A. Subbarayalu Reddiar facts for kids

Diwan Bahadur Agaram Subbarayalu Reddiar (born October 15, 1855 – died November 1921) was an important Indian leader. He was a landlord and the very first Chief Minister of Madras Presidency. This was a large area in British India, now mostly the state of Tamil Nadu. He served in this big role from December 17, 1920, to July 11, 1921.

Subbarayalu Reddiar was born into a Reddiar family in South Arcot in 1855. He studied law in the West. When he came back to India, he got involved in local politics. He even served as a district board president. At first, he joined the Indian National Congress party. But in 1916, he left to join the Justice Party. When the Justice Party won the first general elections in November 1920, Subbarayalu Reddiar was chosen as Chief Minister. This made him the first Chief Minister of Madras Presidency.

Subbarayalu Reddiar served as Chief Minister until July 11, 1921. He then resigned because of his health. He passed away soon after.

Who Was Agaram Subbarayalu Reddiar?

Agaram Subbarayalu Reddiar was born on October 15, 1855. His family were wealthy landlords in the South Arcot district. This area was part of the Madras Presidency at the time. He studied at Presidency College, Chennai. Later, he went to the United Kingdom to study law.

Starting His Political Journey

When he returned to India, Subbarayalu Reddiar became active in local politics. In 1912, he was the President of the Cuddalore taluk Board. Then, in 1917, he became the head of the South Arcot District Board. These roles helped him gain experience before becoming the first Chief Minister of Madras Presidency.

Becoming Chief Minister of Madras

In late November 1920, the first general elections were held. These elections were for the Madras Legislative Assembly. They followed new rules called the Montford Reforms. The Indian National Congress decided not to take part in these elections. This was part of their Non-Cooperation Movement.

Because of this, the Justice Party won by a lot. They won 63 out of 98 Assembly seats. They also had 18 nominated members. This gave them a total of 81 members in the Assembly. The Assembly had 127 members in total.

After the Justice Party's big win, Lord Willingdon asked Sir Theagaroya Chetty to form the government. But Sir Theagaroya Chetty suggested Subbarayalu Reddiar instead.

Subbarayalu Reddiar became Chief Minister on December 17, 1920. He was also in charge of important areas like education, public works, and taxes. The Duke of Connaught officially opened the first meeting of the assembly on January 13, 1921. Subbarayalu Reddiar resigned soon after, in July 1921, due to health reasons.

Subbarayalu Reddiar's Cabinet

Here's a look at the main people in Subbarayalu Reddiar's government:

His Passing

Subbarayalu Reddiar passed away in November 1921.