Kallakudi
Kallakudi is a town located in the Tiruchirappalli district of the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated approximately 60 kilometers from the city of Tiruchirappalli.
Historically, Kallakudi was known as Dalmiapuram. The name was changed to Kallakudi in 1953 following a significant agitation led by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leaders, including M. Karunanidhi, against the perceived imposition of a North Indian name and against North Indian industrial dominance. The protest was aimed at renaming the Dalmia Cement factory to Tamil Nadu Cement. Although the factory's name remained, the town was successfully renamed Kallakudi, which translates to "stony settlement" in Tamil.
Kallakudi is primarily an agricultural area, with rice cultivation being a major occupation for the local population. The presence of the Dalmia Cement factory, now known as Dalmia Bharat Cement, has also contributed significantly to the local economy, providing employment opportunities for many residents.
The town has basic infrastructure, including schools, healthcare facilities, and transportation links. It is well-connected by road to other major towns and cities in the region. Kallakudi serves as a local trading center for surrounding villages.