Understanding the Anti Brahmin Movement and Key Leaders

The question asks about a leader who was involved in the Anti Brahmin movement, worked with the Justice Party, and founded the Dravidar Kazhagam. These were significant movements and organizations in South India, particularly in the Madras Presidency (present-day Tamil Nadu), focusing on social justice, equality, and self-respect for non-Brahmin communities.

Identifying the Key Figure: E.V. Ramasami Naicker

Based on historical records, the figure who prominently led the Anti Brahmin movement, was associated with the Justice Party, and founded the Dravidar Kazhagam is E.V. Ramasami Naicker.

Leading the Anti Brahmin Movement and Self-Respect Movement

E.V. Ramasami Naicker, often referred to as 'Periyar' (meaning 'respected one' or 'elder'), was a staunch critic of the caste system and Brahmin dominance. He initiated the Self-Respect Movement in 1925. This movement aimed to:

• Challenge caste hierarchies.
• Advocate for social equality.
• Promote self-respect among oppressed communities.
• Critique religious practices that reinforced inequality.

This movement was fundamentally anti-Brahmin in its focus on challenging the social and religious privileges traditionally held by Brahmins.

Association with the Justice Party

The Justice Party, officially known as the South Indian Liberal Federation, was a political organization established in 1916. It primarily represented the interests of non-Brahmin communities. Periyar joined the Justice Party and eventually took over its leadership in 1938. Under his leadership, the party continued its focus on social reform and political representation for non-Brahmins.

Founding Dravidar Kazhagam

In 1944, the Justice Party was transformed by Periyar into the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK). The Dravidar Kazhagam was a social movement organization rather than a political party contesting elections. Its main objectives included:

• Promoting a separate Dravidian identity.
• Continuing the work of the Self-Respect Movement.
• Advocating for social reform and equality.
• Opposing Hindi imposition.

Thus, E.V. Ramasami Naicker fits all the criteria mentioned in the question.

Comparing with Other Options

Let's look at the other options to understand why they are not the correct answer:

• A.K. Gopalan: He was a prominent leader of the Communist movement in India, particularly known for his work in Kerala and his role in trade unions and peasant movements. While he fought for the rights of the oppressed, he was not primarily associated with the Anti Brahmin movement, the Justice Party, or founding Dravidar Kazhagam.
• K. Kamaraj: A significant leader of the Indian National Congress and a freedom fighter. He served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and played a crucial role in national politics. His focus was primarily on political leadership, governance, and education, not the Anti Brahmin movement or the organizations mentioned.
• Potti Sriramulu: He was an Indian revolutionary and activist who famously undertook a hunger strike demanding the creation of a separate state for Telugu speakers from the Madras Presidency, which led to the formation of Andhra State. His struggle was related to linguistic reorganization rather than the Anti Brahmin movement or the Dravidian parties.

Comparing the Leaders and Movements

Here is a summary comparing the individuals mentioned:

Based on this comparison, E.V. Ramasami Naicker is the only figure who led the Anti Brahmin movement, was associated with the Justice Party, and founded the Dravidar Kazhagam.

Revision Table: Social Movements and Leaders

Additional Information: The Dravidian Movement

The movements led by Periyar and the Justice Party are part of the larger Dravidian Movement in South India. This movement emerged in the early 20th century as a response to perceived Brahmin dominance in government jobs, education, and social life in the Madras Presidency.

Key aspects of the Dravidian Movement include:

• Anti-Casteism: Strongly opposing the caste system and advocating for social equality.
• Rationalism: Promoting rational thought and critiquing religious dogmas and superstitious beliefs, often seen as tools of oppression.
• Tamil Language and Culture: Emphasizing the distinct identity of the Tamil language and culture and advocating for its prominence.
• State Autonomy: Later, elements of the movement also advocated for greater autonomy for the state.

The Dravidar Kazhagam, founded by Periyar, remained a significant force in shaping the social and political landscape of Tamil Nadu, influencing subsequent political parties like the DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) and AIADMK (All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam).