Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy

Erode Venkata Ramasamy was born on 17 September 1879, Kannada in Erode.

speaking family.

V. Ramasamy's father was Venkatappa Naicker (or Venkata), and his mother was
Chinnathyee.

V. Ramasamy married when he was 19. His first wife, Nagammai, died in 1933. He had a
daughter who lived for only 5 months.

V. Ramasamy married for a second time in April 9, 1949. His second wife, Maniammai,
continued E.V. Ramasamy's social work after his death in 1973.

Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy was an Indian social activist, and politician who started
the Self-Respect Movementand Dravidar Kazhagam.

He is known as the 'Father of modern Tamilnadu' as well as Paguththarivu Pagalavan.

Periyar died on December 24,1973 at the age of 95.

In 1978, India Post issued stamp on EVR

Early life

In 1885 at the age of 6, periyar was sent to a small primary school.

In 1889 at the age of 10, his school carreer ended within 5 years.

In 1891 at the age of 12, he entered his father's trade.

He could speak three Dravidian languages: Kannada, Telugu and Tamil.

Periyar - Title

The title "Periyar" was conferred on him by Tamil Nadu Women Conference held in
Madras on 13-11-1938 under the presidentship of Neelambigai Ammaiyaar daughter of
Maraimalai Adigal, a veteran Tamil Scholar. Dr. Dharmambal gave the title of "Periyar"to
him.
The word 'periyar' meaning 'respected one' or 'elder' in Tamil.

Kasi Pilgrimage incident

In 1904, E.V. Ramasamy went on a pilgrimage Shiva to Kasito visit temple of Kashi
Vishwanath.

He witnessed immoral activities such as begging, and floating dead bodies.

One particular incident in Kasi had a profound impact on E.V. Ramasamy's ideology and
future work.

Member of Congress Party (1919-1925)

V. Ramasamy joined the Indian National Congressin 1919.

He held the chairmanship of Erode Municipality (1918) and wholeheartedly undertook

constructive programs spreading the use of Khadi, picketing toddy shops, boycotting
shops selling foreign cloth, and eradicating untouchability.

As soon as the command of Gandhi for wearing Khadhi cloth was announced, Periyar
immediately shed away all his costly foreign clothes and began to wear Khadhi. Also he
forced all the members of his family, including his mother, aged 80 years to wear Khadhi
dress only.

He was arrested during the Non-Cooperation movement (1920).

In 1921, Periyar courted imprisonment for picketing toddy shops in Erode.

In 1921, during the anti-liquor campaign he cut down 1000 trees in his own farm.

In 1922 Periyar, his wife Nagammal and sister Kannammal also bravely jumped into the
agitation and they led women volunteers for picketing in front of liquor-shop.

In 1922, Periyar was elected the President of the Madras PresidencyCongress

Committee during the Tirupur session, where he advocated strongly for reservation in
government jobs and education.
His attempts were defeated in the Congress party due to a strong presence of
discrimination and indifference, which led to his leaving the party in 1925.

Periyar made the last and sixth attempt at getting the Tamil Nadu Congress to pass the
resolution regarding communal representation at a conference held in Kanchipuram in
1925.

Thiru [Link] was the President at the time and sensing opposition in the open session, he
did not permit Periyar to propose the resolution. In utter disgust, Periyar left the
Congress.

His repeated public meetings the question of communal representation forced the
government to pass [Link].1129

Vaikom sathyagraha (1924-1925)

The objective of the Satyagraha (30th March 1924) was to secure for untouchables the
right to use a road near a Shiva/ Mahadeva temple at Vaikom, Kottayam district, Kerala.

In Kerala, a committee was formed comprising people of different castes to fight

untouchability. The committee was chaired by K Kelappan; the rest of the members
were T K Madhavan, Velayudha Menon, Kurur Neelakantan Namboodiripad and T R
Krishnaswami Iyer.

Gandhiji, Chatampi Swamikal, and Sree Narayana Guru also participated in this
movement.

Before Periyar, vaikom sathyagraha was started by three leaders. They were

K Madhavan

P Kesava Menon

George Joseph.

Kerala people requested Periyar to come from Tamil Nadu to take up the leadership of
Sathyagraha. He led the agitation. Hence, he was arrested and sent to jail. In that case,
he was sentenced twice. Then the streets were thrown open to the Untouchables.
That courageous movement got victory. The title of honour as "Hero of Vaikom" was
conferred on Periyar.

