Sree Narayana Guru
- Born
- 22 August 1856, Chempazhanthy, Travancore, British India (present-day Kerala, India)
- Died
- 20 September 1928, Sivagiri, Varkala, Travancore, British India (present-day Kerala, India)
- Nationality
- Indian
- Profession(s)
- Philosopher, Spiritual Leader, Social Reformer
Early Life and Education
- Born into an Ezhava family in Chempazhanthy village.
- Learned Sanskrit and traditional systems of Indian medicine and astrology.
- Showed an early inclination towards asceticism and spiritual pursuits.
Career and Major Achievements
- Dedicated his life to social reform and spiritual upliftment of marginalized communities.
- Established the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP) in 1903 to promote education and social equality.
- Conducted the Aruvippuram Pratishta in 1888, defying caste restrictions and establishing a Shiva temple open to all.
- Advocated for "One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man" (Oru Jati, Oru Matham, Oru Daivam Manushyanu).
- Played a crucial role in the Vaikom Satyagraha, a movement against caste discrimination in temple entry.
Notable Works
- Authored numerous philosophical and devotional works in Malayalam, Sanskrit, and Tamil.
- Key writings include:
- Atmopadesa Satakam (A Hundred Verses of Self-Instruction)
- Daiva Dasakam (Ten Verses to God)
- Jati Mimamsa (Critique of Caste)
Legacy and Impact
Sree Narayana Guru's teachings and social reform efforts had a profound and lasting impact on Kerala society. His advocacy for equality, education, and spiritual enlightenment helped to dismantle caste-based discrimination and paved the way for social progress. As a beacon of change, the work and philosophy of about sri narayana guru of kerala continues to inspire generations.