The rhythmic thump of the parai drum reverberates through the air, its deep and earthy vibrations stirring something primal within. It’s nearly impossible to resist grooving to the powerful beat of this instrument. Played with two sticks, its resonance carries an ancient legacy, once used to announce royal decrees, rally warriors to battle, and mark celebratory occasions.
For centuries, this percussion instrument has symbolized the vibrancy and strength of Tamil culture. However, its history is as complex as its sound. What was once celebrated became tied to oppression, linked with the caste system, and eventually relegated to mournful funeral dirges.
Today, the parai is experiencing a revival, shedding its caste-based associations to emerge as a symbol of cultural pride and resistance. With the efforts of dedicated artists and movements, this drum is now bridging divides and uniting people across different communities.
The term parai translates to “to tell or speak” in Tamil. The instrument’s origins date back to prehistoric times when humans were hunters and gatherers, using it as a tool to communicate and convey warnings or messages. Early references to the parai can be found in the ancient Sangam literature, including Thokappiyam. In the 6th century AD, Devaram, a collection of hymns by revered Saiva saints, also mentions the parai, played at temples and during auspicious events.
“Initially, parai was a term for all percussion instruments,” shares Srinivas G, a parai trainer with over six years of experience. “It’s the mother of all skin drums and was played at royal courts, marriages, and other important ceremonies,” he explains.
However, during the 14th century AD under the Vijayanagara rule of Tamil Nadu, the parai was stripped of its esteemed status and disparagingly renamed Thappu, a term associated with inauspiciousness.
What was once a revered cultural artifact became a stark reminder of systemic discrimination, with its beats now symbolizing caste oppression. “While instruments like the tabla and mridangam, which also use animal skin, were granted stages and sanctuaries, the parai became the instrument of the oppressed,” says Srinivas.
During the colonial and feudal periods, the parai lost its cultural significance and became relegated to the margins of society. Its association with the Dalit community was solidified, as it was exclusively played during funerals, a role imposed by the rigid caste hierarchy. This shift stripped the instrument of its meaning and reinforced social stigma, marking both the drum and its players as symbols of untouchability.
“My family has a deep-rooted connection with the parai,” shares Manimaran Magizhini, whose ancestors were renowned players of this traditional art form. “I began my musical journey with Gaana, a song style from North Madras, singing at funerals as a young child,” he recalls. “I initially played the dholak and would often watch parai players join us after our performances.”
This piqued Manimaran’s interest, leading him to learn the parai and pursue it as his full-time profession. However, as he performed at funerals, he observed the discrimination faced by the players. “We provide an essential service, helping families process their grief,” he says. “Yet, I couldn’t understand why we faced such widespread discrimination.”
Additionally, the parai’s association with alcohol only intensified the stigma surrounding its players. Playing the instrument demands immense energy, often leading players to rely on alcohol for stamina. In the past, alcohol even served as payment for parai players, further solidifying the connection. “We weren’t allowed to wear slippers or shirts when playing the parai, which was frustrating,” Manimaran recalls.
Once a symbol of celebration, the parai became an instrument of exclusion and oppression, an association that the artists sought to change. This led to a revolutionary movement aimed at redefining the instrument’s role in Indian society.
Today, the parai has reclaimed its dignity, finding a more prominent platform to contribute to societal causes. “We use the parai to educate people and raise awareness on critical social issues, training others in the same,” shares Manimaran, who founded Buddhar Kalai Kuzhu, an academy that teaches the parai to all, in 2010.
“Change has to begin within the parai community for them to expect better treatment from society,” says Srinivas, who encourages his students not to play at funerals and asks them to take an oath when they join his classes. “We also advise people not to touch the parai if they’ve consumed alcohol,” adds Manimaran.
Buddhar Kalai Koodam strives to promote the parai free from the constraints of caste and oppression. At the same time, Manimaran uses the instrument to emphasize the importance of education, particularly among marginalized communities.
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