Cheranmadevi Gurukulam - 1925

In a place called Cheranmadeviin Tirunelveli dis a residential school, also known as

Gurukulam, was started and managed by V.S. Iyer.

Cheranmadevi Gurukulam In Periyar found that Brahmin children and Non-Brahmin

children were given food in separate places.

He advised Iyer to treat children alike. Periyar addressed public meetings about it and
created public awareness of what was happening in Gurukulam.

Periyar also raised this point in the state congress meeting. At last the school was
closed.

Self-respect movement - 1925

After quitting the Periyar started Self movement in 1925. congress, respect

The aims of the 'Self Respect Movement' were to uplift the Dravidians and to expose the
Brahminical tyranny.

The first provincial conference of Self-Respect Movement was organised by Periyar at

Chengalpattu in February 1929. Mr. W.P.A. Soundara Pandian, presided over that
conference. In that conference soundrapandiyanar, kutthusi gurusamy, ramamirtham
participated. moovalur ammaiyar also

At Erode, the Second Provincial Conference of the Self Respect Movement was
convened by Periyar under the chairmanship of Mr. M.R. Jayakar from Pune, a
rationalist leader.

Periyar introduced a new rationalist marriage system called "Self-Respect Marriage".

Opposition to Hindi

In 1938 April 21, Chakravarthi Rajagopalachari, the Chief Ministerof Madras Presidency,
he introduced Hindi as a compulsory language of study in 125 secondary schools,
thereby igniting a series of anti-Hindi agitations.

Periyar and the opposition Justice Party led by T. Panneerselvamimmediately opposed

the move.

Moovalur Ramamirtham, Narayani, Va. Ba. Thamaraikani, Munnagar Azhagiyar, Dr.

Dharmambal, Malar Mugathammaiyar, Pattammal and Seethammal were some of the
women who were arrested for participating in the hindi agitation.

In 1938 the slogan "Tamil Nadu for Tamilians" was first raised by E.V. Ramasamy in
protest against the introduction of Hindi in schools.

V. Ramasamy explained that Hindi would not only halt the progress of Tamil people, but
would also completely destroy their culture and nullify the progressive ideas.

Two persons -Thalamuthu and Natarajan lost their lives.

The agitation was also supported by Tamil scholars like Maraimalai Adigal,
Somasundara Bharathi, K. Appadurai, Mudiyarasan, A. P. Viswanathamand Ilakkuvanar.

Observing an anti-Hindi day on 1 July and 3 December 1938.

On 21 February 1940, Madras Governor Erskine issued a press communique

withdrawing compulsory Hindi teaching and making it optional.

Justice Party - President (1938-1944)

A political party known as the South Indian Libertarian Federation (commonly referred to
as Justice Party) was founded in 1916, principally to oppose the economic and political
power of the Brahmin groups.

The party's goal was to render social justiceto the non-Brahmin groups.

V. Ramasamy took over the leadership of the party in 1938.

Dravidar kazhagam

At a rally in salem under the leadership of Periyar at 1944 Aug 27, annadurai passed a
resolution and declared that the justice party would henceforth be known as the
Dravidar Kazhagam.

It focused its attention on the liberation of women, women's education, willing marriage,
widow marriage, orphanages and mercy homes.

In 1949 Conjeevaram Natarajan Annadurai, established a separate association called

the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), or Dravidian Progressive Federation.

Journals and Books- Periyar

In 1925 May 2, Periyar published a Tamil Weekly under the title "Kudi Arasu" edited by
himself to spread the principles of Self-Respect.

Periyar published an English magazine under the title "Revolt" on 7-11-1928.

In 1930 Periyar published his book on "Family Planning" (Birth Control) and propagated
restriction of number of children.

In 1933 another magazine 'Puratchi' (Revolution) published by Periyar. was

Periyar brought out the Tamil weekly 'Paguthar' (Rationalism) on 12-1-1934.

Periyar wrote and published a book titled as "Pen Yenn adimaiyanaal?".

Justice Party started the Tamil weekly paper "Viduthalai" on 1-6-1935. Then it was
entrusted to Periyar who published 'Viduthalai' as Tamil Daily Newspaper from 1-1-1937.

On 22-01-1950 Periyar sentenced to was undergo imprisonment for the publication of

his book 'Ponmozhigal' (Golden sayings).

In 1970 The Tamil Bi-monthly, the "Unmai" (Truth) was first started at Tiruchirapalli by
Periyar.

