Explain E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker on Dravidian Mobilisation.
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E.V. Ramasamy Naicker, popularly known as Periyar, was a prominent social reformer and politician who played a pivotal role in mobilizing the Dravidian movement in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Periyar's efforts were aimed at challenging Brahminical dominance, promoting social justice, and advocating for the rights of non-Brahmin communities. Here's an explanation of Periyar's approach to Dravidian mobilization:
Anti-Brahminism and Social Justice:
Periyar strongly opposed Brahminical hegemony and caste-based discrimination. He believed that Brahmins held disproportionate power and privilege in society, exploiting non-Brahmin communities. Periyar's Dravidian movement aimed to dismantle caste hierarchy and promote social equality based on rationalism and humanism.
Self-Respect and Cultural Identity:
Periyar emphasized self-respect and pride in Dravidian cultural identity. He promoted the idea of Dravidian nationalism, asserting the distinctiveness of South Indian culture and traditions. Periyar sought to challenge the imposition of North Indian Sanskrit-based cultural norms and languages in the Dravidian region.
Rationalism and Atheism:
Periyar was a staunch advocate of rationalism and atheism. He criticized religious superstitions, rituals, and practices that he viewed as oppressive and regressive. Periyar believed in the power of reason and scientific temper to challenge orthodox beliefs and promote social progress.
Political Mobilization and Reform:
Periyar's Dravidian movement was instrumental in mobilizing non-Brahmin communities politically. He founded the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) as a platform for social reform and political activism. Periyar's movement advocated for affirmative action policies, reservation for backward classes, and empowerment of marginalized groups.
Language and Education:
Periyar championed the cause of Tamil language and promoted linguistic pride among Dravidian communities. He emphasized the importance of education in empowering the masses and challenging Brahminical hegemony in educational institutions.
Overall, E.V. Ramasamy Naicker's Dravidian mobilization was a transformative social and political movement that challenged caste-based inequalities, promoted rationalism, and asserted the cultural and linguistic identity of South India. Periyar's legacy continues to influence Tamil Nadu's politics and society, inspiring movements for social justice, linguistic pride, and inclusive governance.