Ayyankali

Ayyankali was a significant figure in the history of India, particularly in the southern state of Kerala. He lived from August 28, 1863, to June 18, 1941, and is known for his multifaceted contributions to society as a politician, social reformer, educator, economist, lawmaker, and revolutionary leader. His life's work was dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of the oppressed and marginalized people in the princely state of Travancore, which is now part of modern Kerala.

Background

Ayyankali was a significant historical figure born on 28 August 1863 in Venganoor, Thiruvananthapuram, Travancore, which is now part of the state of Kerala in India. He was the first of eight children born to Ayyan and Mala, who belonged to the Pulayar community. The Pulayars were a marginalized and oppressed community during Ayyankali's lifetime.

Ayyankali's family had a slightly better living situation compared to other Pulayars because they were given 5 acres of land by a landlord, who Ayyan, Ayyankali's father, served as an Adiyalan. Ayyankali's father worked as a servant for the Janmi or Zamindar (feudal landlord). The Pulayar community, to which Ayyankali and his family belonged, typically worked as bonded labor for the Janmis and faced severe social discrimination. They did not have the right to own land or even enter temples for religious worship.

The social divisions and caste-based discrimination in the region were particularly acute during Ayyankali's time. The Pulayars were considered the lowest caste and were treated as slaves by the agrarian society, suffering from oppressive discrimination, especially from the landowning castes, including the Nair caste. The discriminatory practices were so deeply ingrained that they included rules about how far members of different castes should stay away from each other, with strict regulations even about how close they could approach.

Ayyankali was deeply affected by this social injustice and joined other Pulayars in forming a group. They protested the situation through folk music, singing, and dancing at the end of their workday. Ayyankali's leadership in challenging the oppressor castes earned him the names "Urpillai" and "Moothapullai," which can be roughly translated as 'Leader of the Land' or 'Elder Leader.' His popularity grew as he stood up against the social injustices of the time.

In 1888, Ayyankali married Chellamma, and the couple had seven children. Ayyankali's life and activism were significant in advocating for the rights and dignity of the Pulayar community and challenging the deeply entrenched caste-based discrimination in his region.

Campaigning

Ayyankali was a prominent social reformer in India during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He played a significant role in various campaigns and movements aimed at securing the rights and freedom of the oppressed classes, primarily the Pulayar community, in the princely state of Travancore (now part of Kerala). 

• Campaigning for Freedom of Movement: Ayyankali's activism included campaigns to challenge the social norms and restrictions placed on the oppressed classes. In 1893, he notably defied these conventions by purchasing a bullock cart and traveling on roads traditionally restricted to the upper castes. This act of defiance aimed to assert the right of oppressed people, particularly the Pulayars, to access public spaces. Ayyankali's actions inspired others from oppressed communities to resist social oppression as well, leading to further protests and the Chaliyar riots. By 1900, these protests and marches led to the Pulayars gaining the right to use most roads in the state, although they were still barred from accessing roads leading to Hindu temples.
• Education Reform: Ayyankali was also a strong advocate for improving access to education for the oppressed classes, especially the Pulayars. He believed that education should be accessible to all children, regardless of their caste or social status. Ayyankali founded the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS) in 1907, which campaigned for access to schools and even raised funds to establish Pulayar-operated schools. His efforts were instrumental in challenging the discrimination against untouchables in accessing education. The campaign included organizing a strike of agricultural laborers to protest against restrictions on education based on caste.
• Freedom from Caste-Based Restrictions: Ayyankali also played a crucial role in challenging the caste-based restrictions placed on the Pulaya community. One notable example was his campaign to allow Pulaya women to cover their upper bodies in public. The oppressor caste Hindus had enforced this practice to distinguish the lower status of untouchable people. Ayyankali's efforts, along with similar movements, contributed to the gradual dismantling of these discriminatory practices, and by 1915-16, Pulaya women were able to cover themselves without facing oppression.
• Representation in the Assembly: Ayyankali's contributions extended to the political arena as well. He later became a member of the assembly of Travancore, known as the Sree Moolam Popular Assembly (SMPA) or Praja Sabha. His entry into the assembly marked a significant step towards political representation for the oppressed classes, allowing them to have a voice in the decision-making process.

The Enduring Legacy of Ayyankali

Public acceptance, honors, and veneration refer to the recognition, respect, and admiration given to a particular individual or figure by the general public and various institutions. In the context of Ayyankali:

• Public Acceptance: This term refers to the degree to which the general population acknowledges and approves of Ayyankali's contributions and legacy. The fact that Ayyankali was commemorated on an Indian postage stamp in 2002 suggests that the Indian government and, by extension, the Indian public, accepted him as an important historical figure.
• Honors: Honors are special recognitions or awards given to individuals for their outstanding achievements or contributions. In the case of Ayyankali, being commemorated on a postage stamp is a notable honor. It signifies that his contributions to society, especially in the context of modern Kerala, were considered significant and deserving of recognition.
• Veneration: Veneration refers to deep respect, admiration, and even reverence for a person, often with a strong emotional or spiritual component. Ayyankali is described as "the Kerala Spartacus," which suggests a high level of veneration. Comparing him to Spartacus, the legendary gladiator and slave leader, implies that he is seen as a heroic figure who fought for justice and equality.

