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{{ | {{Short description|Tamil Brahmin caste}} | ||
{{ | {{pp|small=yes}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2019}} | {{Use dmy dates|date=May 2019}} | ||
{{Use Indian English|date=May 2019}} | {{Use Indian English|date=May 2019}} | ||
{{infobox caste | |||
| caste_name = Iyer | | caste_name = Iyer | ||
| image = VadamaIyerpriestsintamilnadu.jpg | | image = VadamaIyerpriestsintamilnadu.jpg | ||
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| India_migration = | | India_migration = | ||
| population = | | population = | ||
| family_names = Iyer, [[Sastri]], | | family_names = Iyer, [[Sastri]], Bhattar | ||
| feudal_title = | | feudal_title = | ||
| heraldic_title = | | heraldic_title = | ||
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| notable_members = | | notable_members = | ||
| subdivisions = [[Vadama]]<br />[[Brahacharanam|Brahacaraṇam]]<br />[[Dikshitar|Dīkṣitar]]<br />[[Ashtasahasram|Aṣṭasāhasram]]<br />[[Sholiyar|Śōḻiya]] | | subdivisions = [[Vadama]]<br />[[Brahacharanam|Brahacaraṇam]]<br />[[Dikshitar|Dīkṣitar]]<br />[[Ashtasahasram|Aṣṭasāhasram]]<br />[[Sholiyar|Śōḻiya]] | ||
| related = [[Kerala Iyers]] [[Iyengars]] | | related = [[Kerala Iyers]] [[Iyengars]] Vaidiki Brahmins [[Vaidiki Velanadu]] [[Havyaka Brahmin]] [[Hoysala Karnataka Brahmins]] | ||
[[Sthanika Brahmins]] [[Babburkamme]] | [[Sthanika Brahmins]] [[Babburkamme]] | ||
| historical_grouping = | | historical_grouping = | ||
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}} | }} | ||
'''Iyers''' (also spelt as '''Ayyar''', '''Aiyar''', '''Ayer,''' or '''Aiyer''') are an ethnoreligious community of Tamil-speaking [[Brahmin|Hindu Brahmins.]] Most Iyers are followers of the ''[[Advaita Vedanta|Advaita]]'' philosophy propounded by [[Adi Shankara]] and adhere to the [[Smarta tradition]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Béteille |first=André |url=https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1525/9780520317864/html |title=Caste, Class, and Power |date=2020-10-26 |publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-31786-4 |language=en |doi=10.1525/9780520317864 | '''Iyers''' (also spelt as '''Ayyar''', '''Aiyar''', '''Ayer,''' or '''Aiyer''') are an ethnoreligious community of Tamil-speaking [[Brahmin|Hindu Brahmins.]] Most Iyers are followers of the ''[[Advaita Vedanta|Advaita]]'' philosophy propounded by [[Adi Shankara]] and adhere to the [[Smarta tradition]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Béteille |first=André |url=https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1525/9780520317864/html |title=Caste, Class, and Power |date=2020-10-26 |publisher=University of California Press |isbn=978-0-520-31786-4 |language=en |doi=10.1525/9780520317864}}</ref> This is in contrast to the [[Iyengar]] community, who are adherents of [[Sri Vaishnavism]]. The Iyers and the Iyengars are together referred to as [[Tamil Brahmin]]s. The majority of Iyers reside in [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]].{{citation needed|date=December 2022}} | ||
Iyers are further divided into various denominations based on traditional and regional differences. Like all Brahmins, they are also classified based on their [[gotra]], or patrilineal descent, and the Veda that they follow. They fall under the [[Pancha-Dravida|Pancha Dravida Brahmana]] classification of Brahmins in India. | Iyers are further divided into various denominations based on traditional and regional differences. Like all Brahmins, they are also classified based on their [[gotra]], or patrilineal descent, and the Veda that they follow. They fall under the [[Pancha-Dravida|Pancha Dravida Brahmana]] classification of Brahmins in India. | ||
Apart from the prevalent practice of using the title "Iyer" as surname, Iyers also commonly use other surnames, such as '''Sāstri'''<ref name="britannica">{{cite book | title=Encyclopædia Britannica, śāstrī | url= | Apart from the prevalent practice of using the title "Iyer" as surname, Iyers also commonly use other surnames, such as '''Sāstri'''<ref name="britannica">{{cite book | title=Encyclopædia Britannica, śāstrī | url=https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/524792/sastri#tab=active~checked%2Citems~checked&title=%C5%9B%C4%81str%C4%AB%20--%20Britannica%20Online%20Encyclopedia}}</ref> or '''Bhattar'''.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} | ||
== Etymology == | == Etymology == | ||
Iyer ({{Lang-ta|ஐயர்}}, {{IPA-ta|aɪjəɾ|pron}}) has several meanings in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and other [[Dravidian languages|Dravidian]] languages, often referring to a respectable person. The ''Dravidian Etymological Dictionary'' lists various meanings for the term such as "father, sage, priest, teacher, brahman, superior person, master, king" with cognates such as ''tamayan'' meaning "elder brother" and simply ''ai'' "lord, master, husband, king, guru, priest, teacher, father".<ref>{{Cite book| | Iyer ({{Lang-ta|ஐயர்}}, {{IPA-ta|aɪjəɾ|pron}}) has several meanings in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and other [[Dravidian languages|Dravidian]] languages, often referring to a respectable person. The ''Dravidian Etymological Dictionary'' lists various meanings for the term such as "father, sage, priest, teacher, brahman, superior person, master, king" with cognates such as ''tamayan'' meaning "elder brother" and simply ''ai'' "lord, master, husband, king, guru, priest, teacher, father".<ref>{{Cite book|author1=Burrow, T.|author2= M. B. Emeneau|title=A Dravidian etymological dictionary|publisher=Oxford University Press|pages=19}}</ref> Linguistic sources often derive the words Ayya, Ayira/Ayyira as [[Prakrit]] versions of the Sanskrit word ''[[Arya|Aryā]]'' which means '[[wiktionary:noble|noble]]'.<ref name="hinduism_encyclopedia_898">{{cite book|title=Encyclopaedia of Hinduism, Volume 7|page=898|author=Nagendra Kumar Singh|publisher=Anmol Publications PVT LTD|year=1999|isbn=978-81-7488-168-7}}</ref><ref name="paligrammarp49">{{cite book|title=A Simplified grammar of the Pali language|first=Edward|last=Miller|page=49|publisher=BiblioBazaar|year=2009|isbn=978-1-103-26738-5}}</ref> | ||
