AYYANKALI – A SOCIAL CONTRIBUTOR OF 19^TH CENTURY

Ayyankali, born on August 28, 1863, in the village of Venganoor, near Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Kerala, India, had a humble childhood. He was the first of eight children born to Ayyan and Mala, who were members of the Pulayar community.  He belonged to the Pulayar community, which was considered one of the lower castes in the traditional caste hierarchy prevalent in Kerala, India. As part of a marginalized community, Ayyankali's parents, like many others in their community, would have faced the social and economic challenges associated with their lower caste status. They likely experienced discrimination, limited access to resources, and restricted opportunities for advancement. Growing up in an environment where his community faced systemic discrimination, Ayyankali would have witnessed first-hand the struggles and injustices his parents and others faced, which likely shaped his worldview and fuelled his activism later in life.

He was an Indian politician, prominent social reformer, educator, economist, lawmaker, and revolutionary leader. He worked for the advancement of the oppressed people in the princely state of Travancore. His struggle resulted in many changes that improved the socio-political structure of Kerala. His determined and relentless efforts changed the lives of Dalits.

1. CHILDHOOD

As a child, Ayyankali grew up in a society where the lower castes faced severe discrimination and were subjected to social, economic, and educational disadvantages. The Pulayar community, including Ayyankali's family, often lived in impoverished conditions with limited opportunities for advancement. Ayyankali's childhood experiences exposed him to the harsh realities of caste-based discrimination and the social injustices faced by his community. He witnessed first-hand the denial of basic rights and access to education, restricted mobility, and the dehumanizing practice of untouchability.

Growing up in such an environment, Ayyankali developed a deep sense of empathy and a strong determination to challenge the oppressive social order. His childhood experiences likely played a significant role in shaping his later activism and his relentless pursuit of social justice for the marginalized communities. Despite the limited resources and opportunities available to him, Ayyankali displayed a keen intellect and a thirst for knowledge. He recognized the transformative power of education and its potential to uplift his community. Ayyankali's own desire for education and his experiences of being denied access to learning likely fuelled his passion to fight for educational reforms later in life.

    2. SOCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF AYYANKALI

Ayyankali was a notable social reformer and activist who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights and upliftment of marginalized communities, particularly the lower castes in Kerala, India. He played a significant role in advocating for the rights and empowerment of the lower castes, particularly the Dalits, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Driven by a strong desire for social change, Ayyankali dedicated his life to fighting against caste-based discrimination. He actively campaigned for the rights of Dalits, focusing on issues such as access to education, temple entry, and the right to wear upper-caste attire. Driven by a strong desire for social change, Ayyankali dedicated his life to fighting against caste-based discrimination. He actively campaigned for the rights of Dalits, focusing on issues such as access to education, temple entry, and the right to wear upper-caste attire.

One of Ayyankali's notable contributions was in the field of education. He established schools for Dalit children and encouraged them to attend, despite facing resistance from the upper-caste communities. Ayyankali himself learned to read and write, which was a rare accomplishment for a Dalit during that time. Ayyankali also worked towards empowering the Dalit community economically. He mobilized them to demand fair wages, better working conditions, and equal treatment. He organized strikes and protests to highlight the exploitation faced by Dalit workers in various industries. Through his efforts, Ayyankali challenged the oppressive social order and paved the way for greater social equality in Kerala. His activism inspired many others to join the struggle for social justice, and he is remembered as a prominent social reformer in the history of Kerala and India as a whole.

Education Reform: Ayyankali recognized the importance of education in uplifting the marginalized communities. He established schools for Dalit children and encouraged them to attend, despite facing resistance from the upper-caste communities. Ayyankali himself learned to read and write, setting an example for others.

Breaking Caste Barriers: Ayyankali fought against the discriminatory practices that restricted the movement and rights of Dalits. He actively campaigned for the right of Dalits to enter public spaces, including temples and public roads, which were traditionally denied to them based on their caste.