The fact that the anniversary of Ayyankali's birth is celebrated by his descendants and special interest groups further demonstrates his continued importance and the veneration he receives. This celebration is a way of paying tribute to his life and legacy, keeping his memory alive, and emphasizing the ongoing significance of his work in advocating for the rights and welfare of the marginalized and oppressed in Kerala.

P. Sanal Mohan's description of Ayyankali as "the most important leader of modern Kerala" reflects the high regard and recognition he receives from historians and scholars, underscoring his historical significance and the impact of his leadership on the state's development. In summary, Ayyankali's public acceptance, honors, and veneration are indicators of his enduring legacy and the profound impact of his work in Kerala's history and society.

FAQ

What did Ayyankali do for Kerala?

Ayyankali's major contributions to Kerala include:

• Fighting against untouchability and social discrimination: Ayyankali led a number of protests and movements against the inhuman practices of untouchability and social discrimination that were prevalent in Kerala at that time. He campaigned for the rights of Dalits to access public places, use public roads, and receive education.
• Promoting education for Dalits: Ayyankali realized that education was the key to empowering Dalits and uplifting their social status. He founded the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS) (Association for the Protection of the Poor) in 1907, which campaigned for access to education for Dalits and raised funds to set up Pulayar-operated schools.
• Uplifting the economic status of Dalits: Ayyankali also worked to uplift the economic status of Dalits. He organized agricultural laborers and fought for better wages and working conditions for them. He also promoted cottage industries and self-help groups among Dalits.
• Promoting social and political reforms: Ayyankali was also a strong advocate for social and political reforms. He campaigned for the inclusion of Dalits in the political process and for their representation in the Travancore Legislative Assembly.

What is the role of Ayyankali in education?

Ayyankali was a pioneer social reformer and Dalit leader in Kerala, India. He played a pivotal role in the upliftment of Dalits through education. He realized that education was the key to social and economic empowerment for Dalits, who were traditionally denied access to education and other opportunities.

Ayyankali founded the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS) in 1907, an organization dedicated to the welfare of Dalits. The SJPS campaigned for the right of Dalit children to attend public schools and established its own schools for Dalits where they could study without discrimination. Ayyankali also organized protests and strikes to demand equal educational opportunities for Dalits.

In 1910, the Travancore government issued an order mandating the admission of Dalit children in public schools. However, this order was often ignored by local officials and upper caste landlords. Ayyankali continued to fight for the implementation of the order and helped to establish several schools for Dalit children in rural areas.

Who is the great son of India Ayyankali?

Mahatma Ayyankali (1863-1941) was a social reformer and Dalit leader who fought for the rights of the Pulayar community in Kerala. He was born into a poor Pulayar family and was denied even basic human rights because of his caste. This discrimination inspired him to become a leader of the anti-caste movement in Kerala.

What is the role of Ayyankali in education?

Ayyankali was a prominent social reformer and leader of the Pulayar community in Kerala, India. He played a crucial role in the fight for education for Dalit children.

Who is the father of Ayyankali?

The father of Ayyankali is Ayyan. Ayyankali was born on 28 August 1863 in Venganoor, Thiruvananthapuram, Travancore, to Ayyan and Mala, who were members of the Pulayar community.

Was Ayyankali a Dalit?

Yes, Ayyankali was a Dalit. He was born into the Pulayar community, which was considered to be one of the lowest castes in Kerala. The Pulayars were subjected to severe discrimination and were denied basic human rights. Ayyankali dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of Dalits and other marginalized communities. He led several protests and movements to demand access to public places, education, and employment for Dalits.

Is Ayyankali a freedom fighter?

Yes, Ayyankali is considered a freedom fighter. He was a social reformer and leader of the oppressed classes in the princely state of Travancore, India. He fought for the eradication of untouchability and the advancement of Dalit rights. His struggle also contributed to the Indian freedom struggle, as he weakened the oppressive system that the British relied on to maintain their control over India.

Which school was established by Ayyankali?

Ayyankali established the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS) school in 1904. The SJPS was an association for the protection of the poor, and it campaigned for access to education for all children, regardless of caste. Ayyankali believed that education was the key to social change and empowerment for the oppressed.

The SJPS school was one of the first schools in Travancore to open its doors to children from all castes. It faced opposition from the upper castes, but Ayyankali and his followers persisted. The school was a success, and it helped to educate thousands of children from the oppressed castes.

What was the social movement of Ayyankali?

Ayyankali (1863-1914) was a social reformer and freedom fighter from Kerala, India. He is known for his leadership of the lower castes and Dalits in their struggle against the caste system and untouchability.

What are the quotes of Ayyankali?

