Tamil Nadu Asks Centre to Issue Postage Stamp Honoring 8th-Century King Mutharayar

The Tamil Nadu Government has formally requested the Central Government to issue a commemorative postage stamp honouring the 8th-century chieftain 'Perum Pidugu' Mutharayar, a prominent figure of the Mutharayar dynasty, to recognise his contributions to nation-building and Tamil heritage. In a letter dated November 14, 2025, to Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, State Minister for Backward Classes Welfare Siva V. Meyyanathan emphasised that such a stamp would foster awareness among the youth about ancient Tamil politics, culture, and administrative prowess. Meyyanathan highlighted Mutharayar's legacy as a righteous ruler, fierce warrior, and patron of arts and agriculture, noting that the initiative would also promote emotional integration between Tamil Nadu and the rest of India by showcasing the inclusive role of early Tamil kings in shaping the nation's foundations.

'Perum Pidugu' Mutharayar, whose title translates to 'Great Thunder' in Tamil, ruled the fertile Tiruchirappalli region during the 8th century CE, a period marked by the Mutharayar dynasty's influence over areas including Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, and parts of the Cauvery river basin. As a feudatory under the Pallavas, he asserted independence at times, earning epithets like 'Kalabhra Kalvan' (thief of the Kalabhras) for his military campaigns against rival kingdoms such as the Cheras and Pandyas, where he reportedly fought in at least 12 battles alongside Pallava forces.

Inscriptions at sites like Senthalai, Narthamalai near Pudukottai, and along the Cauvery's northern banks—dating from the 7th to 8th centuries—document his reign, portraying him as a devout Shaivite who also supported Vaishnavism and Buddhism. Historians often compare his valour and governance to later icons like Raja Raja Chola I, underscoring his status as one of Tamil Nadu's most celebrated mediaeval leaders.

Mutharayar's administrative acumen is particularly evident in his pioneering irrigation projects, which harnessed the Cauvery's waters to transform arid lands into a thriving granary, boosting agricultural productivity and sustaining local economies for generations. These engineering feats, detailed in temple epigraphs, not only alleviated famine risks but also symbolised his commitment to public welfare, earning him enduring respect among agrarian communities. As a cultural patron, he hosted Tamil poets such as Pachilvel Namban and Acharya Aniruddha in his court, fostering literary and artistic endeavours that enriched Sangam-era traditions. His rule from Vallam in Thanjavur, where he was known as 'Thanjai Kon' (King of Thanjavur), exemplifies the dynasty's blend of martial strength and benevolent governance during a turbulent era of regional power shifts.

Also Read: After Weeks of Dry Weather, Heavy Rain to Lash Tamil Nadu soon

Today, Mutharayar's memory persists through folk songs, temple festivals, and community gatherings in districts like Tiruchirappalli, Pudukkottai, and Thanjavur, where annual celebrations—often tied to his traditional birth date of May 23—draw thousands to honour his legacy. The Mutharayar dynasty, which rose around the 7th century after possibly displacing the Kalabhras, controlled key Cauvery delta territories until the Cholas' ascent in the 9th century under Vijayalaya, who subjugated them as vassals.

Meyyanathan's letter assures full state support for the stamp's creation, offering archival documents, expert consultations, and design inputs to ensure historical accuracy. This request aligns with broader efforts to revive awareness of lesser-known Tamil rulers, countering the dominance of more famous dynasties in popular narratives.

Also Read: Trainee Flight Makes Emergency Landing On Busy Tamil Nadu Highway After Engine Snag