Parithimar Kalaignar (born V. G. Suryanarayana Sastri at Vilacheri near Thirupparankundram on 6 July 1870[1] – 2 November 1903), a Professor of Tamil at the Madras Christian College, was the first person to campaign for the recognition of Tamil as a classical language.

[4] He studied philosophy and after graduation was soon employed as a Professor of Tamil in the Madras Christian College.

In 1895, Suryanarayana Sastri rose to become the Head of Department for Tamil at the Madras Christian College.

[6] Parithimar Kalaignar is regarded as an inspiration for Tamil enthusiasts as Maraimalai Adigal and the Tanittamil Iyakkam.

[3][8] On 17 August 2007, postage stamps were issued in memory of Saint Vallalar, Parithimar Kalaignar and Maraimalai Adigal.