The Mudaliar community is a major, diverse caste cluster predominantly found in the state of Tamil Nadu. Historically, they are a traditional land-owning and agricultural community, with many also serving as administrators, traders, and weavers.
The community is generally classified under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category in Tamil Nadu, although some sub-sects may fall under the Most Backward Classes (MBC) category depending on their specific socio-economic status.
The Mudaliar identity is complex because the term “Mudaliar” (meaning “first” or “chief”) is sometimes used as a title and sometimes as a specific caste name. Consequently, there are many distinct sub-castes that use the Mudaliar title.
Major Mudaliar Sub-Castes (Jatis)
The sub-castes are generally endogamous (marrying within the sub-caste) and are often distinguished by their traditional occupations, geographic origin, and religious affiliation (Shaivite or Vaishnavite).
1. Thondaimandala Region (Northern Tamil Nadu)
These groups are generally dominant in the regions around Chennai, Kanchipuram, and Vellore.
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Vellalar Mudaliar (Vellala Mudaliar): The largest group, traditionally associated with large-scale land ownership and agriculture. They often claim descent from the ancient Vellalar chieftains.
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Agamudaiya Mudaliar (or Agamudaiyar): A significant community often grouped with the Vellalars, with historical roles as soldiers, cultivators, and administrators.
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Thuluva Vellala Mudaliar: Believed to have migrated from the Telugu-speaking regions (Thuluva country) and settled in the northern districts. They are known for agriculture and administration.
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Arumbukatti Mudaliar: Another group within the Thondaimandalam region.
2. Weaving and Artisan Groups
These sub-castes are traditionally associated with the weaving industry. They are a powerful economic force, especially in textile-producing regions.
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Senguntha Mudaliar (or Kaikola Mudaliar):
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Role: The largest group primarily known as weavers and textile manufacturers. They are concentrated in industrial centers like Kanchipuram, Erode, and Salem.
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Status: Due to their specific backwardness, they are sometimes classified under the Most Backward Classes (MBC) category for reservation purposes.
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3. Other Regional and Sub-Divisions
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Pillai: While “Pillai” is also a separate, major community in Southern Tamil Nadu, the Vellalar community often uses both “Pillai” (in the South) and “Mudaliar” (in the North) as interchangeable titles, indicating historical confusion and overlap.
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Isai Vellalar: A community traditionally associated with music, dance, and temple service. They are classified separately and sometimes use the Mudaliar title.
Administrative Status in Tamil Nadu
For government reservation purposes, these communities are generally categorized as follows, though the lists are subject to revision:
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OBC (Other Backward Classes): Most of the general Vellalar Mudaliar groups.
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MBC (Most Backward Classes): Senguntha Mudaliar and certain other economically backward Mudaliar groups.
The title “Mudaliar” remains a symbol of authority and respect within Tamil society, regardless of the specific sub-caste.