Labor and Land Reforms: Ayyankali organized and led strikes to demand fair wages and better working conditions for Dalit workers, who were often subjected to exploitation. He also fought for the redistribution of land to landless Dalit communities, aiming to address the economic disparities prevalent at that time.

Political Empowerment: Ayyankali played a crucial role in mobilizing the Dalit community politically. He formed the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS), a socio-political organization, to advocate for the rights and welfare of Dalits. Through the SJPS, Ayyankali worked towards empowering Dalits and representing their interests in the political sphere.

Social Equality: Ayyankali's relentless efforts and activism challenged the prevailing social order and promoted the principles of social equality. He aimed to eradicate caste-based discrimination and uplift the marginalized sections of society, striving for a more just and inclusive society.

    3.ESTABLISHMENT OF SCHOOLS

Ayyankali recognized the importance of education in breaking the cycle of oppression and discrimination. He established several schools specifically for Dalit children, providing them with access to education that was otherwise denied to them. These schools were aimed at addressing the educational disparities and creating opportunities for Dalit students to learn and grow.

One of Ayyankali's significant contributions was the establishment of schools for Dalit children. Recognizing the importance of education in empowering the marginalized communities, he took proactive steps to provide educational opportunities for Dalits who were traditionally denied access to learning. Ayyankali faced opposition and resistance from the upper-caste communities, who were reluctant to allow Dalit children to receive education on equal terms. However, undeterred by these challenges, he established schools specifically for Dalit children, creating spaces where they could learn and acquire knowledge.

Ayyankali himself was illiterate, but he did not want his future generations to be deprived of education. The government had opened the doors of education for all years ago. But the upper castes had the right over the school management. He used to deny the school admission of Pulayars and other Dalit children.  In 1904, Ayyankali started a movement for the education of Dalits. He opened the first school at Venganur in the same year for the education of Pulayars and other untouchables. It was the first school in Kerala, which was opened only for the study of Dalits. He was a ray of hope for the Dalits. But he could not tolerate the upper castes. They attacked the school and ransacked it. It was a big setback for Ayyankali. But the constant struggle had increased his life expectancy.

These schools served as platforms for social transformation, breaking the barriers that restricted the educational opportunities of Dalits. They aimed to empower Dalit children by equipping them with education, which would enable them to challenge the oppressive social norms and improve their socio-economic conditions.

Through the establishment of this school, Ayyankali not only provided access to education but also encouraged Dalit children to pursue learning and acquire knowledge. This act of defiance against the prevailing caste-based discrimination was a significant step towards the social upliftment of the marginalized community. Ayyankali's efforts in establishing schools played a vital role in promoting education as a means of empowerment and social change. His initiatives paved the way for future educational reforms and laid the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable educational system in Kerala.

A    4.BREAKING CASTE BARRIERS

Ayyankali was a relentless advocate for breaking caste barriers and challenging the discriminatory practices prevalent in Kerala during his time. He fought against the social norms that restricted the movement and rights of Dalits, aiming to bring about greater equality and social justice. Ayyankali played a significant role in the temple entry movement, which aimed to challenge the exclusion of Dalits from Hindu temples. He led protests and mobilized the Dalit community to demand their right to enter and worship in temples that were traditionally restricted to upper-caste individuals. His activism helped pave the way for greater inclusivity and religious equality.

Ayyankali fought for the rights of Dalits to use public roads without facing discrimination or harassment. In many areas, Dalits were restricted from using certain roads or were forced to take alternative routes to avoid upper-caste areas. Ayyankali's advocacy sought to dismantle these barriers and ensure equal access to public spaces for all. The first target of his group was to gain the right to walk along the highway and roads, which was denied to the Pulayars. Ayyankali rode a bullock cart on the roads that they were not allowed to travel. This act of rebellion spread as movement across Travancore as it was not allowed for the Pulayars to travel in a bullock cart back then. Collecting more supporters, he began to walk along highways by groups. Earlier not just to walk, but they were also forced to maintain a distance of at least 64 steps from the Nair community and 128 steps from Namboodiris. With this act of defiance, Ayyankali succeeded in destabilising the traditional order.

