Global Periyarites confer social justice award on Vidya Bhushan Rawat

By A Representative

has announced that social activist and writer will receive the prestigious . The official announcement was made in the United States today by the Award Committee members and .

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Rawat said, “I am humbled to receive this communication. It is a great personal honor to be recognized and acknowledged by the followers of internationally.”

The Dr. K. Veeramani Social Justice Award was instituted by followers of , the pioneering social reformer of India, to honor Dr. K. Veeramani, President of the , for his lifelong contribution to advancing social equality and protecting human rights.

According to Periyar International, “The Award recognizes Dr. Veeramani’s lifelong contribution to advancing social equality, protecting human rights, and leading courageous battles against systems of oppression that deny justice and equality to marginalized people.”

The international honor is bestowed annually upon an individual or institution that has made a significant contribution to the cause of social justice. Former recipients include , , , , , and .

In their message, the Award Committee noted, “You have been chosen as the recipient of the K. Veeramani Social Justice Award for 2025 in recognition of your lifelong commitment to illuminating the struggles of marginalized communities and championing social justice, guided by the transformative ideals of Periyar, Ambedkar, and Phule. Your work has advanced human dignity, strengthened democratic values, and contributed to building a more equitable India, prepared to take its rightful place among leading nations of the world.”

The award ceremony will take place in on November 14, 2025.

This will be Vidya Bhushan Rawat’s third international honor, following recognitions by Humanist International (Norway, 2011) and the (2017).

Reflecting on the honor, Mr. Rawat added, “I feel immensely satisfied by this acknowledgement from , , and worldwide. For me, this is a profound recognition of my silent work for the cause of social justice and human rights. Having read, seen, and interacted with Dr. Veeramani for over two decades, I feel deeply honored by this award.”

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