Why I am an Atheist is an essay written by Indian revolutionary Bhagat Singh in 1930 in

Lahore. On the request of Periyar E. V. Ramasamy, P. Jeevanandham translated the
essay to the Tamil language.
In 1935 January 13, Periyar introduced Reforms in Tamil Language, which was later
implemented by the Tamilnadu Government under MG Ramachandran as Chief Minister
in the year 1978.

Periyar last speech

In 1973 December 19 At Thiyagaraya Nagar, Chennai Periyar delivered his last speech
(the Swansong).

UNESCO

On 27th June 1970 by the UNESCO organization honored Periyar as "The Socrates of
South Asia".

UNESCO described Periyar as

The prophet of the new age

Father of social reform movement and

Arch enemy of ignorance, superstitions, meaningless customs.

Rabindranath Tagore

Rabindranath Tagore, Contributions, Literature, Nobel Prize

Rabindranath Tagore was a renowned Bengali poet, philosopher, and composer,

celebrated for reshaping literature, music, and education in India.

Rabindranath Tagore was a multifaceted Bengali poet, playwright, composer,

philosopher, social reformer, and painter, renowned for his pivotal role in the Bengal
Renaissance. He significantly transformed Bengali literature and music and played a
crucial role in Indian art, introducing Contextual Modernism during the late 19th and
early 20th centuries. Tagore's poetry, especially his acclaimed work Gitanjali, is
celebrated for its profound sensitivity and beauty.

In 1913, he made history as the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature,
marking a significant milestone in literary achievement. Tagore, affectionately known as
"the Bard of Bengal," held several accolades, including being a fellow of the Royal
Asiatic Society, and earned the titles Gurudev, Kobiguru, and Biswokobi for his
contributions.

Rabindranath Tagore Early Life and Education

Rabindranath Tagore was born on May 7, 1861, in Calcutta, into an affluent and
culturally active family. He was the youngest of 13 children born to Debendranath
Tagore, a leading figure in the Brahmo Samaj, and Sarada Devi. Tagore received early
education at home, with his family emphasizing literary and cultural learning. He
attended several schools, including a stint at the University College London, though he
did not complete formal schooling. Influenced by his family’s intellectual environment,
he developed an early interest in literature, music, and art, which shaped his future
contributions.

Rabindranath Tagore Major Contributions

Rabindranath Tagore's contributions spanned various fields, including literature,

education, art, and social reform. His literary works, characterized by their lyrical beauty
and profound insights, reshaped Bengali literature and earned him global acclaim.
Two of his most notable songs, "Jana Gana Mana" and "Amar Shonar Bangla," were
adopted as the national anthems of India and Bangladesh, respectively.

He established Visva-Bharati University, promoting a holistic and experiential learning

approach that emphasized creativity and cultural exchange.

In addition, Tagore was also a prolific artist whose paintings and drawings garnered
significant recognition. He produced over 2,500 works of art, exploring themes of nature,
spirituality, and human emotion.

Although a nationalist, Tagore had a global vision and advocated for universal human
values. He criticized narrow nationalism and sought to promote global peace, unity, and
cooperation.

Rabindranath Tagore Approach to Education

Tagore's approach to education was fundamentally holistic, emphasizing the

development of the whole person. He believed that education should nurture students'
physical, emotional, and intellectual growth. For Tagore, learning transcended traditional
classroom boundaries, extending into the natural environment to create a richer
educational experience.

He encouraged self-expression through art forms such as music, dance, drama, and
painting, fostering a love for learning that was both innovative and liberating.

Tagore's perspective on education was also cosmopolitan, aiming to nurture a global

outlook among students. For this, he founded Visva-Bharati University to blend Indian
traditions with international values.

Rabindranath Tagore Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan (Birbhum district of West Bengal) is a culturally significant neighbourhood

known for its historical and educational importance. It was founded by Maharshi
Debendranath Tagore in 1863 and later developed by his son, Rabindranath Tagore, who
established the renowned Visva-Bharati University there. This area is recognized as
a UNESCO World Heritage Site as of 2023, celebrating its unique blend of art, culture,
and education

In 1901, Rabindranath Tagore transformed Shantiniketan into an experimental

school based on his philosophy of open-air education, a model that opposed rigid
colonial education and instead promoted creativity, freedom, and connection with
nature.

