Why this matters now
Periyar is tested for the Vaikom Satyagraha, the Self-Respect Movement, his split from the Congress, and the founding of the Dravidar Kazhagam — the root of Dravidian politics.
Vaikom Satyagraha (1924-25)
Periyar joined the Vaikom Satyagraha in Travancore (1924-25), demanding temple-road access for lower castes. His leadership and imprisonment earned him the title “Vaikom Veerar” (Hero of Vaikom).
Self-Respect Movement
Disillusioned with Congress’s tolerance of caste, Periyar left in 1925 and launched the Self-Respect Movement — a rationalist campaign against caste, Brahmanical priesthood, child marriage and gender oppression. He promoted “self-respect marriages” without priests, women’s right to divorce and property, and the use of Tamil over Sanskrit.
Dravidar Kazhagam and legacy
He led the Justice Party from 1938 and in 1944 transformed it into the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) — the root of the Dravidian political movement (DMK, AIADMK descend from it). He was conferred the title “Periyar” (the Great Elder) and is celebrated as a pioneer of rationalism, anti-caste action and women’s rights in Tamil society.
UPSC angle
Know Periyar — Vaikom Satyagraha (Travancore, 1924-25), “Vaikom Veerar”, left Congress in 1925, Self-Respect Movement, self-respect marriages, Justice Party leader from 1938, Dravidar Kazhagam (1944) — root of DMK/AIADMK.
Frequently asked questions
What was the Self-Respect Movement?
A rationalist anti-caste movement launched by Periyar in 1925 in Tamil south India.
What was the Vaikom Satyagraha?
A 1924-25 movement in Travancore for temple-road access for lower castes — Periyar led parts of it.
What is the Dravidar Kazhagam?
A Tamil socio-political organisation Periyar founded in 1944 by transforming the Justice Party; root of the Dravidian movement.
What does “Periyar” mean?
“Periyar” means “the Great Elder” in Tamil — a title conferred on E.V. Ramasamy.