Hubbry Logo
MelurMelurMain
Open search
Melur
Community hub
Melur
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Melur
Melur
Melur
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Melur is the Northern entrance of Madurai district. It is the town and municipality in the Madurai North in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Melur Old Name is Called Naduvi Nadu. The name Melur comes from "Mela Nadu". Melur is called Thaigramam ('Mother of Villages'). It is the biggest taluk within the Madurai District. As of 2011, the town had a population of 40,017. Melur is an agricultural land in Madurai and the climate around the area is tropical.

Key Information

Melur is a manufacturer and exporter of ploughs. It has many cast iron industrial. Granite production is an important industry; granite from Melur is exported around the world. Situated within a largely agricultural area, most of the people living around Melur are employed in agriculture, chiefly in the cultivation of rice. A few people have been working as masons and assistants in home construction. Gandiva Foundation is a public charitable trust functioning at Melur.

Geography

[edit]

Melur has an average elevation of 149 metres (489 ft).

Demographics

[edit]
Religious census
Religion Percent(%)
Hindu
 
 78.00%
Muslim
 
 17.00%
Christian
 
 5.00%
Sikh
 
 0.00%
Other
 
 0.00%

According to the 2011 census, Melur had a population of 40,017 with a sex-ratio of 961 females for every 1,000 males, much above the national average of 929.[1] A total of 4,488 were under the age of six, constituting 2,353 males and 2,135 females. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes accounted for 12.33% and 0.39% of the population respectively. The average literacy of the town was 79.47%, compared to the national average of 72.99%.[1] The town had a total of 9872 households. There were a total of 14,126 workers, comprising 355 cultivators, 1,493 main agricultural labourers, 295 in household industries, 10,470 other workers, 1,513 marginal workers, 33 marginal cultivators, 230 marginal agricultural labourers, 88 marginal workers in household industries and 1,162 other marginal workers.[2]

As per the religious census of 2011, Melur had 78% Hindus, 17% Muslims, 5% Christians, 0.0% Sikhs and 0.0% following other religions.[3]

Religion, beliefs and festival

[edit]

The local religion involves as follows:

There is a temple for the Lord Shiva temple,Manthaikovil sri kanchivanamm swami god of melur kaval deivam festival celeprate in 18-villages peoples, Aanjaneyar and the goddess Draupathi,[4] who was wife of the Pandavas. Two important events are the Biman–Keesakan fight and Pookkuli Festival. In the first event, one person will be acting as Bima and another as Keesakan. Keesakan tries to run away from Bima, and the latter will chase and kill him. The Pookkuli (walking on ignited coals) festival is celebrated every year by the Draupathi Amman Temple. On the Pookkuli day, devotees who have offered prayers to the goddess will perform fire walking. Pathinettankudi manjuu verattu is celebrated on every mattupongal day, and there is a big masjid at trichy main road which is head of other masjids in Melur.

The Naagammal Temple Festival is celebrated every year. Poochorithal is the main event of the festival. Santhana Koodu Festival is celebrated in the al ameen masjid every year. The Ealai Katha Amman Temple festival, Kottakudi Eruthu Kattu, and the Ayyanar Temple Puravi Eduppu Festival are also celebrated around Melur. The Kathapillai street Kaliamman festival is celebrated every year in June.

Vetrilai piri thiruvizha (Beetal leaf festival) is a festival celebrated in Vellalur Nadu near Melur in Madhurai on the first day of Chithirai month to celebrate communal harmony. Hindus and Muslims celebrate this together.[5][6][7]

There is Mary L Flagg CSI church located near Sandhaipettai and regular prayers have been organised and conducted in this church which belongs to the Church of South India. This church was built during the British rule in 1904. It's 114 years old, as of 2018.

Transport

[edit]

Madurai Airport is the nearest airport from Melur, which operates domestic flight services and international flights service. such as Air India, SpiceJet, SriLankan Airlines and IndiGo.

Melur has a bus stand, which is used by TNSTC and private operators. This is situated inside the town on Madurai- Trichy NH45B. Melur has bus transportation to Madurai, Chennai, Trichy, Manamadurai,Sivagangai Dindigul, Coimbatore, Karaikudi, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram, Thirunelveli, Virudhunagar, Kovilpatti,Tanjore, Rajapalayam, Chidambaram, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Pattukkottai and all around the neighbouring districts. Madurai Junction is the nearest railway station.

Tourist spots

[edit]
  • Alagar Kovil

Alagar Kovil is a village in Melur Constituency. The history & living of the village is centered around Kallazhagar Temple. It is one of the 108 Divyadesam dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Kallazhagar and his consort Lakshmi as Thirumagal.

  • Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple:

It is one of the six important abodes (Arupadaiveedu) of Lord Muruga. It is located close to the Vishnu Temple of Azhagar Kovil. Among the Arupadaiveedu, Pazhamudircholai temple is the last one. Lord Muruga at Pazhamudircholai is praised in old Tamil literature works such as Silappathikaram, Ettuthokai and Pattupattu.

  • Thiruvathavur Thirumarainathar shivan Temple:

It is one of the very famous and ancient Shiva Temple, which is located in the Thiruvathavur village of Melur constituency. It was constructed by a 9th-century Tamil Poet Maanikkavaasagar. He has done many popular religious literature works. His Thiruvasagam Book is considered one of the precious books of Shaiva hymns.

New rail line proposal

[edit]

Madurai-Melur-Tirupattur-Karaikudi New BG Line: As sanctioned by Railway Board in the year 2007–08, Survey was taken and the report has been submitted to Railway Board on 29/07/2008. Then updating survey was sanctioned in the year 2013-14 and the survey report was submitted to Railway board on 27/11/2014. Railway Board has shelved the proposal at present. Decision of Railway Board is awaited.

Politics

[edit]

Melur (state assembly constituency) is part of Madurai (Lok Sabha constituency).[8] S. Venkatesan also known as Su. Venkatesan from CPI(M) is the Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, after his election in the 2019 Indian general election.[9]

The major political parties in Melur are ADMK, DMK Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Indian National Congress, and Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam. Kakkan (late), who served as State Minister during Kamarajar period was born in Melur. A statue is laid in Chekkadi.

Periya pullan contested the elections and elected as MLA of Melur town in 2021.

Periya pullan works for AIADMK party. MLA office which is constructed a decade ago in Sivagangai road remains unused as on date.

AMMK Party was started by TTV Dinakaran at Melur on 15 March 2018. In July 2021, 90% of AMMK Cadres from Melur shifted base to DMK.

Famous people

[edit]

P. Kakkan was an Indian politician and freedom fighter who served as a member of the Constituent Assembly of India, Member of Parliament, President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and in various ministerial posts in Congress governments in the erstwhile Madras state between 1957 and 1967. Kakkan was born into a Tamil family on 18 June 1908 in a village called Thumbaipatti in Melur Taluk, Madurai district of Madras Presidency.[10] His father Poosari Kakkan was a priest in the village shrine.[11]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Melur

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Melur is a second-grade municipality serving as the headquarters of Melur taluk in Madurai district, Tamil Nadu, India. Constituted as a town panchayat in 1888, the town had a population of 40,017 in the 2011 census, with males comprising 51% and a sex ratio of 961 females per 1,000 males. The local economy is predominantly agricultural, centered on rice cultivation, supplemented by manufacturing clusters producing agricultural implements, food products, and textile machinery. Melur features ancient Hindu temples, including the over 2,000-year-old Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple dedicated to Vishnu, underscoring its cultural and historical significance tied to Dravidian architectural traditions. Recent government initiatives, such as proposals for a SIPCOT industrial park and a non-leather footwear park, aim to diversify the economy, though they have sparked local concerns over environmental and heritage impacts.

