Question 28
Set 3
Contents
QQuestion
OOptions
✓Correct Answer
DDalvoy Solutions
'Periyar' E. V. Ramaswamy Naicker was the founder of the 'Self-Respect Movement'.
E. V. Ramaswamy Naicker, known as 'Periyar' (meaning 'great one'), launched the Self-Respect Movement in Tamil Nadu in 1925. This movement aimed at achieving social equality and self-respect for lower castes, particularly non-Brahmins, in Tamil society.
The movement challenged Brahmanical dominance, promoted rationalism, fought against caste discrimination, and advocated for women's rights and education. Periyar was a strong critic of orthodox Hinduism and promoted atheistic and rationalist ideologies. The movement significantly influenced Tamil society and politics, leading to the rise of Dravidian political parties in Tamil Nadu.
While Dr. B.R. Ambedkar led similar movements for Dalit rights, the specific 'Self-Respect Movement' was Periyar's initiative in South India.
SUPSC Prelims Strategy and Tips
For social reform movement questions, associate specific movements with their founders and regional contexts. The Self-Respect Movement was specifically a Tamil/South Indian phenomenon led by Periyar.