In ancient times, Iyers were also called ''Anthanar''<ref name="anthanar_meaning1">{{cite book | title=Educational System of the Ancient Tamils| last=Pillai| first=Jaya Kothai| year=1972| page=54| publisher=South India Saiva Siddhanta Works Pub. Society| location=Tinnevelly}}</ref> or ''Pārppān'',<ref name="parppan_meaning1">{{cite book | title=Naccinarkkiniyar's Conception of Phonology| url=https://books.google.com/books?id=moUOAAAAYAAJ| last=Caṇmukam| first=Ce. Vai.| year=1967| page=212| publisher=Annamalai University}}</ref><ref name="parppan_meaning3">{{cite book | title=The Eight Anthologies: A Study in Early Tamil Literature| last=Marr| first=John Ralston| year=1985| page=114| publisher=Institute of Asian Studies}}</ref> though the usage of the word ''Pārppān'' is considered derogatory in modern times.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} Until recent times, Kerala Iyers were called ''Pattars''.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} Like the term ''pārppān'', the word ''Pattar'' too is considered derogatory.<ref name="communism_in_kerala">{{cite book | title=Communism in Kerala: A Study in Political Adaptation| last=Nossiter| first=Thomas Johnson| year=1982| page=27| publisher=C. Hurst & Co. Publishers| isbn=978-0-905838-40-3}}</ref> | In ancient times, Iyers were also called ''Anthanar''<ref name="anthanar_meaning1">{{cite book | title=Educational System of the Ancient Tamils| last=Pillai| first=Jaya Kothai| year=1972| page=54| publisher=South India Saiva Siddhanta Works Pub. Society| location=Tinnevelly}}</ref> or ''Pārppān'',<ref name="parppan_meaning1">{{cite book | title=Naccinarkkiniyar's Conception of Phonology| url=https://books.google.com/books?id=moUOAAAAYAAJ| last=Caṇmukam| first=Ce. Vai.| year=1967| page=212| publisher=Annamalai University}}</ref><ref name="parppan_meaning3">{{cite book | title=The Eight Anthologies: A Study in Early Tamil Literature| last=Marr| first=John Ralston| year=1985| page=114| publisher=Institute of Asian Studies}}</ref> though the usage of the word ''Pārppān'' is considered derogatory in modern times.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} Until recent times, Kerala Iyers were called ''Pattars''.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} Like the term ''pārppān'', the word ''Pattar'' too is considered derogatory.<ref name="communism_in_kerala">{{cite book | title=Communism in Kerala: A Study in Political Adaptation| last=Nossiter| first=Thomas Johnson| year=1982| page=27| publisher=C. Hurst & Co. Publishers| isbn=978-0-905838-40-3}}</ref> | ||
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Over the last few centuries, many Iyers have migrated and settled in parts of [[Karnataka]]. During the rule of the Mysore Maharajahs, many Iyers from the then [[Madras Presidency|Madras province]] migrated to Mysore. The Ashtagrama Iyers are also a prominent group of Iyers in Karnataka.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} | Over the last few centuries, many Iyers have migrated and settled in parts of [[Karnataka]]. During the rule of the Mysore Maharajahs, many Iyers from the then [[Madras Presidency|Madras province]] migrated to Mysore. The Ashtagrama Iyers are also a prominent group of Iyers in Karnataka.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} | ||
Iyers have also been resident of the princely state of [[Travancore]] from ancient times. The Venad state (present [[Kanyakumari district]]) and the southern parts of Kerala was part of the [[Pandyan kingdom]] known as Then Pandi Nadu. There were also many Iyers in [[Venad]] which later on grew to be the Travancore state. The old capital of [[Travancore]] was [[Padmanabhapuram]] which is at present in Kanyakumari district. There has also been a continuous inflow from [[Tirunelveli]] and [[Ramnad]] [[districts]] of Tamil Nadu which are contiguous to the erstwhile [[princely state]] of Travancore. Many parts of the present Tirunelveli district were even part of the old [[Travancore]] state.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} These Iyers are known today as [[Trivandrum Iyers]]. Some of these people migrated to [[Cochin]] and later to [[Palakkad]] and [[Kozhikode]] districts. There were also migrations from [[Tanjore]] district of Tamil Nadu to Palakkad. Their descendants are known today as [[Kerala Iyer#Palakkad Iyers|Palakkad Iyer]]s.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} These Iyers are collectively now called as ''[[Kerala Iyer]]s''. In [[Coimbatore]], there are many such Iyers due to its proximity to Kerala.<ref name="colorful_festival_hindu">{{cite news|last=Prabhakaran |first=G. |title=A colourful festival from a hoary past |date=12 November 2005 |url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2005/11/12/stories/2005111200510400.htm |work=The Hindu Metro Plus:Coimbatore |access-date=2008-08-27 | Iyers have also been resident of the princely state of [[Travancore]] from ancient times. The Venad state (present [[Kanyakumari district]]) and the southern parts of Kerala was part of the [[Pandyan kingdom]] known as Then Pandi Nadu. There were also many Iyers in [[Venad]] which later on grew to be the Travancore state. The old capital of [[Travancore]] was [[Padmanabhapuram]] which is at present in Kanyakumari district. There has also been a continuous inflow from [[Tirunelveli]] and [[Ramnad]] [[districts]] of Tamil Nadu which are contiguous to the erstwhile [[princely state]] of Travancore. Many parts of the present Tirunelveli district were even part of the old [[Travancore]] state.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} These Iyers are known today as [[Trivandrum Iyers]]. Some of these people migrated to [[Cochin]] and later to [[Palakkad]] and [[Kozhikode]] districts. There were also migrations from [[Tanjore]] district of Tamil Nadu to Palakkad. Their descendants are known today as [[Kerala Iyer#Palakkad Iyers|Palakkad Iyer]]s.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} These Iyers are collectively now called as ''[[Kerala Iyer]]s''. In [[Coimbatore]], there are many such Iyers due to its proximity to Kerala.<ref name="colorful_festival_hindu">{{cite news|last=Prabhakaran |first=G. |title=A colourful festival from a hoary past |date=12 November 2005 |url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2005/11/12/stories/2005111200510400.htm |work=The Hindu Metro Plus:Coimbatore |access-date=2008-08-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070805062343/http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2005/11/12/stories/2005111200510400.htm |archive-date=5 August 2007 }}</ref> According to the Buddhist scripture [[Mahavamsa]], the presence of Brahmins have been recorded in [[Sri Lanka]] as early as 500BC when the first migrations from the Indian mainland supposedly took place. Currently, Brahmins are an important constituent of the [[Sri Lankan Tamil]] minority.<ref name="civattampip3">{{cite book | title=Sri Lankan Tamil society and politics| last=Civattampi| first=K.| year=1995| page=3| publisher=New Century Book House| location=Madras| isbn=81-234-0395-X }}</ref><ref name="ritualizingontheboundariesp3">[[#Ritualizing on the Boundaries|Ritualizing on the Boundaries]], Pg 3</ref> Tamil Brahmins are believed to have played a historic role in the formation of the [[Jaffna Kingdom]].<ref name="ritualizingontheboundariesp3" /><ref name="criticalhistoryofjaffna">{{cite book | title=A critical history of Jaffna| last=Gnanaprakasar| first=S.|year=1928|page=96| publisher=Gnanaprakasa Yantra Salai|isbn=978-81-206-1686-8}}</ref><ref name="pathmanathan">[[#Pathmanathan|Pathmanathan]], Pg 1-13</ref> | ||
