The SNDP (Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana) Movement is a socio-political movement that originated in the early 20th century in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It was founded by Dr. Palpu Kumara Guru Devan in response to the social and educational challenges faced by the Ezhava community, an historically marginalized caste group in Kerala.
The SNDP Movement was established in the context of the social and economic disparities prevalent in Kerala during the early 20th century. The Ezhava community, which constitutes a significant portion of the population in Kerala, faced discrimination and limited access to education, employment, and political representation. The movement sought to address these issues and uplift the Ezhava community.
The movement drew inspiration from the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru, a social reformer and spiritual leader who advocated for the principles of equality, social justice, and empowerment. Sree Narayana Guru emphasized the importance of education, self-respect, and socio-economic progress for marginalized communities.
Objectives of the SNDP Movement:
One of the primary objectives of the SNDP Movement was to provide educational opportunities for the Ezhava community. The movement established numerous educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and training centers, to promote literacy and access to quality education.
The SNDP Movement aimed to address social inequalities and caste discrimination. It worked towards dismantling caste-based prejudices and practices, promoting social harmony, and striving for equal rights and opportunities for all.
The movement focused on promoting economic development and self-sufficiency among the Ezhava community. It encouraged entrepreneurship, skill development, and the establishment of cooperatives to empower individuals and improve their socio-economic conditions.
The SNDP Movement aimed to increase political representation for the Ezhava community. It advocated for the rights of the community in terms of electoral representation, appointment to government positions, and policymaking.
The movement sought to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Ezhava community. It emphasized the importance of cultural identity, language, and traditions while fostering a sense of pride and self-respect among community members.
Impact and Legacy: The SNDP Movement played a significant role in transforming the socio-political landscape of Kerala. Some of its notable achievements include:
The movement’s focus on education led to the establishment of a large number of schools, colleges, and educational institutions across Kerala. This resulted in increased literacy rates and educational opportunities for the Ezhava community.
The SNDP Movement contributed to the social and political empowerment of the Ezhava community. It played a role in increasing their representation in various spheres of society, including politics, government, and public administration.
The movement’s efforts towards economic empowerment resulted in the establishment of cooperatives and initiatives that provided economic opportunities to community members. This contributed to the overall economic progress and self-sufficiency of the Ezhava community.
The SNDP Movement played a significant role in fostering social integration and harmony in Kerala. It worked towards breaking down barriers of caste-based discrimination and promoting a sense of unity among different communities.
The SNDP Movement continues to be an influential force in Kerala, advocating for the rights and welfare of the Ezhava community. It has also contributed to the broader discourse on social justice, equality, and inclusive development in the state.