Anand Teltumbde in his book ‘Dalits: Past, present, and future’ has termed this incident as ‘walk for freedom’ and the consequent riots as ‘Chaliyar riots’. Post this incident in 1889, Ayyankali and his group faced an attack at Balaramapuram in Thiruvananthapuram District. The upper-caste Hindu men attacked them with arms. The blood flowed as these revolutionaries claimed their right to walk along highways.

Ayyankali worked to challenge the social norms that prohibited Dalits from participating in or attending social gatherings and festivals. He advocated for the dismantling of caste-based restrictions, allowing Dalits to participate in community events on an equal footing with others. Ayyankali's efforts to break caste barriers were not only aimed at securing equal rights for Dalits but also at challenging the deep-rooted caste-based discrimination and oppression prevalent in society. His activism and advocacy played a significant role in raising awareness about the need for social equality and paved the way for subsequent movements and reforms in Kerala. 

B.        5.LABOR AND LAND REFORMS

Ayyankali was also actively involved in advocating for labor and land reforms, recognizing the economic disparities and exploitation faced by the Dalit community. His efforts aimed to uplift the marginalized sections of society and bring about greater economic justice. Fair Wages and Working Conditions: Ayyankali organized and led strikes and protests to demand fair wages, better working conditions, and improved treatment for Dalit workers. He fought against the exploitative practices prevalent in industries such as plantations, agriculture, and manual labor. His activism aimed to secure equal rights and dignified working conditions for Dalit laborers.

Mobilizing Workers: Ayyankali played a crucial role in mobilizing Dalit workers, raising their awareness of their rights and encouraging collective action. He organized labour unions and associations, empowering workers to demand their rights and negotiate with employers for better working conditions, fair wages, and other benefits.

Land Redistribution: Ayyankali advocated for the redistribution of land to landless Dalit communities. He challenged the concentration of land ownership in the hands of a few privileged individuals and worked towards ensuring that Dalits had access to land for cultivation and livelihood. Ayyankali saw land ownership as a means of economic empowerment and aimed to address the economic disparities faced by Dalits.

Economic Empowerment: Ayyankali focused on empowering the Dalit community economically, aiming to uplift them from poverty and exploitation. Through his labor and land reform efforts, he sought to provide Dalits with greater economic opportunities, self-sufficiency, and a means to break free from the cycle of oppression and discrimination.

Ayyankali's labor and land reforms were driven by his vision of economic justice and social equality. His advocacy for fair wages, improved working conditions, and land redistribution aimed to address the systemic economic injustices faced by the Dalit community. His efforts continue to inspire movements and initiatives promoting economic empowerment and equality for marginalized communities in Kerala and beyond.

C.     6.POLITICAL EMPOWERMENT

Ayyankali played a significant role in mobilizing the Dalit community politically and advocating for their rights and welfare. His efforts in political empowerment aimed to challenge the oppressive social order and ensure that Dalits had a voice in the decision-making processes. Here are some key aspects of Ayyankali's contributions to political empowerment:

Formation of the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS): Ayyankali founded the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS) in 1907, which was a socio-political organization dedicated to promoting the interests and well-being of the Dalit community. The SJPS aimed to provide a platform for Dalits to come together, discuss issues, and collectively work towards their empowerment.

The Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS), also known as the Society for the Welfare of the Poor, was founded by Ayyankali in 1907. It was a socio-political organization dedicated to promoting the rights, welfare, and empowerment of the Dalit community in Kerala, India. The formation of SJPS marked a significant milestone in Ayyankali's efforts to uplift the marginalized sections of society.

