Kerala reformation movement: Difference between revisions

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{{short description|Socio-cultural movement originated in Kerala}}
{{short description|Socio-cultural movement in Kerala}}
{{Renaissance of Kerala}}
{{more citations needed|date=February 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2019}}
{{refimprove|date=February 2017}}
{{Renaissance of Kerala}}
{{Very long|date=April 2021}}


The '''Reformation movement in Kerala''' refers to a socio-cultural movement that began towards the end of 19th century and led to large scale changes in the social outlook of the southern [[India|Indian]] [[States and union territories of India|state]] of [[Kerala]].
The '''reformation movement in Kerala''' refers to a socio-cultural shift that began in the late 19th century, resulting in significant transformations in the social fabric of the southern Indian [[States and union territories of India|state]] of [[Kerala]].


==Background==
==Background==
The foundations of social changes in Kerala go back to the 16th century.  
The foundations of social change in Kerala can be traced back to the 16th century. The emergence of the [[Bhakti movement]] and the development of the modern [[Malayalam]] language and the influence of figures like [[Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan]] led to the breaking of [[Brahmin]] dominance over literature and knowledge.{{citation needed|date=November 2024}}
The development of the modern form of the [[Malayalam|Malayalam language]] and the creation of the [[Bhakti movement]] under the influence of authors like [[Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan]] helped break the monopoly of the [[Brahmin|Brahmins]], Ambalavasis and Nairs over literature and knowledge.


The arrival of Europeans, beginning with the Portuguese followed by the Dutch and English, became a catalyst for these changes. The arrival of missionaries from European nations lead to a rise in educational institutions in Kerala and the rise of an educated class among Avarna caste groups like [[Ezhava|Ezhavas]].
The arrival of European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and English, played a significant role as catalysts for these changes. The arrival of missionaries from Europe contributed to the establishment of educational institutions in Kerala.


The changes in the political order of Kerala with the establishment of centralized monarchies in [[Travancore]] and [[Kochi|Cochin]], leading to the decline of the old feudal order, were also a crucial factor that set the stage for reformation. The [[Mysorean invasion of Malabar|Mysorean invasion of Kerala]] (1766–1792) shook the hold of elites like[[Nambudiri|Namboothiris]], [[Saint Thomas Christians|Syrian Christians]] and [[Nair|Nairs]] on Kerala's society.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Why Christo-Racist Nationalism and Anti-Muslim Rhetoric Are Gaining Ground in Kerala|url=https://thewire.in/religion/kerala-syrian-christians-caste-anti-muslim-rhetoric|access-date=2021-06-15|website=The Wire}}</ref> Mysoreans had almost no regard for the caste structures in Kerala, so most Brahmin and Nair families had to flee to southern Kerala to avoid persecution by Mysorean forces.
The political landscape of Kerala underwent significant changes with the establishment of centralized monarchies in [[Travancore]] and [[Kingdom of Cochin|Cochin]], leading to the decline of the feudal order. The [[Mysorean invasion of Malabar|Mysorean invasion of Kerala]] (1766–1792) further disrupted the existing caste hierarchy. Although the Mysoreans attempted to establish an [[Islamic state]] in Malabar, their advances were ultimately thwarted by the British.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Why Christo-Racist Nationalism and Anti-Muslim Rhetoric Are Gaining Ground in Kerala |url=https://thewire.in/religion/kerala-syrian-christians-caste-anti-muslim-rhetoric |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221003161517/https://thewire.in/religion/kerala-syrian-christians-caste-anti-muslim-rhetoric |archive-date=3 October 2022 |access-date=2021-06-15 |website=The Wire}}</ref><ref name="Innes2">{{cite book |last=Innes |first=Charles Alexander |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.358941/mode/2up |title=Madras District Gazetteers Malabar (Volume I) |date=1908 |publisher=Madras Government}}</ref>


In contrast with North India, subaltern enlightenment in Kerala was driven by lower castes. [[Narayana Guru]], [[Ayyankali]] and others belonged to caste groups lower in the social settings of 19th century Kerala. Hence most of them emphasized the need for abolition of the caste system rather than its reformation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/three-phases-of-indian-renaissance/article9541139.ece|title=Three phases of Indian renaissance|first=K. N.|last=PANIKKAR|website=Frontline.thehindu.com|accessdate=4 March 2019}}</ref>
Unlike the four-fold ''[[Varna (Hinduism)|varna]]'' division seen in other parts of India, Kerala's social hierarchy was based on caste. The [[Malayali Brahmins]] occupied the top priestly class.<ref>{{cite book |title=Nâyars of Malabar |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eF-pMrcqw5UC |page=185 |author=F. Fawcett |publisher=Asian Educational Services |date=1 February 2004 |isbn=9788120601710}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Kerala District Gazetteers: Palghat |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=x1lwAAAAMAAJ |publisher=Department of Education, Superintendent of Government Presses, Kerala |author=A. Sreedhara Menon |year=1976 |page=159}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Monsoon Islam: Trade and Faith on the Medieval Malabar Coast|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=OM5TDwAAQBAJ|page=167|author=Sebastian R. Prange|publisher=Cambridge University Press|date=3 May 2018|isbn=9781108424387}}</ref> Apart from the [[Hindu]] Brahmins,  all other castes,  were considered lower in hierarchy. These castes had to abide [[untouchability]] and ritualistic pollution norms enforced by the upper castes. Some castes like [[Nair]] were exploited by Namboothiri Brahmins as their servants and through exploitative relationships. [[Nairs]] were not allowed access to education by the [[Namboothiri]] community.<ref>{{cite journal | last1=Sasilekha S.S. | first1= | last2=Joel, T. Wins | first2=Dr. | title=Namboothiri – Nair Alliance: Is It Holy or Not? | journal=Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research | date=May 2019 | volume=6 | issue=5 | pages=249–255 | issn=2349-5162 | url=https://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1905V94.pdf }}</ref> Though the Namboothiris held the highest position in Kerala society from the 12th to the 20th century, their women were exploited by Namboothiri men. This included child marriages in which young girls were married to very old Namboothiri men, and the confinement of women within their homes, denying them freedom to go outside.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Santhan |first=Sunitha |title=From Subjugation to Liberation: The Plight of Namboodiri Women and the Reform Movements in Kerala |journal=ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts |volume=3 |issue=2 |pages=1082–1088 |date=July–December 2022 |issn=2582-7472 |doi=10.29121/shodhkosh.v3.i2.2022.4194 |url=https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v3.i2.2022.4194 |publisher=ShodhKosh |access-date=27 October 2025|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Manjalloor |first1=Dr. Michael |title=Case Study of the Dalits of Kerala, India |journal=[[CORE (research service)]] |date=November 2015 |url=https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/56365374.pdf |access-date=24 December 2022}}</ref>
 
