Question

How did the teachings and activities of Sree Narayana Guru influence the social changes in Kerala? Evaluate.

Answer 1

Instructions:

• Begin by highlighting one of the quotes of Sree Narayana Guru, and
• Then mention his activities that influenced the social changes in Kerala.

Solution:

Sree Narayana Guru believed 'People may be different in their clothing, language and religion, but all belong to one caste - humanity.'

The teachings and activities of Sree Narayana Guru that influenced social changes in Kerala can be summed as follows

• He Organized several poverty alleviation programmes to help the depressed classes move up the social ladder.
• He also suggested setting up industries to provide employment for people.
• He created awareness against social customs like Talikettukalyanam and Thirandukalayam practised in some castes of Kerala.
• He organized an All-Religion Conference at Aluva.
• He carried out consecrations (pratishtas) like Sivalingapratishta at Aruvippuram, the Deepapratishta at Karamukku temple and the Saradapratishta at Sivagiri that challenged the foundations of the caste structure.