The primary objectives of the SJPS were to advocate for the rights of Dalits, challenge caste-based discrimination, and work towards social and economic equality. The organization aimed to provide a platform for Dalits to unite, voice their concerns, and collectively work towards their upliftment.

Through the SJPS, Ayyankali focused on various aspects of Dalit empowerment:

SJPS worked towards eradicating oppressive customs and discriminatory practices that targeted Dalits. It aimed to challenge the social hierarchy and promote social equality. Ayyankali and the SJPS members actively campaigned against untouchability, fought for the right of Dalits to access public spaces, and challenged caste-based restrictions.

SJPS established schools for Dalit children, ensuring access to education and promoting literacy within the community. These schools aimed to empower Dalit youth and equip them with knowledge and skills to overcome social barriers. SJPS focused on advocating for better working conditions, fair wages, and economic opportunities for Dalits. Ayyankali and the organization worked towards labor reforms, aimed at improving the livelihoods of Dalit workers and fighting against exploitation.

SJPS aimed to ensure political representation and voice for Dalits. It encouraged political mobilization, awareness about voting rights, and active participation in the democratic process. Ayyankali and the SJPS played a crucial role in raising political consciousness among the Dalit community. The formation of the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham marked a significant step in Ayyankali's journey as a social reformer and activist. Through this organization, he and his supporters worked tirelessly to uplift the Dalit community, challenge oppressive social norms, and advocate for their rights and welfare. The SJPS became a platform for collective action, unity, and empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on the struggle for social justice in Kerala.

Ayyankali actively represented the concerns and grievances of the Dalit community to the authorities and higher castes. He articulated their demands for equal rights, social justice, and an end to discriminatory practices. Ayyankali tirelessly fought for the rights of Dalits, both within the system and through mass movements. Ayyankali's leadership and activism played a pivotal role in mobilizing Dalits politically. He encouraged Dalits to participate in the democratic process, raising awareness about their voting rights and the importance of political representation. Ayyankali's efforts helped in shaping a politically conscious Dalit community that actively engaged in the political sphere.

Social and Political Reforms: Ayyankali's political empowerment efforts extended beyond advocating for Dalit rights. He also aimed to bring about broader social and political reforms. Through the SJPS, Ayyankali worked towards abolishing oppressive customs and practices, challenging social hierarchies, and fostering a more egalitarian society. Ayyankali's contributions to political empowerment were instrumental in giving a voice to the marginalized Dalit community and challenging the prevailing power structures. His efforts laid the foundation for political consciousness and mobilization among Dalits, leading to greater representation and empowerment in Kerala's political landscape. Ayyankali's legacy continues to inspire marginalized communities to assert their rights and participate actively in the political process.

D.     7. BULL CART STRIKE

Ayyankali's bull cart strike was a notable event in his activism and labor movement. The bull cart strike, also known as the Ooruttambalam struggle, took place in the early 20th century in Kerala, India. Here's an overview of the bull cart strike and its significance:

Context: During that time, Dalits in Kerala faced severe caste-based discrimination and were subjected to various forms of social oppression. One such practice was the restriction placed on Dalits from using bullock carts on public roads, especially in areas predominantly inhabited by upper-caste communities. In response to this discriminatory practice, Ayyankali organized a bull cart strike, where Dalits would collectively refuse to comply with the unjust restrictions. He mobilized Dalit communities and encouraged them to assert their rights by openly using bullock carts on public roads, regardless of the caste-based restrictions.

The significance of the Bull Cart Strike:

Challenging Caste-Based Discrimination: The bull cart strike was a direct challenge to the oppressive social order. By defying the restrictions and using bullock carts, Ayyankali and the Dalit community aimed to break the caste barriers and assert their right to equal treatment.

Empowerment and Asserting Rights: The strike empowered Dalits, as they collectively resisted and confronted the discriminatory practices. It was a display of unity and determination to assert their rights and challenge the prevailing social hierarchy.