Prominent reformist leaders such as [[Narayana Guru]] and [[Ayyankali]] hailed from castes that were deemed lower in the social hierarchy of ancient Kerala. Consequently, leaders like Guru and Ayyankali focused on the abolition of the caste system rather than its reformation.<ref>{{cite web |last=PANIKKAR |first=K. N. |date=15 February 2017 |title=Three phases of Indian renaissance |url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/three-phases-of-indian-renaissance/article9541139.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428211440/https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/three-phases-of-indian-renaissance/article9541139.ece |archive-date=28 April 2021 |accessdate=4 March 2019 |website=Frontline.thehindu.com}}</ref>
 
The winds of reformation were set in by the [[Saint Thomas Christians|Syrian Christian]] priest [[Suriyani Malayalam|(kathanar)]] [[Kuriakose Elias Chavara|St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara]]. The first Sanskrit schools for the lower caste Hindus were set up by Chavara in 1846.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Column {{!}} A Malayali saint, Sanskrit school and socially inclusive education |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/lifestyle/keralaspora/2021/08/08/kuriakose-chavara-sanskrit-school-mannanam.html |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=Column {{!}} A Malayali saint, Sanskrit school and socially inclusive education |language=en}}</ref> The revolutionary concept of a school along with every church (''palliyum pallikoodavum'') was also implemented by Chavara.<ref>{{Citation |title=Kuriakose Elias Chavara |date=2024-12-15 |work=Wikipedia |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuriakose_Elias_Chavara |access-date=2024-12-31 |language=en}}</ref> He also initiated the practice of a mid-day meal scheme in schools.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roshni |date=2017-03-02 |title=malayalam: Fr. Kuriakose Elias Chavara as an eminent social reformer |url=https://roshnikma.blogspot.com/2017/03/fr-kuriakose-elias-chavara-as-eminent.html |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=malayalam}}</ref> In contrast to northern India, the reformation in Kerala was driven by the lower castes.


==Leaders==
==Leaders==
Prominent leaders of Kerala reformation include :
Prominent leaders of Kerala reformation include :
* [[Kuriakose Elias Chavara]]
* [[Narayana Guru]]
* [[Narayana Guru]]
*[[Chattampi Swamikal]]
* [[Chattampi Swamikal]]
*[[Ayyankali]]
* [[Ayyankali]]  
*[[Sahodaran Ayyappan]]
* [[Sahodaran Ayyappan]]
*[[Padmanabhan Palpu|Dr. Padmanabhan Palpu]]
* [[Padmanabhan Palpu]]
*[[Kumaran Asan]] (കുമാരനാശാൻ)
* [[Kumaran Asan]]
*[[Ayyathan Gopalan|Dr. Ayyathan Gopalan]] (ഡോ.അയ്യത്താൻ ഗോപാലൻ)
* [[Mannath Padmanabhan]]
*[[Brahmananda Swami Sivayogi]].
* [[Ayyathan Gopalan]]
*[[Vagbhatananda|Vaghbhatananda]]
* [[Brahmananda Swami Sivayogi]]
* [[Vagbhatananda]]
* [[Nitya Chaitanya Yati]]
* [[Nitya Chaitanya Yati]]
* [[Nataraja Guru]]
* [[Nataraja Guru]]
*[[VT Bhattathiripad]]
* [[VT Bhattathiripad]]
* [[Kuriakose Elias Chavara]]
* [[C. V. Kunhiraman]]
*[[C. V. Kunhiraman]]
* [[Sayyid Sanaullah Makti Tangal]]
*[[Sayyid Sanaullah Makti Tangal]]
* [[Vakkom Moulavi]]
*[[Vakkom Moulavi]]
* [[Pandit Karuppan]]<ref>{{Citation |title=Pandit Karuppan |date=2024-10-22 |work=Wikipedia |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandit_Karuppan |access-date=2024-12-11 |language=en}}</ref>
 
