Nadar & Kamarajar History

NADAR – Historical Background and Community Context

Early Background of the Nadar Community

Nadars are one of the earliest inhabitants of India. Their origin was in the South, known as "Komari Land" probably related to the southern tip of India - Kanya Kumari. There are records which establish their links with the Chaldeans, Syria, Cambodia, Java, Sumatra, China, etc., and it is well established by historians.The ancient historian Herodotus tells us that in 400 BC, the Palmyra-Tappers (the Nadars as we call them now) were Valiant Fighters and good Tradesmen, dealing with inter-Continental Trade. This shows that our ancient community people were very good tradesmen/businessmen. They made settlements in Syria, and taught the art of writing to the Greeks . They also spread the Culture of 'Burial of dead ' to the world. They exported processed Palm-Juice (in the chemical form of Alcohol) to countries like Egypt, for purification and preservation of the dead-bodies (Mummies).

Until the late 19th century, the community was widely referred to as “Shanar” or “Shanars.” The term “Nadar” is believed by many to have evolved from “Nadan,” which some traditions describe as a title associated with local chieftains. Some community narratives suggest links to the ancient Pandya dynasty rulers of Tamilakam.

Traditional Occupation and Trade

Historically, many Nadars were engaged in palmyra cultivation and toddy tapping, especially in the sandy coastal regions known as “teris” near Tiruchendur in Tirunelveli district. The palmyra palm was a vital economic resource, providing livelihood through palm products and trade.But as toddy's shelf life was short most of the sap was not fermented but boiled down into a raw sugar product called "palm jaggery". The palmyra also yielded other useful products: mats and baskets were woven from its fronds, and the tree trunks were used a poles and roof beams for houses.

Over time, the community also became involved in commerce and trade. This shows they were businessmen from beginning. There are traditional claims and oral histories suggesting connections with overseas trade networks extending to regions such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Migration and Settlements

With changes during the Nayak period and later under British administration, the Nadars expanded beyond their earlier concentrated settlements. The arrival of the British brought improvements in infrastructure such as roads and security, facilitating trade and mobility.

Important Nadar settlements in southern Tamil Nadu included: Sivakasi, Virudhunagar, Sattur, Tirumangalam, Palayamkottai, Aruppukkottai. These towns later became important commercial centers.

Social History

From the 16th to 19th centuries, the Nadars experienced significant social and economic challenges under rigid caste hierarchies. 

• 1921: The term "Nadar" was officially recognized in government records, replacing "Shanar" following evidence of their shift to trade and agriculture.

• Post-Independence: The community solidified its position as a major business community in Tamil Nadu, with significant educational and financial institutions. 

Diaspora & Modern Era

• 1967: Formation of the Nadar Aikia Sangam in Malaysia, highlighting the spread of the community.

• Present: Nadar community is recognized as a developed group within the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, known for strong entrepreneurial/business, banking, and educational initiatives. 

Despite these hardships, the community gradually advanced through entrepreneurship/business, education, and social reform movements, with the advantage of Western education. Ability to recognize new opportunities and adaptability to new contexts marked their advancement. With foresight, the Nadar elite established a network of institutions such as colleges, hostels and even a bank, named the Tamilnadu Mercantile bank.

The Nadars irrespective of their caste or religion are noted for their hard work. 

Scattered throughout the world, the community has produced a diverse array of prominent men in different walks of life: K Kamaraj, the Congress ''King Maker'', V S Azariah, the first Indian Bishop consecrated by the Church of England, S P Adityan, who founded one of India's most successful newspaper empires, Shiv Nadar, a technocrat who heads a multinational IT giant, David Davidar, prominent publisher and writer, Manuel Aron, India's first International Chess Master and the first chess player to be honoured with the Arjuna Award, Ranjan Roy Daniel, Physicist conferred Padma Bhushan and Sam Rajappa, distinguished journalist.

K. Kamaraj and the Nadar Community

K. Kamaraj, one of India’s most respected political leaders, was born into the Nadar community in Virudhunagar district. Rising from humble beginnings, he became Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and was widely admired for his simplicity, integrity, and commitment to education and rural development.

His life symbolized the social progress and upward mobility achieved by the Nadar community through determination, unity, and public service.