History

Etymology and Ancient Origins

The name Melur derives from the Tamil term "Mela Nadu," where mela signifies "upper" or "higher," referring to the town's elevated terrain relative to the surrounding plains in the region. An older designation for the area was Naduvi Nadu, possibly indicating a "middle country" or central locale within historical Tamil divisions, though precise origins remain tied to local oral traditions and administrative records rather than epigraphic evidence. Melur is also known as Thaigramam or Thaikramam, translating to "Mother of Villages," underscoring its role as a central settlement nurturing nearby agrarian communities. Archaeological evidence for Melur's ancient origins is limited compared to nearby Madurai, with the earliest confirmed structures dating to the medieval Pandya period rather than prehistoric or Sangam-era settlements. In June 2025, excavations in Udampatti village, within Melur taluk, uncovered the foundation of an 800-year-old Shiva temple from the later Pandya dynasty, featuring Tamil inscriptions dated to 1217–1218 CE during the reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandya I (r. 1216–1238 CE). These inscriptions detail land grants and temple endowments, providing direct evidence of administrative and religious activity under Pandya rule, though the site's burial suggests later disruptions, possibly from invasions or natural events. Nearby excavations at (also spelled ), approximately 10 km west of Melur, conducted by the Archaeology Department in 2006–2007, yielded brick structures, pottery sherds, and sling stones indicative of early historic occupation, potentially linking to broader Pandya territorial control from the BCE onward. However, no pre-Pandya artifacts specific to Melur proper have been documented, distinguishing it from Madurai's more extensively attested Sangam-period heritage; Melur's prominence likely emerged as an extension of the Pandya heartland, focused on and local governance rather than major urban centers.

Medieval Period and Pandya Influence

The medieval period in the Melur region, encompassing roughly the 13th to 14th centuries CE, was dominated by the resurgence of the , which controlled southern including the where Melur is located. Following subjugation under Chola rule in the , the later Pandyas reasserted authority under kings like Maravarman Sundara Pandya I (r. 1216–1238 CE), expanding territorial influence through military campaigns and consolidating power in , a core area encompassing and surrounding taluks. This era represented a golden age for the dynasty, characterized by administrative stability, trade prosperity, and patronage of and religion, with Melur benefiting as part of the kingdom's hinterland. Archaeological discoveries in Melur taluk provide direct evidence of Pandya cultural and architectural imprint. In Udampatti village, remnants of an 800-year-old temple from the later Pandya period (1216–1345 CE) were unearthed, including two inscriptions dating to the reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandya I. The temple, identified as Thennavanisvaram, was constructed circa 1217–1218 CE, exemplifying the dynasty's devotion to and their investment in stone temple building with features like vimanas and gopurams typical of Pandya style. These findings indicate Melur's integration into Pandya religious networks, where local elites and rulers supported temple endowments for economic and devotional purposes. Pandya influence waned after 1311 CE due to internal conflicts and invasions by the , leading to the establishment of the and fragmentation of Pandya territories. In Melur, this transition likely involved shifts in local governance, though enduring Pandya-era structures and inscriptions persisted as markers of prior rule. The dynasty's legacy in the region included advancements in irrigation and agrarian systems, supporting rice cultivation in the basin proximate to Melur.

Colonial Era and Independence

During the early phases of British expansion in southern , the asserted control over the region, including areas around Melur, through military campaigns against local poligars and chieftains following the of the mid-18th century. A notable instance of violent suppression occurred in 1767 with the Vellaloor , in which forces under Captain Rumley killed approximately 5,000 members of the Kallar community in Vellalore village near Melur taluk, as part of efforts to dismantle resistant poligar strongholds. This event exemplified the brutal tactics employed to consolidate authority amid widespread poligar revolts in between 1750 and 1801. By the early 19th century, following the and the of 1806, the transitioned the region into direct administration under the , established in 1653 but expanded significantly after 1800. Melur functioned as a taluk within , subject to revenue collection systems like the settlement introduced in the 1820s, which aimed to assess land directly with cultivators but often exacerbated agrarian tensions. In the lead-up to independence, Melur residents engaged in the Indian National Congress-led movement, with local participation in non-cooperation drives and salt satyagrahas during the 1920s and 1930s. Prominent figure , born in 1908 in Thumbaipatti village within Melur taluk, joined the as a youth and was imprisoned for his role in the of 1942, reflecting broader anti-colonial mobilization in . India's independence on August 15, 1947, integrated Melur into the Dominion of as part of Madras Province, marking the end of British sovereignty without specific localized conflicts but amid nationwide celebrations and administrative continuity.

Post-Independence Growth

Following India's independence in 1947, Melur witnessed gradual socioeconomic expansion aligned with broader rural development efforts, including community development blocks established in the to enhance and basic services. The town's municipal grew steadily, reaching 32,848 by the 1991 and rising to 33,743 in 2001 at an annual growth rate of 2.65%, driven by natural increase and limited rural-urban migration within . By 2011, it had expanded to 40,017 residents, with literacy rates climbing to 89.51%, reflecting investments in education and health infrastructure post-Green Revolution. Agricultural advancements underpinned this progress, as Melur taluk—spanning 682.1 km² and remaining predominantly agrarian—benefited from state-led expansions and high-yielding crop varieties introduced from the onward, boosting productivity in paddy, millets, and despite reliance on rain-fed systems. Small-scale , particularly of ploughs for , emerged as a niche economic activity, complementing farming in the taluk's 291,398 residents by 2011. Infrastructure improvements included road networks linking Melur to city, facilitating trade; by the 2020s, projects like the Melur-Tirupattur road under the Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity initiative enhanced connectivity, though early post-independence gains focused on rural roads and amenities rather than heavy industrialization. Recent state expenditures exceeding ₹54.56 crore from 2022 to 2025 on local facilities, such as bus stands and knowledge centers, indicate sustained momentum in public works. Overall, growth remained modest compared to urban hubs like , prioritizing agricultural stability over rapid urbanization.

Geography and Environment

Location and Topography

Melur is a municipality in Madurai district, Tamil Nadu, India, situated approximately 30 kilometers north-northeast of Madurai city along the Madurai-Dindigul highway. Its geographic coordinates are 10°02′N 78°20′E. The town lies at an elevation of 154 meters (505 feet) above sea level. The surrounding region features an average elevation of 181 meters, encompassing the broader topographic area of Melur. Melur occupies flat, fertile plains within the Vaigai River basin, which bisects Madurai district and supports extensive agriculture through its alluvial soils. The terrain transitions gradually from the central upland zones toward the eastern coastal plains, with minimal relief dominated by denudational landforms rather than prominent hills in the immediate vicinity.