* Kurumban Daivathan<ref>{{Citation |title=കുറുമ്പൻ ദൈവത്താൻ |date=2022-09-10 |work=വിക്കിപീഡിയ |url=https://ml.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B4%95%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%B1%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%AE%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%AA%E0%B5%BB_%E0%B4%A6%E0%B5%88%E0%B4%B5%E0%B4%A4%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%A4%E0%B4%BE%E0%B5%BB |access-date=2024-12-11 |language=ml}}</ref>
==Timeline of revolts and movements ==
* [[Kavarikulam Kandan Kumaran]]<ref>{{Citation |title=Kavarikulam Kandan Kumaran |date=2024-06-29 |work=Wikipedia |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kavarikulam_Kandan_Kumaran |access-date=2024-12-11 |language=en}}</ref>
*1813–1859 : [[Channar revolt]]
* [[Poykayil Yohannan]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sekher |first=Dr Ajay S. |date=2018-02-18 |title=Poykayil Appachan, practitioner of critique and co-option |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/viral-and-trending/180218/poykayil-appachan-practitioner-of-critique-and-co-option.html |access-date=2024-12-11 |website=www.deccanchronicle.com |language=en}}</ref>
*1836      : Formation of Samatwa Samajam by [[Ayya Vaikundar]]
* [[Pampady Joseph]]<ref>{{Citation |last=Oommen |first=George |title=Dalit Liberative Identity as Amalgam: Kerala's Pulaya Christians and Communist Movement in the Mid-Twentieth Century |date=2019-03-28 |work=Religious Interactions in Modern India |pages=0 |editor-last=Fuchs |editor-first=Martin |url=https://academic.oup.com/book/32287/chapter-abstract/268506541?redirectedFrom=fulltext |access-date=2024-12-11 |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-808168-5 |editor2-last=Dalmia |editor2-first=Vasudha}}</ref>  
*1846      : First Catholic Sanskrit school founded by [[Kuriakose Elias Chavara]]
* [[Mithavaadi Krishnan|Mithavaadi krishnan]]
*1864      : "School (pallikkoodam) along with Church" by [[Kuriakose Elias Chavara]]
*1888      : [[Ezhava Siva|Aruvippuram consecration by Narayana Guru]]
*1892      : [[Vivekananda|Swami Vivekananda]] visits Kerala
* 1893      : "Villu vandi" agitation lead by Ayyankali
* 1896      : Ezhava memorial submitted to [[Moolam Thirunal|Srimoolam Thirunnal]]
*1898      : [[Brahmo Samaj|Brahmosamaj]] established in the Kerala region by [[Ayyathan Gopalan|Rao Sahib Dr. Ayyathan Gopalan]] (റാവു സാഹിബ്  ഡോ. അയ്യത്താൻ ഗോപാലൻ), first branch at Calicut.
*1900      : [[Sugunavardhini movement]] (സുഗുണവർധിനി പ്രസ്താനം) founded by [[Ayyathan Gopalan|Rao Sahib Dr. Ayyathan Gopalan]] in order to foster human values in children and protect the rights of women, children, and downtrodden sections of society such as [[Dalit|Harijan and Dalit communities]], while providing them education. (Established Lady Chandhawarkar (ലേഡി ചന്ദാവർക്കർ) Elementary School), provided free education to all.
*1903      : Formation of [[Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana|SNDP]]
*1907      : Formation of [[Sadhujana Paripalana Sangham]] by [[Ayyankali]]
*1909      : Formation of [[Prathyaksha Raksha Daiva Sabha]] by [[Poykayil Johannan]]
* 1915      : "Kallu Maala"(Stone chain) agitation led by Ayyankali
*1914      : Formation of [[Nair Service Society]]
* 1917      : "Misra Bhojan" (community feast) organised by [[Sahodaran Ayyappan]]
*1919      : Formation of Namboothiri yuvajana Sangham under [[V. T. Bhattathiripad]]
*1924      : [[Vaikom Satyagraha]]
*1929      : Launch of [[Yukthivadi | Yukthivadi magazine]]
*1931-1932 : [[Guruvayur Satyagraha]]
*1935      : Founding of Yukthivadi Sangham by [[M.C. Joseph]] and [[Panampilly Govinda Menon]]
*1936      : [[Temple Entry Proclamation]]
 
==Renaissance leaders & Timeline==
 
<u>'''[[Kuriakose Elias Chavara]]'''</u> (1805–1871)
 
Father of literacy in Kerala, school along with every church system, Pidiyari system
 
*Born in a [[Syro-Malabar Church|Syro Malabar]] [[Saint Thomas Christians|Saint Thomas Syrian Christian]] family from [[Kainakary]], [[Alappuzha district|Alappuzha]]
* 1831    : Founded [[Carmelites of Mary Immaculate|CMI]], Carmelites of Mary Immaculate, India's first Christian priest committee
*1846    : Established the first [[printing press]], St. Joseph's Press, without foreign support in Kerala at [[Kottayam|Mannanam]]. This was the third in India. First book published was Jnanapeeyusham.
*1986    : Declared [[Beatification|beatified]]
*2014    : Declared [[Canonization|canonized]] on 23 November
*Jeevitham thanne sandesam - visudha chavarayude jeevitham written by [[M. K. Sanu|M.K. Sanu]]
 
'''<u>[[Ayya Vaikundar|Vaikunda swamikal / Ayya vaikundar]]</u>''' (1809–1851)
 
Mudichoodum perumal
 
*The first social reformer in Kerala
*1800s    : Famous disciple, [[Thycaud Ayya]]
*1800s    : Sama panthi Bhojanam
* 1823      : Became leader of the Upper Cloth revolt, which lead to the 1859 [[Channar revolt]]
*1836      : Founded Samatva Samajam."
* "jathi onn, matham onn, kulam onn, daivam onn, lokam onn"
 
<u>'''[[Thycaud Ayya]] / subharayan'''</u> (1814–1909) ''<u>[Guru of great Gurus']</u>''
 
Shivaraja yogi, Supperintent ayya, Hadayogopadeshta, pandi parayan, 
 
*1800s    : Panthi bhojanam
*1800s    : Saiva prakasha sabha
*1800s    : Famous disciples; [[Narayana Guru]], [[Chattampi Swamikal|chattambi swami]], [[Ayyankali]], [[Kerala Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran|kerala varma]], [[Raja Ravi Varma|Raja ravi varma]]
* " intha ulakathile ore oru jathi than, ore oru matham than, ore oru kadavul than"
*1984      : Thycaud Ayya Mission was formed at [[Thiruvananthapuram|Trivandrum]].
 
