“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 ...

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.

Velu began practising parai in 1981 but had to take a hiatus due to personal challenges. He returned to the art in 1995 and has since dedicated himself to organising events and teaching parai to ...