Let us Learn our Great Thinker - Singaravelar
S.P. Agasthiyalingam
Injecting New Blood
On 1st March 1923, the conference of the Congress Party was being held at Gaya. In the podium of the conference one of the speakers began his speech addressing the gathering as "Comrades". The conference was spell bound by the thunderous applause of the audience. This injected new blood to the conference. M.N. Roy describes the proceedings fo the conference in the journal vanguard as follows:
"In the back drop of eminent thinkers of different ideologies participated in the Gaya Congress, the participation of Singaravelar will ever be remembered as an historical event. While even the young bloods and respectable leaders were fearing assault of repression by the Govt., the sixty year old white bearded man calling himself as ‘communist’ boldly without any fear, should have attracted the applause of the audience."
The old man is not anyone. He is our Singaravelar. While speaking at the conference, it is the first time he openly demanded `Total Swaraj’ for India. Then in Calcutta conference a huge workers rally pressed for the adoption of the above demand. Then in the Lucknow conference, the congress party also adopted this demand.
Singaravelar was born in a fisherman family. With relentless efforts he studied law. Even from younger days, he was very craze and concerned towards society and philosophy. There was narrow caste division in the fishermen community. One group calling themselves as big pattinavar and the other as small pattinavar. In order to break the division he married the other caste woman through intercaste marriage. About this he narrated an article in the `Kudiyarasu’ Journal. "In the year 1889, I am one among the persons, who supported the intercaste marriage in Chennai openly. In order to create good relationship between the two castes, the intercaste marriage was held".
He was deeply concerned about caste, religion & supersition. Because of that he had shown keen interest on Budhdhism. He started `Maha Bodhi Sangh" along with his friends and was preaching Budhdhism.
Tamil Thendral Thiru. Vi.Ka. in his autobiography narrates about this incident as follows.
"A Budhdha sangh assembled at Komaleeswaranpet in Pudupet. Speakers like Lakshmanaraju Naidu, Singaravelar Chettiar and others spoke. Singaravel Chettiar explained Darwin theory in chaste Tamil. I am very much attracted towards his speech. Even though my intention was to make rebellion in the meeting, I became a student of the Darwin Class. He became my teacher."
He identified himself continuously in search of philosophy, science and political struggle. He led so many working class struggles. First time in 1923, he conducted May Day celebrations in Chennai Marina Beach and it will ever be remembered in the history of India.
He had participated in the organisational conference of the communist party held at Kanpur. For that reason, he was charged in the Kanpur conspiracy case. Due to his age and health condition he was under house arrest and then released. He had the pride of first communist in South India. He started labour Kisan gazette party in 1923. He brought out a journal in the name of Labour Kisan gazette.
In those days, it is not easy to bring in Marxian books to our country. There was so many obstacles. Inspite of that through his foreign friends he brought these books through Pondicherry or Kerala Coasts. He hided these books among pickle or dry fish parcels and read.
Eventhough he was a scholar, that period was dominated by upper caste people. Once when he entered the court to argue a case, co-brahmin lawyers made fun fo him - asked "you fellows are accustomed only to pari (fish basket) not to law books. Why are you carrying these law books?
The next day he carried a fish basket (pari) and entered into the court. When he put down the basket, it was full of law books and science books. Those who made fun of him, had no words to speak.
He carried those books not just to show them. He was very sincere in reading books of science, history, philosophy, politics etc., published in those period. He understood those books with scientific outlook. Whatever he learnt, he translated them and written articles on various subjects for the use of Tamil Society and working class.
He was closely associated with Periyar’s self respect movement. He had written so many articles in Kudiyarasu paper published by Periyar, which were in the nature of social reforms with scientific outlook.
Periyar adopted a Erode programme which was centred around communist principles. Really that was mainly drafted by Singaravelar, with others. Periyar emphasized mainly on social freedom. Singaravelar differed with Periyar on this issue and raised the question. "Whether selfrespect movement or dishonour movement? Inspite of this difference Periyar wanted to utilise the eminent knowledge of Singaravelar and allowed him to write articles in `Kudiyarasu’ News paper.
Singaravelar gathered books on various subjects like politics, philosophy, psychology, physiology, economics, general knowledge etc., which were more than 20000 in his private library.
Hameer Hyderkhan narrated about the library as under.
"Singaravelar’s private Library is one of the biggest libraries in South India. Not only that, some portion of the books kept in the Singaravelar’s private Library is now available in the Lenin Library, the biggest Library in Moscow, under seperate section titled as `Singaravelar Library".
During the period from 1921 to 1936, nearly 15 years, he had written various articles on politics and philosophy under pseudonames - Samadarmi, Comrade, Eminent lawyer, Himalaya Thavasi, Yougaivathi, Sindhana Vaadhi, Social scientist, Yukthi vaathi, Mugamoodi etc., in the journals like - "Kudiyarasu, `Puratchi, Rationalist, Puduvai Murasu, New World, The Hindu, Sudharma, Observer, Sunday advocate etc., He has introduced several renowned scientists to the people and propagated scientific ideas. Even now if we read his writtings it will sharpen our thinking and enlighten our mind.
Gandhi’s Day dream of `Swaraj’
It was Singaravelar’s younger days and was a period of great uprisal of Indian freedom struggle. It is no surprise that inherent fighting nature of Singaravelar attracted him towards this struggle. He joined as volunteer of congress in the year 1917. He gathered people and led many a struggles. He was front runner to implement the calls made during Independent struggles such as Anti, Rowlett Act Movement, Movement comdemning Jaliyan Walabagh Massacre, Boycott of prince of Wales, Kilafat movement, Boycott of Simon Commission, Non Co-operation movement etc. He was naturally against Menshevik Path. Hence he was having close relationship with radical section in the congress.
The non cooperation movement was vigorously conducted at chowri-chowra on 4th Feb. 1922. At the instigation of British Govt., the police let loose terror against the people who participated in the procession. Many of them were severely wounded, some of the provoked people, torched the police station. 21 policemen died in the incident. 3000 people were wounded.
Gandhiji did not realise that the incident was as a result of the atrocious activities of the Govt. He had stopped the non-cooperation movement to condemn the violence opposing this stand, Singaravelar spoke against it and also written articles. "It is the personal responsibility of those, who led struggles to continuously ignite the feelings of the struggling masses. Once it is stopped in the middle then it will not be possible to create that spirit" - he said. After this incident, radical movements started emerging throughout India. Singaravelar also established links with different radical groups. His thinking process was slowly drifting away from congress movement.
He was moving towards communist ideology. He was having clear cut idea on `Swaraj’. He openly declared his position in Navasakthi daily through an open letter to Gandhiji pointing out several details about "Swaraj". He said that everyone should be given a piece of land and cultivate the land on his own for food. Everyone should be given free shelter without paying any rent to any landlord. If this guarantee is not available, then swaraj is no use. The real Swaraj we want is not an imaginary one . That Swaraj should be created by the people and for the people. Not less than that. This was the essence of the article by Singaravelar, under title "Swaraj for whom"?
Even today if we read the article it appears as a charge sheet against rulers.
