Centenary Celebration of Historic Dialogue Between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi

Modern Indian History Leaders in History

26-Jun-25

Context

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Centenary Celebration of the historic dialogue between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
This dialogue originally took place on March 12, 1925, at Sivagiri Mutt, Kerala.

Significance of the Dialogue

The meeting between two of India’s most revered reformers is remembered for its profound discussion on several critical socio-political issues, including:

Vaikom Satyagraha
Religious Conversions
Non-Violence
Abolition of Untouchability
Empowerment of Marginalised Communities

Comparative Views: Sree Narayana Guru vs Mahatma Gandhi

Issue	Sree Narayana Guru	Mahatma Gandhi
Religious Conversions	Opposed conversions; stressed internal reform within Hinduism	Opposed conversions; encouraged reform within the Hindu fold
Non-Violence	Supported it as a practical tool, not an absolute principle	Considered it a universal and foundational moral tenet
Untouchability	Denied religious sanction; called for total abolition	Termed it a sin; favored gradual reform through persuasion
Marginalised Upliftment	Emphasized education and economic self-reliance	Focused on spiritual dignity and moral regeneration

About the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924–25)

Cause

Aimed at ending the ban on lower castes from using roads near the Vaikom Shiva Temple in Travancore (now Kerala).
Protested untouchability and demanded access to public spaces for Dalits.

Leadership

Led by T.K. Madhavan, K. Kelappan, and others.
Gandhi offered moral support and strategic guidance, though did not join initially.
E.V. Ramasamy Periyar emerged as a prominent supporter and played a vital role on the ground.

About Sree Narayana Guru

A philosopher, saint, and social reformer from Kerala.
Advocated social equality, spiritual reform, and educational empowerment.
Founded Sharada Mutt and Sivagiri Mutt as centres for learning and reform.
Propagated the message: “One Caste, One Religion, One God for All”.
Major works include:
- Daiva Dasakam
- Nivritti Panchakam
- Atmopadesa Satakam

Legacy of the 1925 Dialogue

Marked a turning point in India’s social reform movement.
Inspired Gandhi to intensify his Harijan upliftment mission.
Cemented the role of peaceful protest and moral reform as tools of national transformation.
Reaffirmed the critical need for education and economic empowerment in eradicating caste-based discrimination.

Conclusion

The 1925 dialogue between Sree Narayana Guru and Mahatma Gandhi remains a powerful symbol of India’s struggle against social injustice. As India commemorates its centenary, their shared vision continues to inspire efforts toward an inclusive and egalitarian society.

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