Apart from [[South India]], Iyers have also migrated to and settled in places in [[North India]]. There are significantly large Iyer communities in [[Mumbai]],<ref name="ritualizingontheboundariesp86">[[#Ritualizing on the Boundaries|Ritualizing on the Boundaries]], Pg 86</ref><ref name="ritualizingontheboundariesp12">[[#Ritualizing on the Boundaries|Ritualizing on the Boundaries]], Pg 12</ref> and [[Delhi]].<ref name="migrationp15">[[#Migration and Urbanization among Tamil Brahmans|Migration and Urbanization among Tamil Brahmans]], pp. 15-17</ref> These migrations, which commenced during the British rule, were often undertaken in search of better prospects and contributed to the prosperity of the community.<ref name="Tambram">{{cite news | last=Vishwanath | first=Rohit | title= BRIEF CASE: Tambram's Grouse | date=23 June 2007 | url =http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-06-23/edit-page/27955862_1_tambrams-tamil-brahmin-mallika | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20121025083019/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-06-23/edit-page/27955862_1_tambrams-tamil-brahmin-mallika | url-status =dead | archive-date =25 October 2012 | work=[[The Times of India]] | access-date = 2008-08-19}}</ref> | Apart from [[South India]], Iyers have also migrated to and settled in places in [[North India]]. There are significantly large Iyer communities in [[Mumbai]],<ref name="ritualizingontheboundariesp86">[[#Ritualizing on the Boundaries|Ritualizing on the Boundaries]], Pg 86</ref><ref name="ritualizingontheboundariesp12">[[#Ritualizing on the Boundaries|Ritualizing on the Boundaries]], Pg 12</ref> and [[Delhi]].<ref name="migrationp15">[[#Migration and Urbanization among Tamil Brahmans|Migration and Urbanization among Tamil Brahmans]], pp. 15-17</ref> These migrations, which commenced during the British rule, were often undertaken in search of better prospects and contributed to the prosperity of the community.<ref name="Tambram">{{cite news | last=Vishwanath | first=Rohit | title= BRIEF CASE: Tambram's Grouse | date=23 June 2007 | url =http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-06-23/edit-page/27955862_1_tambrams-tamil-brahmin-mallika | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20121025083019/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-06-23/edit-page/27955862_1_tambrams-tamil-brahmin-mallika | url-status =dead | archive-date =25 October 2012 | work=[[The Times of India]] | access-date = 2008-08-19}}</ref> | ||
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== Subsects == | == Subsects == | ||
Iyers have many sub-sects among them, such as [[Vadama]], Brahacharnam or [[Brahatcharanam]], [[Vadhima|Vāthima]], [[Sholiyar]] or [[Sholiyar|Chozhiar]], Ashtasahasram, Mukkāni, | Iyers have many sub-sects among them, such as [[Vadama]], Brahacharnam or [[Brahatcharanam]], [[Vadhima|Vāthima]], [[Sholiyar]] or [[Sholiyar|Chozhiar]], Ashtasahasram, Mukkāni, Gurukkal, Kāniyālar and Prathamasāki.<ref name="Leach">{{cite book | title=Aspects of caste in south India, Ceylon, and north-west Pakistan. Cambridge [Eng.]| last=Leach| first=E. R.| year=1960| page=368|publisher=Published for the Dept. of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University Press| location=Madras}}</ref> Each sub-sect is further subdivided according to the village or region of origin. | ||
[[File:Brahacharnam holy man 1909.jpg|thumb|left|A Tamil Smartha Brahmin holy man engaged in Siva-worship. His body is covered by coat and chains made of ''Rudrāksha'' beads]] | [[File:Brahacharnam holy man 1909.jpg|thumb|left|A Tamil Smartha Brahmin holy man engaged in Siva-worship. His body is covered by coat and chains made of ''Rudrāksha'' beads]] | ||
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The Vedas are further sub-divided into ''shakhas'' or "branches" and followers of each Veda are further sub-divided based on the shakha they adhere to. However, only a few of the shakhas are extant, the vast majority of them having disappeared. The different Vedas and the corresponding shakhas that exist today in Tamil Nadu are:<ref name="shaka_tamilnadu">{{cite web|url=http://www.dharmicscriptures.org/Vedic_SB_Intro.doc|title=Shakha|access-date=2008-09-10|publisher=www.dharmicscriptures.org}}</ref> | The Vedas are further sub-divided into ''shakhas'' or "branches" and followers of each Veda are further sub-divided based on the shakha they adhere to. However, only a few of the shakhas are extant, the vast majority of them having disappeared. The different Vedas and the corresponding shakhas that exist today in Tamil Nadu are:<ref name="shaka_tamilnadu">{{cite web|url=http://www.dharmicscriptures.org/Vedic_SB_Intro.doc|title=Shakha|access-date=2008-09-10|publisher=www.dharmicscriptures.org}}</ref> | ||
{| class=wikitable style="margin:1em auto;" | |||
{| class=wikitable | |||
|- valign=bottom | |- valign=bottom | ||
! Veda !! ''shākhā'' | ! Veda !! ''shākhā'' | ||
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|| Atharva Veda || style="text-align:center;"| Shaunakiya and Paippalada | || Atharva Veda || style="text-align:center;"| Shaunakiya and Paippalada | ||
|} | |} | ||
== Culture == | == Culture == | ||
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{{See also|Hindu festivals}} | {{See also|Hindu festivals}} | ||
Iyers celebrate almost all Hindu festivals like [[Deepavali]], [[Navratri]], [[Pongal (festival)|Pongal]], [[Vinayaka Chathurthi]], [[Janmaashtami]], [[Tamil New Year]], [[Sivarathri]] and Karthika Deepam. | Iyers celebrate almost all Hindu festivals like [[Deepavali]], [[Navratri]], [[Pongal (festival)|Pongal]], [[Vinayaka Chathurthi]], [[Janmaashtami]], [[Tamil New Year]], [[Sivarathri]] and Karthika Deepam. An important festival, exclusive to Brahmins of South India, is the ''Āvani Avittam'' festival.<ref name="Avani_Avittam">{{cite web|url=http://www.panchangam.com/avani.htm|title=Avani Avittam|access-date=2008-08-27|publisher=K.G.Corporate Consultants|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914061750/http://www.panchangam.com/avani.htm|archive-date=14 September 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> | ||
