).
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.[11]
For More details: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kallar_%28caste%29
The Thevar/Mukkulathor (English: the three clans) are a tamil warrior/martial group, native to the Southern districts of Tamil Nadu. They used to work as soldiers for the different Tamil Royal dynasties (they formed the backbone of their armies) and Landlords[1][2]. After the end of the ancient tamil order, they formed their own area of domination and little kingdoms[2]. The name “Mukkulathor” alludes to the three roughly designated groups,
Kallar, Maravar and Agamudaiyar, which make up this large endogamous social group. 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 Mukkulathor community.
Kallar
Kallar (Tamil: கள்ளர்) Meaning Brave Peoples maraththam izhar senai Kallars are one of the three related castes which constitute the Mukkulathor confederacy. They are described as “A fearless community shows many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation”.
Historians postulate the word Kallar Derived from Kalla means Black in Sanscrit and Tamil (கள்வனென் கிளவி கரியோனென்ப’ – திவாகரம்} Historians postulate Dravidians were called by Aryans as Kalla .[3].
Indiran or devendiaran (Devar) also Mentioned as Kalla
Thirumal is also stated Mal to meant he is Black and also Krishna means Black.[4] In olden days Black Dravidians were stated as Kalla to state their Bravery.
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 Early 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.[5] 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. They have contributed enormously in the freedom struggle for India. Perungaamanallur people near Usilampatti, fought against the british and many have died and they have a Thiyagigal Thoon (Pillar of freedom fighters) built in memory of them. Piramalai Kallars have also made big contribution in Nethaji’s INA force when Subash chandra bose made a call for the INA force from the submarine radio lots of people from the community went and joint to fight against the british for India. They are kept 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)
Paluvettaraiyar, Malayaman, Adigaman, Thevar, Mannaiyar, Rajaliyar, Vallavaraiyar, Thanjaraayar, Pallavaraayar, Vandaiyar, Thondaiman, Etrandaar, Vaanavaraayar, Servai, Amballakkarar, Sethurayar, Soma Naicker, Muniyarayar(Munaiyatriyar), Thondamar, Mayrkondar, Kallathil Venrar, , Nattar (not Nadar), Cholagar, kumarandar, Anjathevar, Olivarayar, Sendapiriyar, Alathondamar, Ambalam, Aarsuthiyar, Kaadavaraayar, Kalingarayar, Vandaiyaar, Veeramundar, Sepillaiyar, Vallundar, Chozhangaraayar, Kandiyar, Mazhavaraayar, Kommatti Mootar, Kannakkarar, Irungular, Singilaar, Ponnapoondar, Pullavaraayar, Araimeendar, Vairayar, Ponpethiar, Gopalar, Kandapillai, Vayaadiyar, Vanniar, Vallambar, Alankara Priyar, mavaliyar, Keerudayar, Saaluvar, Manraayar, Onthiriyar, Serumadar, Vambaliar, Thenkondaar, Mankondaar, etc.
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.
Maravar
Maravar (Tamil: மறவர்) also “Maravan” (meaning “Grateful Warrior”) is one of the oldest warrior caste of ancient Tamilakam to be mentioned in the Sangam Tamil literature. The Maravar are popularly given the title “Thevar / Devar”. The caste term Maravar is derived from the Tamil term “Maram” meaning “Brave”, “Warrior”. The Maravar/Maravan are related to the Kallan/Kallars and Paravan/Paravars 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 you) 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, Sivagangai, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Virudhunagar, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu. They ruled the vast land mass of Tamilnadu along with the coastal rulers,Paravars. Both these tribes seems to have common origin,tamil nagas. 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.Another aristocratic caste called Paravars are akin to Maravars. They were ancient rulers of Pandya kingdom of coastal land and inland from the First Sangam Tamil age. Their leaders were given the title “Meenavan” and “Pandyan” respectively. Edgar Thurston (1855-1935) a British museologist and ethnographer identified the use of the boomerang by Kallars and Maravars of South India.
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.[6] 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 among the Maravar community. One is Appa Nattu Kondyankottai Maravar and another one is Chembiya Nattu Maravar. The Kondyan Kottai Maravars are related to the Vellalars and are still maintaining Killai(branches) as their sub sects. 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”. Most of the Tamil castes wear the same type of “Linga Thali”.
