Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, also known as Thanthai Periyar, was a social activist and politician who fought against social inequality and advocated for social justice. His words continue to inspire and provoke thought even today. Here are some of his quotes in English that highlight his vision and ideals.
“Man is not born to be a slave, he is born to be a master, but he puts chains around his own neck.”
Periyar believed that each individual has the power and potential to be a leader and make a positive impact on society. He emphasized the importance of self-empowerment and breaking free from the chains of oppression and societal norms.
“Religion is mere superstition. It is not compatible with rationality or progress.”
Periyar was a staunch critic of religion and its influence on people’s lives. He believed that religion was a hindrance to progress and rational thinking. He encouraged people to question and challenge religious beliefs in order to pave the way for a more enlightened society.
“Social reform is not just about changing laws and policies. It is about changing the hearts and minds of the people.”
Periyar recognized that true social change goes beyond legal and policy reforms. He believed that in order to create a more equal and just society, it was essential to challenge people’s deep-rooted prejudices and discriminatory beliefs. He advocated for social reform through education, awareness, and dialogue.
“Emancipation will not come from begging, it will come from knowledge and self-respect.”
Periyar believed that true emancipation, especially for the marginalized and oppressed communities, could not be achieved through dependency or begging for rights. He emphasized the importance of knowledge, education, and self-respect as the means to attain true liberation and equality.
“The rights of women are not negotiable. They are rights, not privileges.”
Periyar was a strong advocate for women’s rights and gender equality. He believed that women, like men, deserved equal rights and opportunities. He challenged the patriarchal norms and advocated for women’s empowerment through education, economic independence, and social reform.
In conclusion, Periyar’s quotes continue to be relevant and thought-provoking, inspiring us to challenge societal norms, fight for equality, and strive for a more inclusive and just society.
Quotes about Freedom and Liberation
- “Freedom is not given; it is taken by the oppressed.”
- “Liberation comes from within, when we break free from the chains of societal expectations.”
- “True freedom is the ability to think, speak, and act without fear of repression.”
- “The liberation of one individual is the liberation of humanity.”
- “Freedom is not a privilege, it is a right that every human being deserves.”
- “Liberation is a constant struggle against the forces that seek to oppress us.”
- “True liberation can only be achieved when we dismantle the systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice.”
- “Freedom is not just the absence of physical constraints, but the ability to express oneself fully and authentically.”
- “Liberation is not a destination, but a journey towards self-realization and empowerment.”
- “The fight for freedom and liberation is a fight for justice and equality.”
Quotes about Equality and Social Justice
“Equality means enjoying equal opportunities, rights, and resources without any discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender.”
“Social justice is the foundation of a progressive society, where every individual is treated with respect and dignity.”
“The true measure of a society’s progress lies in how it treats its most marginalized members.”
“No person should be denied basic human rights and privileges based on their social status or background.”
“Justice can only prevail when equality is upheld and everyone is given an equal chance to succeed.”
“Discrimination and prejudice have no place in a just and inclusive society.”
“Empowering the oppressed and marginalized is the key to building a more equitable and harmonious world.”
“It is our collective responsibility to fight for equality and social justice for all.”
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We must stand united against any form of discrimination.”
“A society can only progress when it ensures equal rights and opportunities for all its members.”
Quotes about Rationalism and Critical Thinking
“Rationalism is the key to unlocking the doors of ignorance and superstition.”
“Critical thinking is not about finding faults, but about finding truth.”
“Question everything, believe nothing, and seek knowledge.”
“The power of rational thinking can transform society and bring about true progress.”
“Do not accept blindly what is handed to you, but question, analyze, and seek evidence.”
“Critical thinking is the antidote to blind faith and irrational beliefs.”
“Rationalism empowers individuals to make well-informed decisions and challenge the status quo.”
“The pursuit of truth requires an open mind and a willingness to question conventional wisdom.”
“Rationalism is the foundation of a civilized society and a self-reliant individual.”
“Critical thinking is not a luxury, but a necessity in a world filled with misinformation and propaganda.”
Quotes about Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality
“Women’s rights are human rights.”
“Empowering women is not just a slogan, it is a responsibility.”
“Gender equality is not a women’s issue, it is a human issue.”
“When women are empowered, societies thrive.”
“No country can achieve its full potential without the involvement of women.”
“Equality for women is progress for all.”
“A society that empowers women is a society that prospers.”
“Women’s empowerment is about giving them the tools to shape their own destiny.”
“Gender equality is not just about fairness, it is about creating a better world for everyone.”
“Women’s rights and gender equality should be a priority for every government and every individual.”
Quotes about Casteism and Dalit Empowerment
- “Caste is not a physical object like a wall of bricks or a line of barbed wire which prevents the Hindus from co-mingling and which has, therefore, to be pulled down. Caste is a notion; it is a state of the mind.” – Periyar
- “Without fraternity, equality, and liberty, no social reform is possible. With fraternity alone, on the basis of fraternity alone, can liberty and equality be obtained.” – Periyar
- “No one should harm the dignity of another. No one should discriminate against another based on caste. We all are humans first, and that should be our only identity.” – Periyar
- “Dalits have been oppressed for far too long. It is time to empower them, give them equal opportunities, and create a society that is just and inclusive.” – Periyar
- “The caste system is like a disease that has infected our society. We must eradicate it, root and branch, so that every individual can live with dignity and equality.” – Periyar
- “Dalits are not untouchables, they are fighters. They have the power to challenge and change the system that oppresses them. Let us stand with them in their fight for justice.” – Periyar
- “The true measure of a society’s progress is how it treats its most marginalized members. We must break the chains of casteism and uplift our Dalit brothers and sisters.” – Periyar
- “Caste is a social evil that perpetuates discrimination and inequality. We must work together to dismantle it and create a society where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.” – Periyar
Quotes about Education and Knowledge
“The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” – Aristotle
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
“Knowledge is power.” – Sir Francis Bacon
“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” – B.B. King
“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” – Socrates
Quotes about Religious Tolerance and Secularism
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“Religious tolerance is the bedrock of a harmonious society.” |
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“Secularism is not about removing religion from public life, but ensuring equal respect and opportunities for all religious beliefs.” |
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“A truly secular society embraces diversity and allows everyone to practice their beliefs without fear or discrimination.” |
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“Religious tolerance is a sign of a civilized society.” |
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“Secularism fosters unity and understanding among different religious communities.” |
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“In a secular society, people are free to choose their beliefs without imposing them on others.” |
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“The true essence of religious tolerance lies in accepting and respecting differences.” |
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“Secularism ensures that no religion is given preferential treatment, creating a level playing field for all.” |
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“True religious freedom can only be achieved through secularism.” |
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“The strength of a secular society lies in its ability to protect the rights and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs.” |
Quotes about Nature and Environmental Conservation
“Nature is not a resource to be exploited, but a gift to be cherished.”
“The earth does not belong to us; we belong to the earth.”
“In the end, we will conserve only what we love.”
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”
“The environment is where we all meet; where we all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share.”
“Every time we destroy a piece of nature, we are destroying a part of ourselves.”
“Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land.”
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”
“We abuse land because we see it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.”