Vaikom Satygraha

• Tamilnadu is planning a year-long celebration of Vaikom satyagraha movement that was launched to end caste discrimination in a temple in colonial Kerala.

About Vaikom Satyagraha

• It was a non-violent agitation or satyagraha in Travancore, India (now part of Kerala) against untouchability in Hindu society.
• It was centered at the Shiva temple at Vaikom, near Kottayam.
• The Satyagraha aimed at securing freedom of movement for all sections of society through the public roads leading to the Sri Mahadevar Temple at Vaikom.
• Major Leaders- Madhavan, P. Kesava Menon and K. Kelappan (also known as Kerala Gandhi).
• The movement was backed by Gandhiji, ChatampiSwamikal, and Sree Narayana Guru.
  • The campaign gained popularity throughout India, and supporters arrived from around the country.
  • Punjab’s Akalis helped by establishing kitchens(langars) to feed the Satyagrahis.
  • Even Muslim and Christian authorities backed the initiative.