Why in the news?

  • Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi pays tribute to Sri Narayana Guru on the occasion of their Birth Anniversary.

Sri Narayana Guru

  • Early Life:
    • Born in 1856 at Chempazhanthy near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, into the Ezhava community (considered a backward caste).
    • Educated in Sanskrit, Vedas, Upanishads, and philosophy under guru Chattampi Swamikal and others.
  • Social Reform Contributions:
    • Against Caste Discrimination: Advocated “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.”
    • Temple Entry & Consecration: In 1888, established a Shiva temple at Aruvippuram, challenging Brahmin monopoly over priesthood.
    • Established over 40 temples across Kerala and Tamil Nadu for oppressed castes.
    • Promoted universal brotherhood and inter-caste dining (Samudaya Bhojanam).
  • Educational & Institutional Work:
    • Founded SNDP Yogam (Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam) in 1903 with Dr. Palpu and Kumaran Asan to organize the Ezhava community.
    • Emphasized modern education for social upliftment, especially among backward castes.
    • Established schools, colleges, and industrial training centers.
  • Philosophy & Teachings:
    • Advocated social equality, spiritual enlightenment, and economic progress.
    • Stressed that true religion is rooted in morality and compassion, not rituals or caste divisions.
    • Inspired Kerala Renaissance and later reformers like Ayyankali and Periyar.
  • Legacy:
    • His reforms weakened the caste hierarchy and laid the foundation for Kerala’s progressive social structure.
    • Commemorated by the Sivagiri Mutt (established in 1904).
    • His birthday is observed as Sree Narayana Jayanthi in Kerala.
    • His ideals influenced the temple entry movements and broader social reform across South India.

 

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