Beginning with an introduction to a noteworthy historical figure, this comprehensive text sheds light on the life and accomplishments of Vallinayagam Olaganathan Chidambaram Pillai, widely known as V.O.C, Kappalottiya Tamilan, and Sekkizuththa Semmal. Born in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India, Chidambaram Pillai etched his name into the annals of history as one of the most influential figures in the Indian freedom movement. He was honored by the Prime Minister on his 151st birth anniversary on September 5, 2022.
V.O.C – Early Life and Education
Chidambaram Pillai was born to a prominent lawyer, Olaganathan Pillai, and Paramyee Ammai on September 5, 1872, in Ottapidaram. His journey towards education led him through Caldwell College in Tuticorin. However, before he pursued his law studies, he worked briefly as a taluk office clerk, until an altercation with a judge pushed him to seek opportunities in Tuticorin in 1900.
Entry into Politics and Association with Freedom Movement
In 1905, following the partition of Bengal, V.O.C made his first foray into politics. He was drawn towards the Swadeshi Movement initiated by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai. During the same period, V.O.C developed a strong connection with the Ramakrishna Mission, Subramania Bharati, and the Mandayam family. It wasn’t until his arrival in Thoothukudi that the Swadeshi Movement began gaining momentum in the Tirunelveli district.
Influential Role in the Freedom Movement
By 1906, V.O.C had successfully rallied support from merchants and industrialists in Tuticorin and Tirunelveli for the establishment of the Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company (SSNCo). This marked a significant step in his fight for India’s freedom. Besides this, he also founded several institutions like Swadeshi Prachar Sabha, Dharmasanga Nesavu Salai, National Godown, Madras Agro-Industrial Society Ltd, and Desabimana Sangam.
V.O.C – A Pioneer for Workers’ Rights
In 1908, V.O.C was instrumental in abetting the Tuticorin Coral Mills strike, highlighting his commitment to workers’ rights even before Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha in 1917. On March 9, 1908, V.O.C, along with other leaders, arranged a large procession celebrating the release of Bipin Chandra Pal and hoisting the flag of Swaraj.
A Look at V.O.C’s Writings
V.O.C was not only a patriotic leader but also a proficient writer. Some of his notable works include “Meyyaram” (1914), “Meyyarivu” (1915), “Anthology” (1915), “Thirukural with literary notes of Manakudavar” (1917), “Tholkappiam with literary notes of Ilampooranar” (1928), and his autobiography in 1946.
The Final Chapter: Death of V.O.C
On November 18, 1936, V.O.C breathed his last in the Indian National Congress Office at Tuticorin. His contributions to India’s freedom movement and tireless efforts for workers’ rights established him as one of the revered figures in Indian history.
