Important people from Chettinad who shaped history.

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Important People from Chettinad Who Have Shaped
History How many of us know that
Chettinad is more than just tasty cuisines and
bright colours of art? Can you name some of the
famous Chettinad people who contributed greatly
to our country? If your answer is no, then this
article will prove as a good introduction for you
to famous Chettinad personalities. Chettinad is
a region named after the Nattukottai Chettiars,
who originally came and settled from Cauvery
Poompattinam in the 13th century after their
homeland was destroyed in a massive flood. Their
migration also brought with them a unique culture
of hard work which proved useful in the
unforgiving Chettinad weather and terrains. Over
the centuries, their community flourished and
spread across the world causing great cultural
exchange between Tamil Nadu and the world. The
Chettiars travelled to various places such as Sri
Lanka, Singapore, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam and
Malaysia.
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• In addition to having a rich culture, they were
  experts in banking and have been pioneers in the
  modern banking sector in India as well. The
  modern world has seen many people from Chettinad
  rise up to the highest echelons of the society
  through their sheer hard work and perseverance.
  The following are some notable Chettiars who were
  instrumental in shaping our country
• Dr. Alagappa Chettiar
• A recipient of the prestigious Padma Bhushan, Dr.
  Alagappa Chettiar is responsible for starting
  various educational institutions in Karaikudi and
  its surrounding areas. He was a successful
  businessman and philanthropist who renounced his
  Knighthood when India gained Independence.
• The famous Alagappa University, Alagappa
  Government Arts College and Alagappa Chettiar
  College of Engineering and Technology are named
  in his honour.
• Kaviarasar Kannadasan Kannadasan, referred to as
  Kaviarasar or King of Poets was a 20th century
  Tamil poet and lyricist, considered one of the
  most important writers in the language. He has
  contributed about 5000 lyrics to Tamil films in
  addition to publishing 6000 poems and 232 books
  which include novels, epics, essays and plays. He
  was given the National Film Award for Best Lyrics
  in 1969 and the Sahitya Academy Award in 1980.
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