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Periyar EV Ramasamy

Source: IE

Context: Periyar EV Ramasamy, remembered on his 146th birth anniversary, was a rationalist and social reformer who led the Self Respect Movement to uplift Tamils and oppose caste dominance, especially by Brahmins.

 

Contributions:

  1. Congress Party: Joined in 1919, disagreed with Gandhi on caste issues, resigned in 1925, and joined the Justice Party and Self Respect Movement.
  2. Vaikom Satyagraha (1924-25): Protested untouchability in Kerala, supported by Periyar, leading to the opening of temple roads.
  3. Self Respect Movement (1925): Focused on uplifting non-Brahmins, promoting equality and self-respect among backward castes.
  4. Justice Party: Periyar became its leader in 1938, opposing Brahmin dominance and advocating social justice for non-Brahmins.

 

Ethical values derived from Periyar’s life:

  1. Equality – Advocated for social, caste, and gender equality.
  2. Rationalism – Promoted critical thinking and questioning of tradition.
  3. Self-Respect – Emphasized dignity and identity for marginalized groups.
  4. Justice – Opposed caste-based discrimination and inequality.
  5. Gender Equality – Fought for women’s rights, independence, and equal opportunities.
  6. Secularism – Challenged religious orthodoxy and caste-based practices.
  7. Empowerment – Encouraged marginalized communities to assert their rights.