Chennai – Today marks the 52nd death anniversary of E.V. Ramasamy, widely known as Periyar, the social reformer who changed the face of Tamil Nadu’s society and politics. Leaders from different parties paid tributes to him, calling him a fighter for equality and rational thinking. But at the same time, old criticisms came up again, showing how people still have strong and different views about his life and work.
Periyar passed away on December 24, 1973, at the age of 94. He is remembered as the founder of the Self-Respect Movement and the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK). His ideas focused on ending caste discrimination, promoting women’s rights, and encouraging people to think rationally without blind faith in religion.
Tributes from Leaders
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin led the tributes this year. He visited Periyar’s statue on Anna Salai in Chennai and laid flowers. In a post on social media, Stalin said Periyar straightened the “bent backs” of oppressed people and made them stand tall with dignity. “Tamils shall not bow their heads or submit to dominance. With rational thought, love for fellow humans, and equality, that is the pride of our race,” Stalin wrote. He added that Periyar’s hard work for Tamil soil will always be remembered.
DMK leaders like MP Kanimozhi also paid respects. She called Periyar the one who sowed seeds for society’s freedom and guided Tamil people with his principles.
The Congress party also remembered Periyar. In past years, including on his 50th anniversary, they called him the “Father of the Dravidian Movement.” They praised his role in fighting caste system and helping backward communities gain self-respect.
Other leaders from Tamil Nadu joined in the remembrance, highlighting how Periyar’s ideas still shape the state’s progress in social justice.
The Self-Respect Movement and Periyar’s Key Ideas
Periyar started the Self-Respect Movement in 1925 after leaving the Congress party. He felt the Congress was not doing enough for non-Brahmin communities. The movement aimed to build pride among lower castes, end superstitions, and promote equality between men and women.
One big change was self-respect marriages. These weddings did not need priests or religious rituals. They became legal in Tamil Nadu later and are still popular today.
Periyar fought against what he saw as Brahmin dominance in society and religion. He wanted a society based on reason, not blind belief. He also spoke for women’s rights, like education and freedom from old customs.
His work led to the growth of Dravidian parties like DMK, which have ruled Tamil Nadu for many years. Today, the state has better records in education, health, and reducing poverty compared to many others, and many link this to Periyar’s influence.
Criticisms and Old Debates Resurface
Not everyone sees Periyar the same way. On this anniversary, some people brought up strong criticisms from the past. A big one is a letter from former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1957.
Nehru wrote to the then Madras Chief Minister K. Kamaraj about Periyar’s speeches against Brahmins. Periyar had made harsh statements, calling for strong action against what he saw as caste oppression. Nehru was upset and said such words could only come from a “criminal or a lunatic.” He asked for action against the campaign, saying it was inciting violence.
This letter is often shared by critics who say Periyar’s anti-Brahmin views were too extreme and divided society. Some call his rhetoric against Hinduism hateful.
Periyar’s supporters say his strong words were needed to fight deep-rooted inequality. They point out that he wanted to end caste system, not harm people. His personal life, like marrying a much younger woman late in life, also draws criticism sometimes.
Even today, these debates show Periyar remains a figure who inspires some and angers others.
Periyar’s Early Life and Journey
Periyar was born on September 17, 1879, in Erode to a wealthy family. He joined the Congress early and took part in many protests, including jail time. But he grew unhappy with the party.
In 1924, he led a key role in the Vaikom Satyagraha in Kerala, fighting for lower castes to enter temples. This earned him respect.
After starting the Self-Respect Movement, he traveled widely, spreading his ideas. He visited many countries and met leaders.
Periyar never joined elections himself but influenced politics a lot. The DMK, started by his follower C.N. Annadurai, came to power in 1967, ending Congress rule in Tamil Nadu.
His Lasting Impact on Tamil Nadu
Fifty-two years after his death, Periyar’s statues stand in many places. Schools and roads are named after him. His birth anniversary is celebrated as Social Justice Day in Tamil Nadu.
Experts say his movement helped reduce caste gaps in education and jobs. Women in Tamil Nadu have more freedom in many ways, linked to his push for equality.
But challenges remain. Caste issues still exist, and new political forces try to challenge Dravidian ideas.
Statements from Leaders
M.K. Stalin said: “The enemy horde, unable to steal or digest the great sun called Periyar, stumbles in vain. If Tamil Nadu stands as one, victory will be ours.”
Kanimozhi added: “Let us continue his uncompromising struggle for many generations.”
From past Congress posts: “We pay humble tributes to Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, the Father of the Dravidian Movement.”
Critics quote Nehru: “What he says can only be said by a criminal or a lunatic.”
Why the Division Continues
Periyar’s ideas were bold for his time. He challenged old traditions directly. For marginalized people, he was a hero who gave voice to their pain. For others, his attacks on religion and certain communities went too far.
In today’s politics, Dravidian parties like DMK follow his path. National parties sometimes clash with these ideas.
As Tamil Nadu remembers him today, it is clear Periyar’s story is not just history. It is part of ongoing talks about equality, reason, and identity in India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Periyar E.V. Ramasamy?
Periyar, whose full name was Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy, was a social reformer born in 1879 and died in 1973. He started the Self-Respect Movement to fight caste discrimination, promote rational thinking, and support women’s rights. He is called the father of the Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu.
What is the Self-Respect Movement?
It was started by Periyar in 1925. The movement wanted people, especially from lower castes, to have pride in themselves. It fought against superstitions, priest-dominated weddings, and inequality. It led to self-respect marriages, which are simple and without religious rituals.
Why do some people criticize Periyar?
Critics say his strong words against Brahmins and Hinduism were divisive. In 1957, Jawaharlal Nehru called his campaign extreme in a letter. Some feel it created hatred instead of unity.
What did M.K. Stalin say on this anniversary?
Stalin paid tributes at Periyar’s statue and said Periyar made oppressed people stand tall. He vowed that Tamils will not bow to dominance and will follow rationalism and equality.
Did Congress praise Periyar?
Yes, in past years including similar anniversaries, Congress called him the Father of the Dravidian Movement and praised his fight against caste and for self-respect.
What is Periyar’s legacy today?
His ideas shape Tamil Nadu’s politics through parties like DMK. The state has strong social welfare, education for all, and focus on equality. His birth day is Social Justice Day.