Question

Explain briefly about the self-respect movement.

Answer 1

1. The Self-Respect Movement introduced a programme of Non-Brahmin uplift in Tamil Nadu.
2. The movement was concerned with the marginalized sections the society and Criticised Brahminism and the cultural hegemony of the Brahmin.
3. It advocated a casteless society devoid of rituals and differences based on birth.
4. The movement declared rationality and Self-Respect is the birthright of all human beings and held these as more important than self-rule.
5. The movement demanded women’s emancipation, deplored superstition and emphasised rationality.
6. The movement also advocated self-respect for marriage.
7. The Self-Respect Movement championed not only the cause of the Non-Brahmin Hindus but also that of the Muslims.
8. The Self Respect Movement extolled the lofty principles of Islam such as equity and brotherhood.
9. Muslim elite considered the Tamil Muslims as Dravidian.
10. He wanted the Dravidian Muslim to follow Mustapha Kemal Pasha of Turkey and Amanullah of Afghanistan who initiated reforms in Islamic society.