Velar (caste) explained

Velar is a Tamil artisan caste whose members traditionally pursued pottery and trade in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.^{[1] [2]} They are officially classified as Kulala or Velar. They belong to the Other Backward Class group.^[3]

Group:	Velar
Regions:	Tamilnadu

Etymology

The word Vel refers to earth. Velar means "those of the earth".

History

Velars are the descendants of the three sons of their original ancestor Kulalan, who was the son of Brahma. Kulalan prayed to Brahma to be allowed to create and destroy things daily, so Brahma made him a potter.

Titles

They are subdivided into numerous clans based on Koottamam or Kulam.

Telugu-speaking Kummaras in southern Tamil Nadu use the title Chettiyar. They are relatively recent migrants in the southern region of Tamil Nadu from old Andhra region.

See also

• Vellalar
• Devanga
• Sengunthar
• Kulala

Notes and References

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342152556_Pottery_production_and_trades_in_Tamil_Nadu_region_new_insights_from_Alagankulam_and_Keeladi_excavation_sites Pottery production and trades in Tamil Nadu Region: New insights from Alagankulam and Keeladi excavation sites
2. Web site: [{{google books |plainurl=y |id=xjmcpwAACAAJ}} Creators and Consecrators: A Potter Community of South India]. Stephen Robert. Inglis. 22 May 1984. University of British Columbia. Google Books.
3. Web site: National Commission for Backward Classes. www.ncbc.nic.in.