19th and 20th Century Social Reform Movements in Tamil Nadu | Tamil Nadu State PSC (TNPSC): Preparation - TNPSC (Tamil Nadu) PDF Download

 Page 1


42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
Page 2


42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
Page 3


42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
Important teachings of V allalar:
1. Form of God is Arutperunjothi (Supreme grace of  light).
2. Love is the master key to spirituality.
3. Religious ceremony has no meaning.
4. Meditation is the form of prayer.
5. Realisation of truth in all religions.
6. Caste and other social divisions have no meaning.
Services of the Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam: This
Sangam aimed for the religious unity and communal harmony in the
society.  He severely condemned the rituals and caste beliefs. He
promoted the universal love and brotherhood.  He believed hunger
and poverty are the greatest ills of the society.
In order to  conduct prayer, he built a Sathyagnana Sabha.  He also
founded Sathya Darma Sala at V adalur for feeding the poor.  The
Sathya Dharma Sala provides food to everyone, irrespective of caste
and religion throughout the year.  V allalar showed his love and mercy
not only on human beings but also on plants, insects, birds and animals.
This is called “Jeeva Karunya” (Mercy to life)
NON BRAHMIN MOVEMENT
In the beginning of the 20
th
 century communal clashes occurred
between the brahmins and the non-brahmins.  The brahmins occupied
almost all the important key posts in the administration.  The British
gave them jobs though they constituted only 3% of the total population.
Origin of the Justice party: The non-brahmins were not given
proper position in the Government and due recognition in the society .
Hence the non-brahmins of Tamilnadu joined together under the
leadership of Dr.Natesa Mudaliyar.  The first meeting was held at his
house in Triplicane, Chennai in 1912.  This resulted in the formation of
“Chennai Dravida Sangam”.  He opened a hostel for non-brahmin
students in 1912 at Madras.
and formed South Indian Liberal Federation in 1916.  They published
‘Dravidian’ in T amil, ‘ Andhra Prakasika” in T elugu and “Justice” in
English.  Later in 1917, this association was called as the Justice Party .
South Indian Liberal Federation was renamed as Justice Party.
In the 1920 elections, Justice Party came to power.  Subburayalu
Reddiar became the Chief Minister of the Madras Presidency.  After
1923 elections, Justice party Ministry was formed. In the 1926
elections the Justice Party failed miserably .  Gradually the party lost its
power and met a final blow in the 1937 elections.
Achievements of the Justice party:
1. During  the  Justice  Party  Government, all   the  communities
shared  the  official   and   administrative benefits. The Justice
party  for the   first time issued  communal G.O. in 1921  and
1922 .
2. The  staff  selection Board  was  established in  1924   for  the
selection  of  the Govenment officials without any  bias. On the
basis of this, for the first time in India, Public Service Commission
was established in 1929.
3. To   encourage  higher   education    Andhra   University    and
Annamalai  University were started in 1929.
4. The  Hindu   Religious  Endowment Act was  passed in  1921.
Accordingly, non-brahmins were to be appointed as Archagas
in the temple.
5. This party worked  for the welfare of   women.  Hence by the
Act of 1921, women were given V oting rights.
Fall of Justice party:
The Justice Party lost its power and popularity in due course of
time.  The party was in power when the country faced severe economic
depression.  The party participated in the ministry and adminstration
when there was an opposition against the British Imperialism.  So the
44
45
Page 4


42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
Important teachings of V allalar:
1. Form of God is Arutperunjothi (Supreme grace of  light).
2. Love is the master key to spirituality.
3. Religious ceremony has no meaning.
4. Meditation is the form of prayer.
5. Realisation of truth in all religions.
6. Caste and other social divisions have no meaning.
Services of the Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam: This
Sangam aimed for the religious unity and communal harmony in the
society.  He severely condemned the rituals and caste beliefs. He
promoted the universal love and brotherhood.  He believed hunger
and poverty are the greatest ills of the society.
In order to  conduct prayer, he built a Sathyagnana Sabha.  He also
founded Sathya Darma Sala at V adalur for feeding the poor.  The
Sathya Dharma Sala provides food to everyone, irrespective of caste
and religion throughout the year.  V allalar showed his love and mercy
not only on human beings but also on plants, insects, birds and animals.
