Context:
Periyar Vision OTT platform was recently launched by Dravidar Kazhagam, a social organisation founded by Periyar E.V. Ramasamy.
Relevance:
GS I: History
Periyar E.V. Ramasamy
Biographical Overview:
- Full Name: Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy
- Birth: 17 September 1879
- Death: 24 December 1973
- Nickname: Periyar or Thanthai Periyar (Father of the Dravidian Movement)
Major Contributions:
Self-Respect Movement:
- Objective: Aimed at fostering pride and self-respect among lower castes and challenging the dominance of the Brahminical social order.
- Focus: Addressed issues of caste discrimination, gender inequality, and religious orthodoxy.
Dravidar Kazhagam:
- Formation: In 1944, Periyar renamed the Justice Party to Dravidar Kazhagam.
- Goals: Advocated for the rights of Dravidians, the eradication of caste, and the promotion of rationalism.
Political and Social Activism:
- Early Affiliation: Joined the Indian National Congress in 1919 but resigned in 1925 due to dissatisfaction with its Brahmin-centric approach.
- Vaikom Satyagraha (1924): Led a non-violent agitation demanding the entry of Dalits into temples in Kerala, which significantly enhanced his reputation as a leader of lower castes.
Influences and Ideologies:
- International Influence: His tours of British Malaya, Europe, and the Soviet Union (1929-1932) had a significant impact on his ideas and approaches.
- Rationalism and Self-Respect: Promoted rationalism, women’s rights, and the eradication of caste-based discrimination.
- Independent Dravida Nadu: Advocated for an independent Dravida Nadu, reflecting his commitment to Dravidian identity and autonomy.
Religious and Philosophical Views:
- Opposition to Indo-Aryan Imposition: Criticized the imposition of Indo-Aryan cultural and religious norms on South India.
- Influence of Thiruvalluvar: Despite his criticisms of Brahminism and caste, Periyar respected the Tamil saint Thiruvalluvar and adhered to the idea of a single, formless God.
Legacy:
- Social Reforms: Periyar’s activism laid the foundation for social reforms in Tamil Nadu and contributed to the broader Dravidian movement, influencing the political and social landscape of South India.
- Enduring Impact: His ideas continue to resonate in contemporary discussions on caste, gender equality, and rationalism.
-Source: Indian Express
