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Reformation movement in Kerala refers to a socio-cultural movement that began towards the end of 19th century and lead to large scale changes in the social outlook of southern Indian state of Kerala.
Background[1][edit]
The foundations of social changes in Kerala may be traced back to 16th century. The arrival of Europeans beginning with Portuguese followed by dutch and the English became a catalyst in these changes. The arrival of missionaries from European nations lead to rise in educational institutions in Kerala and the rise of a educated class among caste groups like Ezhavas.
The changes in political order of kerala with the establishment of centralised monarchies in Travancore and cochin which lead to decline of old feudal order was also crucial factor which set the stage for reformation.
The Mysorean invasion of Kerala (1766-1792) shook the hold of elites like Brahmins or Namboothiris and Nairs on Kerala society. Mysoreans had scant regard for caste structures in Kerala and many brahmin and nair families had to flee to southern kerala to avoid persecution by mysorean forces.
Leaders[edit]
Prominent leaders of Kerala reformation include Narayana Guru,Chattampi Swamikal, Ayyankali etc.
References[edit]
- ^ A Sreedhara Menon, "Cultural heritage of Kerala" , p.245