=== Weddings === | === Weddings === | ||
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Iyers generally lead orthodox lives and adhere steadfastly to their customs and traditions. Iyers follow the Grihya Sutras of [[Apastamba]] and [[Baudhayana]]. The society is patriarchal but not feudal.<ref name="apastamba_sutra">{{cite book | title=Yajur-Veda: Apastamba-Grhya-Sutra| last=Pandey| first=U. C. | year=1971}}</ref> | Iyers generally lead orthodox lives and adhere steadfastly to their customs and traditions. Iyers follow the Grihya Sutras of [[Apastamba]] and [[Baudhayana]]. The society is patriarchal but not feudal.<ref name="apastamba_sutra">{{cite book | title=Yajur-Veda: Apastamba-Grhya-Sutra| last=Pandey| first=U. C. | year=1971}}</ref> | ||
Iyers are generally [[vegetarian]]. Some abjure onion and garlic on the grounds that they activate certain base senses.<ref name="Madi">{{cite web|url=http://www.icsi.berkeley.edu/~snarayan/anthro-pap/subsection3_4_1.html|title=The Practice of ''madi''|access-date=2008-08-27|publisher=ICSI Berkeley}}</ref> Cow milk and milk products were approved.{{citation needed|date=April 2013}} They were required to avoid alcohol and tobacco.<ref name="Manusmriti">{{cite book | title=The Laws of Manu| | Iyers are generally [[vegetarian]]. Some abjure onion and garlic on the grounds that they activate certain base senses.<ref name="Madi">{{cite web|url=http://www.icsi.berkeley.edu/~snarayan/anthro-pap/subsection3_4_1.html|title=The Practice of ''madi''|access-date=2008-08-27|publisher=ICSI Berkeley}}</ref> Cow milk and milk products were approved.{{citation needed|date=April 2013}} They were required to avoid alcohol and tobacco.<ref name="Manusmriti">{{cite book | title=The Laws of Manu| last1=Doniger| first1=Wendy|first2=Brian K.|last2=Smith| year=1991| publisher=Penguin Books | isbn=0-14-044540-4}}</ref> | ||
Iyers follow elaborate purification rituals, both of self and the house. Men are forbidden from performing their "sixteen duties" while women are forbidden from cooking food without having a purificatory bath in the morning.<ref name="Madi" /> Food is to be consumed only after making an offering to the deities. | Iyers follow elaborate purification rituals, both of self and the house. Men are forbidden from performing their "sixteen duties" while women are forbidden from cooking food without having a purificatory bath in the morning.<ref name="Madi" /> Food is to be consumed only after making an offering to the deities. | ||
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[[File:MylaiTamizhSangam.jpg|thumb|right|Tamil Brahmins (Iyers and Iyengars) in traditional ''veshti'' and ''[[angvastra|angavastram]]'' at a convention of the Mylai Tamil Sangam, circa 1930s]] | [[File:MylaiTamizhSangam.jpg|thumb|right|Tamil Brahmins (Iyers and Iyengars) in traditional ''veshti'' and ''[[angvastra|angavastram]]'' at a convention of the Mylai Tamil Sangam, circa 1930s]] | ||
Iyer men traditionally wear ''veshtis'' or ''[[dhoti]]s'' which cover them from waist to foot. These are made of [[cotton]] and sometimes [[silk]]. ''Veshtis'' are worn in different styles. Those worn in typical | Iyer men traditionally wear ''veshtis'' or ''[[dhoti]]s'' which cover them from waist to foot. These are made of [[cotton]] and sometimes [[silk]]. ''Veshtis'' are worn in different styles. Those worn in typical Brahminical style are known as ''panchakacham'' (from the [[sanskrit]] terms ''pancha'' and ''gajam'' meaning "five yards" as the length of the ''panchakacham'' is five yards in contrast to the ''veshtis'' used in daily life which are four or eight cubits long). They sometimes wrap their shoulders with a single piece of cloth known as ''angavastram'' (body-garment). In earlier times, Iyer men who performed austerities also draped their waist or chests with deer skin or grass. | ||
The traditional Iyer woman is draped in a nine-yard saree, also known as ''[[madisar|madisār]]''.<ref name="'madisar">{{cite news | title= A saree caught in a time wrap | date=23 January 2005 | url =http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050123/society.htm#2 | work =The Tribune | access-date = 2008-09-03}}</ref> | The traditional Iyer woman is draped in a nine-yard saree, also known as ''[[madisar|madisār]]''.<ref name="'madisar">{{cite news | title= A saree caught in a time wrap | date=23 January 2005 | url =http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050123/society.htm#2 | work =The Tribune | access-date = 2008-09-03}}</ref> | ||
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Since ancient times, Iyers, as members of the privileged priestly class, exercised a near-complete domination over educational, religious and literary institutions in the Tamil country.<ref name="Vivekananda">{{cite book | title=The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda| last=Vivekananda| first=Swami| year=1955| page=296| publisher=Advaita Ashrama | isbn=81-85301-46-8}}</ref> Their domination continued throughout the [[British Raj]] as they used their knowledge of the English language and education to dominate politics, administration, the courts and intelligentsia. Upon India's independence in 1947, they tried to consolidate their hold on the administrative and judicial machinery. Such a situation led to resentment from the other castes in Tamil Nadu, the result of this atmosphere was a "non-Brahmin" movement and the formation of the [[Justice Party (India)|Justice Party]].<ref name="Non-Brahmin Movement">{{cite web|url=http://www.tamilnation.org/caste/nambi.htm|title=Caste & the Tamil Nation:The Origin of the Non-Brahmin Movement, 1905-1920|access-date=2008-09-03|publisher=Koodal Publishers|year=1980|author=K. Nambi Arooran|work=Tamil renaissance and Dravidian nationalism 1905-1944}} {{Dead link|date=April 2012|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> [[E.V.Ramasami Naicker|Periyar]], who took over as Justice Party President in the 1940s, changed its name to [[Dravidar Kazhagam|Dravida Kazhagam]], and formulated the view that [[Tamil Brahmins]] were [[Indo-Aryan peoples|Aryans]] as opposed to non-Brahmin Tamils who were [[Dravidian peoples|Dravidian]].<ref name="periyar_antibrahminism">{{cite news | last= Selvaraj| first= Sreeram | title= Periyar was against Brahminism, not Brahmins | date=30 April 2007 | work =Rediff News}} | Since ancient times, Iyers, as members of the privileged priestly class, exercised a near-complete domination over educational, religious and literary institutions in the Tamil country.