Climate and Natural Features

Melur lies within the tropical climate zone typical of interior Tamil Nadu, featuring distinct wet and dry seasons influenced by the northeast monsoon. Summers from March to May are hot and dry, with average high temperatures reaching 35–38°C (95–100°F) and occasional peaks above 40°C, accompanied by low humidity. Winters from December to February are mild, with daytime highs of 28–32°C (82–90°F) and nighttime lows around 18–20°C (64–68°F). Annual rainfall averages approximately 800 mm, concentrated in the October–November period when the northeast monsoon brings the bulk of precipitation, averaging up to 150 mm in peak months like October; the southwest monsoon contributes lesser amounts from June to September, while dry spells dominate January to May. Recent trends indicate a rising rainfall pattern in Melur amid regional declines, though overall variability persists due to subtropical influences. The topography consists of flat to gently undulating alluvial plains in the Vaigai River basin, with an average elevation of about 150 meters above sea level and modest variations up to 66 meters within a 3 km radius. These fertile plains, formed by sedimentary deposits, support intensive agriculture rather than extensive natural forests, though scattered granitic outcrops and low hillocks punctuate the landscape. Nearby areas like Arittapatti, approximately 20 km east of Melur, feature seven granite hillocks functioning as a watershed with 72 lakes and over 200 natural springs, sustaining dry deciduous vegetation including species such as neem (Azadirachta indica) and Indian rosewood. This biodiversity hotspot, designated Tamil Nadu's first heritage site in 2022, hosts diverse flora and fauna amid otherwise agrarian surroundings, with limited groundwater reserves requiring careful resource management. Geological features include migmatites reflecting ancient metamorphic processes, alongside gravel and blue metal deposits exploited for construction.

Demographics

The population of Melur town, as recorded in the , stood at 33,881. By the , it had increased to 40,017, representing a decadal growth rate of 18.05%, which exceeded the state average of 15.61% for the same period. This growth reflects trends in , where the overall decadal increase was 17.8%.
Census YearPopulationDecadal Growth Rate (%)
200133,881—
201140,01718.05
In 2011, males comprised 20,405 (51%) of the population, while females numbered 19,612 (49%), yielding a of 961 females per 1,000 males—above the national average of 943 but below the state figure of 996. aged 0-6 accounted for 10.2% of the total (4,078 individuals), with a child of 912. The 2021 census was postponed due to the , leaving no official update; unofficial projections based on prior trends estimate the 2025 population at approximately 56,000, implying sustained annual growth of around 1.8-2%.

Ethnic, Linguistic, and Religious Composition

The residents of Melur are predominantly ethnic , reflecting the broader demographic patterns of in . Scheduled Castes account for 12.3% (4,936 individuals) of the town's population, primarily comprising communities such as Paraiyars and Pallars, while Scheduled Tribes represent a minimal 0.4% (155 individuals). The Kallar subcaste, part of the confederacy, has historically been a dominant community in the region, influencing local social structures. Tamil serves as the primary language spoken by the vast majority of the population, consistent with its status as the official language of the town and the dominant mother tongue in , where over 89% of residents report it as their per state-level data. English and other like Telugu may be used in limited contexts due to migration and commerce, but no significant linguistic minorities are recorded in local demographics. According to the 2011 Indian census for Melur Municipality, constitute 78.72% (31,503 individuals) of the , forming the religious majority with temples such as the Kazimar Sultan Mosque-area Hindu sites underscoring communal coexistence despite occasional historical tensions. make up 18.80% (approximately 7,522), concentrated in urban pockets and reflecting trading communities. account for 2.19% (877), largely from Catholic and Protestant denominations established during colonial influences, while represent a negligible 0.02% (8 individuals), with no notable presence of Buddhists, Jains, or other faiths. These figures contrast with the surrounding Melur taluka, where comprise 91.49%, indicating a higher concentration of minorities in the town proper.

Economy

Agriculture and Traditional Manufacturing

Agriculture constitutes the primary economic activity in Melur, a taluk in , where paddy serves as the dominant crop, alongside millets like cholam (), pulses, and . These crops benefit from an average annual rainfall of 874.5 mm, though remains critical, primarily drawn from the Periyar-Vaigai and seasonal releases from . Single-crop farmers, cultivating and on over 1.05 acres in some seasons, frequently face water shortages, prompting protests for additional dam releases to avert crop losses. Efforts to modernize farming include the Tamil Nadu Irrigated Agriculture Modernization Project, which has supported farmer producer organizations in Melur by enhancing efficiency and socio-economic outcomes for participants. Despite such interventions, in Melur taluk has undergone conversion pressures from , reducing cultivable area and threatening productivity. Traditional manufacturing in Melur is predominantly small-scale and agrarian-linked, with clusters focused on agricultural implements such as ploughs and tools, catering to local farming demands. Artisanal production of terracotta items and metal castings persists as industries, preserving skills tied to historical rural needs rather than large-scale output. These activities supplement but remain marginal compared to cultivation, with limited documentation of broader traditions specific to the locality.

Industrial Proposals and Development Initiatives

The State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) approved the establishment of an in Melur in 2024, marking the first such project in . The initiative spans 278 acres across Vanchinagaram, Kodikkampatti, and Boothamangalam panchayats, with the first phase targeting 100 acres for initial infrastructure development. Allocated funding includes ₹16 for foundational works, aimed at attracting industries in sectors such as automotive components, textiles, engineering, and to generate and stimulate local . Infrastructure development under the project encompasses the construction of internal roads, reinforced cement concrete (RCC) box culverts, and RCC storm water drains, with a tender floated in November 2024 for ₹12.83 crore to execute these elements. The site's strategic location near Madurai city and major highways is intended to facilitate logistics and industrial expansion, aligning with broader Tamil Nadu efforts to create a 45,000-acre land bank for industrial parks over five years. Proponents, including some local farmers and villagers, argue the park will transform Melur's economy by providing jobs and infrastructure upgrades, countering the area's reliance on agriculture. However, the proposal has faced significant local opposition since its announcement in 2024, primarily from residents in affected panchayats citing concerns over fertile acquisition, groundwater depletion, and environmental impacts near ecologically sensitive areas. Protests have included ritual offerings to local deities and demonstrations, with critics highlighting risks to nearby archaeological sites and long-term . Despite these challenges, officials confirmed in October 2025 that the project would proceed as planned, emphasizing compensatory measures and economic benefits. Beyond the SIPCOT park, regional development in Melur has included broader infrastructure investments, such as ₹54.56 allocated over the three years prior to January 2025 for projects like road expansions and public facilities, though these are not exclusively industrial. Complementary efforts, including upgrades to the Melur-Alagarkovil road under a ₹221 chief minister's program, aim to enhance connectivity for potential industrial traffic. These initiatives reflect Tamil Nadu's push for decentralized industrial growth, though their success in Melur remains contingent on resolving local disputes and ensuring sustainable implementation.

