Alternative Visions of the Nation and the Minority Question

Flashcards on alternative visions of the nation and the minority question, focusing on anti-caste movements and leaders.

Caste-based Associations

Aimed to challenge Brahminical dominance and assert dignity and rights among marginalized groups.

Caste Upliftment Movements

Movements led by Phule, Ambedkar, and Periyar advocating for the education, land rights, and temple entry for oppressed castes.

Self-Respect Movement

Rejected Brahmin authority, rituals, and caste, calling for rational thinking, secular values, and a non-Vedic identity.

Religious Minorities (Buddhism, Christianity, Islam)

Conversion to these religions became acts of resistance against the caste system.

Untouchables (Dalits)

Lowest menial and agricultural laborers considered impure and subjected to severe social restrictions.

Jyotirao Phule

Founder of Satyashodak Samaj, he promoted social equality and education for Shudras and Dalits, challenged Brahminical dominance.

E. V. Ramasamy Naicker (Periyar)

Radical reformer who advocated for eradicating caste oppression, Brahmin supremacy, and patriarchy, promoting a Dravidian identity.

Bahishkrut Hitakarini Sabha

Organization founded by Ambedkar that focused on education, socio-economic welfare, and legal advocacy for the marginalized.

Mahad Satyagraha

Protest led by Ambedkar against caste-based restrictions on water access, asserting civic equality and Dalit right to public resources.

Conversion to Buddhism (Ambedkar)

Ambedkar's conversion to this religion with over 500,000 Dalits marked a rejection of caste and assertion of equality.