<ref name="Vivekananda">{{cite book | title=The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda| last=Vivekananda| first=Swami| year=1955| page=296| publisher=Advaita Ashrama | isbn=81-85301-46-8}}</ref> Their domination continued throughout the [[British Raj]] as they used their knowledge of the English language and education to dominate politics, administration, the courts and intelligentsia. Upon India's independence in 1947, they tried to consolidate their hold on the administrative and judicial machinery. Such a situation led to resentment from the other castes in Tamil Nadu, the result of this atmosphere was a "non-Brahmin" movement and the formation of the [[Justice Party (India)|Justice Party]].<ref name="Non-Brahmin Movement">{{cite web|url=http://www.tamilnation.org/caste/nambi.htm|title=Caste & the Tamil Nation:The Origin of the Non-Brahmin Movement, 1905-1920|access-date=2008-09-03|publisher=Koodal Publishers|year=1980|author=K. Nambi Arooran|work=Tamil renaissance and Dravidian nationalism 1905-1944}} {{Dead link|date=April 2012|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> [[E.V.Ramasami Naicker|Periyar]], who took over as Justice Party President in the 1940s, changed its name to [[Dravidar Kazhagam|Dravida Kazhagam]], and formulated the view that [[Tamil Brahmins]] were [[Indo-Aryan peoples|Aryans]] as opposed to non-Brahmin Tamils who were [[Dravidian peoples|Dravidian]].<ref name="periyar_antibrahminism">{{cite news | last= Selvaraj| first= Sreeram | title= Periyar was against Brahminism, not Brahmins | date=30 April 2007 | work =Rediff News}} | ||
</ref> The ensuing [[anti-Brahminism]] and the rising unpopularity of the [[Rajaji]] Government left an indelible mark on the Tamil Brahmin community ending their political aspirations. In the 1960s the [[Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam]] (roughly translated as "Organisation for Progress of Dravidians") and its subgroups gained political ground on this platform forming state ministries, thereby wrenching control from the [[Indian National Congress]], in which Iyers at that time were holding important party positions. Today, apart from a few exceptions{{Clarify|reason=|date=May 2020}}, Iyers have virtually disappeared from the political arena.<ref name="iyothee_thass">{{cite book | title=Towards a Non-Brahmin Millennium: From Iyothee Thass to Periyar | last=Geetha| first=V.| year=2001| publisher=Bhatkal & Sen| isbn=978-81-85604-37-4}}</ref><ref name="Dalit_visions">{{cite book | title=Dalit Visions: The Anti-caste Movement and the Construction of an Indian Identity| last=Omvedt| first=Gail| year=2006| page=95| publisher=Orient Longman| isbn= 978-81-250-2895-6}}</ref><ref name="dravidian_politics_in_madras">{{cite journal | doi=10.2307/2050816 | first=Lloyd I.| last=Rudolph| title=Urban Life and Populist Radicalism: Dravidian Politics in Madras | jstor=2050816| journal=The Journal of Asian Studies| year=1961| volume=20| issue=3| pages=283–297}}</ref><ref name="modernity_of_tradition">{{cite book | title=The Modernity of Tradition: political development in India| url=https://archive.org/details/modernityoftradi00rudo| url-access=registration| last=I. Rudolph| first=Lloyd| year=1969| page=[https://archive.org/details/modernityoftradi00rudo/page/78 78]| publisher=University of Chicago| isbn=0-226-73137-5 | author2=Suzanne Hoeber Rudolph}}</ref><ref name="renewal_of_priesthood">{{cite book | title=The Renewal of the Priesthood: Modernity and Traditionalism in a South Indian Temple| last=Fuller| first=C. J.| year=2003| page=117| publisher=Princeton University Press| isbn=0-691-11657-1}}</ref> | </ref> The ensuing [[anti-Brahminism]] and the rising unpopularity of the [[Rajaji]] Government left an indelible mark on the Tamil Brahmin community ending their political aspirations. In the 1960s the [[Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam]] (roughly translated as "Organisation for Progress of Dravidians") and its subgroups gained political ground on this platform forming state ministries, thereby wrenching control from the [[Indian National Congress]], in which Iyers at that time were holding important party positions. Today, apart from a few exceptions{{Clarify|reason=|date=May 2020}}, Iyers have virtually disappeared from the political arena.<ref name="iyothee_thass">{{cite book | title=Towards a Non-Brahmin Millennium: From Iyothee Thass to Periyar | last=Geetha| first=V.| year=2001| publisher=Bhatkal & Sen| isbn=978-81-85604-37-4}}</ref><ref name="Dalit_visions">{{cite book | title=Dalit Visions: The Anti-caste Movement and the Construction of an Indian Identity| last=Omvedt| first=Gail| year=2006| page=95| publisher=Orient Longman| isbn= 978-81-250-2895-6}}</ref><ref name="dravidian_politics_in_madras">{{cite journal | doi=10.2307/2050816 | first=Lloyd I.| last=Rudolph| title=Urban Life and Populist Radicalism: Dravidian Politics in Madras | jstor=2050816| journal=The Journal of Asian Studies| year=1961| volume=20| issue=3| pages=283–297| s2cid=145124008}}</ref><ref name="modernity_of_tradition">{{cite book | title=The Modernity of Tradition: political development in India| url=https://archive.org/details/modernityoftradi00rudo| url-access=registration| last=I. Rudolph| first=Lloyd| year=1969| page=[https://archive.org/details/modernityoftradi00rudo/page/78 78]| publisher=University of Chicago| isbn=0-226-73137-5 | author2=Suzanne Hoeber Rudolph}}</ref><ref name="renewal_of_priesthood">{{cite book | title=The Renewal of the Priesthood: Modernity and Traditionalism in a South Indian Temple| last=Fuller| first=C. J.| year=2003| page=117| publisher=Princeton University Press| isbn=0-691-11657-1}}</ref> | ||
In 2006, the Tamil Nadu government took the decision to appoint non-Brahmin priests in Hindu temples in order to curb Brahmin ecclesiastical domination.<ref name="tamil_nadu_caste_barrier">{{cite news | title= Tamil Nadu breaks caste barrier | date=16 May 2006 | url =http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/4986616.stm | work =BBC News | access-date = 2008-09-06}}</ref> This created a huge controversy. Violence broke out in March 2008 when a non-Brahmin ''oduvar'' or reciter of Tamil idylls, empowered by the Government of Tamil Nadu, tried to make his way into the ''sanctum sanctorum'' of the Nataraja temple at Chidambaram.<ref name="tension_at_chidambaram_temple">{{cite news | title= Tension at Chidambaram temple | date=2 March 2008 | url =http://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/India/20080302/899005.html | work =Web India 123 | access-date = 2008-09-06}}</ref> | In 2006, the Tamil Nadu government took the decision to appoint non-Brahmin priests in Hindu temples in order to curb Brahmin ecclesiastical domination.<ref name="tamil_nadu_caste_barrier">{{cite news | title= Tamil Nadu breaks caste barrier | date=16 May 2006 | url =http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/4986616.stm | work =BBC News | access-date = 2008-09-06}}</ref> This created a huge controversy. Violence broke out in March 2008 when a non-Brahmin ''oduvar'' or reciter of Tamil idylls, empowered by the Government of Tamil Nadu, tried to make his way into the ''sanctum sanctorum'' of the Nataraja temple at Chidambaram.<ref name="tension_at_chidambaram_temple">{{cite news | title= Tension at Chidambaram temple | date=2 March 2008 | url =http://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/India/20080302/899005.html | work =Web India 123 | access-date = 2008-09-06}}</ref> | ||
