Draft:Seethakathi the Benefactor

Seethakathi the Benefactor was a renowned philanthropist who lived in South Tamil Nadu during the 17th century. His name is also referred to as Sheikh Abdul Qadir.

History

His father was 'Mavla Saqib', known as 'Periyadambi Marakkayar', and his mother was 'Muhammad Fathima Naaychiyar'. The couple had three children, and Seethakathi was the second child. His older brother was 'Mukhammad Abdul Qadir', and his younger brother was 'Shaiku Ibrahim Marakkayar'. Seethakathi's ancestors were from the Marakkayar family, known for maritime trade and seafaring. His maternal grandfather, 'Vaavali Marakkayar', passed away on November 25, 1614. This is documented in an inscription at the Vaavali Marakkayar burial site in Keezhakkarai, which mentions the date in the Tamil year 790, corresponding to November 25, 1614.

Place of Birth

There are differing views about where Seethakathi was born and grew up. Some believe he was from Keezhakkarai, while others believe it was Kayalpatinam. The region has various places named Kayal, including Puzhakkayal, Punnakkayal, Keezhakkarai, and Kayalpatinam. Among these, Keezhakkarai is widely considered to be his place of origin. Other names associated with this area include Pauthiramanikkam, Anuththogai Mangalam, Sembinadu, Ninaiththathu Mudhiththaan, and many others.

Time period

Seethakathi lived during the later part of the 17th century, roughly from 1650 to 1720. He was a Tamil Muslim philanthropist and a renowned benefactor. He treated all people equally, regardless of caste or religion, supporting poets and scholars from various backgrounds. During his time, the notable Islamic scholar 'Sadakathullah Vali' was a close friend and mentor to Seethakathi. Seethakathi also played a key role in supporting the administration of 'Kizhavan Sethupathi', the ruler of Ramanathapuram, who was a close friend of his. Kizhavan Sethupathi gave the title 'Vijaya Ragunatha Periyathambi' for Seethakathi in recognition of his contributions.

Merchant and wealth

Seethakathi came from a wealthy merchant family and was known for his involvement in maritime trade. He amassed great wealth through the spice trade, particularly in pepper, which he traded with the English East India Company. Letters he wrote indicate that he facilitated the export of large quantities of pepper. As a result, much of the spice trade in the region was under his control. He was known for his generosity, often giving away his wealth with the motto "the purpose of wealth is to give."

Literary works

Seethakathi is commemorated through several literary works, including:

• Seethakathi Nondinadakam
• Seethakathi Marakkayar Thirumanavazhththu by Umaru Kaththap Pulavar
• Seethakathi Paeril by various poets like Padikkasuppulavar, Namachivaya Pulavar, and others.

Philanthropy

Seethakathi's contributions to society are immense. He helped in the spread of wealth through his charitable deeds, irrespective of social status, caste, or religion. He is especially revered for his generosity during times of famine, when he provided food to the starving masses without discrimination.

During a severe famine in his time, when prices reached unprecedented heights and many were left without food, Seethakathi generously distributed food to the poor. His act of charity during this famine is immortalized in a song by Padikkasuppulavar, which highlights his magnanimity.

Legacy

Even after his death, Seethakathi's descendants continue to live in Tamil Nadu, specifically in Keezhakkarai. Though Seethakathi has passed away, his name and legacy continue to inspire the Tamil people.

Songs and praise

Several songs were composed in praise of Seethakathi, some by Padikkasuppulavar, including:

• "Nesiththuvanda Kavirasar Thangadukku Niththaniththam"
• "Oorththaththile Ponnum, Oorththaththile Nellum"
• "Kaiththiyatha Pullar Irundhenna"
• "Kaayndhu Sivanththadhu Soorya Kaandhi"