Chennai, September 17:

Tamil Nadu today commemorated the birth anniversary of Thanthai Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, one of India’s most influential social reformers, rationalist thinkers, and champions of social equality. Political leaders, social organizations, educational institutions, and members of the public across the state paid tribute to Periyar by garlanding his statues, organizing public meetings, and conducting awareness programs highlighting his contributions to society.

Born on September 17, 1879, in Erode, Periyar dedicated his life to challenging social inequalities and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Through his efforts, he became a powerful voice against caste discrimination, social oppression, and gender inequality. His ideas laid the foundation for many social justice movements that continue to influence public discourse in Tamil Nadu and beyond.

Periyar founded the Self-Respect Movement in 1925 with the objective of creating a society based on equality, dignity, and rational thinking. The movement encouraged people to question social customs that promoted discrimination and advocated equal rights regardless of caste, religion, or gender. His campaign for social reforms brought significant attention to issues affecting disadvantaged sections of society.

One of Periyar’s major contributions was his advocacy for women’s rights. He supported women’s education, equal opportunities, property rights, and freedom in personal decisions at a time when such ideas were considered revolutionary. He consistently argued that social progress could only be achieved when women enjoyed equal status in society.

Periyar was also known for promoting rationalism and scientific thinking. He encouraged people to question blind beliefs and embrace education, critical thinking, and evidence-based decision-making. His speeches, writings, and public campaigns inspired generations of social activists and political leaders.

Today, Tamil Nadu observes Social Justice Day on Periyar’s birth anniversary. Various government departments, educational institutions, and social organizations conducted events focusing on equality, social justice, and constitutional values. Public meetings, seminars, and cultural programs were organized across the state to remember his contributions and discuss the relevance of his ideas in contemporary society.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, ministers, political leaders, and representatives from various organizations paid floral tributes to Periyar’s statues and memorials. Messages released on the occasion highlighted his enduring legacy and his role in shaping modern Tamil Nadu’s social and political landscape.

More than five decades after his passing, Periyar remains one of the most influential figures in Tamil Nadu’s history. His advocacy for social justice, education, self-respect, and equality continues to inspire discussions on building an inclusive and progressive society.

Key Highlights

Tamil Nadu celebrates the 147th birth anniversary of Thanthai Periyar.

September 17 is observed as Social Justice Day in the state.

Tributes were paid by political leaders, social organizations, and the public.

Periyar founded the Self-Respect Movement in 1925.

He advocated social equality, women’s rights, education, and rational thinking.

His legacy continues to influence social and political discussions across Tamil Nadu.