24 December - Periyar E. V. Ramasamy death anniversary

 

Periyar E. V. Ramasamy, commonly known as Periyar, was a prominent social reformer, politician, and advocate for the rights of marginalized communities in India. He was born on 17 September 1879, in Erode, Tamil Nadu, and passed away on 24 December 1973. Periyar is remembered for his tireless efforts in championing social justice, self-respect, and rationalism.

Key aspects of Periyar's life and contributions include:

1. Self-Respect Movement: Periyar founded the Self-Respect Movement in 1925, which aimed at promoting the principles of rationalism, self-respect, and equality. The movement focused on eradicating social inequalities, caste discrimination, and superstitions.

2. Dravidian Movement: Periyar played a crucial role in the Dravidian movement, which sought to emphasize the cultural and linguistic identity of the Dravidian people in South India. He was a strong advocate for the rights of Tamil-speaking people and worked towards establishing an egalitarian society.

3. Anti-Caste Activism: Periyar was a vocal critic of the caste system and worked towards the eradication of caste-based discrimination. He campaigned for social and economic equality and opposed Brahminical dominance.

4. Political Career: Periyar was involved in politics and played a significant role in the formation of the Justice Party in Tamil Nadu. Later, he transformed it into the Dravida Kazhagam (DK), which became a major political force in the state.

5. Rationalism: Periyar was a staunch advocate of rationalism and criticized religious practices that he deemed regressive. He propagated the idea of a rational and scientific approach to life.

6. Socio-Economic Reforms: Periyar worked towards the upliftment of backward classes, women's rights, and the eradication of untouchability. He advocated for education and employment opportunities for all.

Periyar's legacy continues to influence Tamil Nadu's socio-political landscape. The Dravidian political parties, including the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), have drawn inspiration from his ideologies. Periyar's contributions to social justice and his advocacy for the rights of the oppressed are widely acknowledged in India.