Vanniyar

The Vanniyar, formerly known as the Palli, are a community or jāti found in the northern part of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The Vanniyars were historically considered a lower caste, although some were peasant-warriors in the 14th century. The Palli, along with the Paraiyar, were largely employed as agricultural labourers during British rule, although some were smallholders and minor landowners. They have been trying to gain a higher socio-religious standing since the 19th century, using the Sanskritisation process to promote a myth of origin that they are related to the ancient Agnikula deity, born from the flames of a fire sacrifice.