Government and Politics

Administrative Structure

Melur is governed by the Melur Municipality, classified as a Second Grade Municipality under the Directorate of Municipal Administration, Government of . The municipality oversees local urban services including , , , and public health, operating from its office on Thiruvathavoor Road. Originally constituted as a Town Panchayat on December 3, 1888, via St. George Gazette No. 86, it was upgraded to a Municipality on January 1, 1978, per Government Order No. 85, and later elevated to status. The civic body comprises an elected of ward councilors, with elections conducted every five years across 27 wards; the council elects a chairperson to lead policy decisions, while a appointed manages executive functions. At the district level, Melur functions as the headquarters of the Melur Revenue Division and Melur Taluk within , coordinating revenue collection, land records, and taluk-level administration through the Tahsildar. Development activities fall under the Melur Panchayat Union Block, one of 13 blocks in , which administers rural panchayats, agricultural schemes, and infrastructure in surrounding areas. This structure integrates urban municipal governance with broader taluk and block mechanisms for comprehensive local administration.

Electoral History and Representation

The Melur Assembly constituency, one of 234 in the , elects a (MLA) to represent the area in the ; it forms part of the . As of October 2025, the sitting MLA is Periyapullan P. alias Selvam of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), who secured victory in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election with a of 74.23%. Selvam's win continued AIADMK's uninterrupted hold on the seat since 2001, reflecting consistent voter preference amid competition primarily from the (DMK) and its allies. Prior to AIADMK's dominance, the constituency saw representation by (INC) candidates in multiple elections from 1980 to 1991, with a brief win by Tamil Maanila Congress (Moopanar) in 1996, often aligned with DMK-led fronts. Earlier, in 1977, the Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (ADMK, predecessor to AIADMK) held the seat narrowly. Election outcomes have typically featured close margins in some cycles, influenced by regional caste dynamics and alliances, though AIADMK's organizational strength in rural districts has prevailed in recent decades.
YearWinnerPartyVotesRunner-up PartyMargin
2021Periyapullan P. alias SelvamAIADMKNot specified in sourceDMKRetained seat
2016Periyapullan P. alias SelvamAIADMK88,909DMK19,723
2011R. SamyAIADMK85,869DMK24,462
2006R. SamyAIADMK64,013INC3,173
2001R. SamyAIADMK58,010DMK26,838
At the local level, Melur Municipality is governed by an elected council, with U. Mohammed Yasin serving as chairman, elected from Ward 8; municipal elections occur periodically under Tamil Nadu's urban local bodies framework, though specific historical results for chairman positions remain less documented in compared to assembly contests.

Culture and Society

Religious Practices and Festivals

The religious practices in Melur revolve primarily around traditions, including daily poojas, offerings, and processions that emphasize devotion to deities such as , , and local forms. Temples like Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal conduct structured rituals throughout the day, with six sevas performed to honor the presiding deity, fostering a routine of and involvement. Annual festivals amplify these practices, featuring elaborate Brahmotsavams that include chariot processions, music, and flag-hoisting ceremonies, as observed in Vaikasi (–May) at major shrines. Notable festivals highlight unique regional customs, such as the Panguni Utsavam at Veerakaliamman Temple near Melur, where thousands participate in nighttime processions despite health advisories, underscoring the event's cultural pull. Similarly, the Ezhaikatha Temple festival involves selecting seven young girls to symbolize the goddess in rituals aimed at invoking rain and harvest prosperity, a maintained by local communities. In Keelaiyur village within Melur taluk, certain s incorporate rooster sacrifices by male devotees as acts of faith and vow fulfillment, reflecting pre-modern ritual elements still practiced. Communal harmony manifests in interfaith participation, particularly during the Aiyyanar Temple festival at Navinipatti, held every ten years, where Muslims join Hindus in prayers, offerings, and feasts dedicated to the deity, forgoing traditional foods like in observance. Adjacent villages near Melur also observe fishing events, such as at Sengundu , where hundreds gather annually to net believed to confer health benefits, blending agrarian customs with spiritual intent. These practices, rooted in local ecology and shared rituals, sustain social cohesion amid diverse religious observance.

Social Structure and Community Life

Melur's social structure is characterized by a traditional caste hierarchy, with the Mukkulathor community—comprising Thevar, Kallar, and Maravar subgroups—exerting significant influence as landowners and local leaders in the region. These groups, classified as backward classes, dominate rural power dynamics and agricultural decision-making, often controlling village resources and panchayat functions. Scheduled Castes, making up 12.3% of the town's 40,017 residents as of the 2011 census, primarily serve as agricultural laborers and face historical marginalization, including restrictions on social access such as temple entry. Inter-caste tensions persist, exemplified by the 1997 Melavalavu massacre, where Thevars killed seven Dalits, including a panchayat president, underscoring ongoing dominance-subordination patterns. Family structures in Melur remain predominantly patrilineal and extended, reflecting rural norms where multiple generations co-reside to pool resources for and elder care. However, economic pressures and migration are fostering a shift toward nuclear families, reducing traditional support for the elderly and altering practices. ties reinforce , with marriages arranged within communities to preserve and land holdings. Community life centers on agrarian routines, with dominant castes mediating disputes through informal councils, while lower castes rely on government quotas for upward mobility. Local community organizations, including non-profits like EKIMS Welfare Association and Sevajothi Trust, address , , and gaps, often targeting marginalized groups amid persistent divides. These entities promote groups and skill development, yet their is limited by entrenched hierarchies, as evidenced by electoral exploitation of fault lines. Social interactions exhibit caution across castes, with neighborhoods maintaining separate amenities to avoid conflict, reflecting a fragile truce rather than integration.

Education and Healthcare

Educational Institutions

Melur's primary and is administered through the Melur block, encompassing 11 clusters with a mix of government, aided, and private schools serving local rural and urban students. The District Educational Office, established on September 15, 1985, coordinates these institutions from its base in the Government Boys Higher Secondary School campus on Trichy Main Road. Government higher s, such as the Government Boys Higher Secondary School, provide education from grades 6 to 12 for male students in the region. Higher education in Melur centers on government and private colleges affiliated with state universities. The Government Arts College, established in 1969 by the Government of Tamil Nadu and affiliated with Madurai Kamaraj University, offers 11 undergraduate programs (e.g., B.A. in History, Tamil, English; B.Sc. in Zoology; B.Com.), 10 postgraduate programs, and 3 Ph.D. programs, enrolling around 2,500 students, predominantly first-generation learners from underprivileged backgrounds. The college emphasizes holistic development through facilities like laboratories, libraries, sports courts, and extracurriculars including NSS and YRC activities. The Government Polytechnic College, founded in the 2009-2010 at Ambalakaranpatti-Kattakalapatti village, delivers four three-year courses in technical disciplines to support vocational training for nearby rural youth, with admissions managed under government schemes. Private higher education includes the T.S.M. Jain College of , a self-financing institution established in 2010, approved by AICTE and affiliated with , providing undergraduate and postgraduate programs such as B.E./B.Tech. and M.E. in fields like civil, mechanical, and .

