Chatrapatti(சத்திரப்பட்டி) | |
Location Type: Village | |
Offcial Name: R.Chatrapatti | |
Coordinates: 9.415278⁰N 77.595041⁰E | |
Government Type: | Panchayath |
Elevation: | 175m (574ft) |
Time zone: | IST (UTC+05:30) |
Area code(s) Vehicle registration: | TN - 67, TN - 84 |
STD Code: | 04563 |
Rani Mangammal (reign 1689–1704), who belonged to the Madurai Nayak dynasty, governed Madurai as its 11th ruler. She earned great acclaim for her efforts in improving infrastructure such as roads, pathways, travellers' lodges, water supply, and gardens, especially in small and remote villages around Madurai. Rani Mangammal was an accomplished and popular ruler, and her memory is still cherished in the countryside of the district. Mangammal specializes in civil administration, commerce and industry, irrigation and communications. Numerous water supply schemes were renovated, new roads were constructed, and avenue trees were planted under her reign. The highway from Kanyakumari was originally built during the reign of Rani Mangammal, which was called 'Mangammal Road'. She also built many public facilities, notably inns for travellers, such as sathiris (rest houses). Today, the road that leads through Chatrapatti village is known as "Vanniyampatti Road." This 14-kilometre-long road connects Chatrapatti village to the north with Srivilliputhur and to the south with Mudukudi/Cholapuram. It serves as a short route from Srivilliputhur to Sankarankovil/Karivalamvandhanallur. There was a sathiri (rest house for travellers) located on this road. The Tamil word "Satthiram" (rest house for travellers) and "Patti" (a suffix indicating a village) evolved into the name "Chatrapatti" for this village.
ClimateThe village experiences scorching heat and minimal humidity levels. Most of the rainfall comes from the northeast monsoon, which typically occurs in October and November. Similarly, the southwest monsoon, spanning from June to mid-August, brings showers, contributing to a comparatively cooler climate during this period.
PlacesThe village takes pride in its lively central market, a hub of bustling activity. As evening falls, both locals and visitors flock here by the thousands to browse and purchase a variety of goods. Renowned as one of the largest markets in the eastern region of Rajapalayam, it draws in a diverse crowd. Furthermore, the village boasts one reservoir, 'Vaakaikulam', dedicated to water conservation efforts.
EducationEducation holds significant importance among the villagers. The village features two government schools, one matriculation school, and one CBSE school.
Government-operated higher secondary schools, numbering two, cater to both boys and girls, with Tamil as the medium of instruction. However, for English-medium education, villagers typically travel to schools in Rajapalayam.
Work & LifeIn this village, the people are involved in the production of medical bandages. But unions criticise them for following minimum wage laws strictly, making it hard for fair trade. Still, they have contracts with producers. But there are fights between workers and bosses. They also send cotton bandages to other countries.
Mulaikottu & ThaipoosamThe Hindu religion is practiced in this region. Thai Poosam and Mariamman festivals are observed, with the Mariamman festival being a major event. In earlier times, agriculture was the primary occupation here. Villagers, residing in different parts of the country, return to their native village for these festivals, drawing crowds of 30,000 to 40,000 people. Annually, in August's second week, the Mariamman festival, a popular celebration, takes place. Prior to the festival, girls grow small pots of sprouts in one room and full pots in another. On the second day of the festival, they carry these pots on their heads from the village to the local lake and immerse them there. This festival serves as a family reunion, attracting visitors from various parts of Tamil Nadu. Another significant festival is Thai Poosam, along with the well-celebrated Vaikasi Visakam festival.