[[Chattampi Swamikal|'''<u>Chattampi Swamikal</u>''']] (1853-1924)
 
*1881      : Met [[Narayana Guru|Nanu Asan (Guru)]] at [[Vamanapuram|aniyoor temple]]
*1892      : Met [[Swami Vivekananda|swami vivekananda]]
*main works    : ''jeevakarunya niroopanam, kristhumath niroopanam,''  ''kristhumatha chethanam,'' ''vedadhikara niroopanam,'' ''pracheena''  ''malayalam, advaitha chintha padhathi,''  ''aadibhasha.''
 
[[Narayana Guru|'''<u>Sree Narayana Guru</u>''']] (1856–1928)
 
Naanu asan, The second Buddha,
 
*1881      : Guru started school at anju thengu
*1887      : Built [[Aruvippuram]] temple
*1888      : [[Ezhava Siva|Aruvippuram consecration by Narayana Guru]]
*1898      : Vavoottu yogam, which was considered as the predecessor of SNDP Yogam, was formed this year
*1903      : Formation of [[Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam|SNDP]] by [[Narayana Guru|guru]], who later became the first and permanent president.  (1st secretary; [[Kumaran Asan|Kumaranasan]], 1st vice president; [[Padmanabhan Palpu|Dr. Palpu]])
*1904      : Founded [[Sarada Mutt|Sivagiri Mutt]]
*1911      : Declared as the National Saint in the census report of the Travancore
*1913      : ''Advaita ashram'' at [[aluva]]
*1916      : Founded ''Sree Narayan seva ashram'' at [[kanchipuram]]
*1916      : Started Sanskrit school at [[aluva]]
*1918      : Visited [[Sri Lanka]] for the first time
*1924      : Visited [[Vaikom Satyagraha|vaikom satygraha]]
*"oru jaathi, oru matham, oru daivam manushyanu"
 
===[[Ayyathan Gopalan|Dr. Ayyathan Gopalan]] (1861–1948) "''Darsarji''"& "Darsar Sahib", ''Rao Sahib'' (Title honor given by British)===
 
*Social reformer widely known as '''"Darsarji"''' also as "Darsar Sahib". ("''Darsar" (ദർസർ) meaning Doctor)''
* Social reformer of Kerala, physician (doctor), writer, chief surgeon, medical school professor, superintendent and in charge of hospitals all over South India (during British rule).
*Founder of [[Sugunavardhini Movement]] '''(സുഗുണവർധിനി പ്രസ്താനം)''' and popularized [[Brahmo Samaj|Brahmosamaj]] in Kerala.
**1898        :Populated [[Brahmo Samaj]] in [[Kerala]] region (first branch at Calicut, now [[Ayathan School]] which runs under the patronage of Brahmosamaj at Jail Road, Calicut)
**1900s    : Founded the [[Sugunavardhini movement]] to foster human values in children and ignited reform activities to protect the rights of women, children, and the downtrodden sections of society such as Harijan and Dalits in Kerala while providing them with an education.
** 1900s    :Founded Lady Chandhawarkar Elementary School, educating girls and underprivileged sections of society for free. Conducted MisraBhojanam and MisraVivaham through Sugunavardhini movement and Brahmosamaj.
** 1900s    : Titled his favorite disciple Karat Govinda Menon as "[[Brahmananda Swami Sivayogi|Brahmananda" Sivayogi]] and P. Kunjiraman as "Brahmavadhi" for involvement in Brahmosamaj activities. [[Vagbhatananda|Vaghbhatananda]] was also his favorite disciple who later founded Athma vidya sangam.
**1910      : Translated ''[[Brahmo Dharma]]'' (ബ്രഹ്മധർമ്മ) (known as the Bible of [[Brahmo Samaj]]) into Malayalam, originally written by [[Debendranath Tagore]]
**1910        : Published his first musical drama book ''Saranjiniparinayam''.(സാരഞ്ജിനി പരിണയം)
**1911        : Published his second musical drama book ''Susheeladukham''.(സുശീലാദുഃഖം)
**1917      : Highest civilian award given by British government and given the honor title "[[Rai Sahib|RAOSAHIB]]" for tireless service done for society and mankind.
**1924      : Opened second branch of [[Brahmo Samaj|Brahmosamaj]] at [[Alappuzha]]
**works      : Propagated his reform activities by conducting dramas, public awareness campaigns, and also through his writings. ''Saranjiniparinayam & Susheeladukham'' (musical drama), ''Plaguefarse'' (drama) were his famous dramas which were put on by [[Vaidyaratnam P. S. Warrier|Kottakkal P.S.Warier]] nadaka sangam (''P.S.V. Natyasangham)'' throughout Kerala for many years.
**Famous disciples: [[Brahmananda Swami Sivayogi|Bhramananda swami Sivayogi]], [[Vagbhatananda|Vaghbhatanandaguru]], Brahmavadhi P. Kunjiraman
 
[[Agamananda Swami|'''<u>Agamananda Swami</u>''']] (1896–1961)
 
Krishnam Nambyathiri
 
*1935        : First [[Ashram|asram]] founded - Sanadhana Dharma Vidhyarthi Sangam
*1936        : Established Kerala unit of Sree Rama Krishnasram
*1900s      : Active member of [[Ramakrishna Mission|Ramakrishna mission]] in Kerala unit
*1900s      : Started Sanskrit school Brahmanandodayam
*1900s      : Started the magazine 'Prabudha Keralam'
 
'''<u>[[Ananda Theerthan]]</u>''' (1905–1987)
 
Anada Shenoy
 
* 1900s    : Direct disciple of [[Narayana Guru|Sree Narayana Guru]]
*1933      : Founder of Jathi Nashini Sabha
* 1933      : first president of Jathi Nashini sabha was [[K. Kelappan]].
 
