parai+ magal-eer [+leisure]

The parai instrument is historically linked to decrees and deaths, and currently active in ritual, activism, and performance. Yet Paraiyar women are often excluded from parai rituals.

Artist

Preeti Paari (RV College of Architecture, Bangalore)

Medium

M S Iron, Collage on vinyl sticker paper, design plans on butter paper, sketches, text

Venue

BMS Warehouse, Opposite Holy Cross Church Mattancherry (Kuriachante Nada)

Timings

10AM to 6PM (Mon to Sunday)

Till March 31st, 2026

About

parai+ magal-eer [+leisure] is an architectural thesis that meticulously studies the social geography, everyday violence, and restricted movement of Paraiyar women in W. Pudupatti, Tamil Nadu.

Preeti Paari translates the five fundamental parai rhythms—each with distinct cadence and function—into a foundational architectural "language." The resulting space is dedicated to Paraiyar women but remains open to all. Its form, derived from the rhythms' musical notations, seeks to create a space where caste struggle is acknowledged and caste boundaries begin to soften.

This installation features the project's developmental process on a suspended tact board, the architectural model reimagined in sculptural form, and references presented through text and collage.

Kochi Biennale 2025