The Chembiya Nattu Maravars are Surya vamsam[citation needed]. 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 (Sati which is now banned and hence not in practise).
Agamudayar
Agamudayar(Tamil: அகமுடையார்) meaning Landlords are also known as Thuluva Vellalars are one of the three castes that make up the Mukkulathor confederacy. Agamudayars are famously known by their title Servai – “A fearless community show many signs of independence and non-submission to any form of subjugation”. They make expert soldiers, warriors and constituted the bulk of Chola and Pandya armies. The legendary Marudu brothers’ came 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 the community owns are actually rewarded for their loyal and valuable service rendered for the cause of the Kings and 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 & Also in Karnataka state Hiriyur Taluk, Aranakatte & Maskal matti people are living. “[7].
The word Agamudaiyan or Ahamudaiyan is derived from the root Aham which in Tamil means Land and also House.[8] 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”.[8] 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.”[8][9][10] The ordinary title of the Agamudaiyans is Servaikkaran, .[10] In Pudukkottai, Trichy, Sivangagai, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Thirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari districts Agamudaiyans are also called Terkittiyar (“Southerners”).[10].
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.
Recent Scientific study
There are diverse theories with regard to the origin of Mukkulathors.
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”, which loosely translated means, “We know how to pounce, how to stalk but we know not any fear”.
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,Gopalar, Kalapadiyar Vandaiyar, Veeramundar, Paluvettaraiyar, Paandurar, 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, Naadalvar, Nattaar, Vallambar, Alankara Priyar, mavaliyar, Munaiyatriyar, Keerudayar, Saaluvar, Manraayar, Madhavarayar, Mudaliyar, Onthiriyar, Servai, Serumadar, Sethurayar, Vambaliar, Thenkondaar, Mankondaar, Moovaraiyar,Senainattar 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 maargam. Presently Significant numbers of thevars are following Christianity, still upholding thevar caste values and pride. Today they constitute a significant part of the Tamil community in India, Sri Lanka, and in other parts of the world.[edit] Feudal/Caste System
Caste status of the Thevar community is martial class. The 1891 Census of India listed them as a part of the Martial Races and they claim Kshatriya status.[16]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.[11]
[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.For More details: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kallar_%28caste%29
- November 24, 2010 at 9:28 am | #3| Quote1.what is title for maravar?
Maravar are one of the oldest social groups to be mentioned by the Sangam Tamil literature. This indicates an association with the Tamil land which is at least 2,000 years old. The writers of the Sangam Age place them in rural settlements withdrawn from cities. Maravars are the courageous breed and were involved in the major wars that Tamilnadu witnessed. The Kingdom of Ramnad was a Maravar kingdom and was ruled by the Setupati kings. Some of the Pandyan kings are said to have belonged to the Maravar tribe. Ramanathapuram and Sivagangai districts are Maravar strongholds from ancient times.
Maravar, in Tamil, means a warrior. They are brave, warlike and fierce and have preserved their freedom and independence over the centuries.
Other historians postulate that Maravar is derived from Tamil language term Marutham (called as Thinnai). They originally lived in (See Ancient Tamil country). Maravar along with Parathavar and Meenavar were one of the very first inhabitants of South India,and hence they are called as Pandyas,which literally mean the oldest and eldest. The name of the city Madurai is also postulated to be derived from Maruthai and honorific title of local Pandya kings.
2.vallambar comes under maravar or kallar?
Vallambar are comes under Kallar.
In the 18th century, the Vallambars of Karaikudi, helped the Maruthu brothers fight many wars against the British. The Vallambars were subsequently declared rulers of Karaikudi and 15 other villages, or one pallayam (also see: Poligars), by the Shivagangai King. Vallambars were then given the surname Amballam and came to be known as Pallaya Nattars or the citizens of Pallaya Nadu.
According to the Peasant State and Society in Medieval South India by Burton Stein (page 110), during the 19th century, Kallars were divided into 10 endogamous divisions by territory (nadu). And during the same century, within each Kallar locality, one Kallar sub-division was accorded the title of Nattar and assumed a dominant place in the society.
REGARDS,
THIRU - October 23, 2010 at 3:24 pm | #4| QuoteWe are proud of our community in many ways…following hinduism is one among them…we know what our predecessors have contributed to hinduism..but now it is a shameful fact that many of us have forgotten that fact and have accepted other religions which makes no difference between the harijans and us..Maybe..I could be wrong..but think about this..is it acceptable..We should not accept them as thevars..their religion itself does not allow this.as the religion says….
