Vallinayagam Olaganathan Chidambaram Pillai, also known as VOC, is remembered for his pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and for being a pioneering leader in the Swadeshi movement, especially in Tamil Nadu.
About Vallinayagam Olaganathan Chidambaram Pillai:
- Birth: VOC was born on 5th September 1872 in Ottapidaram, Tamil Nadu, to Olaganathan Pillai, an eminent lawyer, and Paramyee Ammai.
- Education and Early Life: He graduated from Caldwell College in Tuticorin and briefly worked as a clerk before pursuing law. His career as a lawyer began in 1900 in Tuticorin, where he had disputes with the British judge.
- Political Entry: VOC joined politics in 1905, inspired by the Partition of Bengal. He was drawn into the Swadeshi Movement by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai and worked closely with figures like Subramania Bharati.
- Swadeshi Movement: He played a key role in establishing the Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company (SSNCo) in 1906, becoming the first Indian to run a Swadeshi ship. His efforts in Tamil Nadu’s Swadeshi movement significantly strengthened the freedom struggle.
- Labor Welfare and Strikes: VOC actively supported labor rights, leading the Tuticorin Coral Mills strike in 1908, years before Gandhiji’s Champaran Satyagraha. He advocated for the working class, earning him a reputation as a forerunner to Gandhi in labor movements.
- Swadeshi Institutions: He established various institutions, including the Swadeshi Prachar Sabha, Dharmasanga Nesavu Salai, and Desabimana Sangam, promoting self-reliance and industrial development.
- Writings: VOC was also a prolific writer, with works like Meyyaram (1914), Meyyarivu (1915), and a commentary on the Thirukural (1917). He also compiled ancient Tamil grammar works like Tholkappiam.
- Titles and Legacy: VOC was fondly called “Kappalottiya Tamilan” (The Tamilian who ran the ship) for his contribution to India’s maritime independence and “Sekkizuththa Semmal”, recognizing his scholarly achievements and sacrifices.
- Death: VOC passed away on 18th November 1936 at the Indian National Congress Office in Tuticorin.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
Who was Vallinayagam Olaganathan Chidambaram Pillai?
VOC was a key leader in the Swadeshi Movement and the founder of India’s first Swadeshi shipping company.
What was the Swadeshi Movement in India?
The Swadeshi Movement encouraged the use of Indian-made goods to oppose British rule and strengthen the economy.
Who were the key leaders of the Swadeshi Movement?
Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and VOC played pivotal roles in advancing the movement.
What was the Partition of Bengal and why did it inspire protests?
The 1905 Partition of Bengal divided the region, prompting widespread protests as it was seen as a British tactic to weaken Indian unity.