== Criticism == | == Criticism == | ||
{{See also| | {{See also|Anti-Brahmanism}} | ||
=== Relations with other communities === | === Relations with other communities === | ||
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Grievances and instances of [[discrimination]] by Brahmins are believed to be the main factors which fuelled the [[Self-Respect Movement|Dravidian Movement]].<ref name="Non-Brahmin Movement" /> With the dawn of the 20th century, and the rapid penetration of western education and western ideas, there was a rise in consciousness amongst the lower castes who felt that [[rights]] which were legitimately theirs were being denied to them.<ref name="Non-Brahmin Movement" /> This led the non-Brahmins to agitate and form the [[Justice Party (India)|Justice Party]] in 1916, which later became the [[Dravidar Kazhagam]]. The Justice Party banked on vehement anti-Hindu and anti-Brahmin propaganda to ease Brahmins out of their privileged positions. Gradually, the non-Brahmin replaced the Brahmin in every sphere and destroyed the [[monopoly]] over [[education]] and the [[Public Administration|administrative services]] which the Brahmin had previously held.<ref name="education-meansofsocialmobility">{{cite news|last=Warrier |first=Shobha |title=Education is the means of social mobility |date=30 May 2006 |url=http://in.rediff.com/news/2006/may/30spec.htm |work=Rediff News |access-date=2008-08-19 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080504051207/http://in.rediff.com/news/2006/may/30spec.htm |archive-date=4 May 2008 }}</ref> | Grievances and instances of [[discrimination]] by Brahmins are believed to be the main factors which fuelled the [[Self-Respect Movement|Dravidian Movement]].<ref name="Non-Brahmin Movement" /> With the dawn of the 20th century, and the rapid penetration of western education and western ideas, there was a rise in consciousness amongst the lower castes who felt that [[rights]] which were legitimately theirs were being denied to them.<ref name="Non-Brahmin Movement" /> This led the non-Brahmins to agitate and form the [[Justice Party (India)|Justice Party]] in 1916, which later became the [[Dravidar Kazhagam]]. The Justice Party banked on vehement anti-Hindu and anti-Brahmin propaganda to ease Brahmins out of their privileged positions. Gradually, the non-Brahmin replaced the Brahmin in every sphere and destroyed the [[monopoly]] over [[education]] and the [[Public Administration|administrative services]] which the Brahmin had previously held.<ref name="education-meansofsocialmobility">{{cite news|last=Warrier |first=Shobha |title=Education is the means of social mobility |date=30 May 2006 |url=http://in.rediff.com/news/2006/may/30spec.htm |work=Rediff News |access-date=2008-08-19 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080504051207/http://in.rediff.com/news/2006/may/30spec.htm |archive-date=4 May 2008 }}</ref> | ||
The concept of "Brahmin atrocities" is refuted by some Tamil Brahmin historians. They argue that allegations of casteism against Tamil Brahmins have been exaggerated and that even prior to the rise of the Dravida Kazhagam, a significant section of Tamil Brahmin society was liberal and anti-casteist | The concept of "Brahmin atrocities" is refuted by some Tamil Brahmin historians. They argue that allegations of casteism against Tamil Brahmins have been exaggerated and that even prior to the rise of the Dravida Kazhagam, a significant section of Tamil Brahmin society was liberal and anti-casteist, for example the [[Temple Entry Proclamation]] passed by the princely state of Travancore which gave people of all castes the right to enter Hindu temples in the princely state was due to the efforts of the Dewan of Travancore, [[C. P. Ramaswami Iyer|Sir C. P. Ramaswamy Iyer]] who was an Iyer.<ref name="cp_templeentry">{{cite book | title=RSS and Hindu Nationalism | last=Jayaprasad| first=K.| year=1991| page=138| publisher=Deep & Deep Publications}}</ref> | ||
[[Dalit]] leader and founder of political party Pudiya Tamizhagam, Dr.Krishnasamy admits that the Anti-Brahmin Movement had not succeeded | [[Dalit]] leader and founder of political party Pudiya Tamizhagam, Dr. Krishnasamy admits that the Anti-Brahmin Movement had not succeeded in improving the rights of Dalits and that there continues to be as much discrimination of Dalits as had been before. | ||
{{ | {{blockquote|So many movements have failed. In Tamil Nadu there was a movement in the name of anti-Brahmanism under the leadership of Periyar. It attracted Dalits, but after 30 years of power, the Dalits understand that they are as badly-off - or worse-off - as they were under the Brahmans. Under Dravidian rule, they have been attacked and killed, their due share in government service is not given, they are not allowed to rise.<ref name="krishnasamy_quote">{{cite web|url=http://www.ambedkar.org/gail/Dravidianmovement.htm|title=The Dravidian movement|access-date=2008-08-19|publisher=ambedkar.org|first=Gail|last=Omvedt}}</ref>}} | ||
=== Alleged negative attitude towards Tamil language and culture === | === Alleged negative attitude towards Tamil language and culture === | ||
