Role Of E.V. R. Periyar In The Dravidian Press And The Social Transformation

Abstract

The Social revolution of twentieth century in Tamil Nadu led by the Dravidian movement and its Press.  The movement and the press arousedawareness  among the masses on the subjects like God, Caste, religion and Superstitions through its speeches and writings.  Remarkable changes were occurred in the socio-economic life of Tamilians.  The Press fought for multiple objectives such as Prevention of Child marriage, self-respect marriage, widow re-marriage. Abolition of Courtesans, class rights, reservation and soon.  Also the Statistical facts Published by press highlighted use need to end dominance of Brahmins and to elevate the life of backward classes and depressed castes in socio economic and political spheres. In this struggle Periyar’s Tamil journals namely, kudiArasu,(Republic) Puratchi,(Revolution) Pahutharivu (Rational),viduthalai (Freedom),unmai(Truth), Dravidan and the English journals like Revolt, Justice, were largely contributed. The ‘Modern Rationalist’was also in the fray for social liberation and renaissance.  These journals continued to spread the policies and opinions of the South Indian LebralAssociation, Justice Party, Self-Respect Movement,DravidarKazhagam and DravidaMunetraKazhagam.