Singaravelar ridiculed the `Swaraj’ that was conceived by congress. The basis for Swaraj is the present form of British rule. If we adopt the system with the same Ministers, Courts, Elections, Army, employees, Servants, Governors, Magistrates dress code etc., and only change is the person who is occupying these jobs i.e., Indians i.e. instead of the British people. If majority of other things are not changed then there will be no use. This was the answer to - "Congress Swaraj for whom? - by Singaravelar.
To the answer for Congress Swaraj - Singaravelar said that it was for the economically well to do people, most influential people bureaucrats and dominating people in the society ie. Bourgeoisie class and it is not meant for the people who sweat in the fields, tanks, mines, plantations, mills, railways, ships, severages and downtrodden people in the society.
Then to "Swaraj for whom?" - it is for our lawyers, judges, ministers, trustees, heads of mutts, landlords, industrialists, owners of railways and ships, army, police officers, university professors, teaching pundits and their offsprings. This was the criticism put forth by Singaravelar against Swaraj of Congress. He also criticised Gandhi’s trusteeship concept.
Even a tiger and cow may drink on a bank, the capitalist and the worker will not share the national output equally in the Gandhi’s Swaraj. In Gandhi’s Swaraj - a capitalist should behave like a Trustee for the workers, the worker must obey the orders of the capitalist; worker should not oppose his bosses. It was the model of Gandhi, who came in the tradition of traders preaching to 38 crore people of India. This kind of justice is emphasized in the Bardoli plan of the congress.
While vehemently criticising Gandhi’s Swaraj, Singaravelar put forth a master plan of egalitarian Swaraj. He had listed several factors that would contribute to an egalitarian Society.
Those who do not work will not get food, there will not be any one caste having huge wealth and the other a pauper, there is no Lord or worker, there will not be two classes - capitalist and working class. There will only be one class ie -working class.
While steadfastly expressing his views on Swaraj, he narrated so many articles emphasizing equal opportunities in education job, health, entertainment etc. He was not only demanding political freedom, economic independence but also demanded social freedom. In his egalitarian Swaraj plan, there was place for elimination of caste, religion and supersition.
Singaravelar not only shown the seeds of his dream, but also knew the route to achieve the dream into reality and he also knew the philosophy to achieve the same.
To open the eyes of the working class
While reviewing the public life of Singaravelar since 1917, one can see the significant role he played in the self respect movement as well as campaign for social reforms. we can see that later. Because of revolutionary thinking Singaravelar quit the congress party ans started a politicial outfit called "Labour Kisan Party". M.N. Roy putforth his view that it was not good to openly function as communist party in colonial countries and may function in general name.
Singaravelar was closely associated with M.N. Roy and Vanguard journal run by him. Hence Singaravelar started the party in general name. But the manifesto of his party was more like a communist party manifesto. The manifesto states:-
`Comrades and workers, I want to emphasize one point. You are not aware of your valour and power. If you realise yourself, your ignorance will vanish. You are the owner of the world. There was folklore in the far off Ukraine - Russia - a giant called "Vee". His eyelids were so long that it touched the land. So that he could not see anything other thing than his own image. Then the eyelids were slowly moving up and he could see, so many things beyond the hills, mountains, sea, ocean etc., etc.
Through the Russian workers, workers of India, Asia, Europe, America, Australia and others have united themselves in fraternity. They are resolutely working together for the growth of the comradeship. We communists have confidence in the brotherhood of humanity.
Indian workers will help to strengthen the unity of Humanity. Hence we ask the bourgosies to hear our views. Indian workers are more vigilant now. They too are seeing the things that are happening beyond the hills, seas, oceans etc., - like their comrades in foreign countries. The working class around the world have real fraternity. You cannot just ignore them. They know their strength now.
Singaravelar while applauding the vigilance of working class also cautioned them against bourgeoisie in a simple way. Those who sit in the shadow do not feel the heat of the scorching sun. Those who are fed to the brim do not know the cruelty of hunger. The luxurious capitalist does not know the sufferings of the poor wage worker.
Deeply worried about the agony of the working people and to politicise them, he had written so many articles on the superiority of socialism, world political situation, scientific outlook and on philosophy.
The victory of the working calss is certain. But it is not an easy affair. About this he said, "workers must swim against tide of river of fire to achieve the victory. In order to worship the socialist world, the working class must overcome the blind capitalists and deaf Govt.
In order to teach the working class as how to achieve the goal, he explained to the people, basic principles of socialism and communism and especially the writtings of Karl Marx - in his articles. How the two classes - haves and have nots fight each other and how these problems will be handled by a socialist Govt. While writting this, he also emphasized the need to eradicate untouchability in our society with much concern. He also said that the trade unions should play a pivotal role in this struggle. He vehemently condemned some of the trade union leaders, who were after wealth, fame, position of office etc., only the socialist path is the way to alleviate the miseries.
He also said, "without the communist party’s support the working class cannot vehemently fight against capitalists. Only under the banner of communist party the working class will realise its full potential of its own and only the communist party has the programme for winning this historic power.
The famous poet of Tamilnadu Bharathidasan while remembering Singaravelar - said, "He is a militant forerunner", "Rally behind him for communism".
Bharathiar once said, "They have no gruel and they are unwise and do not know the reason for the same"
Singaravelar said, the working class was so ignorant as stated in the above poetry and he organised the working class led them into struggles and taught them philosophies to arm them.
To support egalitarianism is the duty of Self respect
Singaravelar not only preached the working class but also led them in various struggles and suffered hardships and punishments.
Because of his participation in the struggles of B & C Mill, Burma Oil Company, railway workers etc., the Govt. named him as notorious agitator in its secret documents. On the one hand he participated in the struggles of working class and at the sametime he wanted to raise the spirit of internationalist understanding among working class. In 1927 when the American Govt. killed two communists - namely - Chacko & Vancity by putting them in electric chair, he fiercely condemned it by conducting public meetings.
Singaravelar considered that it is one of the important class duties to retrieve the Indian working class which was submerged in caste, religion & supersition.
He continued his work through his labour kisan party and Labour Kisan gazettee. During this period he had close relation with Periyar who was in self respect movement and it continued for ever. On the request of Periyar, Singaravelar wrote many articles in Kudiyarasu advocating rationalism and Socialism.
With the help of singaravelar, Periyar wanted to spread rationalist movement. At the same time Singaravelar wanted to instal socialism with the support of Periyar. The alignment of both worked well in Tamilnadu. Singaravelar’s dedicated work attracted Periyar much more than the Periyar’s policies that attracted Singaravelar. Because of that the influence of socialist policies were predominant in Periyar’s self respect movement. This was the assessment by Prof. Muthugunasekaran.
Periyar and Singaravelar passionately opposed religion. They openly declared themselves as Atheists. At the all India level both Jawaharlal Nehru and Bhagat Singh pronounced themselves as atheists. Communists are naturally atheists. But they do not put it as a condition to became a member of the communist party. They do not openly do propaganda on atheism. But Singaravelar was against religion, caste and God. But there was a difference between Periyar and Singaravelar on this line.
Singaravelar used to say, "Every religion supports the bourgeoisie. It perpetuates haves and have nots, creates difference by birth, All are brothers - one God for all, he is father of all - all these statements are a humbug if we see what is happening around the world - engulfed with war every where.
Singaravelar negated the God and Religion ideologically as well as scientifically. In the class struggle God and religious outlooks are helpful only to the exploiting classes.
