Tamil Nadu’s tableau in the Republic Day parade 2024 on the Kartavya Path highlighted the historical significance of the Kudavolai electoral system, which emerged during the 10th century Chola era and marked an early stride towards democracy.
- The tableau also featured a scale model of the Vaikunda Perumal Temple in Uthiramerur (Kanchipuram) where the Kudavolai system is practised, showcasing its integration into the local culture.
- Uttaramerur inscriptions talk about Kudavolai system. This system was a very notable and unique feature of the village administration of the Cholas. There were 30 wards in each village. A representative for each ward was elected through Kudavolai system.
- Names of the contestants from whom one could be chosen were written on palm leaf tickets. These palm leaves were put into a pot and shuffled. A small boy picked up palm leaves one by one from the pot. Persons whose name tickets were picked up by the boy were declared elected.
- Like that 30 members for thirty wards were elected. This kind of peculiar election system was called kudavolai system.
- Qualification of the members was given. A person who could be chosen through Kudavolai system must have age from 35 to 70. He should possess one veli land and of a house built in a taxable land on his own site. He should have knowledge about vedas and mantras.
- Persons who killed brahmins or women or cow or children were disqualified. Thieves, drunkards and people who had undergone punishments were also disqualified from contesting election from kudavolai system.
