Unsung Heroes Detail

Thandavarayan Pillai was born in 1700 to Kathavaraya Pillai in Sivagangai. Thandavarayan Pillai served (1700-1773) as Dalavay (military chief) and also as Pirathani (Chief Minister) under the three rulers of Sivagangai Samasthanam. He was responsible for the development of Sivagangai Samasthanam. At first, he served King Sasivarna Periya Udaya Thevar during 1730–1750. Later, he served under King Muthu Vaduganatha Thevar during 1750-1772. He also served as Pirithanai to Queen Rani Velu Nachiyar. He was a good administrator. King Udaya Thevar was very pleased with the good administration and granted him his hereditary management. He advised Veera Mangai to move to different places often in order to avoid British invaders. Meanwhile, Thandavarayan Pillai wrote a letter to Sultan Hyder Ali on behalf of Velu Nachiyar to provide 5000 infantry and 5000 cavalries to defeat the British army. But unfortunately, he passed away due to old age. He occupied an ever-permanent place in the heart of Rani Velu Natchiyar and Sasivarna Periya Udaiya Thevar. So, he was called different names such as Kaaruyakkara, Pradhani, and Manthiri.