This is called “Jeeva Karunya” (Mercy to life)
NON BRAHMIN MOVEMENT
In the beginning of the 20
th
 century communal clashes occurred
between the brahmins and the non-brahmins.  The brahmins occupied
almost all the important key posts in the administration.  The British
gave them jobs though they constituted only 3% of the total population.
Origin of the Justice party: The non-brahmins were not given
proper position in the Government and due recognition in the society .
Hence the non-brahmins of Tamilnadu joined together under the
leadership of Dr.Natesa Mudaliyar.  The first meeting was held at his
house in Triplicane, Chennai in 1912.  This resulted in the formation of
“Chennai Dravida Sangam”.  He opened a hostel for non-brahmin
students in 1912 at Madras.
and formed South Indian Liberal Federation in 1916.  They published
‘Dravidian’ in T amil, ‘ Andhra Prakasika” in T elugu and “Justice” in
English.  Later in 1917, this association was called as the Justice Party .
South Indian Liberal Federation was renamed as Justice Party.
In the 1920 elections, Justice Party came to power.  Subburayalu
Reddiar became the Chief Minister of the Madras Presidency.  After
1923 elections, Justice party Ministry was formed. In the 1926
elections the Justice Party failed miserably .  Gradually the party lost its
power and met a final blow in the 1937 elections.
Achievements of the Justice party:
1. During  the  Justice  Party  Government, all   the  communities
shared  the  official   and   administrative benefits. The Justice
party  for the   first time issued  communal G.O. in 1921  and
1922 .
2. The  staff  selection Board  was  established in  1924   for  the
selection  of  the Govenment officials without any  bias. On the
basis of this, for the first time in India, Public Service Commission
was established in 1929.
3. To   encourage  higher   education    Andhra   University    and
Annamalai  University were started in 1929.
4. The  Hindu   Religious  Endowment Act was  passed in  1921.
Accordingly, non-brahmins were to be appointed as Archagas
in the temple.
5. This party worked  for the welfare of   women.  Hence by the
Act of 1921, women were given V oting rights.
Fall of Justice party:
The Justice Party lost its power and popularity in due course of
time.  The party was in power when the country faced severe economic
depression.  The party participated in the ministry and adminstration
when there was an opposition against the British Imperialism.  So the
44
45
Important teachings of V allalar:
1. Form of God is Arutperunjothi (Supreme grace of  light).
2. Love is the master key to spirituality.
3. Religious ceremony has no meaning.
4. Meditation is the form of prayer.
5. Realisation of truth in all religions.
6. Caste and other social divisions have no meaning.
Services of the Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam: This
Sangam aimed for the religious unity and communal harmony in the
society.  He severely condemned the rituals and caste beliefs. He
promoted the universal love and brotherhood.  He believed hunger
and poverty are the greatest ills of the society.
In order to  conduct prayer, he built a Sathyagnana Sabha.  He also
founded Sathya Darma Sala at V adalur for feeding the poor.  The
Sathya Dharma Sala provides food to everyone, irrespective of caste
and religion throughout the year.  V allalar showed his love and mercy
not only on human beings but also on plants, insects, birds and animals.
This is called “Jeeva Karunya” (Mercy to life)
NON BRAHMIN MOVEMENT
In the beginning of the 20
th
 century communal clashes occurred
between the brahmins and the non-brahmins.  The brahmins occupied
almost all the important key posts in the administration.  The British
gave them jobs though they constituted only 3% of the total population.
Origin of the Justice party: The non-brahmins were not given
proper position in the Government and due recognition in the society .
Hence the non-brahmins of Tamilnadu joined together under the
leadership of Dr.Natesa Mudaliyar.  The first meeting was held at his
house in Triplicane, Chennai in 1912.  This resulted in the formation of
“Chennai Dravida Sangam”.  He opened a hostel for non-brahmin
students in 1912 at Madras.
and formed South Indian Liberal Federation in 1916.  They published
‘Dravidian’ in T amil, ‘ Andhra Prakasika” in T elugu and “Justice” in
English.  Later in 1917, this association was called as the Justice Party .
South Indian Liberal Federation was renamed as Justice Party.
In the 1920 elections, Justice Party came to power.  Subburayalu
Reddiar became the Chief Minister of the Madras Presidency.  After
1923 elections, Justice party Ministry was formed. In the 1926
elections the Justice Party failed miserably .  Gradually the party lost its
power and met a final blow in the 1937 elections.
