[1] He helped to make western classical music popular in Chennai, the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
He also served for over 50 years as the organist and choirmaster at St Andrew's Church, Chennai (known as The Kirk) and was the founder director of the Madras Philharmonic and Choral Society.
[citation needed] Handel Manuel taught as music teacher in C.S.I Bain's School towards the end of his career.
Handel Manuel was the person who wrote and augmented the western musical notes, including the characteristic semi-tones, for the National Anthem of India.
His son, Viji Manuel has been acknowledged as the best pianist and bass player in India and has performed for over forty years consistently for acclaimed Indian composer Ilaiyaraaja.