Udumalai Nrayana Kavi

Udumalai Narayana Kavi was born on September 25, 1899, in Poolavadi Village, which is about 20 kms from Udumalpet, Coimbatore District in Tamil Nadu. He lost his parents, Thiru Krishnasamy and Tmt. Muthammal, at an early age and was brought up by his elder brother, Thiru Dhanuskodi. His early education only went up to Standard IV at a local elementary school in his village. Afterwards, he was taught by Guru Udumalai Muthuswamy Kavirayar, who also taught Tamil Literature. He then learned Harikatha Kalakshepam from Gayaka Sikamani Harikesa Nallur Muthiah Bhagavthar.

Udumalai Narayana Kavi displayed acting talents in local dramas at a very early age of 15. He acted in dramas like Valli Thirumanam, Pavalakhodi and Nandanar. A patriot, he went round the villages selling Khadi products and singing nationalist songs. Some of his songs became extremely popular.

In 1923, he got the opportunity to act in dramas. His patriotic songs were often sung by famous artists of those days. His works earned him praise and recognition.. The award of best lyricist by Sangeet Natak Academy and South India Film Chamber, the title of Sahithya Rathanakar and Kalaimamani, the award by the Tamil Nadu Government are some examples.

He entered the world of cinema in 1933 when he continued till 1976. He wrote several lyrics for Tamil films.

His Kathakalakshepam titled “Kindanar” was to eradicate caste-based discriminations among the people. His poems contained rationalistic, patriotic and social messages.