Agaram Subbarayalu Reddiar was born in a rich landlord family domiciled in South Arcot district of Madras Presidency on 15 October 1855.

[7][8] At the end of November 1920, the first general elections were held to the Madras Legislative Assembly as per the Montford Reforms.

[9] As a result, the Justice Party swept to power winning 63 of the 98 Assembly seats to which elections were conducted.

[9] Following the success of the Justice Party in the 1920 elections, Lord Willingdon invited Sir Theagaroya Chetty to form the Government.

[11] Subbarayalu Reddiar assumed office as First Minister on 17 December 1920 and held the portfolios of education, public works, excise and registration in the new government.