It is said that the concept of caste started with the Vedic scriptures. Symbolism is made during horse sacrifice to the Gods. Just like the various parts of the stallion, the different body parts denote hierarchical strata of society. The equine head refers to the Brahmins; the strong limbs indicate the mighty Kshatriyas; the hoofs and discards refer the members of the community who perform menial tasks in society. Over the generations, societal needs have been fulfilled with everyone performing their worldly duties and status quo is maintained. Members of the lower caste were just to be seen, doing the jobs and serving their masters. Definitely, they were not needed to be around for seemingly clean duties like serving the Gods.
Till about the mid 20th century, people from the lowest rung of the caste system were barred from partaking in religious functions or even entering temples. It was the activity of Self Respect Movements in South India that changed this mindset.
An exception to this rule is said to be the life of a Harijan in the 7th century by the name of Nandanar. He was born in the caste of drum makers (inferior because they deal with dead corpses) trying to juggle between his loyalty to his landlord, Vetiyar, and his undying devotion to Lord Shiva. Throughout his life, he yearned to witness the darshan (visuals) of Lord Nataraja in Chidambaram temple. He tried to discourage his kinsmen of performing animal sacrifices, indulging in the worship of unknown deities and getting drunk blind.
He is said to have performed two miracles in his lifetime that earned him a place in Hall of Fame as one of the 63 of Shaivite sages. Once, a mammoth Nandi statue blocking his and fellow Harijans' view of Lord Shiva, the structure moved aside. When he finally reached Chidambaram temple, he was put to a test by the Brahmin priests. He had to enter a pyre to prove his calling.
The story of Nandanar or he is frequently known as 'Thirunaalaiponar' (He who goes tomorrow) as he was known to tell everyone that he was going to Chidambaram the following day, often sparks ire among the Untouchables. It is supposed to reinforce the superiority of the Brahmins. When he was admitted to enter the temple, he had to prove himself. Apparently, after the test, he transformed into a Brahmin!
This sage's narratives are told in various perspectives, some pro-Dalit while others pro-Brahmin. This particular film, made in 1942, is most successful version. Its predecessors, made in 1923 (silent), 1930(silent), 1935 (talkie where a lady, KS Sundarambal played the lead character, Nandanar!) It is truly musical in the true sense. It boasts of having 22 songs in its soundtrack! Some of the songs which are praising the greatness of Shiva are still being sung in religious functions (and funerals).
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