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The Nattukotai Nagarathar community is widely known for its rituals, traditions, culture and world renowned cuisine. Chettiars and Achis (as they are famously addressed) are living examples of the community’s deeply-rooted and distinct customs which have been passed down organically from generation to generation.
In the race against time, we have slowly moved away from the joint family system and settled into smaller homes all over the world. Nuclear families, with their hectic professional lives, have little time or help. While it is understandable that celebrating festivals is a long drawn process, the mood and sheer beauty of a home decorated with maavilai, thoranam, lamps and fresh flowers, are immeasurable. The traditional festive food served and shared with love and the experience of being and celebrating together with family and friends make all the effort worth it.
Our elders always led by example. I grew up watching my grandparents and parents lovingly nurture a large extended family. They shared their knowledge and wisdom with me - the reason for my deep love for our heritage. After I got married, my in-laws - who also happened to be my maternal uncle and aunt - taught me the finer nuances of life, tradition and hospitality. The joint family system, that I was born and married in, helped me holistically evolve as a person. The rituals that constantly revolved around religion, helped me connect with God, others and self.
The idea to write this book, ‘The Nagarathar Way’, was born from the desire to document and preserve my knowledge and life experiences of the community practices for posterity. Based on insights from community experts, conversations with several Chettiars/Achis and existing research, I have made an earnest attempt to elaborate on the many festive rituals, norms and practices of the Nagarathars. The book elucidates how and why we celebrate festivals with detailed procedure, illustrations, photographs and recipes. It is a handbook of sorts that comes from the heart and hearth of a true Achi! I sincerely believe that our future generations need to be motivated to understand the value and meaning behind our rich traditions. I hope this book will bring about a positive change and add value to the existing practices of every Nagarathar family.
The proceeds from the sale of this book will go towards the maintenance of temples in Chettinad.
Born in Chennai in 1962, Umayal Palaniappan embodies the ethos of the Nagarathar community. Uma as she is affectionately known, is known for her sincerity to any cause she pursues. She strives to preserve traditional living in a modern world, keeping rituals and festivals relevant in the 21st century.
Uma is involved in several charitable organisations. She is currently Vice President of the Spastics Society. A former President of The Tamilnadu Hockey Association, Uma was also the President of the Family Planning Association of India.
Warm and caring, Uma’s passion is evident in everything she does. Be it her hospitality or her pleasant demeanour, Uma’s charm shines through. Her love for people and cooking translates to an always open and welcoming home. Always ready to lend a helping hand, it is not surprising that a number of people have come forward to help her put this book together. Uma’s mammoth endeavour, spanning over two years, has resulted in this fascinating guide to living, The Nagarathar Way.