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Paraiyar

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For other uses, see Pariah.

Paraiyar also Parayar, Paraya, Pariah, or Sambavas are a social group found in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and in Sri Lanka. See Caste in Sri Lanka. The Indian census of 2001 reported the Paraiyar population to be 1,860,519.(pdf)

Parayar School Children, Seithur near Rajapalayam

Origin

In archaic Tamil, the word "paRai" (பறை) meant "drum", often one used to make announcements. They are attested to in the earliest Tamil literature as bearers and players of the paRai, though it is impossible to tell whether it was an occupational or caste grouping. They are mentioned in late Sangam era literature as a specialized group within the larger social groups associated with paRai (drum) playing for ceremonial and shamanistic purposes.

The modern Tamil/Malayalee word Parai means to speak or to tell, deriving from the paRai's ancient use as an announcement device. Paraiyar denotes drum beaters as well as general agricultural laborers among Sri Lankan Tamils.

At one time, the paraiyar community was equal to upper caste. For many years, they were the rulers of south India and other parts of country. Thiruvalluvar[1][2][3], the Tamil author of the Thirukkural, the great Tamil poetess Auvaiyar, and the architect of the classical city of Hastinapur had all been Paraiyars. [4] This showed that in former times the Paraiyars occupied a much higher position than they did later. As the time passed, this community was defeated,Oppressed and became poor.

Exclusive Development

Nandanar (Tamil: நந்தனார் or திருநாளைப் போவார் நாயனார், Thirunalai Povar Nayanar) a Hindu Saivite saint, One of the 63 Nayanmar, belongs to this Paraiyar community. In Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Paraiyars maintained many pre-Hindu beliefs unique to that area and era. Sudalai Madan is a deity associated with this community.

Their spiritual life includes the knowledge of what are considered arcane mysteries, magic, rituals and beliefs. In consequence, members of the mainstream community consult Paraya shamans, or Velathans in Kerala, for advice that is not otherwise accessible.

They are noted for their musicianship, craftsmanship and dance. Dances include Kōlam-thullal or mask dance, part of their exorcism rituals, and the fertility dance Mudi-āttam or hair-dance.

Current Condition

Due to affirmative action in post-independence India and conversion to Christianity, some Paraiyars can be found in all walks of life, but in general they are still day laborers in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

The situation got a little more stable in the northern parts of Tamil Nadu, where Parayars turned out to get involved in politics and authoritative position in society. However they are still suppressed in some remote parts of southern Tamil Nadu, facing discrimination from the upper castes.

Famous Paraiyars

ER.SOMA.MANIRASAPARAYAR B.E., STATE ORGANISER PURATCHI BHARATHAM

'samuelparaiyar-Leader tamilnadu paraiyar peravai

References

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