The Evolution of Periyar’s Views on Mahatma Gandhi

Periyar, whose followers addressed him as EVR Periyar, was initially an admirer of Mahatma Gandhi. However, over time his views on Gandhi evolved, eventually leading to a critical stance towards the revered leader. This article explores the transformation of Periyar’s opinions and their significance in the context of Indian independence and social reform.

Origins of Admiration

Initially, Periyar held Gandhi in high regard. Gandhi, known as the Mahatma (a€?Great Soula€), was the architect of India's nonviolent struggle for independence, and his charismatic leadership resonated deeply with many Indians in the early 20th century. Periyar, a prominent social reformer, was no exception. His admiration for Gandhi was not surprising, given the widespread recognition of Gandhi’s efforts and his appeal as a unifying figure against colonial rule.

Changing Views: A Meeting of Minds

The turning point in Periyar’s views on Gandhi came in 1927 when the two men met. During this meeting, Periyar laid out his three-pronged approach to achieving India’s independence and self-respect, which included the following:

The destruction of the Congress party The destruction of Hindu religion The dismantling of Brahmin domination

Periyar believed that these three tasks were interrelated and would naturally lead to the dismantling of Brahmin dominance. He found Gandhi’s responses to these demands unsatisfactory, suggesting that Gandhi’s approach to these issues was not as radical as Periyar had hoped. This meeting marked the beginning of Periyar’s criticism towards Gandhi.

A Call to Action: Burning Pictures and Public Proclamations

In 1957, Periyar took his protests against Gandhi to the public domain. He called for the burning of Gandhi’s pictures and made a powerful statement: “We were cheated by Gandhi. Our land, the Tamil land, has been enslaved to the Northerners and Brahmins by Gandhi. It is because of Gandhi that people lost all great qualities they had, and it is now impossible to live without being immoral, dishonest, deceitful, and traitorous.”

These statements were not merely emotional outbursts but were rooted in Periyar’s firm belief that Gandhi’s actions and policies had undermined the values and progress he (Periyar) had fought for.

Periyar’s Relevance Today

As we examine the evolution of Periyar’s views on Gandhi, it is crucial to understand the context in which he lived and worked. Periyar was a stalwart in the fight against caste discrimination and the promotion of secularism and human rights. His views on Gandhi, though critical, should be seen within the framework of his broader mission to reform Indian society.

Today, Periyar’s legacy continues to influence debates on social reform, secularism, and the role of leaders in shaping independent India. His critique of Gandhi serves as a reminder that even revered figures can be challenged and that the discourse of independence and freedom is complex and multifaceted.

Conclusion

From an early admirer to a critic, Periyar’s journey with Gandhi reflects the complexities of the Indian independence movement. His views, while often controversial, contribute to our understanding of the evolution of social reform, the role of leadership, and the ongoing struggles for justice and equality in India.