When the conference of self respect movements were held, he openly lauded and written articles welcoming them. About the Virudhunagar conference he wrote - "when our self respect members are working strenously for issues leading to knowledge, they must also work with the same broad mind, they should dedicate their service on matters of - means of living, economics. We should oppose imperialism, but shoud not decry Britishers. We should oppose Brahminism. But should not hate Brahmins. Because of this the self respect movement had nosedived without attaining progress."
Because of the economic inequalities prevailing in this world, the efforts to reform the world by Budhdha, Sankara and Vedantis were of no use and they kept the sufferings of people never ending. The revolutions in France, America were of no use to common man and they did not alleviate their sufferings. The governments in so many countries are of no use to crores of people, since they could not create an egalitarian society. Since the difference between the haves and have nots could not be abolished Gandhism had also became an humbug in the country.
Even if you eradicate the difference in religion, caste and bring in any type of politics, unless and until we achieve socialism, the poverty, disease, ageing, riots, battles and wars etc., will continue for ever in the world.
While speaking on social reforms he considered other aspects also. He was unique in this respect compared to Periyar. Hence he emphasized the self respect movement members to concentrate on economic reforms rather than sticking only on caste and religious reforms. Out of 35 crore people, 6 crore people are scheduled caste people. If these people should get equal status in the society then the self respect movement should support the communists in the political field. The differences in caste and religion in humanity are like poisonous stings in some of the creatures. It is essential to remove it. But the eradication of poverty and diseases are the most important one among all reforms and hence self respect movement should support socialist Govt. In due course, step by step the self respect movement would embrace socialist principles.
Singaravelar was having clear cut understanding on rationalism. He had scientific outlook. we shall see later. Rationalist should not only speak rationalism. What is the concept of rationalism. Wherever atrocity is committed there we should use rationality to fight against it. Rationalism should be applied to eradicate poverty, ignorance, disease, hunger etc. That is the real rationalism, others are imitations.
First person to have sown seeds of noon meal scheme
Actively associated with trade union activities, party work, ideological propaganda etc., Singaravelar also wanted to associated himself with local bodies to work directly with masses. He insisted Swaraj Party to participate in the local body elections. Eventhough he was running labour Kisan Party separately, he was a member of congress party also. Those days communists were also functioning like that.
In the election to Madras corporation in the year 1925, he was elected from 13th division ie elephant gate constituency. One who opposed to him, was Mr. Madanagopal Naidu of justice party. He was a very influential person. About this victory Ma Po Si wrote as follows:
In the Madras corporation election held in 1925, Singaravelar contested on behalf of Swaraj Party and won in Elephant Gate constituency. That constituency was not having sufficient votes of fishermen which community he belonged. Because of revolutionary political and social policies followed by Singaravelar won him this victory without support of caste based votes.
He made his first maiden speech on 3rd November 1925 at corporation council meeting. When all other councillors were willing to speak only in English at the council meeteing, he made his speech in Tamil. Though he was well versed in English, he wanted to speak in Tamil because of his affection to mother tongue and his conviction to make Tamil as official language.
When he entered the corportation building, he asked to remove two exhibits that were placed in the entrance. He was told that they were beautiful to exhibit. They were - a cannon and statue of Col. Neil. Singaravelar considered that the cannon represents the war mongering and the statue is of a pernicious fellow, who killed thousands of Indians in the first freedom struggle in 1857. Singaravelar considered that to keep that statue at the entrance is a disgrace. But it could not be removed. After porlonged struggles they were removed after some time.
When he was a corporator he had shown keen interest to involve the corporation in educational activities. The number of school was raised to 90 from 78. A Small work he had done at that time was instrumental to a big achievement at later stage. poor children could not go to school due to poverty. He fought to provide free mid day meals to those poor children and won the demand. The number of beneficiaries were small at that time. The understanding and financial capacity of the corporation was limited. But it was the starting point for midday meals scheme. This scheme was extended in Kamaraj rule with new form. Then during MGR rule this scheme has grown as nutritious meal scheme. It is surprising to note that even those days, Singaravelar used to speak and write demanding eggs for three days to children studying in schools.
Singaravelar had sown the seeds for the present day nutritious meal scheme and providing eggs to the children.
Now we loudly talk about Panchayat Raj system. The Left front in West Bengal fortified the system and shown example - how to run the system democratically. Knowing the rich experience of Panchayat Raj System in West Bengal, Rajiv Gandhi brought in law for that. Panchayat Raj system is now closely identified with Mr. Rajiv Gandhi.
Singaravelar had written elaborately about Panchayat Raj system in his Labour Kisan Party programme, even in 1923. He talked about three layers-Local Panchayat, Town Panchayat and District Panchayat. He stressed the need to concentrate on education and health by these Panchayats. He insisted upon abolition of gambling. The points of debate varied, which include provision of Ambulance facility in places like beach etc. He emphasized voting rights for all and denounced the voting right only for those who had property. Singaravelar was a witness for those who were concerned about the welfare of people and would like to strengthen the democracy at tha root level.
In his maiden speech he pointed out that much time was wasted praising each other in the council meeting. Instead of that, time should be spent to speak on issues like - betterment of general health of the people. The present facilities are very inadequate. The administration of the corporation is also poor. That criticism is most applicable to present day also.
One can see crystal clear that from those days to till today. those who followed or following communist ideology are very much concerned about the welfare of the society.
Singaravelar showed keen interest in creating co-operative societies like his favour for panchayats. The Triplicane Co-op society one of the biggest was founded by Singaravelar.
It is needless to explain that singaravelar’s ideological and scientific outlook was so deep and sharp.
Equality has no meaning till casteism exists
Singaravelar strongly considered that socialist society can not be achieved till untouchability is abolished. He says "Fraternity is an empty slogan till the casteism exists. A disease cannot be cured by magic, like that casteism which is a chronic disease cannot be cured by fake justice. Those who wear the sacred thread and do customary practices can not be boast of abandoning caste. This fake justice is prevailing in India since a long period."
He further said, "These caste differences are detrimental not only to our India’s betterment, self respect but also dead against human peace and tranquility. The casteist evil is a disgrace to everyone - except the Brahmins - which causes immense harm to them.
Eventhough the Christians and Muslims are not Hindus, they are treated as untouchables by most of Hindus and especially by Sanadhanis. Hence it is the utmost duty of the socialists to eradicate casteism, which is wicked, foolish and obscene.
He was continuously speaking and writing against evils of casteism and to eradicate it.
He deeply thought over the reason for perpetual existence of religion and caste. The religion, caste, concessions, power etc are always helpful to most wealthy people. Wherever accumulation of wealth, there prevails the religion and caste. If the accumulation of wealth is not curtailed and distributed to poor, we cannot abolish caste and religion.
Deeply felt about casteism, Singaravelar said, "The basis for untouchability is poverty. People have no place, water, house education, sanitation - no support from rich people, no protection from Govt. and without finding solution to the above problems we cannot eradicate casteism."
Accoding to Singaravelar, the caste and religion are the for tress for protection of exploitation. One must understand that the caste, religion, property right are fortress constructed by the capitalists to safeguard their wealth, hegenmony, privileges etc., if the gates of the Fortress are not opened we can not achieve socialism. If the inhuman condition of 5 crore people are to be improved then the Fortress constructed by the capitalists should be demolished."
