Mahatma Ayyankali

The prime minister pays tribute to Mahatma Ayyankali on his Jayanti.

About Mahatma Ayyankali

Early Life

• Born on 28 August 1863 in Venganoor, Travancore (present-day Kerala).
• Belong to the Pulayar community, among the most oppressed castes in Kerala.
• Experienced extreme caste-based discrimination from childhood (denied education, barred from roads, temples, and schools).

Major Contributions

1. Struggle for Education
   • 1904: Started the famous “Vilaykal Samaram” (struggle for education) to secure admission of Dalit children in government schools.
   • This led to violent opposition from upper castes, but eventually the Travancore state conceded.
   • Ayyankali stressed that education was the only path to liberation, similar to Ambedkar’s philosophy.
2. Agricultural Labour Movement
   • 1907: Organized the first-ever agricultural labour strike in Indian history, demanding better wages and dignity for Dalit agricultural workers.
     • This forced landlords to improve working conditions.
3. Formation of Organizations
   • 1907: Founded the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS) to uplift Dalits, spread education, and fight caste oppression.
4. Fight for Public Rights
   • Fought for Dalits’ right to walk on public roads and access public spaces, which were previously denied.
     • His struggles paved the way for later movements like the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924–25).
5. Political Representation
   • 1912: Nominated to the Sree Moolam Praja Sabha (the legislative council of Travancore).
   • Used the platform to demand land reforms, education, and equal rights for Dalits.

Legacy & Recognition

• Known as “Mahatma Ayyankali” for his relentless fight against caste oppression.
• Referred to as the Ambedkar of Kerala for his role in Dalit emancipation.
• Inspired later social reform movements and leaders in Kerala.
• The Government of Kerala and Government of India have recognized him as a symbol of social justice, equality, and empowerment.

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