சுயமரியாதை இயக்கமும் அதன் சமூக மறுமலர்ச்சிப் பணியும்: தந்தை பெரியார் தலைமையிலான ஒரு வரலாற்று ஆய்வு (1925–1944)

Abstract

The Self-Respect Movement, launched in May 1925 by Thanthai Periyar E. V. Ramasamy, served as a turning point in the social history of Tamil society. Rationally confronting all forms of human bondages—such as caste, religion, superstition, and women's subjugation—this movement sought to establish a new social order based on rationalism. Based on historical documents, articles from the Kudi Arasu journal, and conference resolutions, this article critically examines the origin and philosophical foundations of the Self-Respect Movement, the resolutions passed through its conferences, its contribution to the women's liberation movement, the anti-Hindi agitation, and its impact on literature, drama, and music. It also describes how the Self-Respect Movement charted an ideological path distinct from the Justice Party, the background of Periyar's exit from the Congress party, and direct actions taken for the eradication of untouchability. This study establishes that the ideological contribution of the Self-Respect Movement serves as a foundational basis for contemporary social justice principles and constitutional values.