Periyar's Ideals Honored at Oxford by Tamil Nadu CM Stalin

Chennai, Sep 5 (PTI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin lauded social reformer Periyar’s enduring global influence, emphasizing that his rational ideals now resonate worldwide. Periyar’s Self-Respect Movement, which was initiated a century ago, fundamentally altered societal understandings of freedom by dismantling oppressive systems and uplifting human dignity.

On September 4, during a strategic visit to the UK aimed at bolstering investments for Tamil Nadu, CM Stalin unveiled a portrait of the esteemed social reformer Periyar at St. Antony’s College, Oxford University. This event marks the 100th anniversary of the Self-Respect Movement. Thotta Tharani, a distinguished Indian art director, painter, and production designer, crafted the portrait.

Chief Minister Stalin underscored the Self-Respect Movement's significant global influence on promoting social justice, praising Periyar’s contributions to rationalism, gender equality, and anti-caste reforms. "Unveiling Periyar’s portrait at Oxford University—a symbol of knowledge, human rights, and dignity—is a profound honor. It attests that Periyar’s rational ideals extend globally, beyond Tamil Nadu,” Stalin stated during the ceremony.

On the social media platform ‘X’, Stalin wrote, "Self-Respect Movement—a revolution that redefined freedom! It broke chains and raised dignity. Thanthai Periyar’s movement dismantled fundamentalisms, awakened a sense of dignity, nurtured a scientific temperament, and positioned itself as a beacon of social transformation." He continued, “At Oxford, I proudly represented Periyar’s legacy, honoring the revolution that transformed years of oppression into the enduring anthem of Self Respect. We’re not solely commemorating history; we’re shaping the future.”

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