'''<u>[[Brahmananda shiva yogi]] / Karat Govinda menon</u>''' (1852–1929)
 
'Guru of Atheists', purusha simham, Swami of [[alathur]]
 
* Born at [[Palakkad district|Palakkad]]
* Started his reform activities through [[Brahmo Samaj|Brahmosamaj]] founded by [[Ayyathan Gopalan|Dr. Ayyathan Gopalan]]. [[Ayyathan Gopalan|Dr. Gopalan]] titled Karat Govinda menon as Brahmananda Sivayogi for his tireless service done through [[Brahmo Samaj|Brahmosamaj.]] Sivayogi was one of the favorite disciples of Dr. Gopalan.
*1893      : Founded 'Siddha rasam' at [[Alathur]]
*1899      : ''Stree vidya poshini'' book to spread awareness of women's education
*1918      : Formed Ananda Maha Sabha
*1900s    : Founded "Ananda Matham" religion
* 1900s    : Famous disciple - [[Vagbhatananda|Vagbatanandan]]
 
[[Vagbhatananda|'''<u>Vagbhatanandan / V.K. Gurukkal</u>''']] (1885–1939)
 
Vyleri kunjikannan, balaguru
 
*Born in Patyam, [[Kannur district|Kannur]]
* Started his reform activities through [[Brahmo Samaj|Brahmosamaj]] founded by [[Ayyathan Gopalan|Dr. Ayyathan Gopalan]] in the year 1898 at Calicut. [[Vagbhatananda|Vaghbhatananda]] was the favorite disciple of Dr. Gopalan who wrote the book ''Kausallya Gopalan'' as a tribute to Kausallyammal, wife of [[Ayyathan Gopalan|Dr. Gopalan]], who was the backbone behind his reform activities.
* 1906      : Tathva prakashika Ashramam [[Kozhikode district|Kozhikode]]
*1917      : Founded Athma vidya sangam at [[Vatakara]], whose slogan was ''"unaruvin, aghileshane smarippin, kshanamezunnelpin, aneethiyod ethirpin"''
*1921      : Abhinava keralam The journal of Atma vidya sangam
*1900s    : Became disciple of [[Narayana Guru|Sree Narayana Guru]]<nowiki/>his
*1900s    : '''founder of ULCCS''' (uraalunkal Labour Contract Coperative Society)  CurrentlyThe Largest Labour contract in India
*1927      : '''Preethi Bhojanam'''
*works    : ''Abhinava keralam, adyathma yudham, atma vidya kahalam,''    ''Prarthananjali,  kotiyoor ulsava paatu, shivayogi vilasam,''
 
[[Arattupuzha Velayudha Panicker|'''<u>Arattuppuzha Velayudha Panicker</u>''']] (1825–1874)
 
kallissery Velayudha Chekavar, [[panicker]] Title was given by [[List of Maharajas of Travancore|Maharaja of Travancore]],
 
He actually belongs to [[Ezhava|Ezhava community]]
 
*1860      : Founded "'''Kallissery Kadhakali Yogam'''" art form to '''break the savarna [[monopoly]]'''.
*1800s    : '''Mukkuthi agitation'''
*1800s    : '''Achipudava agitation''' at [[Kayamkulam]]
*1874      : Got killed by Upper caste men during a boat travel at [[Kayamkulam]].
 
 
'''<u>[[Kurumban Daivathan]]</u>''' (1880–1927)
 
Naduvathamman
 
* 1917      : Hindu Pulaya Samajam
*1900s      : Navodhansthinte surya thejass (Babu Thomas)
 
'''<u>[[Pampady John Joseph|Pampadi John joseph]]</u>''' (1887–1940)
 
*1921        : Founded Travancore cheramar maha sabha
*1900s      : Magazine Sadhu jana Doothan
*1900s      : Cheruma Boy book
 
[[C. V. Kunhiraman|'''<u>C. V. Kunhiraman</u>''']] (1871–1949)
 
*1911        : Kerala Koumudi from [[mayyanad]], ideas of [[Narayana Guru|Guru]] published first time in koumudi
*1900s      : Ezhava koumudi
* "openion is not an iron pestle"
 
'''<u>[[Ayyankali|Mahathma Ayyankali]]</u>''' (1863–1941)
 
[[Mahatma Gandhi|Ghandiji]] called him 'pulaya raja' and 'untiring warrior', [[Indira Gandhi]] called him 'Great son of India',
 
'Aali kathiya theepori', Father of modern Dalit, known as Kerala's [[Spartacus]].
 
*born at [[venganoor]]
*1893      : '''Villu vandi samaram''' (right to use the public roads by the lower cast)
*1904      : Started school for pulays at [[venganoor]].
*1907      : '''Sadhujana paripalana sangam'''
*1909      : South India's First '''organized rebellion (karshaka samaram)'''
*1911      : First [[Harijan]] member to enroll in [[Sree Moolam Popular Assembly|Sree moolam praja sabha]]
*1915      : Leader of '''Kallu mala Samaram''' '''(perinaatu lahala)'''  (right to use ornaments other than stone-made ornaments by the lower cast)
*1915        : Leader of '''Thonnooramandu samaram (ooruttambalam lahala / pulaya lahala)'''  (right to study along with upper cast children)
*1916        : '''Kandala lahala''' ( ayyankali fired the school at ooruttambalam,  where He tried to get admission for a lower caste girl named Panchami)
*1980        : [[Indira Gandhi]] unveiled Ayyankali Statue at [[vellayambalam]], architect Ezra David.
 
