Mukkulathor
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 1.4 crores [1] | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Central and Southern Tamil Nadu | |
| Languages | |
| Tamil | |
| Religion | |
| Saiva Siddhantam |
The Mukkulathor people, who are also collectively known as Thevar, are native to the central and southern districts of Tamil Nadu, India. They comprise the Agamudayar, Kallar and Maravar social groups that share a common myth of origin and claim to have once been members of ancient South Indian dynasties.
The zamindars of Sivagangai, Ramnad, Singampatti and Pudukkottai all belonged to the Mukkulathor community.
Origins
The terms Mukkulathor and Thevar are used synonymously. According to R. Muthulakshmi, Thevar "literally means celestial beings or divine-natured people" and Mukkulathor means "three clans united together". The three constituent communities of Agamudayar, Kallar and Maravar believe themselves to share a common origin formed through being the offspring of a relationship between Indira and a celestial woman. According to this legend, the three lines then developed to become the ancient Chera, Chola and Pandya clans, respectively. The three groups traditionally each believe themselves to be superior to their fellow Mukkulathors.[2]
Demographics
The Mukkulathor communities live mostly in central and southern areas of Tamil Nadu, such as Madurai, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, and Thirunelveli. They are known to practise female infanticide.[2]
Freedom fighters
Puli Thevar from the eighteenth century (1715–1768) is remembered for fighting against the early British traders.
See also
References
- ↑ Template:Http://m.timesofindia.com/city/chennai/Rice-scheme-has-hit-their-income/articleshow/7938033.cms
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