Author:

Dr.T.Baladubramanian

Guest Lecturer
Dept.of History and Tourism Studies
School of Social Sciences
Tamilnadu Open University
Chennai,India
Email: balasubramanian834@gmail.com
Prof. N. Dhanalakshmi2

Professor & Head
Department of History and Tourism
School of Social Sciences
Tamil NaduOpen University
Chennai, India

Email: balasubramanian834@gmail.com
Abstract: The Nagarathars, also known as the Nattukottai Chettiars, constitute one of the most prominent mercantile communities of South India. Traditionally, they were salt traders and gem merchants who migrated from the coastal town of Kaveripoompattinam (Poompuhar) in Chola Nadu to the Pandya Nadu region due to sea-level issues. Their contributions extend beyond commerce into architecture, religion, philanthropy, and social organization. This paper examines the cultural foundations of Nagarathar society, their distinctive settlement patterns in the Chettinad region, and the transformation of their heritage under the pressures of colonial modernity and post-independence change. The study argues that Nagarathar heritage represents a synthesis of indigenous tradition and global commercial engagement.

Key Words: Cultural Heritage, Food Culture,Migration, Nagarathar Weddings, Textiles etc.