Maruthu Pandiyars Memorial Day on 24.10.2024

On October 24, 2024, a ceremony will be held to commemorate the Maruthu Pandiyars’ Memorial Day at the Gandhi Mandapam complex in Guindy, Chennai. The Honorable Minister for Tamil Nadu, dignitaries, and public representatives will garland the statues and pay floral tributes to honor the Maruthu Pandiyars.

The Maruthu brothers, Periya Maruthu and Chinna Maruthu, were born in 1748 and 1753 respectively in the village of Alagapuri near Virudhunagar. They excelled in martial arts training and were known for their bravery in using traditional weapons. As close associates of Queen Velu Nachiyar of Sivagangai, they played a significant role in the resistance against British forces after the Queen’s husband, Muthu Vaduganathar, died in battle in 1772.

The brothers supported freedom fighter Veerapandiya Kattabomman during the anti-British struggles. After Kattabomman was executed, they continued the fight and provided refuge to fellow rebels. On June 16, 1801, Chinna Maruthu issued a proclamation calling for unity among Tamil people to protect the nation’s freedom and resist British rule.

Eventually, the British captured the Maruthu brothers in the forests of Cholapuram, and they were executed by hanging on October 24, 1801.

In recognition of their sacrifice, Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister unveiled newly erected statues at Gandhi Mandapam on February 14, 2023. Every year, the state government observes October 24 as Maruthu Pandiyars Memorial Day, with ministers, parliamentarians, legislators, and senior officials participating in the commemorative event.