Healthcare Facilities and Challenges

The primary healthcare facility in Melur is the Government Taluk Hospital, which maintains a bed strength of 108 and provides services including CT scans, X-rays, ECGs, dialysis, ultrasound scans, and a full-fledged laboratory. Private multispeciality hospitals, such as Dr. Rao Service Hospital located centrally in Melur, offer supplementary care with advanced biotechnology and patient-focused services, alongside smaller clinics like Muthuvel Hospital and Radha Clinic. Melur's healthcare system faces significant challenges, including a high incidence of poisoning cases, with 414 treated at the Government Hospital from January to August 2025, often linked to socioeconomic stressors. Infrastructure delays, such as the stalled construction of a critical care unit at the Government Hospital as of April 2025, have exacerbated risks for patients requiring intensive treatment. Rural Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Melur taluk encounter staffing shortages and funding constraints, leading to practices like referring pregnant women for antenatal scans to private centers rather than government facilities, prompting investigations into potential irregularities in April 2025. Community resistance to relocating established PHCs, such as the 22-year-old facility in Santhaipettai serving over 3,000 residents annually, highlights access barriers in underserved areas as of July 2025. Occupational health risks, including diseases among , metal, and workers in Melur taluk due to inadequate protective measures and prevalence, further strain local resources.

Infrastructure and Transport

Road Networks and Connectivity

Melur maintains connectivity to , its district headquarters approximately 26 kilometers to the south, primarily via Melur Road, a key arterial route that links the town to urban centers and facilitates daily commuting and . Widening efforts on this road, undertaken by the Highways Department, include adding two service lanes between K.K. Nagar and Uthangudi junction in , along with junction improvements to eliminate traffic signals and enhance flow, with works initiated as of November 2023. The town lies along National Highway 38 (NH-38), which traverses Melur and extends connectivity southward to , covering a 46.8-kilometer stretch approved for four-laning in 2018 under the (NHAI) on an (EPC) mode. This upgrade, from design kilometer 0+000 at Melur to , aims to improve freight movement and reduce travel times toward coastal districts, with construction activities confirmed ongoing as of August 2023 without impacting local residents or agriculture. Broader regional links are bolstered by the Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project, funded by the , which includes upgrading roads from Melur through and districts to , as part of a 590-kilometer enhancement initiative to support industrial corridors and . These developments integrate Melur into 's extensive road network, comprising over 6,800 kilometers of maintained by the central government, enabling efficient access to major cities like via interconnected routes.

Rail and Metro Proposals

In January 2025, the (CREDAI) chapter urged the extension of the proposed Rail project to Melur, citing potential benefits for development and regional connectivity, as the current plan covers only the stretch from Othakadai to Thirumangalam. This appeal was made by CREDAI president R. Illankovan during a meeting with state officials, emphasizing Melur's proximity to and the need for improved to alleviate . A litigation filed in the sought to mandate this extension, arguing that heavy vehicular traffic on the Madurai-Melur route necessitated integration. On January 29, 2025, the court directed the central and state governments to consider the plea, noting the Madurai Metro's planned 32 km alignment—comprising 27 km elevated and 5 km underground tracks—at an estimated cost of ₹11,360 crore. However, by January 28, 2025, the court closed the petition, classifying the decision as a policy matter for government discretion without issuing further directives. No dedicated new railway line proposals specifically targeting Melur have been advanced or approved as of October 2025, with regional railway developments in focusing on broader corridors such as Tirupattur-Krishnagiri-Hosur rather than extensions to Melur. The area's existing rail connectivity relies on the Melur railway station along the Madurai-Villupuram line, but enhancements like additional train stoppages have not been proposed for this junction in recent Southern Railway announcements. Metro extension remains the primary advocated upgrade for mass transit to Melur, pending feasibility assessments and funding approvals.

Tourism and Attractions

Historical and Religious Sites

The historical and religious landscape of Melur taluk is characterized by ancient Hindu temples tied to the and earlier traditions, emphasizing Shaivite and Vaishnavite worship with architectural remnants and inscriptions offering glimpses into medieval socio-economic life. The , located approximately 20 km east of near Melur, enshrines as Kalamega Perumal with consort as Mohanavalli Thayar and ranks among the 108 Divya Desams venerated in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham hymns of the . Temple lore recounts 's avatar enchanting the demon to prevent self-destruction and episodes from the Samudra Manthan, where devas and asuras churned the ocean for , underscoring themes of divine intervention in cosmic order. In Udampatti village within Melur taluk, archaeologists in June 2025 unearthed foundations of an 800-year-old Shiva temple from the later Pandya period, precisely dated to 1217-1218 CE via inscriptions referencing the reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandya I. Two Tamil inscriptions on the surviving northern and southern stone bases name the shrine Thennavanisvaram in the erstwhile village of Attur and record a sale deed for the waterbody Nagankudi, transferred for 64 kasu from Alagaperumal to Nambi Perambala Kuthan, evidencing the temple's operational autonomy through land endowments. The partial remains, documented amid broader surveys of ruined Pandya-era structures by the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology, illuminate regional land tenure and economic practices without yielding additional artifacts like idols or superstructure elements. The Thirumarainathar Temple at Thiruvathavur, situated along the Madurai-Melur highway, serves as a Vaippu Sthalam praised in the hymns and is linked to the 9th-century saint Manikkavasagar as his purported birthplace, where he composed portions of the Tiruvacakam reflecting Shaivite . Local tradition holds the site originated as a lake site transformed by amid Deva-Asura warfare, with the temple's antiquity traced to Pandya patronage potentially exceeding 1,000 years, though precise construction dates remain unconfirmed beyond epigraphic correlations to early medieval Tamil polities.

Natural and Cultural Spots

Arittapatti, situated in the Melur block of approximately 25 kilometers northeast of city, represents the primary natural attraction in the vicinity, designated as Tamil Nadu's inaugural Biodiversity Heritage Site on November 22, 2022. Spanning 139.63 hectares in Arittapatti village and 53.8 hectares in adjacent Meenakshipuram village, the site features seven hillocks that facilitate through a system of 72 lakes, 200 natural spring-fed ponds, and three check dams. This landscape sustains diverse flora and fauna, including around 250 bird species—among them 20 raptors such as the (Falco jugger), (Falco peregrinus peregrinator), and (Aquila fasciata)—along with mammals like the (Manis crassicaudata) and (Loris tardigradus). Birdwatching enthusiasts frequent the 3-4 kilometer circuit trail around the hillocks, where sightings of prey birds and other avifauna are common, particularly during migratory seasons. The area's ecological significance extends to reptiles, including pythons, and its role in local water management underscores its value for environmental conservation efforts. Ancient rock shelters and inscriptions dating to the 2nd-1st century BCE provide cultural insights into early settlement patterns and trade, independent of religious contexts. Narasingampatti, another village within the Melur block about 18 kilometers east of , functions as a secondary hub with historical rock-cut features and natural springs, though less developed for compared to Arittapatti. Cultural elements in Melur taluk are embodied in traditional rural architecture, such as vernacular village houses constructed with local materials like and thatch, reflecting adaptive responses to the and agrarian lifestyle predominant in the region. These structures, often featuring courtyards and elevated plinths, preserve indigenous building techniques passed down through generations.

