Madras Census Report - 1901

It is noted, in the Madras Census report, 1901, that "there are in reality three castes which answer to the name Paravan, and which speak Tamil, Malayalam, and Canarese respectively. Probably all three are descended from the Tamil Paravans or Paratavans.

The Tamil Paravans are fishermen on the sea coast. Their head quarters is Tuticorin, and their headman is called Talavan. They are mostly Native Christians. They claim to be Kshatriyas of the Pandyan line of kings, and will eat only in the houses of Brahmans.

The Malayalam Paravans are shell collectors, lime burners and gymnasts, and their women act as midwives. Their titles are Kurup, Varakurup, and Nurankurup( nuru, lime).

The Canarese Paravas are umbrella-makers and devil dancers.

It has been suggested that the west coast Paravars are the descendants of those who fled from Tinnevelly, in order to avoid the oppression of the Muhammandans.

Source