E.V. Ramasamy Periyar and His Legacy: A View from a Tamil Brahmin Perspective

About the Author:
As a member of the Tamil Brahmin community, I explore E.V. Ramasamy Periyar's legacy and its impact, while discussing the underlying issues of caste discrimination.

The Background and Brahmin Legacy

As a Tamil Brahmin, it is essential to recognize the roots of caste discrimination. While many Brahmins might claim they are not directly discriminating, it is the principles and practices established by their forefathers that have fueled hatred towards lower castes. This ideological foundation, perpetuated over generations, is deeply ingrained in the societal structure, making it challenging to eradicate.

E.V. Ramasamy Periyar: A Caste Reformer?

E.V. Ramasamy Periyar, founder of the Dravidar Kazhagam, is often viewed through a dichotomy of reverence and criticism within the Brahmin community. While he is celebrated as a founder of social reform in Tamil Nadu, his methods and ideologies are viewed with disdain by many Brahmins.

Wrongdoing and Manipulation

Periyar's influence on Tamil society is a double-edged sword. On one hand, he is credited with challenging and reducing influence and discrimination by Brahmins in society. Yet, his methods and rhetoric, including comparing himself to Hitler and promoting negative propaganda, generated significant backlash. It is crucial to assess his legacy critically, acknowledging both his positive contributions and the non-constructive aspects of his actions.

Controversies and Misrepresentation

Periyar's legacy is often misused and misrepresented. His anti-Brahmin stance is politically capitalized by various parties, but his true intentions and impact are often overshadowed by such manipulations. For instance, the DMK's statement that Periyar's ideology contradicts Sanathan Dharma is one example of a politicized view.

Legacy and Its Impact on the Community

As a Tamil Brahmin, I have observed the evolution of the Brahmin community's response to Periyar's legacy. The early phase of identification with and opposition to Periyar's movement to reduce Brahmin influence was a period of unification and reaffirming community identity. Over time, the initial fervor subsided, and the focus shifted to more modern and trending issues like anti-Hindi dominance and pro-Tamil sentiment.

Current Government and Brahmin Role

Dravidian parties have influenced the political landscape of Tamil Nadu, often using anti-Brahmin rhetoric to secure votes. While the Brahmin population has remained largely silent, this has not deterred the political parties from keeping the issue alive by occasionally capitalizing on it for political gains. This is evident in events like the Holy thread function for pigs, which attracted significant ridicule and criticism.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Periyar played a significant role in social reforms, his.

Overall, Periyar's legacy is a nuanced and complex topic that requires a balanced view, incorporating both his contributions to social equality and the challenges associated with his methods and rhetoric.