Controversies and Disputes

Mining Projects and Environmental Protests

In Melur taluk of , mining activities have primarily involved quarrying and, more recently, proposals for tungsten extraction, both of which have triggered significant environmental opposition from local farmers and villagers. quarries have operated in the region for years, with tenders invited by authorities as late as October 2023, leading to concerns over , dust pollution, and depletion that threaten agricultural lands. Residents staged protests in October 2023, arguing that expanded quarrying would irreversibly damage farmland and exacerbate in an area already reliant on rain-fed . The most contentious project emerged in 2024 with the central government's auction of rights in Nayakkarpatti village, awarded to Limited, a subsidiary of , for a block spanning approximately 125 hectares. Protesters highlighted risks including of hills, of local sources, and destruction of hotspots like Arittapatti, a known habitat for rare flora and fauna, potentially lowering the by up to 100 meters and rendering thousands of acres of farmland infertile. Local opposition intensified from 2024, with over 500 villagers protesting the lease on November 22, followed by resolutions from more than 25 village panchayats demanding cancellation. Mass demonstrations peaked in January 2025, including a 25-kilometer on involving over 10,000 participants from 48 villages, who faced police barricades and arrests while raising slogans against livelihood losses and ecological harm. The Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on December 9, 2024, urging the central government to revoke the lease, citing violations of state environmental clearances and interstate coordination norms. Chief Minister publicly stated on December 9, 2024, that the project would not proceed under his administration, emphasizing protection of local resources. In response to sustained pressure, the central government canceled the tungsten project on January 28, 2025, following interventions by state leaders and civil society groups, marking a rare reversal of a federally auctioned mineral block. The Tamil Nadu government subsequently withdrew cases against over 100 protesters on January 26, 2025, acknowledging the movement's role in halting operations that could have displaced communities and intensified regional water stress. These events underscore ongoing tensions between mineral resource exploitation and preservation of agrarian ecosystems in Melur, where prior granite activities have already contributed to documented declines in crop yields and increased respiratory ailments among residents.

Land Acquisition and Industrial Resistance

In 2006, the government proposed establishing a SIPCOT in Melur taluk to foster industries and create employment opportunities amid regional economic demands. The initiative involved acquiring agricultural and potentially residential lands, but progress stalled due to persistent local opposition, with tenders worth ₹16 approved only in late 2024 as renewed efforts to address acquisition hurdles. Local resistance intensified in 2025, driven by farmers and residents from at least 18 villages, including Vanjinagaram, Boothamangalam, and Kodukkampatti, who argued that land acquisition would destroy fertile farmland, exacerbate water shortages for irrigation via the Mullaiperiyar system, and introduce industrial pollution harming local ecosystems, , , and sites. In March 2025, thousands gathered in Melur for demonstrations, followed by petitions in August urging the use of alternative barren lands and further rallies in September explicitly opposing acquisition proceedings. Government officials maintained the project's viability for , with a February 2025 petition from some farmers and villagers endorsing it for job prospects, though such support was limited compared to widespread . By October 17, 2025, land identification and acquisition were suspended indefinitely due to unrelenting protests, despite assurances of procedural continuation. This highlights tensions between industrial development imperatives and agrarian preservation, with protesters advocating Melur's designation as a protected agricultural zone. In Melavalavu village, part of Melur taluk in Madurai district, Tamil Nadu, a major caste clash erupted on June 25, 1997, when dominant-caste Thevars hacked to death the newly elected Dalit panchayat president K. Murugesan, aged 35, along with six other Scheduled Caste men as they traveled by tractor to attend a meeting. The victims included Murugesan's aide A. Sekar and other local Dalit leaders, who had won the 1996 panchayat elections in a seat reserved for Scheduled Castes, prompting opposition from Thevar residents who boycotted the poll and resisted Dalit administrative control over village resources. This massacre triggered retaliatory arson, with at least seven Dalit huts and a shop torched in the following days, displacing families and highlighting entrenched caste hierarchies where Thevars, a numerically strong backward caste in southern Tamil Nadu, have historically dominated local power structures. The incident led to 133 arrests, with 40 charged under the (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989; in 2002, a convicted 24 individuals, sentencing five to , though higher courts later acquitted some for lack of evidence tying them directly to the killings. In November 2019, the government granted premature remission to 13 convicts as part of M.G. Ramachandran centenary celebrations, sparking outrage among victims' families who reported ongoing fear and intimidation, with residents claiming the release emboldened further dominance by Thevars. By 2022, 25 years later, panchayat officials in the area continued facing social boycotts and threats, with limited access to common resources like water tanks, underscoring persistent resistance to Scheduled Caste political assertion despite legal reservations. Smaller clashes have punctuated the uneasy Thevar-Dalit relations in Melur, such as a 2013 shrine festival dispute near Madurai where caste Hindus and Dalits accused each other of stone-pelting, leading to FIRs under the Atrocities Act against both sides. In April 2015, violence at Melur Borstal School injured Dalit inmates during a caste-based altercation with other groups, though the initial FIR omitted details of their injuries, prompting complaints of police bias. Political parties have exploited these tensions, as seen in 2016 elections where alliances highlighted the fragile truce, with Dalit votes pivotal amid lingering resentments over land and temple entry rights. In January 2022, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) cadres protested multiple atrocities against Dalits in the Melur region, including assaults and denial of services, demanding stricter enforcement of anti-atrocity laws. These incidents reflect broader patterns of caste friction in rural Tamil Nadu, where dominant communities resist Scheduled Caste empowerment, often resulting in underreported violence due to local influences on policing.

Notable Individuals

P. Kakkan (1908–1981), a freedom fighter and politician, was born in Thumbaipatti village in Melur taluk on 18 June 1908; he served as a MLA from Melur, MP, and minister in state governments, noted for his advocacy of Scheduled Caste rights and Gandhian principles of austerity. Cheran (born 12 December 1970), an Indian filmmaker, actor, and lyricist in , was born in Pazhaiyurpatty near Melur; he debuted as an assistant director and gained acclaim for directing realistic dramas such as (2004) and (2010), often focusing on rural Tamil life. Ilavarasu (born 26 August 1964), a Tamil film turned , was born in Melur; after shooting 13 films including (1998), he appeared in supporting roles in over 50 movies, such as (2021) and 7aum Arivu (2011).

