Part of: Tamil Nadu Gk set 18

Periyar carved out an ..... that many citizens of Tamil Nadu still swear by.

Category: Tamil Nadu Gk

Hint: Consider Periyar's role in the Dravidian movement.

Correct Answer: A) Ideology for himself.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, TNPSC, Civil Services

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Periyar, whose full name was E.V. Ramasamy, was a significant figure in the Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu. He was a social reformer and political leader who played a crucial role in shaping the social and political landscape of Tamil Nadu. Periyar's ideology was multifaceted and included principles of rationalism, anti-casteism, and women's rights. He advocated for the eradication of caste-based discrimination and promoted the idea of a society based on merit rather than birth. His emphasis on women's rights and the need for gender equality was also a key component of his ideology.

Periyar's contributions to Tamil Nadu's social and political life are still felt today. His ideas have been embraced by many citizens of Tamil Nadu, and his legacy continues to influence the region's political parties and social movements. The Dravidian movement, which Periyar was a part of, sought to challenge the dominance of Brahminical culture and promote a more egalitarian society. This movement has had a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu's political and social structures.

It is important to understand that Periyar's ideology was not limited to a single act or reform. Instead, it was a comprehensive set of beliefs and principles that addressed various aspects of social and political life. His ideas on rationalism, anti-casteism, and women's rights were interlinked and formed a coherent ideological framework. This framework continues to resonate with many people in Tamil Nadu, making Periyar's contributions to the region's social and political life significant and enduring.

While Periyar did advocate for women's rights and social reforms, the question specifically asks about the broader ideology he developed. Therefore, the correct answer is that Periyar carved out an ideology for himself that many citizens of Tamil Nadu still swear by. This ideology encompasses a wide range of principles and beliefs that have had a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu's social and political landscape.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Periyar developed an ideology that emphasized rationalism, anti-casteism, and women's rights, which continues to influence Tamil Nadu's political and social landscape. His ideas have been embraced by many citizens of Tamil Nadu.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. While Periyar did advocate for women's rights, the question is specifically about the broader ideology he developed, not a specific act to save women.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The abolition of sati was a significant social reform, but it was not specifically Periyar's act. The practice was abolished by the British in 1829, long before Periyar's time.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The correct answer is provided in Option A, as Periyar did indeed carve out an ideology that many citizens of Tamil Nadu still follow.

Mnemonic: P for Periyar, P for Philosophy

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