| 24 Manai Telugu Chettiar (24MTC) | |
|---|---|
| Languages | Telugu , Tamil |
| Populated states | Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana |
The 24 Manai Telugu Chettiars (24MTC) is a South Indian trading caste. They speak Telugu and Tamil languages and are found predominantly in the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana in India, as well as Sri Lanka.
Etymology and history
The 24 Manai Telugu Chettiyar is Telugu and Tamil speaking community in South Indian states, predominantly in Tamil Nadu (Kongu region, Chennai, Dindigul). They are considered to be the descendants of Kasi king Pritheeshwar. King Pritheeshwar got 24 children(16 men, 8 women) after praying to Kanchi Kamakshi Amman. Pritheeshwar married their men children with Gantharva Kula women, and his women children with Gantharva Kula men. He divided 24 parts in Chola region and made them to rule. Mumudiyaar Suriyanar, who ruled Kanchipuram under the Cholas, is from this community. 24 Manai Telugu Chettiyar are often referred to as Yaga Kshatriya, Chetty, Setty, Shetty. whereas many Chettiyar communities are termed as Vaishyas.