Rabindranath Tagore Role in Freedom Struggle

Tagore was a vocal opponent of imperialism and expressed his support for Indian
nationalists. However, he was critical of the Swadeshi movement, openly challenging it
in his sharp 1925 essay, The Cult of the Charkha. Tagore resisted the more extreme
nationalist sentiments within the independence movement, advocating for India's right
to independence while also emphasizing the value of learning from other cultures.

He composed songs that celebrated the Indian independence movement, with notable
politically charged pieces like Chitto Jetha Bhayshunyo (Where the Mind is Without Fear)
and Ekla Chalo Re (If They Answer Not to Thy Call, Walk Alone), the latter being a
favourite of Mahatma Gandhi.

While he was a vocal critique of Gandhian methods, Tagore played a significant role in
mediating a dispute between Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar over the issue of separate
electorates for untouchables.

In a strong protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, Tagore renounced
his knighthood.

Rabindranath Tagore Literature

Rabindranath Tagore’s literary works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty, emotional
depth, and philosophical richness. As a poet, novelist, and playwright, he
reshaped Bengali literature and established a unique voice that resonated with both
Indian and global audiences.

Poetry: Tagore's poetry includes renowned collections such as Gitanjali, Manasi, Sonar
Tari, Gitimalya, Balaka, etc.

Gitanjali earned him the Nobel Prize in 1913.

Novels: His novels, including Gora, Ghare-Baire, and Chokher Bali, delve into themes of
identity, nationalism, and social reform.

Dramas: Tagore wrote several impactful dramas such as Kal-Mrigaya, Mayar

Khela, Visarjan, Valmiki-Pratibha, and Muktadhara, which address social issues and
human emotions through a blend of poetic and theatrical expression.

Tagore was a prolific short-story writer, and his collections like Galpaguchchha offer
profound insights into the everyday lives of ordinary people.

Rabindranath Tagore Legacy

Tagore's legacy is enduring, with his contributions shaping India’s cultural, educational,
and intellectual landscape. His influence on literature and music in Bengal is
unparalleled, and his compositions continue to inspire many generations. The
establishment of Visva-Bharati University, now a central university, stands as a
testament to his vision of education as a means for global understanding and harmony.
Tagore’s ideals of universal humanism, which transcend boundaries of nationality and
religion, continue to resonate with thinkers worldwide.

Why in News?

The Prime Minister on 9th May, 2022 paid tribute to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore on
his birth anniversary.

According to the Bengali calendar, the Tagore Jayanti falls on the 25th day of the
Boishakh month.
Birth:

He was born in Calcutta on 7th May 1861.

About:

He was also referred to as ‘Gurudev’, ‘Kabiguru’, and ‘Biswakabi’.

He is regarded as the outstanding creative artist of modern India and hailed by W.B
Yeats, Rabindranath Tagore was a Bengali poet, novelist, and painter, who was highly
influential in introducing Indian culture to the west.

He was an exceptional literary figure and a renowned polymath who singlehandedly

reshaped the region's literature and music.

He was a good friend of Mahatma Gandhi and is said to have given him the title of
Mahatma.

He had always stressed that unity in diversity is the only possible way for India’s
national integration.

He had spoken at the World Parliament for Religions in the years 1929 and 1937.

Contributions:

He is said to have composed over 2000 songs and his songs and music are called
‘Rabindra Sangeet’ with its own distinct lyrical and fluid style.

He is responsible for modernising Bengali prose and poetry. His notable works include
Gitanjali, Ghare-Baire, Gora, Manasi, Balaka, Sonar Tori, He is also remembered for his
song ‘Ekla Chalo Re’.

He published his first poems aged 16 under the pen-name ‘Bhanusimha’.

He not only gave the national anthems for two countries, India and Bangladesh, but also
inspired a Ceylonese student of his, to pen and compose the national anthem of Sri
Lanka.

Besides all his literary achievements he was also a philosopher and educationist who in
1921 established the Vishwa-Bharati University, a university that challenged
conventional education.

Awards:
In 1913 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his work on Gitanjali.

He was the first non-European to receive the Nobel Prize.

In 1915 he was awarded knighthood by the British King George V. In 1919, following the
Jallianwalla Bagh massacre, he renounced his Knighthood.

Death:

He died on 7th August 1941 in Calcutta.

Quotes by him:

“You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the sea.”

“Don’t limit the child to your own learning, for he was born in another time.”

“If I can’t make it through one door, I’ll go through another door- or I’ll make a door.
Something terrific will come no matter how dark the present.”

“Facts are many, but the truth is one