Vaikom Protest Memorial Inaugurated by TN, Kerala CMs

Vaikom Protest 100th Anniversary Celebration: Renovated Memorial and Library Inaugurated

The renovated Thanthai Periyar Memorial and Library in Vaikom were inaugurated today by Hon’ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thiru. M.K. Stalin, in the presence of Hon’ble Kerala Chief Minister Thiru. Pinarayi Vijayan, during the 100th-anniversary celebration of the historic Vaikom Satyagraha.

Vaikom, in Kottayam district of Kerala, was the site of the famous 1924 protest where oppressed communities fought against the ban on their access to temple roads. The protest gained momentum when Thanthai Periyar took leadership at the request of prominent leaders like Barrister George Joseph and others. His relentless efforts, speeches, and campaigns led to the removal of the discriminatory ban, enabling equal access for all.

To commemorate this historic event, the Tamil Nadu government allocated ₹8.14 crore for renovating the Thanthai Periyar Memorial and Library in Vaikom. The renovated site now includes an exhibition hall, auditorium, children’s park, and a library housing over 5,000 books in Tamil, English, and Malayalam.

During the event, “Vaikom Protest and Periyar”, a book detailing the history of the protest, was released by the Kerala Chief Minister, and the 2024 Vaikom Award was presented to writer and social activist Thiru. Kathanoor Mohan from Karnataka, along with a ₹5 lakh prize.

Several dignitaries, including Tamil Nadu ministers, Kerala officials, and local representatives, participated in the event, marking the legacy of social justice and equality championed by Thanthai Periyar.