Achievements of the Justice party:
1. During  the  Justice  Party  Government, all   the  communities
shared  the  official   and   administrative benefits. The Justice
party  for the   first time issued  communal G.O. in 1921  and
1922 .
2. The  staff  selection Board  was  established in  1924   for  the
selection  of  the Govenment officials without any  bias. On the
basis of this, for the first time in India, Public Service Commission
was established in 1929.
3. To   encourage  higher   education    Andhra   University    and
Annamalai  University were started in 1929.
4. The  Hindu   Religious  Endowment Act was  passed in  1921.
Accordingly, non-brahmins were to be appointed as Archagas
in the temple.
5. This party worked  for the welfare of   women.  Hence by the
Act of 1921, women were given V oting rights.
Fall of Justice party:
The Justice Party lost its power and popularity in due course of
time.  The party was in power when the country faced severe economic
depression.  The party participated in the ministry and adminstration
when there was an opposition against the British Imperialism.  So the
44
45
Page 5


42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
42
In the 19
th
 century the society was influenced by radical thinkers
due to the impact of western education.  Tamilnadu showed the
tendency for social change and reform movement.  Many social evils
like sati, poligamy , child marriage, untouchability , female infanticide
were practiced in the state.  In order to eradicate these social evils
many social reform movements emerged in T amilnadu.  Following were
the factors responsible for the emergence of reform movement.
Causes for the social reform movements
1. Western education: The spread of W estern education created
awareness in the minds of the people.  The ideas of equality , democracy
and liberty had influenced the people of Tamilnadu.  They started
questioning the superstitious beliefs and social evils that prevailed in
our society.  This led to the social reform movements in T amilnadu.
2. Caste system: Tamil society was highly influenced by the
‘V arnashrama’ system.  Accordingly , people belonging to the higher
castes ill treated and humilated the backward and depressed class
people. So the reformers wanted to free them from the miseries.
43
3. Economic condition: The British rule in T amilnadu drained the
economy to a great extent.  Further they exported the raw materials
like cotton and iron to their county .  So this policy had suppressed the
development of trade, commerce and small industries of Tamilnadu.
This kind of economic exploitation also led to the reform movement in
T amilnadu.
4. Influence of European movements and ideas : The
Renaissance, reformation, Geographical discoveries made the people
to think in the lines of equality, liberty and fraternity.  The French
revolution and the Russian revolution also influenced the people .  The
people induced by the spirit of equality, started protesting against
orthadoxy rituals and traditions in Hinduism.
5. Role of  press: The press played a dominant role in creating
awarness in the minds of the people.  It awakened the masses towards
the path of progress.
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam
 Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874):
Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam was
started by Ramalinga Adigal popularly
known as V allalar.  He was born in 1823
at Chinnamarudur near Chidambaram.  He
possessed spritual experiences from his
childhood onwards.  He loved solitude and
spent most of his time in the temple. He
underwent spiritual experiences till  the age
of 23.   He lived near Mint in Madras.
Now Mint is called  V allalar Nagar .  After
his saintly life, he moved to V adalur and
started a socio-religious organisation in
1867.  This was known as Samarsa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam.
Ramalinga Adigal
Important teachings of V allalar:
1. Form of God is Arutperunjothi (Supreme grace of  light).
2. Love is the master key to spirituality.
3. Religious ceremony has no meaning.
4. Meditation is the form of prayer.
5. Realisation of truth in all religions.
6. Caste and other social divisions have no meaning.
Services of the Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam: This
Sangam aimed for the religious unity and communal harmony in the
society.  He severely condemned the rituals and caste beliefs. He
promoted the universal love and brotherhood.  He believed hunger
and poverty are the greatest ills of the society.
In order to  conduct prayer, he built a Sathyagnana Sabha.  He also
founded Sathya Darma Sala at V adalur for feeding the poor.  The
Sathya Dharma Sala provides food to everyone, irrespective of caste
and religion throughout the year.  V allalar showed his love and mercy
not only on human beings but also on plants, insects, birds and animals.