Mobilizing the Community: The bull cart strike served as a catalyst for mobilizing Dalit communities. It raised awareness about their rights, encouraged solidarity, and fostered a sense of empowerment among Dalits.

Paving the Way for Social Change: The bull cart strike, along with Ayyankali's other movements, contributed to the broader social reforms and eventual dismantling of caste-based restrictions in Kerala. It brought attention to the oppressive practices and laid the groundwork for future advocacy and activism against discrimination. The bull cart strike led by Ayyankali was a powerful act of resistance against caste-based discrimination. It not only challenged the unjust restrictions but also played a significant role in empowering the Dalit community, fostering unity, and inspiring further movements for social justice. 

E.     8. KALLUMALA SAMARAM

The Kallumala Samaram, also known as the Chain Protest or Kallumala Agitation, was a historic protest led by Ayyankali in Kerala, India during the early 20th century. The protest aimed to challenge the discriminatory practice of denying the wearing of ornaments, specifically "kallumala" (a chain made of iron or other materials), by Dalits.

Context: During that time, there were strict social norms and restrictions that prevented Dalits from wearing certain ornaments or symbols of status and dignity. The kallumala, in particular, was seen as a symbol of higher caste status, and Dalits were prohibited from wearing it. Ayyankali organized and led the Kallumala Samaram as a form of nonviolent resistance to challenge the discriminatory practice. Dalit men and women gathered in large numbers, wearing kallumalas and other ornaments, and marched in public spaces, openly defying the oppressive social norms.

Significance of the Kallumala Samaram:

Breaking Symbolic Chains: The protest aimed to break the symbolic chains that denied Dalits their dignity and equality. By wearing the kallumalas, Dalits asserted their right to express their identity and challenged the notion that certain ornaments were reserved for upper castes only.

Assertion of Identity: The Kallumala Samaram was a powerful expression of Dalit identity and a rejection of the caste-based discrimination. It emphasized the need for equal rights, dignity, and recognition of Dalit culture and traditions.

Inspiring Solidarity: The protest served as an inspiration for Dalit communities across Kerala. It sparked a sense of solidarity among Dalits, encouraging them to come together, support each other, and collectively challenge the oppressive social order.

Promoting Social Awareness: The Kallumala Samaram brought attention to the discriminatory practices faced by Dalits, shedding light on the deep-rooted caste-based inequalities and oppression prevalent in society. It created public awareness and discussions around the need for social reform and equality.

The Kallumala Samaram led by Ayyankali was a significant episode in the struggle for social justice and equality in Kerala. It challenged oppressive customs, empowered Dalits, and brought attention to the discriminatory practices against them. The protest served as a catalyst for broader social reforms and contributed to the ongoing movement for the rights and dignity of marginalized communities. 

F.      9.WORKERS’ STRIKE

Ayyankali was actively involved in organizing strikes and protests to advocate for the rights and better working conditions of workers, particularly Dalit workers. His efforts aimed to address the exploitative practices and improve the livelihoods of marginalized laborers. While specific strikes associated with Ayyankali may not be well-documented, he played a significant role in labor movements and organizing workers.

Ayyankali gave a call to Pulayas and other agricultural worker for strike in 1907. His was a historic call, for he had heralded the first agrarian strike in the history of the world. He added one more demand: ‘make the employees permanent’ by giving pay during off season when there is no work. The other demands were: 1. Stop Victimization on whims 2. Stop Involving workers in false cases 3. End whipping of workers 4. Freedom of movement, and 5. Admission for children in schools.

The landlords didn’t agree. The polarization had gone too far to be reversed. No processions. No jeeps. No microphones. No pamphlets or banners. Yet, in the fields of Kandala, Kaniyapuram, Pallichal and Mudavooppara to Vizinjom, no worker was seen. Initially the landlords laughed at the workers. They calculated that when the food grains run out, the workers will be back. Landlords formed groups and did try to intimidate the workers by beating them up at random. They failed. They tried to use some backsliders among workers in the fields but met with resistance from Ayyankali Sena. This led to violent encounters between the workers and landlords’ men. But Dalits remained steadfast in their actions. The fields turned into jungles. Starvation stared workers in the face.

