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Context

The Prime Minister recently attended the centenary celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's historic 1925 conversation with Sree Narayana Guru at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.

Who is Sree Narayana Guru?

Sree Narayana Guru (20 August 1856–20 September 1928) was a saint, philosopher, spiritual leader, and social reformer from Kerala.
The Guru was born into an Ezhava family in a time when people from backward communities, such as the Ezhavas, faced social injustice in Kerala's caste-ridden society.
Ayyavu Swamikal taught Sree Narayan Guru yoga and meditation. This led to him becoming a hermit for eight years, during which time he practiced yoga and meditation to achieve spirituality.
Gurudevan, as he was known among his followers, spearheaded a reform movement in Kerala, revolted against the caste system, and worked to spread new values of spiritual freedom and social equality, transforming Kerala society.
He is revered for his Vedic knowledge, poetic ability, openness to others' perspectives, nonviolent philosophy, and unwavering determination to right social wrongs.

Important Works

Against Caste Injustice	- Gave the slogan: “One Caste, One Religion, One God for All” (Oru Jathi, Oru Matham, Oru Daivam, Manushyanu) - In 1888, built a Shiva temple at Aruvippuram, defying caste restrictions - Consecrated a temple at Kalavancode with mirrors instead of idols to signify divinity within each person
Against Conversions	- Advocated equality but discouraged religious conversions that exploited caste inequalities - In 1923, organized the All-Region Conference at Alwaye Advaita Ashram to promote unity and resist conversions among the Ezhava community

Source: Newindianexpress

Practice Question:

Q. With reference to Sree Narayana Guru, consider the following statements:

He advocated the philosophy of "One caste, one religion, one God for mankind."

He led the Vaikom Satyagraha personally from the front.

He was a prominent social reformer from Kerala who worked against caste discrimination.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 1 and 3 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer:

B) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 – Correct: Sree Narayana Guru is famous for the slogan "One caste, one religion, one God for mankind," promoting social equality and spiritual unity.

Statement 2 – Incorrect: Although he supported the Vaikom Satyagraha, he did not lead it personally. Leaders like K. Kelappan and T. K. Madhavan played direct roles.

Statement 3 – Correct: He was a key social reformer from Kerala who worked against untouchability and caste discrimination.