Vi Kalyanasundaranar, popularly known as Thiru Vi. Ka. was one of the prominent figures in Indian political life. He was an eminent scholar in Tamil, a prolific writer, a fiery speaker, a trade union leader, and a freedom fighter as well.

He was born on 26th August 1883 to Virudhachala Mudaliar and Chinnammal. After completing his education in Wesley High School, Royapettah, he joined as a teacher in the same school. He worked in several companies run by the English, but inspired by the ideals of Bal Gangadhar Tilak and the prevailing nationalist sentiments, he gave up his job and joined the freedom struggle. For this he was put under house arrest.

In 1983, Vi. Kalyanasundaranar was closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi. Whenever Gandhiji came to Chennai and addressed public meetings, Vi. Kalyanasundaranar translated his speeches in Tamil language. It was he who started addressing Mahatma Gandhi as 'Gandhi Adigal'. He did not hesitate from addressing the gatherings in Tamil. This encouraged others to feel proud of expressing themselves freely in their mother tongue i.e. Tamil while addressing public meetings at that time.

He started a labour union in 1918 in Chennai. He organized a confederation of labour unions in 1920.

He started a newspaper 'Desa Bakthan' but it was banned by the British. Then he started another newspaper 'Nava Sakthi' and worked for the growth of Tamil language and for propagating nationalist ideals.

A great scholar, Vi. Kalyanasundaranar authored more than fifty books, the most popular being 'The Greatness of Women' in which he spread the ideals of national freedom, the growth of Tamil language and literature, and social reform s, particularly emancipation of women in all walks of life.

His career was marked by his nationalism, spiritual discipline, courage and compassion. He passed away on 17th September 1953, but his legacy lives on.

The Department of Posts honours the life and works of Vi. Kalyanasundaranar through the issue of a commemorative postage stamp.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India