- November 23, 2010 at 10:11 pm | #6| QuoteTo Marthu
For the Fact you said other religion Thevars are compared with Harijans.
Don’t you know that lions are catégoriesd in two types by their Living style 1 _ Living in Zoo & 2 _ Living in Forest. Their living style may be different but the thoughts are same when lions are hungry because they are lions same it submits to Other Religion Thevar and Hindu Religion. Don’t compare caste with religion. Then you know what will happen?. If lions were separated then hyenas would come in. Becarefully when ever you share your thoughts it should reach others and it won’t hurt others.
Try to make union with thevar. No one should separate us . Be Thevar & Live as Thevar Finally End our life as Thevar.
By,
Clement Servaiar - December 22, 2010 at 9:11 am | #7| QuoteMost of the surnames shown are belongs to Thanjai Kallars (Also called as “Viruthu pala kooru veeramudaiyaan). Thanjai Kallars Marriages are fixed based on surnames. Marriage never will happen within same surname holders. People with same surnames are considered as brothers and sisters. This is the practice of cholas, and their descendants carrying that practices till a date.
-
- February 10, 2011 at 5:46 am | #12| QuoteThe subsequent time I read a weblog, I hope that it doesnt disappoint me as much as this one. I mean, I know it was my option to read, however I actually thought youd have one thing attention-grabbing to say. All I hear is a bunch of whining about one thing that you could repair in case you werent too busy searching for attention.
- February 12, 2011 at 5:59 am | #13| QuoteCan I just say what a relief to discover an individual who definitely knows what theyre talking about on the internet. You actually know how to bring an problem to light and make it important. Far more men and women have to read this and understand this side on the story. I cant feel youre not far more well-known simply because you genuinely have the gift.
- February 18, 2011 at 5:42 am | #14| QuoteDear Friends,
I am from Indonesia. My forefathers were from Tamils.
My grandfather was known as Vellasamy Ambalam. He said he ruled 108 villages in Tamil Nadu before he embarked on a long journey through Barma, Malaysia and finally to Singapore to join the Japanese who helped built the Indian National Army against the british.
He was very clear about one thing though which I would like to share here.
He told us that we have Tamil religion which is far more modern then any of the religion today. He never mentioned Hinduism. He worshiped his forefathers and my father started worshiping him when he died. He said, learn about mother and father before learning about so called “Gods”. He said real god is parents while all other gods are unknown and unreal.
He gave us Muslim identity but retained all our Tamil culture in Indonesia where we ended up finally. We keep our Tamil culture and joined our earlier Tamil populations which exist in Indonesia. One such group in Sulawesi (BUGIS) still practice “Villu Pattu” while calling themselves Muslims.
Another group in Northern Sumatra retains their culture despite adopting Christianity or Islam. They still have books written in Pallava Tamil scripts.
Among all this groups we never have any Hindus. In fact history of Indonesia shows that Chola King send his navy to fight together with the Chinese Mongol Navy (china was under Kublai khan then) against the Hindu Kings of Java. Hindus were defeated.
My grand father always said that having lost wars the Hindu priest or Brahmins as they were known confused Tamils and slowly made them into “hindus” too and make us lose all our real heritage of being a Tamil. He always makes joke that only Tamils need translation from Tamil Thirukkurral into Tamil.
My Father made me study Tamil in Singapore and he had given me many Tamil books such as Patthu Patu, and showed me how to differentiate Tamil writing as against Brahmin writing. His another favorite saying. Understand the truth by not just listening or by looking at actions but wait and analyse the results of the talks and actions. - March 14, 2011 at 12:45 am | #20| QuoteAm by birth a Agamudaya pillai. i would like to know about my surname. i also would like to know whether we have gotra system and which varna we belong.( whether we are kshatriya or Shudra). I also would like to know about the significance of my vilage Irumbhuthalai, whose name has been added in recent wikipedia article as a subsect in Agamudayars. Please Help me out with the details.
-
- April 25, 2011 at 9:32 pm | #25| QuoteI’ve bookmarked http://mahizhaithiru.wordpress.com/mukkulathor/ at Digg.com so my friends can see it too. I used Mukkulathor Mahizhai News so it was a good title.
No comments:
Post a Comment