Kerala reformation movement

Reformation movement in Kerala refers to a socio-cultural movement that began towards the end of 19th century and lead to large scale changes in the social outlook of southern Indian state of Kerala.

Background

The foundations of social changes in Kerala may be traced back to 16th century. The formation of Malayalam language in its modern form and the development of Bhakti movement under the influence of authors like Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan helped break the monopoly of the Brahmins over literature and knowledge.

The arrival of Europeans beginning with Portuguese followed by Dutch and the English became a catalyst in these changes. The arrival of missionaries from European nations lead to rise in educational institutions in Kerala and the rise of an educated class among caste groups like Ezhavas.[1]

The changes in political order of kerala with the establishment of centralised monarchies in Travancore and cochin which lead to decline of old feudal order was also crucial factor which set the stage for reformation. The Mysorean invasion of Kerala (1766-1792) shook the hold of elites like Brahmins or Namboothiris and Nairs on Kerala society. Mysoreans had scant regard for caste structures in Kerala and many Brahmin and nair families had to flee to southern kerala to avoid persecution by mysorean forces.

In contrast with North India, enlightenment in Kerala was driven by lower castes. Narayana Guru, Ayyankali etc. belonged to caste groups considered lower in the social settings of 19th century Kerala.Hence most of them emphasised on the need for abolition of caste system rather than reformation of caste.[2]

Leaders

Prominent leaders of Kerala reformation include :

List of events

References

  1. ↑ A Sreedhara Menon, "Cultural heritage of Kerala" , p.245
  2. ↑ http://www.frontline.in/the-nation/three-phases-of-indian-renaissance/article9541139.ece#test

See also

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