As the Dalavay Mudali, the governor of Tirunelveli, became increasingly independent of Madurai during the time of troubles that began in 1732, some of the Marava polygars of the province openly defied the Dalavay's authority and stopped paying tribute.

Surandai was one of the palayams that joined Puli Thevar’s coalition in 1754–1762 but abandoned the cause before the polygars’ final defeat in 1762.

When Kollamkondan again rebelled in 1764, following the execution of Yusuf Khan for having betrayed the nawab, Surandai was quick to join.

[citation needed] The Palaiyam survived into the 19th century as a zamindari; at the time of the permanent settlement of 1802, Polygar Sulava Tevar held seven villages.

Surandai, which was once a village with primarily agricultural and palm tree cultivation with allied activities, presently has grown into a bustling centre for complete trade and business for nearby Panchayats.