This is called “Jeeva Karunya” (Mercy to life)
NON BRAHMIN MOVEMENT
In the beginning of the 20
th
 century communal clashes occurred
between the brahmins and the non-brahmins.  The brahmins occupied
almost all the important key posts in the administration.  The British
gave them jobs though they constituted only 3% of the total population.
Origin of the Justice party: The non-brahmins were not given
proper position in the Government and due recognition in the society .
Hence the non-brahmins of Tamilnadu joined together under the
leadership of Dr.Natesa Mudaliyar.  The first meeting was held at his
house in Triplicane, Chennai in 1912.  This resulted in the formation of
“Chennai Dravida Sangam”.  He opened a hostel for non-brahmin
students in 1912 at Madras.
and formed South Indian Liberal Federation in 1916.  They published
‘Dravidian’ in T amil, ‘ Andhra Prakasika” in T elugu and “Justice” in
English.  Later in 1917, this association was called as the Justice Party .
South Indian Liberal Federation was renamed as Justice Party.
In the 1920 elections, Justice Party came to power.  Subburayalu
Reddiar became the Chief Minister of the Madras Presidency.  After
1923 elections, Justice party Ministry was formed. In the 1926
elections the Justice Party failed miserably .  Gradually the party lost its
power and met a final blow in the 1937 elections.
Achievements of the Justice party:
1. During  the  Justice  Party  Government, all   the  communities
shared  the  official   and   administrative benefits. The Justice
party  for the   first time issued  communal G.O. in 1921  and
1922 .
2. The  staff  selection Board  was  established in  1924   for  the
selection  of  the Govenment officials without any  bias. On the
basis of this, for the first time in India, Public Service Commission
was established in 1929.
3. To   encourage  higher   education    Andhra   University    and
Annamalai  University were started in 1929.
4. The  Hindu   Religious  Endowment Act was  passed in  1921.
Accordingly, non-brahmins were to be appointed as Archagas
in the temple.
5. This party worked  for the welfare of   women.  Hence by the
Act of 1921, women were given V oting rights.
Fall of Justice party:
The Justice Party lost its power and popularity in due course of
time.  The party was in power when the country faced severe economic
depression.  The party participated in the ministry and adminstration
when there was an opposition against the British Imperialism.  So the
44
45
Important teachings of V allalar:
1. Form of God is Arutperunjothi (Supreme grace of  light).
2. Love is the master key to spirituality.
3. Religious ceremony has no meaning.
4. Meditation is the form of prayer.
5. Realisation of truth in all religions.
6. Caste and other social divisions have no meaning.
Services of the Samarasa Sutha Sanmarga Sangam: This
Sangam aimed for the religious unity and communal harmony in the
society.  He severely condemned the rituals and caste beliefs. He
promoted the universal love and brotherhood.  He believed hunger
and poverty are the greatest ills of the society.
In order to  conduct prayer, he built a Sathyagnana Sabha.  He also
founded Sathya Darma Sala at V adalur for feeding the poor.  The
Sathya Dharma Sala provides food to everyone, irrespective of caste
and religion throughout the year.  V allalar showed his love and mercy
not only on human beings but also on plants, insects, birds and animals.
This is called “Jeeva Karunya” (Mercy to life)
NON BRAHMIN MOVEMENT
In the beginning of the 20
th
 century communal clashes occurred
between the brahmins and the non-brahmins.  The brahmins occupied
almost all the important key posts in the administration.  The British
gave them jobs though they constituted only 3% of the total population.
Origin of the Justice party: The non-brahmins were not given
proper position in the Government and due recognition in the society .
Hence the non-brahmins of Tamilnadu joined together under the
leadership of Dr.Natesa Mudaliyar.  The first meeting was held at his
house in Triplicane, Chennai in 1912.  This resulted in the formation of
“Chennai Dravida Sangam”.  He opened a hostel for non-brahmin
students in 1912 at Madras.
and formed South Indian Liberal Federation in 1916.  They published
‘Dravidian’ in T amil, ‘ Andhra Prakasika” in T elugu and “Justice” in
English.  Later in 1917, this association was called as the Justice Party .
South Indian Liberal Federation was renamed as Justice Party.
In the 1920 elections, Justice Party came to power.  Subburayalu
Reddiar became the Chief Minister of the Madras Presidency.  After
1923 elections, Justice party Ministry was formed. In the 1926
elections the Justice Party failed miserably .  Gradually the party lost its
power and met a final blow in the 1937 elections.