In order to break open the gates of the Fortress, Singaravelar strongly believed that philosophy, politics and everything should be used.
He always stressed the need for economic equality to eradicate untouchability. But at the same time he also knew the prevalence of casteism in the minds of people long long ago.
Hence he said "strict laws must be enacted against untouchability."
"In between, the poor masses should be educated about science through-books on many Indian languages, Cinema,Radio etc., The common people wo are living in villages should be taught about the evolution of universe, astronomy, geography, human evolution, medical science etc., Through this education we must try to abolish peoples faith on obscurantism, casteism and religion."
Singaravelar keenly observed the problems of casteism and untouchability with prophecy. But at the same time he firmly believed and told that without finding economic equality the roots of casteism cannot be uprooted.
As long as upper caste chauvinism is there, the untouchability will continue - he stressed.
Singaravelar was a poineer to Periyar to give his voice for the Women’s liberation. Economic inequality is the basis for women’s enslavement. Economic equality is the solution for women’s liberation. Virginity is always stressed for women. Prostitution is an ill for the society - he stressed often.
He raised the question of "what is marriage?" and his views for this question was the same of the feminists today. He also asked "Whether there is a need for family or not? "Marriage is an arrangement for man and woman to live together. Both of them should give consent for this. If no agreement then there is a risk for family life. If both of them agree, then this danger can be averted. But if no agreement, it is better to live separately. But if they give birth to child, then the family life enters to another stage. It is the duty of the parents to protect their children. As long as this duty is there, we must secure together. It is not that much simple to disband the binding. Before giving birth to child, husband and wife have their own obligations to live together. But after getting children, it became a social obligation to live together. But sometime evenafter getting children they could not live together. In that case, it is better to live separately for the good of the children. He also gives his opinion about the maintenance of children and fixes responsibility on the parents.
Discrimination between the Male child and Female child was prevalent at that period also. He explained the scientific reasons for the birth of male child or female child and disapproved the grace of good and fate.
Singaravelar saw the women’s liberation with scientific outlook and as part of socialist principles.
The writtings of Singaravelar on those issues are thought prvoking and relevant even today.
Axe on supersition
Singaravelar firmly considered that the only weapon to axe the religious supersition and its customs and conventions is science and every sensible person should use it.
He had shown keen interest to take the scientific knowledge to Tamil people.
He wanted to demolish everything that is obscurantists like - astrology, horoscopy, belief in devil and demons etc., etc.
He is a great scholar and was having all books of science published. He had studied all the science books that were published at his period. Reading science is some thing different from having scientific outlook. Some of them were great scientists, they would have made remarkable achievements in their field. But for the common man’s problems they used to say the old customary solutions.They used to adopt the obscurantist methods. There are several examples to this. Several scientists are having the old religious belief. During his period, Sir Amburaj Flemming criticised Darwin’s theory. While replying to his criticism, Singaravelar, quoting from the scholar Mr. Arthur said, Sir Amburaj Flemming may be a good scientist in electricity but his slander against Darwin’s theory is most unscientific. The meaning of scientific approach is to question the events faced by common man in his day to day life, examine them and try to know the real knowledge about that - this was Singaravelar’s strong belief in science.
Generally Singaravelar split the belief in two. One is correct belief. The other wrong belief. Cyclone is due to strong wind is a correct belief. Cyclone is due to wind God is a wrong belief - according to Singaravelar.
As there was no journal during that period to propagate science, he started a monthly magazine called `PUDU ULAGAM’ (New World). In the first issue of this journal be wrote an editorial as follows:
"We welcome the journal `New World’. As there was no journal in Tamil to take pure science to the masses, majority of the people do not understand the correct path of science and hence suffer from malicious nature of caste, religion and supersition. The innocent people are afraid of solar eclipse and lunar eclipse without knowing the real reason for the same - like the horse, goats, bullocks etc., that fear for shadows. The demand for a science magazine "New World" will fulfill the demands of a science magazine in Tamil and to enlighten the common man in science.
When he started the magazine he was 76. Even at that age, he wanted to spread scientific outlook to the masses - what a great thing!
While conducting his propaganda against God and religion, he adopted scientific approach. He had written several articles on evolution of world quoting Darwin’s philosophy.
When a report asked, "whether the egg came from chicken or the other way round? He explained in an article elaborately - how the combination of atoms created a live cell and it had gradually grown to living being - in water, land and air in the evolutionary process.
His scientific outlook and philosophical understanding was very deep and socially concerned. The understanding among people is that, without God the world would vanish. For this Singaravelar explained in detail - how the world originated some 200 crore years ago, life came to existence only 40 crore years ago, only in the last 3 lakh years humanity came to existence. Only one and half lakh years back,men learned speaking. Before that no one spoke about God. Hence during the previous period ie. 199 crore and 97 lakh years ago without knowing God man was doing his day to day work and duties.
There is a charge sheet against atheist, social reformers that they criticise only Hinduism. He was different from such reformers. He was criticising superstitious ideas in all type of religions-Budhdhism, Islam and Christianity.
He was of the opinion that the present worst situation in world affairs is because of absence of scientific understanding among politicians. Science is necessary for politicians as well as family man to run his family.
Singaravelar did not see, science, philosophy, politics etc., separately he intermingled everything because of his Marxian scientific under standing. Hence all his writtings were focussed on the welfare of downtrodden people in the society. Such a Marxist approach deviated him from other thinkers like Periyar and he was unique.
Let us learn him - a pioneer - multifaceted personality
N. Sundaravadivelu former Vice Chancellor of Madras University in his condolence speech said "If Singaravelar had born in some other society, rather than Tamil Society his writtings will be under research by many educational institutions". This is a very apt judgement, if we go through his writtings.
According to Kuththoosi Gurusamy - Singaravelar’s learning varied from books of astronomy to geography, philosophy to botany, communism to physical exercise and all embracing. When we read his speeches and writtings we can understand, how he was reading continuously even his old days till his death. Whatever he read, that was taken to the masses.
Singaravelar proved his uniqueness in three streams of movements i.e., Congress, Self respect movement and Communist movement. But his approach was focussed towards working class with class outlook and hence he was following communist principles and preaching them till his death.
In the initial stages, he started Mahabodhi Sangh and preached Budhdhism. But at later period he criticised the unscientific and conservative principles in Budhdhism. When Ambedkar tried to convert himself to Budhdhism, he disagreed with him stating that any conversion to any religion was no use.
He said that "Even if the conversion takes place he will be treated like coolies of farms Budhdhism is not against untouchability, poverty and inequality etc.,"
He had repeatedly written and spoken on the principles of communism, the life of Karl Marx and his philosophies. He was always admired by the developments of newly formed Soviet Russia which was a beconlight of the society. When others ridiculed him for this reason, he replied - It has become a fashion to call communists "Moscow Rascals". But I am proud of calling me as "Moscow Rascal" in that case.
Singaravelar explained to the Tamil masses in a simple way about Karl Marx and Lenin. His love towards communism and Lenin was not an emotional one but with real sense of understanding.
When he wrote condolence message for Lenin’s death he said, "The historical revolution won by Lenin through his politics, ideologies and philosophy in his own land may one day vanish because of the vested interest of same section of the people. But it will revive once again and spread throughout the world. Finally it will lead to betterment of working calss throughout the world. What a long term perspective. What a remarkable prophecy. It is really exciting.
