Our Story
Our presence spans across 96 towns and 2 districts, where we are known as the Nattukottai Chettiars, a name that sets us apart from other Chettiar communities.
The term “Nattukottai Chettiars” beautifully translates to “people with palatial houses in the countryside,” reflecting our deep roots and the grandeur of our heritage. We are also lovingly called “Nagarathars,” meaning city dwellers, a nod to the ancient city of Poompuhar on Tamil Nadu’s east coast, where our ancestors once thrived. Though part of this historic city now rests beneath the sea, its legacy lives on in our spirit, guiding us as we continue to honor the values and traditions that define our community.
The Nagarathar community traces its origins to the ancient city of Kaveripoompattinam, flourishing under the rule of the Chola kingdom. Though small in numbers, their contributions and achievements are remarkable. The greatness of this community is immortalized in the poems of renowned poets such as Bharathi, Bharathidasan, Kavimani, Kaviarasu Kannadasan, and Paduvaar Muthappar, whose words speak volumes of the Nagarathars’ profound influence.
Rooted deeply in both business and spirituality, the Nagarathars were encouraged by the Chola kings to venture beyond their homeland. Driven by ambition and faith, they embarked on journeys to far-off lands like Sri Lanka, Burma, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where they not only expanded their thriving businesses but also became instrumental in spreading Hinduism.