Iyers have been called Sanskritists who entertained a distorted and contemptuous attitude towards Tamil language, culture and civilization.<ref name="Zvelebilp197">[[#Zvelebil|Zvelebil]], Pg 197</ref> The [[Dravidologist]] [[Kamil Zvelebil]] says that the Brahmin was chosen as a scapegoat to answer for the decline of Tamil civilization and culture in the medieval and post-medieval periods.<ref name="zvelebil_companionp212">[[#Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature|Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature]], Pg 212</ref><ref name="zvelebil_companionp213">[[#Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature|Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature]], Pg 213</ref> Agathiar, usually identified with the legendary Vedic sage [[Agastya]] is credited with compiling the first rules of grammar of the Tamil language.<ref name="zvelebil_companion_agathiar">[[#Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature|Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature]], Appendix III, The Case of Akattiyam; Sanskrit and Tamil; Kankam, Pg 235–260</ref> Moreover, individuals like [[U. V. Swaminatha Iyer]] and [[Subramanya Bharathi]] have made invaluable contributions to | Iyers have been called Sanskritists who entertained a distorted and contemptuous attitude towards Tamil language, culture and civilization.<ref name="Zvelebilp197">[[#Zvelebil|Zvelebil]], Pg 197</ref> The [[Dravidologist]] [[Kamil Zvelebil]] says that the Brahmin was chosen as a scapegoat by the Dravidian parties to answer for the decline of Tamil civilization and culture in the medieval and post-medieval periods.<ref name="zvelebil_companionp212">[[#Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature|Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature]], Pg 212</ref><ref name="zvelebil_companionp213">[[#Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature|Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature]], Pg 213</ref> Despite these allegations many Iyers were great contributors to the Tamil language. Agathiar, usually identified with the legendary Vedic sage [[Agastya]] is credited with compiling the first rules of grammar of the Tamil language.<ref name="zvelebil_companion_agathiar">[[#Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature|Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature]], Appendix III, The Case of Akattiyam; Sanskrit and Tamil; Kankam, Pg 235–260</ref> Moreover, individuals like [[U. V. Swaminatha Iyer]] and [[Subramanya Bharathi]] have made invaluable contributions to [[Tamil literature]].<ref name="dravidianmovement_brahmincontrib1">{{cite book | title=Castes of Mind: Colonialism and the Making of Modern India| url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6OacVAwJsSAC&pg=PA143| last=B. Dirks| first=Nicholas| year=1996| page=143| publisher=Orient Longman| isbn=81-7824-072-6}}</ref><ref name="dravidianmovement_brahmincontrib2">{{cite book | title=Conversion to Modernities: The Globalization of Christianity | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=P6BhSU8DbMcC&pg=PA131| last=van der Veer| first=Peter| year=1996| page=131| publisher=Routledge| isbn=0-415-91274-1}}</ref> [[Parithimar Kalaignar]] was the first to campaign for the recognition of Tamil as a classical language.<ref name="parithimar_kalaignar">{{cite news | last= Saravanan | first= T. | title= Tamil scholar's house to be made a memorial | date=12 September 2006 | url=http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/12/stories/2006091207860200.htm | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081216121119/http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/12/stories/2006091207860200.htm | url-status=dead | archive-date=16 December 2008 | location=Tamil Nadu | work= [[The Hindu]] | access-date = 2008-08-10}} | ||
</ref> | </ref> | ||
== Portrayal in popular media == | == Portrayal in popular media == | ||
Brahmins are mentioned for the first time in the works of [[Sangam literature|Sangam poets]].{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} During the | Brahmins are mentioned for the first time in the works of [[Sangam literature|Sangam poets]].{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} During the post sangam era, Brahmin saints have been frequently praised for their efforts in combating [[Buddhism]].{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} In modern times, when Iyers and Iyengars control a significant percentage of the print and visual media, there has been significant coverage of Brahmins and Brahmin culture in magazines and [[periodicals]] and a number of Brahmin characters in novels, TV serials and films.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} | ||
Their portrayal in media started to become more negative with the rise of Dravidian political movements. The writings and speeches of many Dravidian political activists such as [[Iyothee Thass]], [[Maraimalai Adigal]], [[Periyar E. V. Ramasamy|Periyar]], [[Bharatidasan]], [[C. N. Annadurai]], the leaders of [[Justice Party (India)|Justice Party]] in the early 20th century and of the [[Dravidar Kazhagam]] in more modern times constitute much of modern anti-Brahmin rhetoric.<ref name="vellalars_tamil_militarism">{{cite web|url=http://www.tamilnation.org/forum/sivaram/920901lg.htm|title= Part 8: The Twin Narratives of Tamil Nationalism|access-date=2008-09-03|year=1992|author=Sachi Sri Kantha|work=Selected Writings by Dharmeratnam Sivaram (Taraki)}} {{Dead link|date=April 2012|bot=H3llBot}}</ref><ref name="aryamayai">{{cite book | title=Polyethnicity in India and Canada: Possibilities for Exploration| last=Palanithurai| first=Ganapathy| year=1997| page=107| publisher=M. D. Publications Pvt. Ltd.| isbn= 978-81-7533-039-9}}</ref><ref name="a_survey_of_hinduism">{{cite book | title=A survey of Hinduism| last=K. Klostermaier| year=1994| page=300| publisher=SUNY Press| isbn= 978-0-7914-2109-3}}</ref> | |||
Starting from the 1940s onwards, Annadurai and the [[Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam]] have been using films and the [[mass media]] for the propagation of their political ideology.<ref name="DMK_massmedia">{{cite book | title=Competitive Elections in Developing Countries| url=https://books.google.com/books?id=x6RgvJ1ni3wC&pg=PA62| | Starting from the 1940s onwards, Annadurai and the [[Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam]] have been using films and the [[mass media]] for the propagation of their political ideology.<ref name="DMK_massmedia">{{cite book | title=Competitive Elections in Developing Countries| url=https://books.google.com/books?id=x6RgvJ1ni3wC&pg=PA62| last1=Özbudun| first1=Ergun|first2=Myron|last2=Weiner| year=1987| page=62| publisher=Duke University Press| isbn=0-8223-0766-9}}</ref> Most of the films made, such as the 1952-blockbuster ''[[Parasakthi (film)|Parasakthi]]'' written by future Chief minister [[M. Karunanidhi]], are anti-Brahminical in character.<ref name="Parasakthi">{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2006/06/12/stories/2006061206151100.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060613192240/http://www.hindu.com/2006/06/12/stories/2006061206151100.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=2006-06-13|title=Films and the politics of convenience |access-date=2008-07-20|author=A. Srivathsan|location=Chennai, India|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=2006-06-12}}</ref> | ||
== Notable people == | == Notable people == | ||
