Pasumpon Muthuramalingam Thevar
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | October 30, 1995 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 1 |
| Quantity | 600000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Deep Rose |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1478 Stamp Number IN 1537 Yvert et Tellier IN 1257 Stanley Gibbons IN 1641 |
| Themes | Commemoration | Famous people | Men | Reformers | |
Table of Contents
Pasumpon Muthuramalingam Thevar
Pasumpon Muthuramalingam Thevar, born on October 30, 1908, in Pasumpon Village, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, was a prominent Indian political leader and social reformer known for his dedication to the upliftment of the downtrodden and his contributions to Indian politics and society.
Early Life and Education
Thevar was the son of Ukkirapandia Thevar and Indirani. Despite studying only up to Secondary School, he developed a keen interest in horse riding, shooting, and martial arts. His eloquence and integrity were evident from a young age, exemplified by his compelling maiden speech in 1933 at the Vivekananda Library in Sayalgudi, where he spoke for three hours before a captivated audience.
Political Activism and Achievements
- Opposition to the Criminal Tribe Act (1934)
- Thevar actively opposed the British Government’s Criminal Tribe Act, which branded the ‘Mukkulathor’ as a criminal tribe. His relentless efforts led to the abolition of this act in May 1948.
- Political Career
- In the 1937 General Elections, Thevar contested on a Congress ticket against the Rajah of Ramanathapuram, representing the Justice Party, and emerged victorious.
- He established the “Agriculturist Association” to address the plight of peasants and worked towards abolishing the Zamindari System. His efforts led to the creation of the Zamindari Abolition Act.
- Thevar was a staunch follower of Gandhiji and promoted Gandhian ideals, including the use of Khadi, prohibition, and the removal of untouchability. He played a significant role in the historic entry of Harijans into the Meenakshi Temple, Madurai.
- Association with Netaji Subash Chandra Bose
- Thevar’s association with Netaji Subash Chandra Bose led to British Government scrutiny. He joined Bose in founding the Forward Bloc in Tamil Nadu, which further intensified the British authorities’ opposition to him.
- Legislative and Parliamentary Success
- In the 1946 Legislative Assembly elections, Thevar was elected unopposed from the Muthukulathoor Constituency. In 1952, he successfully contested both the Madras Legislative Assembly and Parliamentary Constituencies.
Legacy
Pasumpon Muthuramalingam Thevar’s life was marked by nationalism, spiritual discipline, courage, and compassion. His contributions to the upliftment of peasants, industrial workers, and untouchables left a lasting impact on Indian society. He passed away on October 30, 1963, in Madurai, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to social justice and reform.