A Comprehensive Analysis of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy’s Social Reform Ideology and its Contemporary Relevance
P. D. Sandeep1*, Ms. Vandana2
Abstract
Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy, affectionately called “Periyar” (respected elder), was one of Southern India’s leading social reformers. Throughout his life (1879-1973), he worked to dismantle entrenched inequality and advocated for universal dignity, regardless of caste or gender. He strongly opposed caste-based discrimination, gender disparities, and systemic oppression. These efforts were most visible through the Self-Respect Move-ment (Suyamariyadai Porchai) and his energetic promotion of rationalist philosophy.
Periyar encouraged people to move beyond uncritical religious acceptance and adopt evidence-based reasoning as the basis for personal and social transformation.
Central to Periyar’s reform agenda was his consistent commitment to educational equity for women. He insisted that everyone has an inherent right to knowledge and pushed for equitable treatment across all societal groups.
His belief that justice should reach all areas of social life formed the philosophical basis for modern Tamil Nadu’s progressive systems. His work in education and social justice helped shape the Dravidian political movement. This movement created the ideological base that still supports Tamil Nadu’s social and political structures today.This scholarly examination critically evaluates Periyar’s multifaceted social reform initiatives, analyz-es the philosophical principles underpinning his activism, and assesses the enduring applicability of his vision in addressing twenty-first-century inequities.
Keywords:
Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, Social Reform Methodology, Self-Respect Movement, Rationalist Philosophy, Egalitarianism, Caste System Dismantling, Women’s Empowerment, Dravidian Political Ideology, Educational Equity