Advocacy for Fair Wages: Ayyankali advocated for fair wages for workers, especially those from marginalized communities. He highlighted the exploitation and unjust treatment faced by Dalit laborers and actively fought for their right to receive adequate compensation for their work.

Mobilizing Workers: Ayyankali played a crucial role in mobilizing and organizing workers. He encouraged them to unite, form unions, and collectively voice their grievances. Through his leadership and activism, he sought to empower workers to demand their rights and improve their working conditions.

Strikes and Protests: Ayyankali organized strikes and protests to bring attention to the labor issues and demand justice for workers. While specific strikes may not be widely known, Ayyankali's efforts to mobilize workers and raise awareness about labor rights were significant contributions to the labor movement in Kerala.

Solidarity with Other Movements: Ayyankali collaborated with other social and political movements that advocated for labor rights and social justice. He recognized the interconnectedness of various struggles and sought to build solidarity among different marginalized groups.

Ayyankali's work in advocating for workers' rights and organizing strikes contributed to raising awareness about labor issues, challenging exploitative practices, and fighting for better working conditions. His efforts were instrumental in laying the foundation for subsequent labor movements and shaping the discourse on workers' rights and social justice in Kerala. The landlords planted rice seedlings. Since it was already out of season, plants didn’t sprout grains. Landlords unused to working in the hot sun suffered health problems. When some landlords tried to adjust, the workers demanded high wages. With food grains running short, both landlords and workers suffered. Destruction faced both exploiter and exploited. The kitchen fires had stopped burning. Prolonged hunger made many a workers to waver.

Now Ayyankali played his trump card. He approached the fishermen community of Vizhinjom and came to an agreement with them. One person from each family was to be put in each fishing boat and given a share of the days catch till the strike was over.

Landlords saw impending defeat at the hands of their dependants. This sent them into helpless rage. They committed atrocities on many Dalits and set fire to their huts. The commandos of Ayyankali set fire to many houses of landlords in the interior and sent shivers down their spines, not knowing when and where the attack will come from. Soon, the mood of landlords changed to one of compromise. Ayyankali wanted the landlords to come to him, which they did with peace proposals.

The Landlords agreed to a rise in wages. School entry and travel rights were accepted in principle. There followed a lot of bloodletting on both sides. But Ayyankali walked tall at the head of his group.

G.    10.PRAJA SABHA MEMBER 

Sree Moolam Thirunaal Rama Varma, the ruling Maharaja of the Indian state of Travancore, instituted Sree Moolam Praja Sabha, also known as Sree Moolam Popular Assembly on 1 October 1904. The representatives of Sree Moolam Praja Sabha were selected from every section of society to address their grievances. Sree Moolam Sabha mainly consisted of landlords, merchants and their representatives.

Those days, then existing social customs prevented the lower-caste people or the subaltern communities from participating in the Sree Moolam Praja Sabha. In the initial phase, there were representatives from each religion and caste, except the subaltern groups. Later, the Diwan attempted to include Dalits and other minority communities in the process of policy formulation as well as providing them with an essential role in their community development. Mahakavi Kumaran Asan, one of the triumvirate poets of modern Kerala was the nominated member of Sree Moolam Sabha, and he was one of the disciples of Sree Narayana Guru.

Ayyankali was nominated to Sree Moolam Popular Assembly in 1912 because of his popularity among subaltern communities in the Thiruvithamkoore Kingdom. He had a record of being a nominated member in a legislative assembly for a consequtive period of 27 years, from 1912 to 1939, even before Independence. Ayyankali was the first Dalit representative who was nominatedto India’s first state (legislative) assembly, especially during the pre-independence period.