References

  1. https://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/803741-melur-tamil-nadu.html
  2. https://www.tnurbantree.tn.gov.in/melur/
  3. https://www.censusindia.co.in/towns/melur-population-madurai-tamil-nadu-803741
  4. https://dcmsme.gov.in/dips/IPS%2520Madurai%25202012_tr.pdf
  5. https://tamilnadutemples.co.in/article/id/8720/temple/61/thirumohoor-kalamegperumal-temple
  6. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/a-sipcot-that-can-preserve-and-also-change-the-fortunes-of-melur/article68840440.ece
  7. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/budget-offers-mixed-bag-for-trichy-madurai/articleshow/119021467.cms
  8. https://www.indianetzone.com/melur
  9. https://historicalleys.blogspot.com/2018/04/the-rowther-community.html
  10. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/800-year-old-shiva-temple-of-later-pandya-period-unearthed-near-melur/article69664936.ece
  11. https://organiser.org/2025/06/08/295995/bharat/tamil-nadu-800-years-old-shiva-mandir-unearthed-in-madurai-reveals-centuries-of-hidden-history/
  12. https://vajiramandravi.com/current-affairs/pandya-dynasty/
  13. https://forumias.com/blog/pandyan-dynasty/
  14. https://gokulamseekias.com/prelims-c-a/history/inscriptions-from-pandya-period-pandya-dynasty/
  15. https://www.thestudyias.com/blogs/800-year-old-pandya-era-shiva-temple/
  16. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/1801-the-year-of-colonial-carnage-in-Tamil-Nadu/article17037996.ece
  17. https://www.thehindu.com/books/books-authors/taking-the-road-less-travelled/article5268387.ece
  18. https://sistnpsc.files.wordpress.com/2020/04/8_3_3_10th_term2_earlystruggleintn.pdf
  19. https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd51780.pdf
  20. https://sistnpsc.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/8_3_2_10th_term2_freedomstruggleintn.pdf
  21. https://www.constitutionofindia.net/members/p-kakkan/
  22. https://theprint.in/theprint-profile/p-kakkan-the-dalit-leader-who-opened-meenakshi-temples-doors-to-scheduled-castes/251218/
  23. https://www.tnurbantree.tn.gov.in/melur/ta/
  24. https://www.citypopulation.de/en/india/tamilnadu/admin/madurai/05835__melur/
  25. https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/project-documents/51337/51337-001-rp-en_2.pdf
  26. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/5456-crore-spent-on-projects-in-melur-region-in-last-three-years-minister/article69092421.ece
  27. https://www.distancecalculator.net/from-madurai-to-melur
  28. https://www.latlong.net/place/melur-tamil-nadu-india-1062.html
  29. https://weatherspark.com/y/109349/Average-Weather-in-Melur-Tamil-Nadu-India-Year-Round
  30. https://en-gb.topographic-map.com/map-11m7rr/Melur/
  31. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/17/8/1235
  32. https://tnmines.tn.gov.in/pdf/dsr/31.pdf
  33. https://www.nearweather.com/location/1263151
  34. https://cgwb.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-10/madurai.pdf
  35. https://www.floodmap.net/Elevation/ElevationMap/?gi=1263151
  36. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/madurai-district-gets-tns-first-biodiversity-heritage-site/articleshow/95681956.cms
  37. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280735360_Structural_And_Metamorphic_Evolution_Of_The_Melur_Migmatites_In_Melur_Region_Madurai_DistrictTamil_Nadu
  38. https://www.ceicdata.com/en/india/census-population-by-towns-and-urban-agglomerations-tamil-nadu/census-population-tamil-nadu-melur
  39. https://statisticstimes.com/demographics/india/tamil-nadu-population.php
  40. https://madurai.nic.in/demography/
  41. https://archdioceseofmadurai.com/parishes/christ-the-king-church-melur/
  42. https://melur.tamilnaduonline.in/guide/about-melur
  43. https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/42458/download/46089/C-16_25062018.pdf
  44. https://www.censusindia.co.in/amp/subdistrict/melur-taluka-madurai-tamil-nadu-5835
  45. https://madurai.nic.in/agriculture/
  46. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/Dec/20/single-crop-farmers-strike-water-after-tn-govt-okays-release-2643081.html
  47. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/single-crop-area-farmers-seek-additional-water-to-save-standing-crops-in-melur-region/article67955185.ece
  48. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/single-crop-area-farmers-resume-protest-in-melur-demanding-release-of-vaigai-dam-water-for-irrigation/article67627545.ece
  49. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380276804_Impact_of_Tamil_Nadu_Irrigated_Agriculture_Modernization_Project_Melur_Farmer_Producer_Organization_Company_Ltd-_A_Socio-economic_Analysis
  50. https://www.agroengineering.org/jae/article/view/1783
  51. http://www.connectmadurai.com/industry-overview/madurai-smes/
  52. https://www.exportersindia.com/tamil-nadu/craft-products.htm
  53. https://www.indiamart.com/sri-saravana-plough-work-casting/other-products.html
  54. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/sipcot-approves-16-crore-melur-industrial-park-project-to-boost-tamil-nadus-economy/articleshow/115368324.cms
  55. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Oct/17/melur-sipcot-project-will-go-on-as-per-plan-though-residents-oppose-it-official
  56. https://midmadurai.org/departments/it-develoment-department/
  57. https://hellolandmark.com/industrial-park-mellur-sipcot-madurai-district-tamil-nadu/
  58. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2024/Nov/20/sipcot-floats-tender-for-rs-1283-cr-for-developing-melur-industrial-park
  59. https://sipcotweb.tn.gov.in/Upcoming_parks
  60. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/farmers-villagers-come-out-in-support-of-sipcot-project/articleshow/118539550.cms
  61. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/residents-oppose-upcoming-sipcot-project-in-melur/article69934391.ece
  62. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/villagers-offer-prayers-to-local-deities-at-kallangadu-to-showcase-their-opposition-to-sipcot-project/article70097825.ece
  63. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/work-on-four-lane-road-to-alagarkovil-to-be-completed-by-nov/articleshow/121321475.cms
  64. https://www.adb.org/projects/51337-001/main
  65. https://www.india.gov.in/official-website-melur-municipality-tamil-nadu
  66. https://madurai.nic.in/public-utility/melur-municipality/
  67. https://madurai.nic.in/administrative-setup/revenue-administration/
  68. https://madurai.nic.in/administrative-setup/development-administration/
  69. https://madurai.nic.in/elections/
  70. https://www.oneindia.com/melur-assembly-elections-tn-188/
  71. https://www.timesnownews.com/elections/melur-tamil-nadu-election-result-2021
  72. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/aiadmk-continues-its-winning-streak-in-melur/article34473990.ece
  73. https://resultuniversity.com/election/melur-tamil-nadu-assembly-constituency
  74. https://www.tnurbantree.tn.gov.in/melur/councilors/
  75. https://www.tamilnadutourism.tn.gov.in/destinations/kalamegaperumal-temple
  76. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/big-crowds-turn-up-at-small-temple-fests/articleshow/74752794.cms
  77. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/villagers-up-against-hrce-dept-move-to-take-over-three-temples/articleshow/69865970.cms
  78. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/thousands-of-roosters-sacrificed-at-altar-of-faith/articleshow/51174752.cms
  79. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/in-this-tamil-nadu-hamlet-muslims-partake-in-temple-fest-shun-biryani-for-hindu-god/articleshow/53126639.cms
  80. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/where-villagers-celebrate-with-fish-for-better-health/articleshow/74532680.cms
  81. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections-2016/tamil-nadu-elections-2016/news/in-melur-parties-exploit-uneasy-thevar-dalit-truce/articleshow/52181097.cms