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* [[Nethra Raghuraman|Nethra Raghuram]], Indian model who won [[Femina (India)|Femina Magazine]] Look of the Year contest 1997<ref>{{Cite web|title=Rediff On The Net, Movies: Meet Nethra Raghuraman, Supermodel and Bollywood wannabe|url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/1999/nov/12nethra.htm|access-date=2021-11-30|website=m.rediff.com}}</ref> | * [[Nethra Raghuraman|Nethra Raghuram]], Indian model who won [[Femina (India)|Femina Magazine]] Look of the Year contest 1997<ref>{{Cite web|title=Rediff On The Net, Movies: Meet Nethra Raghuraman, Supermodel and Bollywood wannabe|url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/1999/nov/12nethra.htm|access-date=2021-11-30|website=m.rediff.com}}</ref> | ||
*[[Shankar Mahadevan]], Music director<ref>{{cite interview |last=Mahadevan |first=Shankar |interviewer=John Brittas |title=I am a Malayali grew up in Mumbai: Shankar Mahadevan |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPcyXZgW8EA |publisher=Kairali TV |date=8 September 2013 |at=0:38 |access-date=4 January 2010 |quote=Interviewer: You have some connection with Kerala in fact, your family migrated from Palakkad or something like that. Shankar Mahadevan: Yes, I am an Iyer from Palakkad actually |via=Kairali Archive on YouTube}}{{cbignore}}{{Dead | *[[Shankar Mahadevan]], Music director<ref>{{cite interview |last=Mahadevan |first=Shankar |interviewer=John Brittas |title=I am a Malayali grew up in Mumbai: Shankar Mahadevan |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPcyXZgW8EA |publisher=Kairali TV |date=8 September 2013 |at=0:38 |access-date=4 January 2010 |quote=Interviewer: You have some connection with Kerala in fact, your family migrated from Palakkad or something like that. Shankar Mahadevan: Yes, I am an Iyer from Palakkad actually |via=Kairali Archive on YouTube}}{{cbignore}}{{Dead YouTube link|date=February 2022}}</ref> | ||
*[[Sanjay Subrahmanyan]], Carnatic vocalist and composer | |||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
{{Portal|Society}} | {{Portal|Tamils|India|Hinduism|Society}} | ||
* [[Forward Castes]] | * [[Forward Castes]] | ||
*[[Tamil Brahmin]]s | *[[Tamil Brahmin]]s | ||
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* {{cite book | title=Ritualizing on the Boundaries: Continuity and Innovation in the Tamil Diaspora| last=W. Clothey| first=Fred| year=2006| publisher=University of South Carolina|isbn=978-1-57003-647-7|ref=Ritualizing on the Boundaries}} | * {{cite book | title=Ritualizing on the Boundaries: Continuity and Innovation in the Tamil Diaspora| last=W. Clothey| first=Fred| year=2006| publisher=University of South Carolina|isbn=978-1-57003-647-7|ref=Ritualizing on the Boundaries}} | ||
*{{cite book | title=The Kingdom of Jaffna| last=Pathmanathan| author-link=S. Pathmanathan | publisher=Arul M. Rajendran| year=1978|ref=Pathmanathan}} | *{{cite book | title=The Kingdom of Jaffna| last=Pathmanathan| author-link=S. Pathmanathan | publisher=Arul M. Rajendran| year=1978|ref=Pathmanathan}} | ||
*{{cite book | title=From Landlords to Software Engineers: Migration and Urbanization among Tamil Brahmans | url=http://journals.cambridge.org/production/action/cjoGetFulltext?fulltextid=1631996| | *{{cite book | title=From Landlords to Software Engineers: Migration and Urbanization among Tamil Brahmans | url=http://journals.cambridge.org/production/action/cjoGetFulltext?fulltextid=1631996| last1=Fuller| first1=C. J.|first2=Haripriya|last2=Narasimhan| year=2008| publisher=London School of Economics and Political Science|ref=Migration and Urbanization among Tamil Brahmans}} | ||
* {{cite book | title=The Smile of Murugan on Tamil Literature of South India| last=Zvelebil | first=Kamil| author-link=Kamil Zvelebil| year=1973| publisher=BRILL| isbn=90-04-03591-5|ref=Zvelebil}} | * {{cite book | title=The Smile of Murugan on Tamil Literature of South India| last=Zvelebil | first=Kamil| author-link=Kamil Zvelebil| year=1973| publisher=BRILL| isbn=90-04-03591-5|ref=Zvelebil}} | ||
* {{cite book | title=Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature | last=Zvelebil| first=Kamil V.|year=1992| publisher=BRILL| isbn=90-04-09365-6 | author-link=Kamil Zvelebil|ref=Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature}} | * {{cite book | title=Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature | last=Zvelebil| first=Kamil V.|year=1992| publisher=BRILL| isbn=90-04-09365-6 | author-link=Kamil Zvelebil|ref=Companion Studies to the History of Tamil Literature}} | ||
* {{cite book | title=Brahmin Women| | * {{cite book | title=Brahmin Women| last1=Ghosh| first1=G. K.|first2=Shukla|last2=Ghosh| year=2003| publisher=Firma KLM| isbn=9788171021079|ref=Brahmin Women}} | ||
== Further reading == | == Further reading == | ||
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* {{Cite book|title=A Century of Change: Caste and Irrigated Lands in Tamilnadu, 1860s-1970s|year=1996|publisher=Manohar|first=Haruka|last=Yanagisawa|isbn= 978-81-7304-159-4}} | * {{Cite book|title=A Century of Change: Caste and Irrigated Lands in Tamilnadu, 1860s-1970s|year=1996|publisher=Manohar|first=Haruka|last=Yanagisawa|isbn= 978-81-7304-159-4}} | ||
* {{Cite book|title=Caste, Nationalism and Ethnicity: An Interpretation of Tamil Cultural History and Social Order|year=1987|publisher=Popular Prakashan|first=Jacob|last=Pandian|isbn=978-0-86132-136-0}} | * {{Cite book|title=Caste, Nationalism and Ethnicity: An Interpretation of Tamil Cultural History and Social Order|year=1987|publisher=Popular Prakashan|first=Jacob|last=Pandian|isbn=978-0-86132-136-0}} | ||
*{{cite book | last = Pathmanathan | first = Sivasubramaniam | title = The Kingdom of Jaffna:Origins and early affiliations | publisher = Ceylon Institute of Tamil Studies | year= 1974 | location = Colombo | pages = 171–173 | *{{cite book | last = Pathmanathan | first = Sivasubramaniam | title = The Kingdom of Jaffna:Origins and early affiliations | publisher = Ceylon Institute of Tamil Studies | year= 1974 | location = Colombo | pages = 171–173}} | ||
{{wikibooks|Brahmin Tamil}}{{Brahmin communities}} | {{wikibooks|Brahmin Tamil}}{{Brahmin communities}} | ||
[[Category:Tamil Brahmins]] | [[Category:Tamil Brahmins]] | ||
[[Category:Hindu surnames]] | [[Category:Hindu surnames]] | ||
[[Category:Indian castes]] | [[Category:Indian castes]] | ||
[[Category:Indian surnames]] | [[Category:Indian surnames]] | ||
[[Category:Social groups of Kerala]] | [[Category:Social groups of Kerala]] | ||
[[Category:Social groups of Tamil Nadu]] | [[Category:Social groups of Tamil Nadu]] | ||
[[Category:Brahmin communities of Tamil Nadu]] |