Achievements of the Justice party:
1. During  the  Justice  Party  Government, all   the  communities
shared  the  official   and   administrative benefits. The Justice
party  for the   first time issued  communal G.O. in 1921  and
1922 .
2. The  staff  selection Board  was  established in  1924   for  the
selection  of  the Govenment officials without any  bias. On the
basis of this, for the first time in India, Public Service Commission
was established in 1929.
3. To   encourage  higher   education    Andhra   University    and
Annamalai  University were started in 1929.
4. The  Hindu   Religious  Endowment Act was  passed in  1921.
Accordingly, non-brahmins were to be appointed as Archagas
in the temple.
5. This party worked  for the welfare of   women.  Hence by the
Act of 1921, women were given V oting rights.
Fall of Justice party:
The Justice Party lost its power and popularity in due course of
time.  The party was in power when the country faced severe economic
depression.  The party participated in the ministry and adminstration
when there was an opposition against the British Imperialism.  So the
44
45
party lost the mass support.  The party also lost its original disciplined
and committed leaders.  Hence it became unpopular.
Self respect movement: The brahmins dominated the
administration in the British period.  The non-brahmins were denied
their chance in the administration.  As they were treated badly, they
started a self respect movement to maintain the respect.
E.V .Ramasamy championed the cause of the Self-Respect Movement.
Life history of E.V .Ramasamy
E.V .Ramasamy popularly known as EVR/Periyar was born on 17
th
September in the year 1879 at Erode in a wealthy family.  His father
the temple.  So Periyar started his struggle against the Government of
Travancore in 1924.  But the Government impriosned him.  In spite of
this, he continued his struggle.  So the Government of Travancore
issued an order allowing the downtrodden community into the temple.
Hence Periyar was given the title “V aikom Hero”.
ii) Social reforms: The Movement severly opposed the system of
untouchability in T amilnadu. W ith the support of Justice party , the Anti-
untouchability Act was passed in 1930.  The movement also laid the
foundation for casteless society in Tamilnadu.  EVR worked for the
inter-dining by abolishing the Gurukula system at Seranmadevi near
T irunelveli.
iii) Welfare of women: The movement passed a number of
resolutions for the passing of legislations.  The most important
legislations were W idow Remarriage Act,  W omen’ s Right to property
Act, Abolition of Devadasi Act, etc.
Devadasi system: Devadasi system is one of the social evils in
T amilnadu.  According to this system, the young women were dedicated
to temples and were called ‘T emple girls’.  This highly degraded the
women. Great leaders like Periyar and Dr.Muthulakshmi Reddy
severely opposed this system.  At last with the earnest effort made by
Dr.Muthulakshmi, the system of Devadasi was abolished by the Act
of 1930.
Dowry system: One of the burning evils in Tamilnadu is Dowry
system.  In the beginning Dowry meant gifts and presents voluntarily
given to a girl by her parents at the time of marriage.  But later it is
made complusary and turned as a cruel practice.  This system lead to
female infanticide, bride burning and other cruelties against women.
Many social reformers like EVR, Dr. MuthulakshmiReddy,
Ramalinga Adigal, G.Subramaniya Iyer , Bharathi, Bharathidasan fought
was Venkatta Naicker and mother Chinna
Thayammal.  He married Nagammai at the age
of 19.  He lived a very simple life.
Emergence of self-respect movement:
EVR participated in the Non-co-operatin
Movement against the British.  He left the Indian
National Congress in 1925 at the
Kancheepuram session on the issue of communal
representation.  Then he started the self-respect movement in 1925.
He started ‘Kudiyarasu’ a T amil weekly in 1925 and ‘Revolt’ an English
Journal in 1928 to propagate his ideas.
Aims of the self-resepect movement:
i ) T o promote rational thinking, self-respect and self-confidence.
i i ) To protect the rights of the non-brahmins.
iii) T o eradicate the social evils like injustice to women.
i v ) T o abolish superstitious beliefs.
Achievements of the Self-Respect Movement
i) T emple entry movement: V aikom is a place in Kerala, where
the people of downtrodden community were prohibited to enter into
46
In the Women’s conference held at Madras in the year  1938, EVR
    was given the title “Periyar”.
47