New book explores Periyar’s legacy through rare conversations on caste, nation and socialism

By A Representative  

A new book titled Periyar: Caste, Nation and Socialism, published by People’s Literature Publications, Mumbai, offers a compelling and richly detailed exploration of E.V. Ramasamy ‘Periyar’ and the ideological underpinnings of the Dravidian movement. The book features an in-depth conversation between renowned Tamil intellectual S.V. Rajadurai and social activist-writer Vidya Bhushan Rawat.

Rajadurai, a respected chronicler of Tamil Nadu's social history and co-author of the widely-read Towards a Non-Brahmin Millennium (with V. Geetha), delves into Periyar’s political journey, his radical vision of caste annihilation, and his lesser-known engagements with the Hindi heartland. The book brings to light new historical dimensions of Periyar’s activism, especially his travels and interactions in northern India, which have received scant attention in existing biographies and mainstream narratives.

Speaking on the significance of the work, Vidya Bhushan Rawat said,

“This book is unique because it presents a dialogue with a deeply respected Tamil intellectual and activist who brings decades of experience and commitment to the Dravidian movement. What makes it even more powerful is the uncovering of Periyar’s connections and engagements in North India, particularly his visits to cities like Lucknow, which were largely overlooked by mainstream historians.”

Rawat, known for his global engagement with Ambedkarite and anti-caste intellectuals, added,

“In this age of gossip and noise, this conversation brings serious archival insights. It’s a tribute to Comrade Rajadurai’s unwavering dedication to the cause of Periyarism, especially given his serious health challenges while working on this book.”

The conversation is part of Rawat’s long-standing effort to document voices of resistance and social justice through interviews. He has already published two volumes of such dialogues with over 45 individuals from countries including South Africa, Kenya, Senegal, Palestine, Bangladesh, and others, including the Indian diaspora descended from indentured laborers. A Hindi edition, Ambedkarwaad: Vichardhara aur Sangharsh, features conversations with legendary Ambedkarites who had worked closely with Dr B.R. Ambedkar.

The book is now available for purchase on Amazon and Flipkart. Rawat urged Hindi readers and Ambedkarite activists to consider translating the book:

“There are many misconceptions about Periyar in the Hindi belt. A Hindi translation will help bridge that gap and introduce people to what Periyar truly stood for.”

The publication is a significant addition to contemporary literature on anti-caste thought and South Indian political history, and it aims to spark more nuanced understanding of Periyar’s ideological contributions beyond linguistic and regional boundaries.