The tumultuous socio political scene in India in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century saw the emergence of new ideas, a bold and fearless approach to social issues and a spirit of questioning moribund norms and practices. There was an all pervasive spirit of contribution to the upliftment of marginalized sections of society. Sir Pitti Theagarayar was one such fearless votary of social change pertaining to this period.
Starting from a smaller canvas of handloom and cottage industries and municipal polities, his area of concern grew into larger socio political issues.
Sir Pitti Theagarayar was born at Egathur near Chennai on 27th April, 1852. He took his B.A. Degree in 1873 from the Presidency College, Madras. Later he entered public life and served as Member of the Madras Municipal Corporation for 40 years since 1882. He supported improved methods of weaving and strongly pleaded for Government help and encouragement to handloom and other cottage industries.
He was elected to the Madras Legislative Council in 1910. It started a new phase in his life. He was in favour of liberalizing the political process from caste monopolies. He started the Justice Party. In 1920 the Justice party got a decisive majority in the legislative Council. He was invited by Lord Wellington, the then Governor, to hold a responsible post in the new Ministry, but he declined the invitation.
Theagarayar was elected as Chairman, Chennai Municipality in 1920 and held that post until 1923. His active participation in the promotion of commercial activities led him to establish the South Indian Chamber of Commerce of which he was the Chairman from 1910 to 1921.
In appreciation of his selfless services to the people the Government honoured him with the title of 'Rao Bahadur' in 1909. He was also conferred with the title "Diwan Bahadur" in 1919 and "Sir" in 1921.
He who set an example of selfless, courageous, honest and honourable service in the public life passed away on June 30, 1925 at the age of 73. Theagaraya Nagar, an area in Chennai was named in his memory.
India Post is pleased to release a commemorative postage stamp on Sir Pitti. Theagarayar.
Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India