Vaikom — two States, two leaders and a tale of reform

Context: The Vaikom Struggle, which culminated in the lifting of the barriers to
the entry of backward caste Hindus to the local temple in the erstwhile
Travancore princely state, would be the first of many mass movements that
brought political attention to religious reform. Since then, the Dravidian
Movement founded by Periyar E.V. Ramasamy and its self-respect principles have
enabled wider reforms within the Hindu religion and paved the way for a more
egalitarian society. Celebrating the centenary of Vaikom is not just a tribute
to Periyar’s persistence and B.R. Ambedkar’s acumen but also a re-assertion of
the strong reformist tendencies that continue to pervade through modern-day
politik in South India.

Vaikom struggle

·       News
overview: Recently, India commemorated the centenary of Vaikom satyagraha, a
pivotal movement in India's history that challenged untouchability and caste
oppression.

·       Background: Vaikom
Satyagraha, a nonviolent agitation, unfolded in Vaikom within the princely
state of Travancore, Kerala precisely a century ago spanning from 30th March
1924 to 23rd November 1925. Efforts were made to negotiate with authorities,
including Maharani Regent of Travancore, to open temple roads. It was the first
among the temple entry movements in India, setting the stage for similar
movements across the country.

·       Key
Figures: It was led by visionary leaders like Ezhava leader T K Madhavan, K.P.
Kesava Menon, and K. Kelappan. Erode Venkatappa Ramasamy, revered as Periyar or
Thanthai Periyar, played a crucial role, mobilising volunteers, delivering
speeches, and enduring imprisonment, earning the title 'Vaikom Veerar'. The
movement gained more power when Mahatma Gandhi reached Vaikom in March 1925 and
held discussions with leaders of various caste groups.

·       Strategies
and Initiatives: The satyagraha initially focused on opening the
roads surrounding the Vaikom temple to people from all castes. Leaders of the
movement strategically chose nonviolent methods, inspired by Gandhian
principles of protest.

·       Outcome: The Vaikom
Satyagraha led to significant reforms, including the opening of three out of
four roads surrounding the temple to people of all castes.