Some of the quotes attributed to Ayyankali are:

If our children are not allowed to study in your schools, your fields will not yield any crops.

We are not slaves, we are also human beings like you.

The caste system is a disease that has infected our society for centuries. It is time to cure it with the medicine of education and self-respect.

The only way to achieve freedom is to unite and fight for our rights.

The Pulayas are not inferior to anyone. They have their own history, culture, and religion.

What is the name of the organization of Ayyankali?

The name of the organization founded by Ayyankali is the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS), which means "Association for the Protection of the Poor". It was founded in 1907 and campaigned for the rights of Dalits, particularly the Pulayar caste, in Kerala, India. The SJPS worked for access to education, better wages, and an end to untouchability.

What are the Chaliyar riots of Ayyankali?

The Chaliyar riots of Ayyankali were a series of violent clashes that erupted in the princely state of Travancore in 1893. The riots were triggered by the defiant act of Ayyankali, a social reformer and leader of the Pulaya caste, who rode an ox-cart along a public road forbidden for the lower castes.

The Pulayas were one of the most oppressed castes in Travancore, and they were not allowed to use public roads, wear clean clothes, or enter temples. Ayyankali's act of defiance was a powerful challenge to the caste system, and it sparked a wave of protests and demonstrations by the Pulayas.

The upper castes, led by the Nairs, were outraged by Ayyankali's challenge to their authority. They attacked the Pulaya protesters and their villages, and the riots quickly spread throughout the state. The riots lasted for several days and resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people, both Pulayas and Nairs.

The Chaliyar riots were a turning point in the history of Kerala. They marked the beginning of the Dalit movement for social justice and equality, and they inspired Ayyankali to continue his fight for the rights of the Pulayas.

Ayyankali's courage and determination eventually paid off. In 1900, the Travancore government issued a decree allowing the Pulayas to use public roads. Ayyankali also led campaigns for the education and empowerment of the Pulayas, and he established schools and libraries for them.

What did Ayyankali struggle for the right of education for Dalit children?

The specific steps that Ayyankali took to struggle for the right of education for Dalit children:

• He organized protests and strikes to demand the implementation of the Travancore government's order to admit Dalit children into public schools.
• He founded the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS), a social organization dedicated to the upliftment of Dalits. The SJPS worked to raise awareness about the importance of education for Dalit children and to provide financial assistance to Dalit families so that they could send their children to school.
• Ayyankali also lobbied the Travancore government to increase the number of schools in Dalit areas and to appoint more Dalit teachers.
• He worked to change the mindset of Dalit communities themselves. Many Dalit families were reluctant to send their children to school because they believed that education was not for them. Ayyankali convinced them that education was essential for their children's future and for the overall upliftment of Dalit society.

Which revolt was organized by Ayyankali for the right to use the public roads by lower casts?

The revolt organized by Ayyankali for the right to use the public roads by lower castes was the Chaliyar Revolt of 1893. The Chaliyar River was a major transportation route in the princely state of Travancore, but lower castes were forbidden from using the roads that ran alongside it. Ayyankali, a Pulayar leader, challenged this prohibition by defiantly riding an ox-cart along the Chaliyar Road. This act sparked a riot by upper caste Nairs, who attacked Ayyankali and his cart. Ayyankali and his followers fought back, and the violence quickly spread throughout the region.

The Chaliyar Revolt was a watershed moment in the struggle for equality in Travancore. It forced the Travancore government to acknowledge the grievances of the lower castes and to make some concessions. For example, the government agreed to allow lower castes to use the Chaliyar Road and to build separate schools and temples for them. However, the revolt also led to increased repression of the lower castes by the upper castes.

Despite the challenges, Ayyankali continued to fight for the rights of the lower castes. He founded the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS), a social organization dedicated to the upliftment of the Pulayars and other lower castes. The SJPS worked to improve education and employment opportunities for the lower castes, and it also fought against discrimination and violence.

What were the reforms of Ayyankali?

Ayyankali's reforms focused on three main areas:

• Freedom of movement: Ayyankali campaigned for the right of Dalits to use public roads and other public spaces. In 1893, he famously rode an ox-cart through the streets of a village, desafiying the ban on Dalits using public roads. This act of defiance inspired other Dalits to follow suit, and eventually led to the lifting of the ban.
• Education: Ayyankali also fought for the right of Dalit children to education. In 1893, he started the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham (SJPS), an organization dedicated to the upliftment of the oppressed classes. The SJPS started its own schools for Dalit children, and also campaigned for the government to admit Dalit children into public schools. In 1910, the Travancore government finally issued an order allowing Dalit children to attend public schools.
• Labor rights: Ayyankali was also a labor leader, and he fought for the rights of agricultural laborers. He organized strikes and protests to demand better wages and working conditions for laborers. He also campaigned for the abolition of bonded labor.

Who called Ayyankali as great son of India?

Indira Gandhi called Ayyankali as the great son of India. She said this in 1980, while unveiling his statue at Vellayambalam in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.