Wed Mar 05 15:14:14 UTC 2025: **Kerala Releases Encyclopaedia Marking 100th Anniversary of Vaikom Satyagraha**

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, March 5, 2025 – The State Institute of Encyclopaedic Publications (SIEP) has released a comprehensive encyclopaedia commemorating the centennial of the Vaikom Satyagraha, a pivotal 20th-century movement that significantly impacted Kerala’s social and political landscape.

The 248-page “Vaikom Satyagraham: Vijnanakosham” details the 603-day struggle for equal access to public spaces near the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple. The publication coincides with the 100th anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi’s arrival in Vaikom and his meeting with Sree Narayana Guru.

The encyclopaedia, according to SIEP director Muse Mary George, aims to examine the multifaceted aspects of the Satyagraha, highlighting the contributions of various individuals and organizations. It underscores the relevance of the inter-community unity demonstrated during the struggle, particularly in today’s increasingly fragmented society.

The book traces the events leading up to the Satyagraha, focusing on the social structure of early 20th-century Kerala, the prevalent system of untouchability, and the key figures involved, including T.K. Madhavan, K.P. Kesava Menon, and K. Kelappan. It also explores the roles of Sree Narayana Guru, Mahatma Gandhi, Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, and Mannathu Padmanabhan, as well as organizations such as the Indian National Congress and the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam. Notable contributions from non-Hindus and women participants, such as Easwari Ammal and Nagammai, are also highlighted.

Editor Prathyush Chandran notes the inclusion of timelines, transcripts, and a list of those imprisoned during the Satyagraha. The encyclopaedia will be available for purchase through SIEP’s sales division this month.

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