About Sivakasi
Discover the rich history and industrial legacy of Sivakasi
Sivakasi – The Name & Its Legacy
Sivakasi is a town with a rich history spanning over 500 years. The origin of its name is linked to an interesting legend.
Between 1428 and 1460 AD, King Harikesari Parakkirama Pandian, who ruled the southern region of Tamil Nadu with Tenkasi as his capital, wanted to build a grand temple for Lord Shiva. To honor the deity, he traveled to Kasi (Varanasi) and brought back a sacred Shivalingam.
On his return journey, the king rested under a grove of Vilva trees, a few miles past Madurai. The cow carrying the Shivalingam refused to move any further. Realizing that Lord Shiva wished to remain there, the king respectfully installed the Linga at that very spot.
From that day, the place came to be known as Sivakasi – meaning "Shiva from Kasi."
The Rise of Industrial Sivakasi
Fast forward to the modern era, Sivakasi became an industrial hub thanks to two visionary entrepreneurs. In 1922, Mr. P. Ayya Nadar and Mr. A. Shanmuga Nadar traveled to Calcutta to learn the art of safety match manufacturing.
A year later, they launched The South India Lucifer Match Industry, marking the birth of Sivakasi's industrial revolution.
From those humble beginnings, Sivakasi grew into the Fireworks Capital of India and a leader in printing and safety matches manufacturing.
Sivakasi Today
Fireworks Capital
90% of India's fireworks come from Sivakasi
Safety Matches
80% of safety matches are produced here
Printing Hub
60% of India's offset printing originates from Sivakasi
Sivakasi is not just a town; it's a symbol of tradition, entrepreneurship, and innovation.