Commemorating Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II: A Historical Tribute

Commemorating Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II

On December 14, 2025, a commemorative postage stamp was unveiled by the Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, honoring Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II, also known as Suvaran Maran. This ceremony took place at the Vice-President Enclave in New Delhi and is part of a broader initiative from the government to acknowledge unsung rulers and cultural icons from Tamil Nadu.

Who Was Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II?

Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II belonged to the Mutharaiyar dynasty, which governed central Tamil Nadu from the 7th to the 9th centuries CE. He ruled from Tiruchirappalli for nearly four decades and is recognized as one of the most distinguished figures in early medieval South India.

Key Contributions of Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II

• Administrative and Political Achievements:
  • Maintained administrative stability during an extensive reign.
  • Oversaw territorial expansion and consolidation.
  • Demonstrated military prowess, enhancing regional authority.
• Cultural and Religious Patronage:
  • Supported temple endowments and various religious institutions.
  • Encouraged Tamil literature and cultural activities.
  • Played a crucial role in preserving Tamil identity and heritage.
• Irrigation and Public Works:
  • Initiated and supported irrigation projects vital for agrarian prosperity.
  • Inscriptions throughout Tamil Nadu highlight his contributions to water management.

Significance of the Commemorative Postage Stamp

The issuance of this commemorative postage stamp symbolizes the official recognition of a historically underrepresented ruler. It serves not only to popularize regional history among the general public but also acts as a tool for cultural diplomacy and heritage awareness. This initiative reinforces the importance of an inclusive historical narrative that goes beyond the well-known dynasties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II in Tamil Nadu history?
Answer: Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II is significant for his extensive rule over central Tamil Nadu, his contributions to cultural preservation, and his administrative stability during the early medieval period.

Q2. Why was a postage stamp issued for Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II?
Answer: The postage stamp was issued to recognize and honor the contributions of Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II, promoting awareness of Tamil Nadu's rich historical and cultural legacy.

Q3. What were the key achievements of Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II?
Answer: His key achievements include administrative stability, support for Tamil literature, temple endowments, and significant irrigation projects that enhanced agrarian prosperity.

Q4. How does the stamp contribute to cultural diplomacy?
Answer: The stamp fosters cultural diplomacy by raising awareness of local history and heritage, thus encouraging a more inclusive understanding of India's diverse historical narratives.

Q5. What role did irrigation play in Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II's reign?
Answer: Irrigation projects initiated during his reign were crucial for agrarian prosperity, highlighting his commitment to improving agricultural practices and water management in Tamil Nadu.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: Who was Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II?
A) A ruler of the Gupta dynasty
B) A significant figure in the Mutharaiyar dynasty
C) An ancient Tamil poet
D) A famous military general
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What was a major contribution of Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II?
A) Establishing the Mauryan Empire
B) Supporting temple and cultural activities
C) Writing Tamil epics
D) Leading the Indian independence movement
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: When was the commemorative stamp for Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II issued?
A) December 14, 2020
B) December 14, 2025
C) January 1, 2021
D) March 15, 2022
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which area did Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II rule from?
A) Chennai
B) Tiruchirappalli
C) Madurai
D) Coimbatore
Correct Answer: B