Background:
- In early 20th century India society was largely divided based on caste, with Brahmans often holding the most influential and powerful positions.
Initiation of the Movement:
- The Non-Brahman Movement was started by educated and influential members of non-Brahman castes. These were people who had gained access to education, wealth and a certain level of social influence but were still treated as inferiors by the upper castes mainly the Brahmans.
Main Arguments of the Movement:
- The movement challenged the dominant position of the Brahmans arguing that this dominance was not justified.
- Leaders of the movement pointed out that many Brahmans claimed authority based on historical conquests and religious texts that they said ordained their superior status.
Goals and Actions:
- The Non-Brahman Movement sought to promote equality and ensure that all castes had equal opportunities in education, employment and politics.
- It aimed to reshape society by removing the traditional hierarchies that had kept certain groups in subordinate positions.
Key Figures:
- One prominent leader was E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker (Periyar) who was initially involved with the Indian National Congress but later left due to the caste-based discrimination he perceived within the organisation.
- Periyar went on to advocate for the rights of the lower castes and challenged the authority of religious and social texts that supported caste discrimination.
Impact of the Movement:
- The Non-Brahman Movement had a significant impact on Indian society leading to greater awareness and eventually reforms that aimed to create a more equitable social structure.
- It also inspired subsequent movements and leaders who continued to fight against caste discrimination in various forms.