He upheld the banner of Marxism through out his life knowing well that it is the only path for the solvation of people from exploitation.
In the begining of this article it was pointed out, how in the Gaya conference how called the audience as `Comrades’ with all his audacity, which was reported in the Vanguard journal. Yes. He never feared to utter communist ideology. He delivered his presidential address in the Kanpur conference. He led and supported so many working class movements. He was named as notorious agitator by the Govt., He was pride of calling him as "Moscow Rascal". Communism and Marxism are only economic principles, they bothered only for food not for anything and it has no other objective - all were the charges by the opponents. But when one read Singaravelar’s articles he will change his opinion.
He wrote an article on Global Warming in 1934 and 35 with much concern. His scientific outlook was very vast and extensive. He bothered about everything that was harmful to humanity and it was under scrutiny by Singaravelar.
He says "the last stage of evolution is the creation of Mankind. The demand of the people is to eradicate all-miseries and to lead a happy life. The wealth and poverty are for either to lead a happy life of miserable life. All the religious are trying to find answer to cradicate misery and lead a happy life. Pelple are also aim at finding means to lead a happy life. In order to answer this question all the religions, philosophies ideologies, Govts - and its plans - are working.
Rationalisn is to findout the ways to minimise the miseries and enhance the happiness of mankind.
Finally, Marxian ideology is the basis for rationalism - according to Singaravelar. He repeatedly emphasized that Marxism is the only remedy for all the miseries in the world.
Singaravelar found that the society was embroiled in caste, religion and superstition and hence could not find out the root cause of our problems. He wanted to retrieve the society from those evils, with the help of science.
On some issues he joined hands with Periyar and his self respect movement and in some other issues he differentiated himself from self respect movement. He did not blindly oppose Brahiminical ideas. While opposing religion and God, he applied scientific ideology. His ultimate goal was to findout ways to provide, food, employment, education, health, entertainment etc., to the people and he tirelessly worked for that cause till his death.
He did not believe in Utopian communism. He studied thoroughly all the books on communism and taken those ideas to the Masses.
Here is his reply to a question - What is communism?
"This is the only philosophy which aims at eradication of all evils of the society and betterment of humankind. The workers of world produce enough food, cloth and shelter for the entire society. Since the means of production is vested with the monopoly of few inividuals the workers will have to go without food. Hence to distribute commodities equally to all, the means of production should also be owned by those who produce it - i.e., workers.
The boundless inequalities in distribution and consumption should be setright, regulatious should be made to attain the benefits to all.
This was the simple interpretation by Singaravelar on communism.’
Singaravelar considered Marxism as a social science.
we should abandon the thinking that Marxism is an ideology for economic struggle and should consider that it is a class struggle for creation of new society.
Moreover the Indian society is divided by caste, religion etc., If we want to setright the society and find socialism the class struggle should be linked with struggle for untouchability etc., This should be conducted at all encompassing ways.
The communists must realise that scientific approach and relentless struggle is needed to attain this goal. The preface to the books on Singaravaler’s thoughts and struggles containing 3 volumes with 1716 pages and 199 essays, depicts the above message and everyone should follow his ideals.
He lived for 86 years from 18.2.1860 to 11.2.1946, excepting his youth period and his old age, when he was bed ridden - he dedicated his life of more than 60 years for the awakening and emancipation of working class in Tamilnadu and India.
The last meeting he attended was the conference of Madras Press Workers Assn. In the meeting, he spoke " I am 84 years now. I stand here to do my duty to the working class. I do not like anything than standing one among you."
The above words uttered by Singaravelar depicts his dedication and fervour for the struggles of the working class.
On 1st March 1923, the conference of the Congress Party was being held at Gaya. In the podium of the conference one of the speakers began his speech addressing the gathering as "Comrades". The conference was spell bound by the thunderous applause of the audience. This injected new blood to the conference. M.N. Roy describes the proceedings fo the conference in the journal vanguard as follows:
"In the back drop of eminent thinkers of different ideologies participated in the Gaya Congress, the participation of Singaravelar will ever be remembered as an historical event. While even the young bloods and respectable leaders were fearing assault of repression by the Govt., the sixty year old white bearded man calling himself as ‘communist’ boldly without any fear, should have attracted the applause of the audience."
The old man is not anyone. He is our Singaravelar. While speaking at the conference, it is the first time he openly demanded `Total Swaraj’ for India. Then in Calcutta conference a huge workers rally pressed for the adoption of the above demand. Then in the Lucknow conference, the congress party also adopted this demand.
Singaravelar was born in a fisherman family. With relentless efforts he studied law. Even from younger days, he was very craze and concerned towards society and philosophy. There was narrow caste division in the fishermen community. One group calling themselves as big pattinavar and the other as small pattinavar. In order to break the division he married the other caste woman through intercaste marriage. About this he narrated an article in the `Kudiyarasu’ Journal. "In the year 1889, I am one among the persons, who supported the intercaste marriage in Chennai openly. In order to create good relationship between the two castes, the intercaste marriage was held".
He was deeply concerned about caste, religion & supersition. Because of that he had shown keen interest on Budhdhism. He started `Maha Bodhi Sangh" along with his friends and was preaching Budhdhism.
Tamil Thendral Thiru. Vi.Ka. in his autobiography narrates about this incident as follows.
"A Budhdha sangh assembled at Komaleeswaranpet in Pudupet. Speakers like Lakshmanaraju Naidu, Singaravelar Chettiar and others spoke. Singaravel Chettiar explained Darwin theory in chaste Tamil. I am very much attracted towards his speech. Even though my intention was to make rebellion in the meeting, I became a student of the Darwin Class. He became my teacher."
He identified himself continuously in search of philosophy, science and political struggle. He led so many working class struggles. First time in 1923, he conducted May Day celebrations in Chennai Marina Beach and it will ever be remembered in the history of India.
He had participated in the organisational conference of the communist party held at Kanpur. For that reason, he was charged in the Kanpur conspiracy case. Due to his age and health condition he was under house arrest and then released. He had the pride of first communist in South India. He started labour Kisan gazette party in 1923. He brought out a journal in the name of Labour Kisan gazette.
In those days, it is not easy to bring in Marxian books to our country. There was so many obstacles. Inspite of that through his foreign friends he brought these books through Pondicherry or Kerala Coasts. He hided these books among pickle or dry fish parcels and read.
Eventhough he was a scholar, that period was dominated by upper caste people. Once when he entered the court to argue a case, co-brahmin lawyers made fun fo him - asked "you fellows are accustomed only to pari (fish basket) not to law books. Why are you carrying these law books?
The next day he carried a fish basket (pari) and entered into the court. When he put down the basket, it was full of law books and science books. Those who made fun of him, had no words to speak.
He carried those books not just to show them. He was very sincere in reading books of science, history, philosophy, politics etc., published in those period. He understood those books with scientific outlook. Whatever he learnt, he translated them and written articles on various subjects for the use of Tamil Society and working class.
He was closely associated with Periyar’s self respect movement. He had written so many articles in Kudiyarasu paper published by Periyar, which were in the nature of social reforms with scientific outlook.
