This recognition is not just for me but for the entire community of artists working to promote traditional Parai art globally.” “I am happy that Tamils around the world are congratulating me.

“That was the first time I held the parai,” remembers Velu, who has won the Padma Shri this year for his contribution to the Tamil folk-art form. Velu has taught hundreds of men and women to ...

MADURAI: Noted parai (a percussion musical instrument) artiste Velu Murugan, also known as Velu Aasan, was honoured with the Padma Shri for his immense contribution to preserving and promoting ...