Periyar E.V. Ramasamy was an Indian social activist and politician known for his roles in the Dravidian movement and his efforts to promote self-respect and social equality in Tamil Nadu.
What movement is Periyar E.V. Ramasamy associated with?
Periyar is associated with the Dravidian Movement, which sought to establish social equality and eliminate the caste system in Tamil Nadu.
What organization did Periyar found?
Periyar founded the Self-Respect Movement in 1925 to promote social equity and rationalism.
Why did Periyar oppose Brahmanical dominance?
Periyar believed Brahmanical dominance perpetuated social inequality and discrimination, hindering justice and progress for non-Brahmins.
What is the Self-Respect Movement?
The Self-Respect Movement is a social reform initiative launched by Periyar to achieve socio-economic justice and eradicate caste discrimination.
How did Periyar view religion?
Periyar was a strong critic of traditional religion, viewing it as a means of sustaining caste inequality and social injustice.
What social reforms did Periyar advocate?
Periyar advocated for social reforms such as women's rights, caste abolition, and rationalist thinking.
When was Periyar born?
Periyar E.V. Ramasamy was born on September 17, 1879, in Erode, Tamil Nadu.
What role did Periyar play in Indian politics?
Periyar played a role in Indian politics by advocating for regional pride and Dravidian identity, influencing Tamil Nadu's political landscape.
Why did Periyar criticize the Congress Party?
Periyar criticized the Congress Party for ignoring social issues and failing to combat caste inequities, focusing instead on political independence.
What is Periyar's legacy in Tamil Nadu?
Periyar's legacy in Tamil Nadu includes promoting social justice, rationalism, and the empowerment of marginalized communities, significantly impacting the state's culture and politics.
How did Periyar influence modern Dravidian politics?
Periyar influenced modern Dravidian politics by establishing foundational ideas of social justice and regional pride, which continue to shape political parties in Tamil Nadu.
What did Periyar do to promote women's rights?
Periyar promoted women's rights by advocating for gender equality, education for women, and the fight against patriarchal societal norms.
What was Periyar's approach to education reform?
Periyar believed education should be accessible to all, using it as a tool to combat caste discrimination and ignorance.
How is Periyar remembered today in Tamil Nadu?
Periyar is remembered as a revolutionary social reformer whose ideas on equality and rationalism continue to inspire movements and policies in Tamil Nadu.