Periyar adopted a Erode programme which was centred around communist principles. Really that was mainly drafted by Singaravelar, with others. Periyar emphasized mainly on social freedom. Singaravelar differed with Periyar on this issue and raised the question. "Whether selfrespect movement or dishonour movement? Inspite of this difference Periyar wanted to utilise the eminent knowledge of Singaravelar and allowed him to write articles in `Kudiyarasu’ News paper.
Singaravelar gathered books on various subjects like politics, philosophy, psychology, physiology, economics, general knowledge etc., which were more than 20000 in his private library.
Hameer Hyderkhan narrated about the library as under.
"Singaravelar’s private Library is one of the biggest libraries in South India. Not only that, some portion of the books kept in the Singaravelar’s private Library is now available in the Lenin Library, the biggest Library in Moscow, under seperate section titled as `Singaravelar Library".
During the period from 1921 to 1936, nearly 15 years, he had written various articles on politics and philosophy under pseudonames - Samadarmi, Comrade, Eminent lawyer, Himalaya Thavasi, Yougaivathi, Sindhana Vaadhi, Social scientist, Yukthi vaathi, Mugamoodi etc., in the journals like - "Kudiyarasu, `Puratchi, Rationalist, Puduvai Murasu, New World, The Hindu, Sudharma, Observer, Sunday advocate etc., He has introduced several renowned scientists to the people and propagated scientific ideas. Even now if we read his writtings it will sharpen our thinking and enlighten our mind.
Gandhi’s Day dream of `Swaraj’
It was Singaravelar’s younger days and was a period of great uprisal of Indian freedom struggle. It is no surprise that inherent fighting nature of Singaravelar attracted him towards this struggle. He joined as volunteer of congress in the year 1917. He gathered people and led many a struggles. He was front runner to implement the calls made during Independent struggles such as Anti, Rowlett Act Movement, Movement comdemning Jaliyan Walabagh Massacre, Boycott of prince of Wales, Kilafat movement, Boycott of Simon Commission, Non Co-operation movement etc. He was naturally against Menshevik Path. Hence he was having close relationship with radical section in the congress.
The non cooperation movement was vigorously conducted at chowri-chowra on 4th Feb. 1922. At the instigation of British Govt., the police let loose terror against the people who participated in the procession. Many of them were severely wounded, some of the provoked people, torched the police station. 21 policemen died in the incident. 3000 people were wounded.
Gandhiji did not realise that the incident was as a result of the atrocious activities of the Govt. He had stopped the non-cooperation movement to condemn the violence opposing this stand, Singaravelar spoke against it and also written articles. "It is the personal responsibility of those, who led struggles to continuously ignite the feelings of the struggling masses. Once it is stopped in the middle then it will not be possible to create that spirit" - he said. After this incident, radical movements started emerging throughout India. Singaravelar also established links with different radical groups. His thinking process was slowly drifting away from congress movement.
He was moving towards communist ideology. He was having clear cut idea on `Swaraj’. He openly declared his position in Navasakthi daily through an open letter to Gandhiji pointing out several details about "Swaraj". He said that everyone should be given a piece of land and cultivate the land on his own for food. Everyone should be given free shelter without paying any rent to any landlord. If this guarantee is not available, then swaraj is no use. The real Swaraj we want is not an imaginary one . That Swaraj should be created by the people and for the people. Not less than that. This was the essence of the article by Singaravelar, under title "Swaraj for whom"?
Even today if we read the article it appears as a charge sheet against rulers.
Singaravelar ridiculed the `Swaraj’ that was conceived by congress. The basis for Swaraj is the present form of British rule. If we adopt the system with the same Ministers, Courts, Elections, Army, employees, Servants, Governors, Magistrates dress code etc., and only change is the person who is occupying these jobs i.e., Indians i.e. instead of the British people. If majority of other things are not changed then there will be no use. This was the answer to - "Congress Swaraj for whom? - by Singaravelar.
To the answer for Congress Swaraj - Singaravelar said that it was for the economically well to do people, most influential people bureaucrats and dominating people in the society ie. Bourgeoisie class and it is not meant for the people who sweat in the fields, tanks, mines, plantations, mills, railways, ships, severages and downtrodden people in the society.
Then to "Swaraj for whom?" - it is for our lawyers, judges, ministers, trustees, heads of mutts, landlords, industrialists, owners of railways and ships, army, police officers, university professors, teaching pundits and their offsprings. This was the criticism put forth by Singaravelar against Swaraj of Congress. He also criticised Gandhi’s trusteeship concept.
Even a tiger and cow may drink on a bank, the capitalist and the worker will not share the national output equally in the Gandhi’s Swaraj. In Gandhi’s Swaraj - a capitalist should behave like a Trustee for the workers, the worker must obey the orders of the capitalist; worker should not oppose his bosses. It was the model of Gandhi, who came in the tradition of traders preaching to 38 crore people of India. This kind of justice is emphasized in the Bardoli plan of the congress.
While vehemently criticising Gandhi’s Swaraj, Singaravelar put forth a master plan of egalitarian Swaraj. He had listed several factors that would contribute to an egalitarian Society.
Those who do not work will not get food, there will not be any one caste having huge wealth and the other a pauper, there is no Lord or worker, there will not be two classes - capitalist and working class. There will only be one class ie -working class.
While steadfastly expressing his views on Swaraj, he narrated so many articles emphasizing equal opportunities in education job, health, entertainment etc. He was not only demanding political freedom, economic independence but also demanded social freedom. In his egalitarian Swaraj plan, there was place for elimination of caste, religion and supersition.
Singaravelar not only shown the seeds of his dream, but also knew the route to achieve the dream into reality and he also knew the philosophy to achieve the same.
To open the eyes of the working class
While reviewing the public life of Singaravelar since 1917, one can see the significant role he played in the self respect movement as well as campaign for social reforms. we can see that later. Because of revolutionary thinking Singaravelar quit the congress party ans started a politicial outfit called "Labour Kisan Party". M.N. Roy putforth his view that it was not good to openly function as communist party in colonial countries and may function in general name.
Singaravelar was closely associated with M.N. Roy and Vanguard journal run by him. Hence Singaravelar started the party in general name. But the manifesto of his party was more like a communist party manifesto. The manifesto states:-
`Comrades and workers, I want to emphasize one point. You are not aware of your valour and power. If you realise yourself, your ignorance will vanish. You are the owner of the world. There was folklore in the far off Ukraine - Russia - a giant called "Vee". His eyelids were so long that it touched the land. So that he could not see anything other thing than his own image. Then the eyelids were slowly moving up and he could see, so many things beyond the hills, mountains, sea, ocean etc., etc.
Through the Russian workers, workers of India, Asia, Europe, America, Australia and others have united themselves in fraternity. They are resolutely working together for the growth of the comradeship. We communists have confidence in the brotherhood of humanity.
Indian workers will help to strengthen the unity of Humanity. Hence we ask the bourgosies to hear our views. Indian workers are more vigilant now. They too are seeing the things that are happening beyond the hills, seas, oceans etc., - like their comrades in foreign countries. The working class around the world have real fraternity. You cannot just ignore them. They know their strength now.
Singaravelar while applauding the vigilance of working class also cautioned them against bourgeoisie in a simple way. Those who sit in the shadow do not feel the heat of the scorching sun. Those who are fed to the brim do not know the cruelty of hunger. The luxurious capitalist does not know the sufferings of the poor wage worker.
