Periyar, also known as Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy (1879–1973), was a prominent social reformer, rationalist, and activist from Tamil Nadu, India. He is best known for his contributions to social justice, self-respect movements, and his advocacy against caste discrimination and gender inequality.

Periyar, also known as Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy (1879–1973), was a prominent social reformer, rationalist, and activist from Tamil Nadu, India. He is best known for his contributions to social justice, self-respect movements, and his advocacy against caste discrimination and gender inequality.

Early Life

Birth: September 17, 1879, in Erode, Tamil Nadu.

Family: Born into a wealthy Kannada-speaking Balija Naidu family, Periyar dropped out of school at an early age and managed his family's business.

Awakening: He had a transformative experience during his pilgrimage to Kashi (Varanasi), where he witnessed caste-based discrimination in Hindu practices. This led him to question religion and caste systems.

Key Movements and Achievements

1. Self-Respect Movement (1925):

Founded to promote equality and self-dignity among marginalized communities.

Critiqued religious practices that perpetuate caste and gender discrimination.

Encouraged rational thinking and challenged superstitions.

2. Justice Party Leadership:

Became the leader of the Justice Party in the 1930s, advocating for non-Brahmin rights and equality.

Opposed dominance by upper-caste groups in government and public life.

3. Anti-Caste Activism:

Fought against the caste system, promoting the idea of a casteless society.

Opposed the concept of "untouchability" and campaigned for temple entry for Dalits.

4. Dravidian Ideology:

Advocated for Dravidian nationalism and the preservation of Tamil identity.

Criticized the imposition of Hindi and the dominance of North Indian culture over South India.

5. Women's Rights:

Advocated for women's education, property rights, and the abolition of the Devadasi system.

Supported widow remarriage and the right to divorce.

6. Rationalism and Atheism:

Encouraged people to question religious dogmas and embrace rational thinking.

His views on atheism were radical for his time, leading to significant controversies.

Books and Writings

Periyar's writings primarily focused on rationalism, social justice, and anti-caste ideologies. Some notable works include:

"The Ramayana: A True Reading": Critiqued the caste and patriarchal elements in the epic.

"Why Were Women Enslaved?"

"Revolt": A compilation of articles from his magazine.

"Thoughts of Periyar": A collection of his speeches and essays.

He also founded magazines like Kudi Arasu and Viduthalai to propagate his ideas.

Teachings and Philosophy

Rationalism: Encouraged people to think critically and reject superstitions.

Equality: Advocated for the eradication of caste, religious hierarchies, and gender discrimination.

Tamil Identity: Emphasized the pride and preservation of Tamil language and culture.

Atheism: Promoted the idea that morality and ethics do not require religion.

Legacy

Periyar is regarded as a revolutionary social reformer and the "Father of the Dravidian Movement."

His ideologies laid the foundation for the rise of Dravidian political parties like Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

His influence persists in Tamil Nadu's socio-political landscape, where his statues and institutions continue to inspire.

Recognition

Periyar University in Tamil Nadu is named after him.

His birth anniversary is celebrated as "Social Justice Day" in Tamil Nadu.

Criticism

While Periyar was celebrated for his progressive views, his outspoken atheism and critiques of Hinduism drew criticism from traditionalists and some religious groups. Nevertheless, his commitment to social justice remains widely admired.