The parai, an ancient percussion instrument rooted in Tamil culture, is experiencing a remarkable revival. Once a vibrant symbol of celebration, its history is deeply intertwined with caste oppression, which relegated it to a mournful role at funerals. Today, through dedicated efforts, the parai has reclaimed its dignity, becoming a beacon of cultural pride and social change.
An Instrument of Celebration and Oppression
The parai’s rhythmic beat carries a legacy as ancient as humanity itself. Its origins date back to the days of hunters and gatherers, used to communicate threats and information. Mentioned in Sangam literature and hymns like Devaram in the 6th century AD, the parai was once central to royal courts, marriages, and temple rituals.
However, during the Vijayanagara rule in the 14th century, the parai was disparagingly renamed “Thappu” and associated with inauspicious events. Over time, its use became restricted to the Dalit community, especially for funeral rituals, solidifying its role as a tool of systemic caste oppression.
The Struggles of Parai Players
For centuries, parai players were marginalized, facing societal stigma and discriminatory practices. Manimaran Magizhini, a renowned parai artist, recalls how his family’s long association with the instrument subjected them to widespread discrimination. “Despite providing an essential service, parai players were treated as untouchables,” he says.
The stigma extended beyond caste, as parai players were often associated with alcohol. Historically, alcohol was used as payment for their services, further marginalizing them. Manimaran describes how players were forbidden from wearing slippers or shirts while performing, underscoring the dehumanizing treatment they endured.

The Rise of Parai Movements
In the mid-20th century, the parai became central to anti-caste movements like Parai Marrupu Porattam (“Parai Rejection Protest”). This movement, part of a broader campaign against caste-based occupations, aimed to liberate future generations from oppressive traditions.
The movement’s defining moment came during a festival in Cuddalore, where local parai players refused to perform, sparking violent clashes. The tragic death of Reddiyur Pandian in 1987 became a rallying point, inspiring artists like Manimaran to reclaim the parai as a tool for social change.
A New Era for Parai
Today, the parai is undergoing a renaissance, thanks to dedicated schools and passionate advocates. Manimaran founded Buddhar Kalai Kuzhu in 2010, an academy that trains students from all backgrounds. “We use parai to educate people and raise awareness about societal issues,” he shares. The academy emphasizes the importance of education, particularly for children from marginalized communities, to break the cycle of caste-based occupations.
Similarly, Srinivas G, inspired by Manimaran, established Nigar Kalai Koodam in 2018. Despite facing backlash for playing the parai as a child, Srinivas remained committed to uplifting the instrument. “We teach everyone, regardless of gender, religion, or caste, as long as they respect the craft,” he says. Notably, over 50% of his students are women, challenging gender norms within the art form.
Global Recognition and Cultural Impact
The parai is no longer confined to funerals; it has found a place in mainstream music and cinema. Manimaran’s team has collaborated with music legends like A.R. Rahman and Santhosh Narayanan, bringing the instrument to a wider audience. Films like Kavan, Jagame Thandhiram, and Saarpatta Parambarai have prominently featured the parai.
Buddhar Kalai Kuzhu has also performed internationally, blending parai with Bharatanatyam to showcase its cultural richness. “It’s heartening to see people embrace parai without prejudice,” Manimaran says.

Shaping the Future
Through schools like Buddhar Kalai Kuzhu and Nigar Kalai Koodam, the parai is gaining the recognition it deserves. These institutions not only teach the instrument but also instill a sense of pride and purpose in their students.
By redefining the parai’s legacy, these movements are breaking caste barriers, fostering inclusivity, and preserving a vital part of Tamil heritage. As Manimaran aptly puts it, “The parai’s beats now resonate as a call for change, uniting people across divides and inspiring a better future.”