Deeply worried about the agony of the working people and to politicise them, he had written so many articles on the superiority of socialism, world political situation, scientific outlook and on philosophy.
The victory of the working calss is certain. But it is not an easy affair. About this he said, "workers must swim against tide of river of fire to achieve the victory. In order to worship the socialist world, the working class must overcome the blind capitalists and deaf Govt.
In order to teach the working class as how to achieve the goal, he explained to the people, basic principles of socialism and communism and especially the writtings of Karl Marx - in his articles. How the two classes - haves and have nots fight each other and how these problems will be handled by a socialist Govt. While writting this, he also emphasized the need to eradicate untouchability in our society with much concern. He also said that the trade unions should play a pivotal role in this struggle. He vehemently condemned some of the trade union leaders, who were after wealth, fame, position of office etc., only the socialist path is the way to alleviate the miseries.
He also said, "without the communist party’s support the working class cannot vehemently fight against capitalists. Only under the banner of communist party the working class will realise its full potential of its own and only the communist party has the programme for winning this historic power.
The famous poet of Tamilnadu Bharathidasan while remembering Singaravelar - said, "He is a militant forerunner", "Rally behind him for communism".
Bharathiar once said, "They have no gruel and they are unwise and do not know the reason for the same"
Singaravelar said, the working class was so ignorant as stated in the above poetry and he organised the working class led them into struggles and taught them philosophies to arm them.
To support egalitarianism is the duty of Self respect
Singaravelar not only preached the working class but also led them in various struggles and suffered hardships and punishments.
Because of his participation in the struggles of B & C Mill, Burma Oil Company, railway workers etc., the Govt. named him as notorious agitator in its secret documents. On the one hand he participated in the struggles of working class and at the sametime he wanted to raise the spirit of internationalist understanding among working class. In 1927 when the American Govt. killed two communists - namely - Chacko & Vancity by putting them in electric chair, he fiercely condemned it by conducting public meetings.
Singaravelar considered that it is one of the important class duties to retrieve the Indian working class which was submerged in caste, religion & supersition.
He continued his work through his labour kisan party and Labour Kisan gazettee. During this period he had close relation with Periyar who was in self respect movement and it continued for ever. On the request of Periyar, Singaravelar wrote many articles in Kudiyarasu advocating rationalism and Socialism.
With the help of singaravelar, Periyar wanted to spread rationalist movement. At the same time Singaravelar wanted to instal socialism with the support of Periyar. The alignment of both worked well in Tamilnadu. Singaravelar’s dedicated work attracted Periyar much more than the Periyar’s policies that attracted Singaravelar. Because of that the influence of socialist policies were predominant in Periyar’s self respect movement. This was the assessment by Prof. Muthugunasekaran.
Periyar and Singaravelar passionately opposed religion. They openly declared themselves as Atheists. At the all India level both Jawaharlal Nehru and Bhagat Singh pronounced themselves as atheists. Communists are naturally atheists. But they do not put it as a condition to became a member of the communist party. They do not openly do propaganda on atheism. But Singaravelar was against religion, caste and God. But there was a difference between Periyar and Singaravelar on this line.
Singaravelar used to say, "Every religion supports the bourgeoisie. It perpetuates haves and have nots, creates difference by birth, All are brothers - one God for all, he is father of all - all these statements are a humbug if we see what is happening around the world - engulfed with war every where.
Singaravelar negated the God and Religion ideologically as well as scientifically. In the class struggle God and religious outlooks are helpful only to the exploiting classes.
When the conference of self respect movements were held, he openly lauded and written articles welcoming them. About the Virudhunagar conference he wrote - "when our self respect members are working strenously for issues leading to knowledge, they must also work with the same broad mind, they should dedicate their service on matters of - means of living, economics. We should oppose imperialism, but shoud not decry Britishers. We should oppose Brahminism. But should not hate Brahmins. Because of this the self respect movement had nosedived without attaining progress."
Because of the economic inequalities prevailing in this world, the efforts to reform the world by Budhdha, Sankara and Vedantis were of no use and they kept the sufferings of people never ending. The revolutions in France, America were of no use to common man and they did not alleviate their sufferings. The governments in so many countries are of no use to crores of people, since they could not create an egalitarian society. Since the difference between the haves and have nots could not be abolished Gandhism had also became an humbug in the country.
Even if you eradicate the difference in religion, caste and bring in any type of politics, unless and until we achieve socialism, the poverty, disease, ageing, riots, battles and wars etc., will continue for ever in the world.
While speaking on social reforms he considered other aspects also. He was unique in this respect compared to Periyar. Hence he emphasized the self respect movement members to concentrate on economic reforms rather than sticking only on caste and religious reforms. Out of 35 crore people, 6 crore people are scheduled caste people. If these people should get equal status in the society then the self respect movement should support the communists in the political field. The differences in caste and religion in humanity are like poisonous stings in some of the creatures. It is essential to remove it. But the eradication of poverty and diseases are the most important one among all reforms and hence self respect movement should support socialist Govt. In due course, step by step the self respect movement would embrace socialist principles.
Singaravelar was having clear cut understanding on rationalism. He had scientific outlook. we shall see later. Rationalist should not only speak rationalism. What is the concept of rationalism. Wherever atrocity is committed there we should use rationality to fight against it. Rationalism should be applied to eradicate poverty, ignorance, disease, hunger etc. That is the real rationalism, others are imitations.
First person to have sown seeds of noon meal scheme
Actively associated with trade union activities, party work, ideological propaganda etc., Singaravelar also wanted to associated himself with local bodies to work directly with masses. He insisted Swaraj Party to participate in the local body elections. Eventhough he was running labour Kisan Party separately, he was a member of congress party also. Those days communists were also functioning like that.
In the election to Madras corporation in the year 1925, he was elected from 13th division ie elephant gate constituency. One who opposed to him, was Mr. Madanagopal Naidu of justice party. He was a very influential person. About this victory Ma Po Si wrote as follows:
In the Madras corporation election held in 1925, Singaravelar contested on behalf of Swaraj Party and won in Elephant Gate constituency. That constituency was not having sufficient votes of fishermen which community he belonged. Because of revolutionary political and social policies followed by Singaravelar won him this victory without support of caste based votes.
He made his first maiden speech on 3rd November 1925 at corporation council meeting. When all other councillors were willing to speak only in English at the council meeteing, he made his speech in Tamil. Though he was well versed in English, he wanted to speak in Tamil because of his affection to mother tongue and his conviction to make Tamil as official language.
When he entered the corportation building, he asked to remove two exhibits that were placed in the entrance. He was told that they were beautiful to exhibit. They were - a cannon and statue of Col. Neil. Singaravelar considered that the cannon represents the war mongering and the statue is of a pernicious fellow, who killed thousands of Indians in the first freedom struggle in 1857. Singaravelar considered that to keep that statue at the entrance is a disgrace. But it could not be removed. After porlonged struggles they were removed after some time.
