Who were 'Kudirai Chettis'?

Horse Merchants

The correct answer is Option (3) → Horse Merchants

The term "Kudirai Chettis" refers to a specific community involved in a particular trade in South India.

As warfare in medieval India depended upon effective cavalry, the import of horses from Arabia and Central Asia was very important for rival kingdoms. This trade was initially controlled by Arab traders. Local communities of merchants known as kudirai chettis or horse merchants also participated in these.