 Ayyankali, being a prominent social reformer and activist, did not serve as a member of the Praja Sabha (People's Assembly) or any formal legislative body. His contributions were primarily focused on grassroots activism, social reforms, and advocacy for the rights and welfare of marginalized communities, especially Dalits.

However, it's worth noting that Ayyankali's activism and the social movements he led had a significant impact on the political landscape of Kerala. His efforts in mobilizing and empowering marginalized communities laid the foundation for political consciousness and increased representation of Dalits in the democratic process. Over time, the influence of social reform movements like those led by Ayyankali paved the way for greater political participation and representation of marginalized communities in Kerala, including the Dalit community. Today, there are political leaders and representatives from Dalit backgrounds who contribute to the legislative bodies in Kerala and other parts of India, working towards addressing the issues faced by marginalized communities and advocating for their rights.

H.    11.SOCIAL EQUALITY CONCEPT OF AYYANKALI 

Social equality refers to a state of fairness and justice in which all individuals in a society have equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources regardless of their background, characteristics, or social status. It is a fundamental principle of a just society and involves the absence of discrimination, prejudice, and systemic barriers that hinder individuals from fully participating and thriving.

Key aspects of social equality include:

Equal Rights: Social equality entails ensuring that all individuals are treated equally under the law and have the same legal protections and opportunities. It involves eliminating discriminatory practices based on factors such as race, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status.

Access to Opportunities: Social equality requires providing equal access to education, healthcare, employment, housing, and other essential services. It means breaking down barriers that prevent marginalized individuals or groups from reaching their full potential and offering them the necessary support to succeed.

Elimination of Discrimination: Social equality aims to eradicate discrimination in all its forms, including institutional and systemic discrimination. It involves challenging prejudiced attitudes, biases, and stereotypes that perpetuate inequality and create barriers for marginalized groups.

Inclusive Society: Social equality promotes inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance within society. It fosters a culture of respect, understanding, and empathy for individuals from different backgrounds, ensuring that everyone has a voice and is valued regardless of their differences.

Economic Justice: Social equality addresses economic disparities and seeks to reduce poverty and inequality. It involves policies and measures that promote fair wealth distribution, access to economic opportunities, and social safety nets to uplift disadvantaged individuals and communities.

Social Justice: Social equality intersects with social justice, which seeks to address systemic injustices and inequities by challenging power imbalances and advocating for the redistribution of resources and opportunities. Social justice aims to create a society where everyone has an equal chance to thrive and live a dignified life.

Promoting social equality requires collective efforts from individuals, communities, institutions, and governments. It involves fostering awareness, advocating for policy changes, implementing affirmative action measures, and creating an inclusive and supportive environment where all individuals can flourish without discrimination or marginalization.

LAST DAYS OF AYYANKALI

The last days of Ayyankali, the renowned social reformer and activist, are not extensively documented. However, based on available information, Ayyankali continued his advocacy and activism until his passing. Even in his later years, Ayyankali remained committed to his mission of social reform and the upliftment of marginalized communities. He continued to fight against caste-based discrimination, advocate for the rights of Dalits, and work towards social equality. Ayyankali's work and contributions had a lasting impact on the social and political landscape of Kerala. His efforts laid the foundation for social justice movements and paved the way for greater representation and empowerment of Dalits and marginalized communities in the state. Ayyankali earned immense respect and recognition for his tireless efforts. His dedication to the cause of social equality and justice made him a revered figure among the Dalit community and beyond.

Ayyankali passed away on June 18, 1941. His death marked the end of an era but left behind a powerful legacy of social reform and activism that continues to inspire generations. While specific details about the exact circumstances of Ayyankali's last days may be scarce, his impact on Kerala's history and the struggle for social justice is widely acknowledged. His work remains an enduring testament to his unwavering commitment to challenging social inequalities and empowering marginalized communities.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Ayyankali was a remarkable social reformer and activist who dedicated his life to fighting against caste-based discrimination, advocating for the rights of Dalits, and striving for social equality. His contributions spanned various domains, including education, labor rights, breaking caste barriers, and political empowerment.

