Answer: His anti-caste struggle and rediscovery of Dravidian identity
Periyar gained fame for his relentless efforts in the anti-caste struggle and his role in resurrecting and popularizing the Dravidian identity.
E.V. Ramasami Naicker (1879-1973), widely known as Periyar, earned respect for his unwavering commitment to atheism and his tireless efforts in the fight against the caste system. His legacy is marked by his significant role in the revival of the Dravidian identity, which he passionately championed. Although he initially aligned himself with the Congress party, Periyar took a transformative path by launching the Self-Respect Movement in 1925, a campaign aimed at instilling self-esteem among marginalized communities. His leadership in the anti-Brahmin movement and collaboration with the Justice party underscored his dedication to social justice and equitable representation in South India. Eventually, he founded the Dravidar Kazhagam, a prominent Dravidian political organization. Periyar staunchly opposed the imposition of Hindi and any perceived dominance from North India, while also advocating the theory that North Indians and Brahmins had Aryan origins, highlighting the cultural distinctions between North and South India. |
