Ayyankali

Ayyankali was a pioneering Indian social reformer, educator, economist, lawmaker, and revolutionary leader.

Founder of the first Dalit newspaper ‘Sadhujana Paripalini’.

Founder of the ‘Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham’ (Association for the Protection of the Poor), dedicated to legal rights and social welfare.

He boldly defied caste oppression by riding a bullock cart on public roads, dressed in attire traditionally reserved for upper castes.

He worked tirelessly for the upliftment of oppressed communities in the princely state of Travancore.

He led the historic Villuvandi Yatra, a revolutionary anti-caste movement in Kerala challenging social discrimination.

He organized the first agricultural labour strike in Kerala, demanding the right to education for Dalit children.

Ayyankali led the Kallumala Samaram, challenging discriminatory dress codes that forced Dalit women to wear stone necklaces and denied them the right to dress with dignity.

His relentless struggles brought significant reforms, transforming the socio-political landscape of Kerala and improving the lives of marginalized communities.

He served as a member of the Sree Moolam Popular Assembly (Praja Sabha) in Travancore.

He is revered as the “King of Pulaya” for his leadership and impact on the Pulaya community.

He was honored with a commemorative Indian postage stamp in recognition of his enduring legacy.
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