  82. https://publishing.cdlib.org/ucpressebooks/view?docId=ft88700868&chunk.id=d0e15918&toc.depth=1&toc.id=d0e15918&brand=ucpress
  83. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/hc-pained-by-caste-discrimination-madurai/article33387863.ece
  84. https://dsq-sds.org/article/id/965/
  85. https://www.ekims.in/
  86. https://projectheena.com/sevajothi
  87. https://schools.org.in/tamil-nadu/madurai/melur
  88. http://deoceo.blogspot.com/2016/11/melur-deo-office.html
  89. https://campuspro.co.in/schools/8414/govtbhrss-melur
  90. http://www.melurgac.in/
  91. https://www.careerindia.com/colleges/government-arts-college-melur-madurai-tamil-nadu-cp2927/
  92. http://www.gptcmelur.com/
  93. https://tsmjain.in/
  94. https://tncea.dmrhs.tn.gov.in/facilities_details.php?id=TWVsdXI=&lid=TWFkdXJhaQ==
  95. https://drraoservicehospital.org/
  96. https://www.tnurbantree.tn.gov.in/melur/hospitals/
  97. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Sep/23/414-poisoning-cases-reported-in-last-8-months-in-melur-gh
  98. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Apr/04/delay-on-works-of-critical-care-unit-at-melur-gh-hits-patients
  99. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/phcs-in-melur-region-referring-pregnant-women-to-private-scan-centres/article69431769.ece
  100. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Apr/10/madurais-melur-phcs-refer-pregnant-women-to-private-scan-centres-health-officer-orders-probe
  101. https://www.dtnext.in/news/tamilnadu/madurai-22-year-old-phc-to-be-shifted-melur-residents-go-on-protest-840843
  102. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343047517_Occupational_Health_A_Special_Reference_to_Lung_Disease_in_Petrochemical_Metal_and_Building_Material_Industrial_Workers_in_Melur_Taluk_Madurai_District
  103. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2018/May/21/melur-karaikudi-stretch-okayed-in-tamil-nadu-1817415.html
  104. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/melur-road-in-madurai-to-be-widened-with-two-new-service-lanes/article67539962.ece
  105. https://morth.nic.in/en/four-laning-melur-design-km0000-existing-km99920-nh-38-karaikudi-design-km45855-existing-km12900-nh
  106. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/nhai-work-wont-affect-residents-near-melur-min/articleshow/102690016.cms
  107. https://cms.tn.gov.in/cms_migrated/document/docfiles/hw_e_pn_2023_24.pdf
  108. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/extend-metro-rail-up-to-melur-credai/article69164663.ece
  109. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Jan/29/consider-plea-to-extend-madurai-metro-rail-project-to-melur-madras-high-court
  110. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/plea-to-extend-metro-project-to-melur-hc-says-its-govts-call/articleshow/117651809.cms
  111. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/plea-to-extend-madurai-metro-rail-project-to-melur-closed/article69152014.ece
  112. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Jul/28/release-ss-funds-approve-railway-projects-for-tn-stalin-urges-modi
  113. https://www.facebook.com/SouthernRly/posts/expanding-reach-enriching-journeyssouthern-railway-introduces-38-new-stoppages-a/1090576166584443/
  114. https://www.nijresearch.in/wp-content/uploads/vol-6-no-1-003.pdf
  115. https://www.mymadurai.in/thiruvathavur-thirumarainatha-swamy-sivan-temple.php
  116. https://aanmeegam.org/en/temples/thirumarainathar-thiruvathavur/
  117. https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/in-arittapatti-tamil-nadu-gets-its-first-biodiversity-heritage-site/article66169025.ece
  118. https://cms.tn.gov.in/cms_migrated/document/press_release/pr221122_e_2098.pdf
  119. https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/arittapatti-biodiversity-heritage-site
  120. https://travel2tamilnadu.com/tour/arittapatti-2-madurai-bird-watching/
  121. https://www.dtnext.in/news/tamilnaduwhy-arittapatti-tns-first-biodiversity-heritage-site-must-be-protected-820703
  122. https://travel2tamilnadu.com/tour/narasingampatti-madurai-historic-site/
  123. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/residents-stage-sit-in-protest-condemning-authorities-for-inviting-tenders-for-operation-of-granite-quarries-in-melur/article67463157.ece
  124. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/villagers-hold-sit-in-protest-against-granite-quarrying/articleshow/104741902.cms
  125. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/tamil-nadu-resolution-asks-centre-to-cancel-hind-zinc-mining-rights/articleshow/116150300.cms
  126. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/tamil-nadu/story/villagers-political-leaders-protest-vedantas-tungsten-mining-project-in-arittapatti-tamil-nadu-2636398-2024-11-20
  127. https://swarajyamag.com/news-brief/tamil-nadu-massive-protest-by-farmers-villagers-in-madurai-against-tungsten-mining-project
  128. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2024/Nov/22/over-500-villagers-in-melur-protest-against-private-firms-tungsten-mining-licence
  129. https://www.dtnext.in/news/tamilnadu/25-village-councils-pass-resolution-against-arittapatti-mining-project-812324
  130. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/thousands-of-madurai-farmers-villagers-take-out-25-km-long-procession-against-tungsten-mining-project/article69071887.ece
  131. https://peoplesdemocracy.in/2025/0216_pd/tn-cpim-led-movement-defeats-corporate-mining-madurai
  132. https://m.economictimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/as-long-as-i-am-tamil-nadu-cm-tungsten-mining-in-melur-will-not-be-allowed-mk-stalin/articleshow/116134686.cms
  133. https://frontline.thehindu.com/politics/tamil-nadu-protesters-mining-project-dmk-aiadmk-bjp-central-government-tungsten/article69150658.ece
  134. https://www.dtnext.in/news/tamilnadu/tn-govt-withdraws-cases-against-protesters-opposing-tungsten-project-820722
  135. https://www.newsclick.in/tn-madurai-villagers-save-their-hills-pools-and-livelihood-granite-quarries
  136. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/residents-of-18-village-join-together-to-protest-against-establishment-of-sipcot-industrial-park/article69365501.ece
  137. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/villagers-petition-collector-against-sipcot-park/articleshow/123312454.cms
  138. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/villagers-oppose-land-acquisition-for-sipcot-industrial-estate/article70025912.ece
  139. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2025/Jan/08/make-melur-a-protected-agri-zone-villagers
  140. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/remembering-melavalavu-massacre/article65585014.ece
  141. https://www.newsclick.in/TN-25-Years-Since-Melavalavu-Massacre-Dalit-Community-Continues-Face-Intimidation-Suppression
  142. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/the-long-dark-shadow-ofmelavalavu-lingers-on/article65592398.ece
  143. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2013/Jun/04/shrine-fest-sparks-caste-hindu-dalit-clash-in-madurai-483469.html
  144. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2015/Apr/27/fir-skips-dalit-bros-hurt-in-melur-clash-747694.html
  145. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/vck-protests-atrocities-against-dalits-in-melur-region/article38325232.ece
  146. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/kakkan-an-epitome-of-simplicity-and-integrity/article65838419.ece
  147. https://www.dtnext.in/city/2022/02/27/kakkan-dalit-leader-who-lived-by-principles-of-frugality-and-service
  148. https://www.filmibeat.com/celebs/cheran/biography.html
  149. https://nettv4u.com/celebrity/tamil/director/cheran
  150. https://filmyfocus.com/celebs/ilavarasu
  151. https://www.facebook.com/blackinkblots/posts/a-cinematographer-turned-actor-ilavarasu-has-been-celebrated-in-the-tamil-film-i/671907458276681/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.