Paraiyar

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For other uses, see Pariah.

Paraiyar also Parayar, Paraya, Pariah, Berava 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
Parayar School Children, Seithur near Rajapalayam

Contents

[edit] 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 depressed social groups associated with paRai (drum) playing for ceremonial and shamanistic purposes.

Eventually the term replaced the archaic Tamil term Pulayar, to denote untouchables in Tamil Nadu. In Kerala both the terms are in vogue. The modern Tamil/Malayalee word Parai means to speak or to tell, deriving from the paRai's ancient use as an announcement device. In Sri Lanka, the term Berava denotes a Sinhalese nominally Buddhist caste of drum beaters, and Paraiyar denotes drum beaters as well as general agricultural laborers among Sri Lankan Tamils. At one time they were traded as slaves by the upper castes. Once upon a time the paraiyar community was equal to upper caste and for many years they were the rulers of south India and other parts of country. As the time passed this community was defeated and became slaves. However this remains as an assumption, as in the case of other suppressed communities of the racial world.

[edit] Exclusive Development

Separated from mainstream community, at the bottom of the caste system in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, they 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.

[edit] Current Condition

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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 stabler 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.

[edit] Famous Paraiyars

[edit] See also

[edit] References