'''<u>[[Padmanabhan Palpu|Dr. Padmanabhan Palpu]]</u>''' (1863–1950)
 
Padmanabhan, 'Political father of Ezhava community'
 
*1800s      : '''First Medical graduate from Ezhava community'''
*1800s      : Served as Jail superintent in [[Mysore]]
*1882        : Met [[Swami Vivekananda|Swami vivekananda]] at [[Mysore]].
*1800s      : The book " Treatment of Thiyyas in travancore"
*1891        : '''The third signature in Malayali memorial''' (Mass petition to [[Moolam Thirunal|Sree moolam maharaja]])
*1896        : Founded Greater Ezhava association
*1896        : '''Founded 'Travancore Ezhava Sabha''''
*1896        : Sep 3, '''Ezhava Memorial''' was submitted to [[Moolam Thirunal|Moolam thirunnal]] (signed by 13176 members)
*1900        : '''Second Ezhava Memorial''' was Submitted to [[George Curzon, 1st Marquess Curzon of Kedleston|Lord Curzon]]
*1903        : First vice president of [[Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam|SNDP]]
*1900s      : '''Malabar economic Union was founded.'''
*1900s      : [[Nataraja Guru]], son of Dr. Palpu, founded the Sree Narayana Gurukulam.
* 1950        : Died on 25 January the day before Republic Day.
 
'''<u>[[Kumaran Asan|Kumaranasan]]</u>'''(1873–1924)
 
kumaru, sneha gayakan, ashaya gambheeran, leelavathi called him 'divya kokilam',
 
[[Joseph Mundassery|Joseph mundassery]] called him '''Viplavathinte Shukra nakshatram.'''
 
*Born in [[Thiruvananthapuram|Kayikkara]]
*1907      : '''Veena poov'''
*1909      : First poet to become member of '''travancore legislative council.'''
*1922      : Only poet to become Mahakavi without writing a Mahakaavyam.
*1924      : Last work " Karuna "
*1924      : Died in accident of the 'redeemer' boat in [[Pallana|pallana river]]
*Works    : '''Duravastha (aboutmalabar kalapam)'''  leela, prarodhanam, chandala bikshuki
 
[[Sahodaran Ayyappan|'''<u>Sahodaran Ayyappan / K. Ayyappan</u>''']] (1889–1968)
 
*Born in [[Cherai]], [[Vypin|vypin, ernakulam]].
*1917    : Sahodara sangam
*1917    : '''Misra bhojanam''' under sahodara sangam at [[cherai]]
*1900s    : Became disciple of [[Narayana Guru|Sree Narayana Guru]]
*1900s    : '''Formation of Vidya poshini sabha'''
*1938    : '''Socialist party Established'''
*1964    : Sree Narayana Sevika Samajam in [[Aluva]].
*Weeklies : Velakkaran, yukthivaadi, sahodaran
*Works    : Kaasi mahatmyam, sahodari kurathi.
*" No caste, No religion, No god for man."
 
'''<u>[[Pandit Karuppan]]</u>'''(1885–1939)
 
shankaran, sahithya kudeeram, [[Abraham Lincoln|Lincoln]] of Kerala,
 
[[Kerala Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran|kerala varma]] called him 'vidwan', [[Kingdom of Cochin|maharaja of cochin]] called him 'Kavi thilakam'.
 
*Born in [[Cheranallur|cheranalloor]], ernakulam
* 1904      : Wrote '''"Jathikkummi"''' first book in kerala to '''criticise the [[Caste|caste system]].'''
*1907      : '''Found Araya samajam'''
*1925      : Nominated as a member of the cochin [[Legislative council]].
 
'''<u>[[T. K. Madhavan|T.K. Madhavan]]</u>''' (1885–1930)
 
"Megha Jyothis"
 
*1902      : Ezhava association was started
*1900s      : The founder of Temple entry movement
*1900s      : Undeniable leader of '''Eradication of untouchability'''
*1915      : '''Started Deshabhimani News Paper''' From [[Kollam]]
*1923      : Only Malayali to '''attend [[Indian National Congress|INC]] session at [[Kakinada|Kakkinada]],'''    Presented a resolution on Eradication of untouchability.
*1924        : '''Main leader of [[Vaikom Satyagraha|Vaikkom Satyagraha]].'''
 
'''<u>[[Vakkom Moulavi|Vakkom Abdul Khadar Moulavi]]</u>''' (1873–1932)
 
The father of Muslim renaissance in Kerala
 
*1905      : '''[[Swadeshabhimani (newspaper)|swadeshabhimani]] news paper''' started from Anjutheng, [[Thiruvananthapuram|tvm]] on Jan 19
*1906      : Magazine Muslim
*1918      : Magazine Al-Islam
*1922      : Formed '''Kerala Muslim Aikya Sangham''' at [[Kodungallur]], thrissur
*1931      : Formed Islamic Publishing House.
*1931      : '''Magazine Deepika'''
 
* 1900s    : Formed '''Islam Dharma Paripalana Sangham''' based on SNDP model.
*1900s    : Formed Dharma Poshini sabha
*works    : Quran Translation, Islam matha sidhantha Samgraham, dau-u-saheb
 
[[Swadeshabhimani Ramakrishna Pillai|'''<u>Swadeshabhimani Ramakrishna pillai</u>''']] (1878–1916)
 
Keralan (pen name)
 
*1800s      : Became first editor of Magazine Malayali
*1906        : Became editor of '''Swadeshabhimani News paper'''
*1910        : '''Elected to [[Sree Moolam Popular Assembly|Sree Moolam praja sabha]]''' from [[Neyyattinkara]]
*1910        : Deported to [[Tirunelveli|Thirunalveli]] on Sep 26 by Diwan - [[P. Rajagopalachari|P Rajagopalachari]] for criticising News against him and also for writing against govt. at the Time of [[Moolam Thirunal|Moolam thirunnal]]. Newspaper was banned
*Works      : '''Biography of [[Karl Marx|Karl marx]] & [[Mahatma Gandhi|Gandhiji]]''' first time in Malayalam,  auto Biography Ente Naadukadathal, vrithantha pathra pravarthanam (considered as the [[Bible]] of Kerala [[Journalism]])
 
