Mangammal


Rani Mangammal was a queen regent of the Madurai Nayak kingdom during the minority of her grandson Vijaya Ranga Chokkanatha in 1689—1704. She was a popular administrator and is still widely remembered as a maker of roads and avenues, and a builder of temples, tanks and choultries with many of her public works still in use. She is also known for her diplomatic and political skills and successful military campaigns. The capital of Madurai Kingdom during her times was Tiruchy.

Life and regency

Mangammal was the daughter of Tupakula Lingama Nayaka, a general of Madurai ruler Chokkanatha Nayak. She married Chokkanatha Nayak and became the mother of Rangakrishna Muthu Virappa Nayak.
When her husband died in 1682, he was succeeded by her son. Upon the death of her son in 1689, her son's widow was pregnant. Her son was succeeded by her grandson in 1689. Her daughter-in-law committed sati, and Mangammal became regent during the minority of her grandson.
Many irrigation channels were repaired, new roads were constructed, and avenue trees were planted during the time of Mangammal. The highway from Cape Comorin was originally built during the time of Mangammal and it was known as Mangammal Salai.