Historic Arunthathiyar Walkers March Through Rajavur Village in Tiruppur

On December 26, 2023, a historic event reminiscent of the famous Dandi march took place in the streets of Rajavur, Tiruppur. The 300-meter long Kambala Naicken street was filled with Arunthathiyar walkers, creating an awe-inspiring sight. This march holds great significance for the Naicker residents of the village, as well as the Arunthathiyar community.

The Arunthathiyar Walkers and Their Journey

The Arunthathiyars, a marginalized community in Tamil Nadu, have been facing discrimination and social exclusion for centuries. However, on this day, they marched proudly through the heart of Rajavur village, making a powerful statement about their resilience and determination to fight for their rights.

A Step Towards Equality

With a population of 900 households, it is noteworthy that 800 of them belong to the dominant Gounder and Naicker communities. This makes the Arunthathiyars a minority within their own village. The fact that they organized this march and walked fearlessly through the streets shows their unwavering commitment to challenging the social norms that have marginalized them for far too long.

A Historic Comparison

The Dandi march, led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, was a significant event in India’s fight for independence from British rule. It was a symbolic act of civil disobedience against the unjust salt tax imposed by the British government. Similarly, the Arunthathiyar walkers’ march can be seen as a symbolic act of resistance against the discrimination they face on a daily basis.

Implications for the Arunthathiyar Community

This march not only showcased the unity and strength of the Arunthathiyar community but also served as a wake-up call for the larger society. It brought attention to the struggles faced by this marginalized group and highlighted the urgent need for social reforms and equal opportunities for all.

Conclusion

The historic Arunthathiyar walkers’ march through Rajavur village in Tiruppur was a momentous event that will be remembered for years to come. It symbolizes the courage and determination of the Arunthathiyar community in their fight for equality and social justice. It is a call to action for society to address the systemic discrimination faced by marginalized communities and work towards building an inclusive and equal society for all.

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1/As historic as the Dandi march, though local police were around.
Place: Kambala Naicken street, Rajavur, Tiruppur.
Length: 300m.
Residents: Naickers
Walkers: Arunthathiyars
Village Trivia: Of 900 households, 800 are Gounders, Naickers.https://t.co/8Nx44LvYjE

— anbudan BALAஎ.அ.பாலா (@AmmU_MaanU) December 26, 2023

Source

@AmmU_MaanU said 1/As historic as the Dandi march, though local police were around. Place: Kambala Naicken street, Rajavur, Tiruppur. Length: 300m. Residents: Naickers Walkers: Arunthathiyars Village Trivia: Of 900 households, 800 are Gounders, Naickers. newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-n…