'''<u>[[K. Kelappan]]</u>'''  (1889–1971)
 
'''<u>[[A. K. Gopalan|A K Gopalan]]</u>''' (1904-1977) AKG


*Born in [[Peralasseri|Perelassery]]
== Major events ==
*1931        : Volunteer captain of [[Guruvayur Satyagraha|'''Guruvayoor Satyagraha''']]
*1936        : '''Pattini jatha (kannur to madras)'''
*1937        : '''Malabar jatha (calicut to Travancore)'''
*1900s      : First leader of opposition in Loksabha
*1958        : '''First [[Indian Coffee House|Indian coffie House]] started'''
*1960        : '''Karshaka jatha / peasant march (kazargod to travancore)'''
*1900s      : Crusader of downtrodden
* 1900s      : Ente jeevitha kadha, in the cause of the people,(auto biography)    manninu vendi, ente poorvakala smaranakal,


==See also ==
# [[Channar revolt]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Channar Revolt: Using Clothing As A Tool Of Repression |url=https://clpr.org.in/blog/the-channar-revolt-using-clothing-as-a-tool-of-repression/ |access-date=2024-12-11 |website=Centre for Law & Policy Research |language=en-US}}</ref>
*[[Mithavaadi Krishnan]]
# Consecration at Aruvippuram <ref>{{Citation |title=Ezhava Siva |date=2024-10-14 |work=Wikipedia |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ezhava_Siva |access-date=2024-12-11 |language=en}}</ref>
*[[Narayana Guru|Sree Narayana Guru]]
# Formation of [[Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam]]<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Irschick |first=Eugene F. |last2=Jeffrey |first2=Robin |date=1977 |title=The Decline of Nayar Dominance. Society and Politics in Travancore, 1847-1908. |url=https://doi.org/10.2307/2756149 |journal=Pacific Affairs |volume=50 |issue=1 |pages=150 |doi=10.2307/2756149 |issn=0030-851X|url-access=subscription }}</ref>
*[[Padmanabhan Palpu|Dr. Palpu]]
# Villuvandi Samaram
*[[Kumaran Asan|Kumaranasan]]
# [[Kallumala Samaram]]<ref>{{Citation |title=Kallumala Samaram |date=2024-01-11 |work=Wikipedia |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kallumala_Samaram |access-date=2024-12-11 |language=en}}</ref>
*[[Ayyathan Gopalan|Rao Sahib Dr. Ayyathan Gopalan]]
# Education agitation by Mahatma Ayyankali <ref>{{Cite book |title=Life as a Dalit: views from the bottom on caste in India |date=2013 |publisher=Sage Publications India Pvt Ltd |isbn=978-81-321-1777-3 |editor-last=Channa |editor-first=Subhadra |location=Thousand Oaks}}</ref>
*[[Moorkoth Kumaran]]
# [[Vaikom Satyagraha]]<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ranjani |first=Lalitha |date=2023-03-30 |title=Remembering Vaikom Satyagraha: A movement that spearheaded social reforms in two States |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/remembering-vaikom-satyagraha-a-movement-that-spearheaded-social-reforms-in-tn-kerala/article66679378.ece |access-date=2024-12-11 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
*[[Brahmananda Swami Sivayogi]]
# [[Guruvayur Satyagraha|Gurvayoor Satyagraha]]


*[[Ayyankali]]
==See also==
*[[Chattampi Swamikal]]
*[[Ayya Vaikundar]]
*[[Pandit Karuppan]]
*[[Arattupuzha Velayudha Panicker]]
*[[Caste system in Kerala]]
*[[Caste system in Kerala]]
*[[Kerala model]]


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}3. R.Ponnu, Sri Vaikunda Swamigal and the struggle for Social Equality in South India, Madurai, 2000.
{{Reflist}}
* R.Ponnu, Sri Vaikunda Swamigal and the struggle for Social Equality in South India, Madurai, 2000.


[[Category:Anti-caste movements]]
[[Category:Anti-caste movements]]
[[Category:Social history of Kerala]]
[[Category:Social history of Kerala]]

Latest revision as of 02:13, 10 February 2026


Template:Renaissance of Kerala

The reformation movement in Kerala refers to a socio-cultural shift that began in the late 19th century, resulting in significant transformations in the social fabric of the southern Indian state of Kerala.

Background[edit | edit source]

The foundations of social change in Kerala can be traced back to the 16th century. The emergence of the Bhakti movement and the development of the modern Malayalam language and the influence of figures like Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan led to the breaking of Brahmin dominance over literature and knowledge.[citation needed]

The arrival of European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and English, played a significant role as catalysts for these changes. The arrival of missionaries from Europe contributed to the establishment of educational institutions in Kerala.

The political landscape of Kerala underwent significant changes with the establishment of centralized monarchies in Travancore and Cochin, leading to the decline of the feudal order. The Mysorean invasion of Kerala (1766–1792) further disrupted the existing caste hierarchy. Although the Mysoreans attempted to establish an Islamic state in Malabar, their advances were ultimately thwarted by the British.[1][2]

Unlike the four-fold varna division seen in other parts of India, Kerala's social hierarchy was based on caste. The Malayali Brahmins occupied the top priestly class.[3][4][5] Apart from the Hindu Brahmins, all other castes, were considered lower in hierarchy. These castes had to abide untouchability and ritualistic pollution norms enforced by the upper castes. Some castes like Nair were exploited by Namboothiri Brahmins as their servants and through exploitative relationships. Nairs were not allowed access to education by the Namboothiri community.[6] Though the Namboothiris held the highest position in Kerala society from the 12th to the 20th century, their women were exploited by Namboothiri men. This included child marriages in which young girls were married to very old Namboothiri men, and the confinement of women within their homes, denying them freedom to go outside.[7][8]

Prominent reformist leaders such as Narayana Guru and Ayyankali hailed from castes that were deemed lower in the social hierarchy of ancient Kerala. Consequently, leaders like Guru and Ayyankali focused on the abolition of the caste system rather than its reformation.[9]

The winds of reformation were set in by the Syrian Christian priest (kathanar) St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara. The first Sanskrit schools for the lower caste Hindus were set up by Chavara in 1846.[10] The revolutionary concept of a school along with every church (palliyum pallikoodavum) was also implemented by Chavara.[11] He also initiated the practice of a mid-day meal scheme in schools.[12] In contrast to northern India, the reformation in Kerala was driven by the lower castes.

Leaders[edit | edit source]

Prominent leaders of Kerala reformation include :

Major events[edit | edit source]

  1. Channar revolt[18]
  2. Consecration at Aruvippuram [19]
  3. Formation of Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam[20]
  4. Villuvandi Samaram
  5. Kallumala Samaram[21]
  6. Education agitation by Mahatma Ayyankali [22]
  7. Vaikom Satyagraha[23]
  8. Gurvayoor Satyagraha

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Why Christo-Racist Nationalism and Anti-Muslim Rhetoric Are Gaining Ground in Kerala". The Wire. Archived from the original on 3 October 2022. Retrieved 15 June 2021.
  2. ↑ Innes, Charles Alexander (1908). Madras District Gazetteers Malabar (Volume I). Madras Government.
  3. ↑ F. Fawcett (1 February 2004). Nâyars of Malabar. Asian Educational Services. p. 185. ISBN 9788120601710.
  4. ↑ A. Sreedhara Menon (1976). Kerala District Gazetteers: Palghat. Department of Education, Superintendent of Government Presses, Kerala. p. 159.
  5. ↑ Sebastian R. Prange (3 May 2018). Monsoon Islam: Trade and Faith on the Medieval Malabar Coast. Cambridge University Press. p. 167. ISBN 9781108424387.
  6. ↑ Sasilekha S.S.; Joel, T. Wins, Dr. (May 2019). "Namboothiri – Nair Alliance: Is It Holy or Not?" (PDF). Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research. 6 (5): 249–255. ISSN 2349-5162.
  7. ↑ Santhan, Sunitha (July–December 2022). "From Subjugation to Liberation: The Plight of Namboodiri Women and the Reform Movements in Kerala". ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts. 3 (2). ShodhKosh: 1082–1088. doi:10.29121/shodhkosh.v3.i2.2022.4194. ISSN 2582-7472. Retrieved 27 October 2025.
  8. ↑ Manjalloor, Dr. Michael (November 2015). "Case Study of the Dalits of Kerala, India" (PDF). CORE (research service). Retrieved 24 December 2022.
  9. ↑ PANIKKAR, K. N. (15 February 2017). "Three phases of Indian renaissance". Frontline.thehindu.com. Archived from the original on 28 April 2021. Retrieved 4 March 2019.
  10. ↑ "Column | A Malayali saint, Sanskrit school and socially inclusive education". Column | A Malayali saint, Sanskrit school and socially inclusive education. Retrieved 31 December 2024.
  11. ↑ "Kuriakose Elias Chavara", Wikipedia, 15 December 2024, retrieved 31 December 2024
  12. ↑ Roshni (2 March 2017). "malayalam: Fr. Kuriakose Elias Chavara as an eminent social reformer". malayalam. Retrieved 31 December 2024.
  13. ↑ "Pandit Karuppan", Wikipedia, 22 October 2024, retrieved 11 December 2024
  14. ↑ "കുറുമ്പൻ ദൈവത്താൻ", വിക്കിപീഡിയ (in മലയാളം), 10 September 2022, retrieved 11 December 2024
  15. ↑ "Kavarikulam Kandan Kumaran", Wikipedia, 29 June 2024, retrieved 11 December 2024
  16. ↑ Sekher, Dr Ajay S. (18 February 2018). "Poykayil Appachan, practitioner of critique and co-option". www.deccanchronicle.com. Retrieved 11 December 2024.
  17. ↑ Oommen, George (28 March 2019), Fuchs, Martin; Dalmia, Vasudha (eds.), "Dalit Liberative Identity as Amalgam: Kerala's Pulaya Christians and Communist Movement in the Mid-Twentieth Century", Religious Interactions in Modern India, Oxford University Press, p. 0, ISBN 978-0-19-808168-5, retrieved 11 December 2024{{citation}}: CS1 maint: work parameter with ISBN (link)
  18. ↑ "The Channar Revolt: Using Clothing As A Tool Of Repression". Centre for Law & Policy Research. Retrieved 11 December 2024.
  19. ↑ "Ezhava Siva", Wikipedia, 14 October 2024, retrieved 11 December 2024
  20. ↑ Irschick, Eugene F.; Jeffrey, Robin (1977). "The Decline of Nayar Dominance. Society and Politics in Travancore, 1847-1908". Pacific Affairs. 50 (1): 150. doi:10.2307/2756149. ISSN 0030-851X.
  21. ↑ "Kallumala Samaram", Wikipedia, 11 January 2024, retrieved 11 December 2024
  22. ↑ Channa, Subhadra, ed. (2013). Life as a Dalit: views from the bottom on caste in India. Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications India Pvt Ltd. ISBN 978-81-321-1777-3.
  23. ↑ Ranjani, Lalitha (30 March 2023). "Remembering Vaikom Satyagraha: A movement that spearheaded social reforms in two States". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 11 December 2024.
  • R.Ponnu, Sri Vaikunda Swamigal and the struggle for Social Equality in South India, Madurai, 2000.
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