The recent anniversary of V. O. Chidambaram Pillai, a significant figure in India’s struggle for independence, offers an opportunity to revisit his remarkable life and contributions. Known popularly as Kappalottiya Tamilan (The Tamil Helmsman) and Sekkizuththa Semmal, Pillai’s legacy continues to inspire countless Indians.
Early Life and Background
Vallinayagam Olaganathan Chidambaram Pillai, better known as VOC, was born on 5th September 1872 in Ottapidaram, a town located in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli district. His parents, renowned lawyer Olaganathan Pillai and Paramyee Ammai, nurtured him into becoming a prominent freedom fighter. After graduating from Caldwell College, Tuticorin, VOC worked briefly at the taluk office as a clerk before immersing himself in studying law. He shifted to Tuticorin in 1900 after a disagreement with a judge.
A Foray into Politics and Journalism
In 1905, VOC entered politics in response to the partition of Bengal. His involvement with the Swadeshi Movement, initiated by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai, intensified during his visit to Madras later that year. The influence of Ramakrishna Mission and his interactions with Subramania Bharati and the Mandayam family also shaped VOC’s political beliefs and actions. His arrival in Tuticorin spearheaded the momentum of the Swadeshi movement in Tirunelveli district.
Contributions to the Freedom Movement
By 1906, VOC started gaining the support of local merchants and industrialists towards establishing the Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company (SSNCo). His other significant contributions include founding several institutions like Swadeshi Prachar Sabha, Dharmasanga Nesavu Salai, National Godown, Madras Agro-Industrial Society Ltd and Desabimana Sangam. Assisted by a team of Tirunelveli-based lawyers, they formed the Swadeshi Sangam or ‘National Volunteers’. VOC’s role in the Tuticorin Coral Mills strike in 1908 added another dimension to the nationalist movement.
Championing Worker’s Rights
Before Mahatma Gandhi’s famous Champaran Satyagraha in 1917, VOC had already begun advocating the cause of Tamil Nadu’s working class. This pioneering work made him a precursor to Gandhi in this respect. Joining hands with fellow leaders, VOC organized a large procession on 9th March 1908 to celebrate the release of Bipin Chandra Pal from jail and to hoist the flag of Swaraj.
Literary Contributions
VOC’s literary work served as a testament to his erudition and creativity. His notable writings include ‘Meyyaram’ (1914), ‘Meyyarivu’ (1915), an anthology published in 1915, and ‘Thirukural with literary notes of Manakudavar’ (1917). His autobiography was published posthumously in 1946.
Death and Legacy
VOC passed away on 18th November 1936 at the Indian National Congress Office in Tuticorin, as per his last wish. His life and contributions continue to be remembered and revered, serving as an inspiration for generations to come.