The Vaikom struggle of 1924 held an important place in the history of social reforms in India. It was the pioneer of all the temple entry protests in India. It was the first step for the oppressed and downtrodden people to get equal rights. The struggle started on 30th March, 1924. The objective of the struggle was to end caste discrimination in a local temple, a century ago.A furious protest against this social injustice and denial of human rights is historically known as 'Vaikom struggle' and Vaikom Satyagraha. It is commended as the first human rights agitation in India.
Vaikom in Kerala was a serene town then in the princely state of Travancore. A prohibition was imposed on backward communities, marginalised, downtrodden suppressed and oppressed people, in using the roads around the Mahadeva temple in Vaikom. The low caste people like Ilavars, Pulayars and others were not allowed even to walk on the roads and streets around the temple and near the temple. 99 years have passed since the struggle started and its centenary began on 30th March, 2023. On this significant day this year Tamil Nadu Chief Minister announced in the Assembly that his Government was planning yearlong events to commemorate the 'Vaikom Struggle'. Hon'ble Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's announcement in the Assembly session has been acclaimed widely all over the country. The announcement was vide Rule 110 of the T.N. State Assembly.
According to the announcement events related to the struggle concerned would be held in all the renowned universities in Tamil Nadu and also in selected colleges in the state. Besides programmes related to the struggle, and competitions are to be conducted in educational institutions for students. Oratorical competitions, essay - writing competitions and quiz - competitions would be conducted and prizes would be awarded to the winners.Periyar Maniammai Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University) takes pride in associating itself with the Government of Tamil Nadu in this great task. Under the caption 'Periyar - 1000' we have prepared questions and answers in which we have also provided the students with 500 vital facts related to Vaikom Struggle as food for their thought. By reading this book attentively, students would imbibe the glory of equality. The book would make their mind operate on a higher level of intellect and widen their outlook. Chewing and digesting the book offered by us would mould and shape them as noble citizens of India.
When the centenary celebration of Vaikom struggle started in Kerala on 30th March, 2023, the Chief Minister of Kerala, Thiru. Pinarayi Vijayan said- “Tamil Nadu and Kerala have become sibling- states Both the states equally share the pride of traditional rebellion for social justice, equality and human rights. Both the states have this humanist spirit in common.” His words of commendation is a matter of Pride for Tamil Nadu- the land of Periyar.
Young students of this generation should store all the leaves of this history imperishable in their hearts. Look at the past which has given you the present. You are all the custodians of tomorrow’s world. You must reverberate the slogans- “All are equal. Everything to everybody.”
The struggles of stalwarts like Periyar must leave an indelible impression on your minds. Understand why Thanthai Periyar has been globalised. Realise why he is needed for posterity. Let us all create a brave new world in which there would be no discrimination of any sort.