C.V. Kunhiraman: Supported Ezhava Movement, Opposed Caste in Kerala

 

C.V. Kunhiraman: Supported Ezhava Movement, Opposed Caste in Kerala

Introduction
C.V. Kunhiraman (1871–1949) was a visionary social reformer, journalist, and writer who dedicated his life to uplifting the Ezhava community and dismantling Kerala’s oppressive caste system. Born in Mayyanad, Kollam, Kunhiraman emerged as a key figure in the Ezhava movement, inspired by the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru. Through his newspaper Kerala Kaumudi and active participation in reformist campaigns like the Vaikom Satyagraha, he challenged caste discrimination and advocated for equality. His multifaceted contributions as a teacher, lawyer, and author left a lasting impact on Kerala’s social and literary landscape.

Reasons for Inception
Kunhiraman’s resolve to oppose caste and support the Ezhava movement was shaped by personal experiences and the socio-cultural context of his time. The following factors ignited his mission:

Caste-Based Oppression: As an Ezhava, Kunhiraman faced the harsh realities of untouchability and exclusion. Ezhavas were barred from temples, public roads, and educational institutions, treated as inferior by upper castes like Brahmins and Nairs. These injustices fueled his desire to fight for equality.

Influence of Sree Narayana Guru: Kunhiraman was a devoted follower of Sree Narayana Guru, whose philosophy of “one caste, one religion, one god” inspired a generation to reject caste hierarchies. Guru’s establishment of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam in 1903 provided a platform for Kunhiraman’s activism.

Kerala’s Social Awakening: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a surge of reform movements in Kerala, driven by lower-caste communities. Leaders like Ayyankali and Sahodaran Ayyappan challenged caste norms, creating a fertile ground for Kunhiraman’s efforts.

Need for a Voice: The Ezhava community lacked a strong medium to articulate its struggles and aspirations. Kunhiraman recognized the power of journalism to amplify their voice and founded Kerala Kaumudi to advocate for social justice.

Educational and Professional Background: Despite limited formal education, Kunhiraman’s roles as a teacher and lawyer exposed him to progressive ideas. His interactions with reformist circles and exposure to global movements against inequality shaped his anti-caste stance.

Course of His Efforts
Kunhiraman’s journey was marked by tireless efforts in journalism, social reform, and literature, all aimed at uplifting the Ezhavas and dismantling caste barriers.

Founding Kerala Kaumudi: In 1911, Kunhiraman launched Kerala Kaumudi as a weekly newspaper from Mayyanad. He served as its proprietor, editor, printer, and proofreader, making it a powerful voice for the Ezhava community. The newspaper covered issues of caste discrimination, untouchability, and social reform, rallying support for equality. Over time, it grew into one of Malayalam’s leading dailies, with editions across Kerala.

Active Role in Vaikom Satyagraha (1924–25): Kunhiraman was a prominent leader in the Vaikom Satyagraha, a nonviolent protest against the prohibition of lower castes from using roads around the Vaikom Temple. Alongside leaders like T.K. Madhavan, he mobilized support and faced arrests, contributing to the movement’s partial success in opening new roads for lower castes. His involvement highlighted his commitment to challenging untouchability.

Leadership in SNDP Yogam: Kunhiraman served as the general secretary of the SNDP Yogam (1928–29, 1931–32), working to advance Sree Narayana Guru’s vision of social equality. He organized educational and community initiatives to empower Ezhavas, including founding a school for lower-caste Hindus in Vellamanal, Mayyanad, where he also served as headmaster.

Literary Contributions: Kunhiraman authored 14 books, including novels, short stories, poetry, and biographies. His prose renderings of Valmiki Ramayanam (1901) and Vyasabharatam made classical literature accessible to the masses, breaking the Brahmin monopoly over sacred texts. His writings often reflected themes of social justice and human dignity.

Journalistic Ventures: Beyond Kerala Kaumudi, Kunhiraman edited and contributed to publications like Malayalarajyam, Navajeevan, Yukthivadi, and Vivekodayam. His articles addressed social issues, encouraging readers to question caste norms and embrace progressive ideals.

Results of His Efforts
Kunhiraman’s contributions had a profound and lasting impact on Kerala’s social, cultural, and political spheres:

Strengthening the Ezhava Movement: Through Kerala Kaumudi and his leadership in SNDP Yogam, Kunhiraman amplified the Ezhava community’s demands for equality. His work supported the broader anti-caste movement, paving the way for reforms like the Temple Entry Proclamation of 1936.

Advancement of Journalism: Kerala Kaumudi became a cornerstone of Malayalam journalism, providing a platform for marginalized voices. Its growth into a major daily reflects Kunhiraman’s vision of using media to drive social change.

Educational Empowerment: By establishing schools for lower castes, Kunhiraman expanded access to education, enabling Ezhavas to break free from socio-economic constraints. His efforts laid the groundwork for future generations to pursue professional and intellectual opportunities.

Literary Legacy: Kunhiraman’s writings democratized literature by making it inclusive and relevant to the common people. His works inspired a new wave of socially conscious writers in Kerala.

Recognition and Honors: The C.V. Kunhiraman Literary Award, instituted by the C.V. Kunhiraman Foundation, celebrates his contributions to Malayalam literature. His legacy continues to inspire reformers and writers advocating for equality.

Conclusion
C.V. Kunhiraman was a trailblazer who used journalism, reformist activism, and literature to challenge Kerala’s caste system and uplift the Ezhava community. His establishment of Kerala Kaumudi, leadership in the Vaikom Satyagraha, and literary works transformed the socio-cultural landscape of Kerala. Kunhiraman’s life is a testament to the power of determination and compassion in the fight for justice. His legacy shines as a guiding light for those striving to build a society where equality and dignity prevail.