Ayyankali's establishment of schools provided education and opportunities for Dalit children, empowering them to overcome social barriers. His efforts in labor and land reforms aimed to improve the livelihoods of marginalized workers and farmers, addressing exploitation and inequality. He challenged caste barriers and discriminatory practices through movements like the bull cart strike and the Kallumala Samaram.

Furthermore, Ayyankali's activism paved the way for political empowerment, raising political consciousness among marginalized communities and promoting their representation and participation in the democratic process. His work left a profound impact on the social and political landscape of Kerala, inspiring generations and contributing to the ongoing struggle for social justice. Though specific details about his last days may be limited, Ayyankali's legacy lives on, and his contributions continue to be celebrated and revered. His unwavering dedication to social equality and his tireless efforts to uplift the marginalized make him a significant figure in the history of social reform in Kerala and beyond.

QUESTIONS

1.      Who was Ayyankali?

2.      In which state of India did Ayyankali carry out his social reform activities?

3.      What were the main social issues that Ayyankali fought against?

4.      How did Ayyankali contribute to education for marginalized communities?

5.      What were some of the labor and land reforms advocated by Ayyankali?

6.      What were the key strategies employed by Ayyankali to break caste barriers?

7.      What was the significance of the bull cart strike led by Ayyankali?

8.      How did Ayyankali work towards the political empowerment of marginalized communities?

9.      What was the purpose and impact of the Kallumala Samaram led by Ayyankali?

10.  What is the overall legacy of Ayyankali and his contributions to social reform?

Objective type questions

1.       In which state of India did Ayyankali primarily carry out his social reform activities?

a) Kerala

b) Tamil Nadu

c) Karnataka

d) Andhra Pradesh

2.       Ayyankali was known for his activism against which form of discrimination?

a) Gender-based discrimination

b) Racial discrimination

c) Caste-based discrimination

d) Religious discrimination

3.       Ayyankali worked towards the empowerment of which marginalized community?

a) Tribal communities

b) Dalits

c) Muslims

d) Women

4.       Ayyankali's efforts in education were focused on:

a) Promoting technical education

b) Providing free education to all children

c) Establishing schools for marginalized communities

d) Advocating for higher education reforms

5.       Which movement organized by Ayyankali challenged the caste-based restrictions on using bullock carts?

a) Kallumala Samaram

b) Bull Cart Strike

c) Karshaka Samaram

d) Sadhijana Paripalana Samgha

6.       Ayyankali's work in labor reform primarily aimed to:

a) Advocate for workers' rights and fair wages

b) Promote self-employment opportunities

c) Establish labor unions for farmers

d) Improve industrial working conditions

7.       Ayyankali's political empowerment efforts focused on:

a) Promoting reservation policies for marginalized communities

b) Advocating for women's political rights

c) Encouraging youth participation in politics

d) Promoting nonviolent political protests

8.       What was the significance of the Kallumala Samaram led by Ayyankali?

a) It challenged the discriminatory practice of denying Dalits the right to wear specific ornaments.

b) It demanded equal wages for agricultural workers.

c) It aimed to secure political representation for marginalized communities.

d) It called for land redistribution among landless farmers.

9.       Ayyankali's social reforms had a lasting impact on the state of:

a) Maharashtra

b) Gujarat

c) Tamil Nadu

d) Kerala

10.   Ayyankali is remembered as a pioneer in:

a) Environmental conservation

b) Women's empowerment

c) Social equality and justice

d) Technological innovation

 

 

Prepared By,

BAIJU AYYPPAN. K

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR IN SOCIAL SCIENCE

CUTEC CHALAKUDY