When he was a corporator he had shown keen interest to involve the corporation in educational activities. The number of school was raised to 90 from 78. A Small work he had done at that time was instrumental to a big achievement at later stage. poor children could not go to school due to poverty. He fought to provide free mid day meals to those poor children and won the demand. The number of beneficiaries were small at that time. The understanding and financial capacity of the corporation was limited. But it was the starting point for midday meals scheme. This scheme was extended in Kamaraj rule with new form. Then during MGR rule this scheme has grown as nutritious meal scheme. It is surprising to note that even those days, Singaravelar used to speak and write demanding eggs for three days to children studying in schools.
Singaravelar had sown the seeds for the present day nutritious meal scheme and providing eggs to the children.
Now we loudly talk about Panchayat Raj system. The Left front in West Bengal fortified the system and shown example - how to run the system democratically. Knowing the rich experience of Panchayat Raj System in West Bengal, Rajiv Gandhi brought in law for that. Panchayat Raj system is now closely identified with Mr. Rajiv Gandhi.
Singaravelar had written elaborately about Panchayat Raj system in his Labour Kisan Party programme, even in 1923. He talked about three layers-Local Panchayat, Town Panchayat and District Panchayat. He stressed the need to concentrate on education and health by these Panchayats. He insisted upon abolition of gambling. The points of debate varied, which include provision of Ambulance facility in places like beach etc. He emphasized voting rights for all and denounced the voting right only for those who had property. Singaravelar was a witness for those who were concerned about the welfare of people and would like to strengthen the democracy at tha root level.
In his maiden speech he pointed out that much time was wasted praising each other in the council meeting. Instead of that, time should be spent to speak on issues like - betterment of general health of the people. The present facilities are very inadequate. The administration of the corporation is also poor. That criticism is most applicable to present day also.
One can see crystal clear that from those days to till today. those who followed or following communist ideology are very much concerned about the welfare of the society.
Singaravelar showed keen interest in creating co-operative societies like his favour for panchayats. The Triplicane Co-op society one of the biggest was founded by Singaravelar.
It is needless to explain that singaravelar’s ideological and scientific outlook was so deep and sharp.
Equality has no meaning till casteism exists
Singaravelar strongly considered that socialist society can not be achieved till untouchability is abolished. He says "Fraternity is an empty slogan till the casteism exists. A disease cannot be cured by magic, like that casteism which is a chronic disease cannot be cured by fake justice. Those who wear the sacred thread and do customary practices can not be boast of abandoning caste. This fake justice is prevailing in India since a long period."
He further said, "These caste differences are detrimental not only to our India’s betterment, self respect but also dead against human peace and tranquility. The casteist evil is a disgrace to everyone - except the Brahmins - which causes immense harm to them.
Eventhough the Christians and Muslims are not Hindus, they are treated as untouchables by most of Hindus and especially by Sanadhanis. Hence it is the utmost duty of the socialists to eradicate casteism, which is wicked, foolish and obscene.
He was continuously speaking and writing against evils of casteism and to eradicate it.
He deeply thought over the reason for perpetual existence of religion and caste. The religion, caste, concessions, power etc are always helpful to most wealthy people. Wherever accumulation of wealth, there prevails the religion and caste. If the accumulation of wealth is not curtailed and distributed to poor, we cannot abolish caste and religion.
Deeply felt about casteism, Singaravelar said, "The basis for untouchability is poverty. People have no place, water, house education, sanitation - no support from rich people, no protection from Govt. and without finding solution to the above problems we cannot eradicate casteism."
Accoding to Singaravelar, the caste and religion are the for tress for protection of exploitation. One must understand that the caste, religion, property right are fortress constructed by the capitalists to safeguard their wealth, hegenmony, privileges etc., if the gates of the Fortress are not opened we can not achieve socialism. If the inhuman condition of 5 crore people are to be improved then the Fortress constructed by the capitalists should be demolished."
In order to break open the gates of the Fortress, Singaravelar strongly believed that philosophy, politics and everything should be used.
He always stressed the need for economic equality to eradicate untouchability. But at the same time he also knew the prevalence of casteism in the minds of people long long ago.
Hence he said "strict laws must be enacted against untouchability."
"In between, the poor masses should be educated about science through-books on many Indian languages, Cinema,Radio etc., The common people wo are living in villages should be taught about the evolution of universe, astronomy, geography, human evolution, medical science etc., Through this education we must try to abolish peoples faith on obscurantism, casteism and religion."
Singaravelar keenly observed the problems of casteism and untouchability with prophecy. But at the same time he firmly believed and told that without finding economic equality the roots of casteism cannot be uprooted.
As long as upper caste chauvinism is there, the untouchability will continue - he stressed.
Singaravelar was a poineer to Periyar to give his voice for the Women’s liberation. Economic inequality is the basis for women’s enslavement. Economic equality is the solution for women’s liberation. Virginity is always stressed for women. Prostitution is an ill for the society - he stressed often.
He raised the question of "what is marriage?" and his views for this question was the same of the feminists today. He also asked "Whether there is a need for family or not? "Marriage is an arrangement for man and woman to live together. Both of them should give consent for this. If no agreement then there is a risk for family life. If both of them agree, then this danger can be averted. But if no agreement, it is better to live separately. But if they give birth to child, then the family life enters to another stage. It is the duty of the parents to protect their children. As long as this duty is there, we must secure together. It is not that much simple to disband the binding. Before giving birth to child, husband and wife have their own obligations to live together. But after getting children, it became a social obligation to live together. But sometime evenafter getting children they could not live together. In that case, it is better to live separately for the good of the children. He also gives his opinion about the maintenance of children and fixes responsibility on the parents.
Discrimination between the Male child and Female child was prevalent at that period also. He explained the scientific reasons for the birth of male child or female child and disapproved the grace of good and fate.
Singaravelar saw the women’s liberation with scientific outlook and as part of socialist principles.
The writtings of Singaravelar on those issues are thought prvoking and relevant even today.
Axe on supersition
Singaravelar firmly considered that the only weapon to axe the religious supersition and its customs and conventions is science and every sensible person should use it.
He had shown keen interest to take the scientific knowledge to Tamil people.
He wanted to demolish everything that is obscurantists like - astrology, horoscopy, belief in devil and demons etc., etc.
He is a great scholar and was having all books of science published. He had studied all the science books that were published at his period. Reading science is some thing different from having scientific outlook. Some of them were great scientists, they would have made remarkable achievements in their field. But for the common man’s problems they used to say the old customary solutions.They used to adopt the obscurantist methods. There are several examples to this. Several scientists are having the old religious belief. During his period, Sir Amburaj Flemming criticised Darwin’s theory. While replying to his criticism, Singaravelar, quoting from the scholar Mr. Arthur said, Sir Amburaj Flemming may be a good scientist in electricity but his slander against Darwin’s theory is most unscientific. The meaning of scientific approach is to question the events faced by common man in his day to day life, examine them and try to know the real knowledge about that - this was Singaravelar’s strong belief in science.
Generally Singaravelar split the belief in two. One is correct belief. The other wrong belief. Cyclone is due to strong wind is a correct belief. Cyclone is due to wind God is a wrong belief - according to Singaravelar.
As there was no journal during that period to propagate science, he started a monthly magazine called `PUDU ULAGAM’ (New World). In the first issue of this journal be wrote an editorial as follows:
"We welcome the journal `New World’. As there was no journal in Tamil to take pure science to the masses, majority of the people do not understand the correct path of science and hence suffer from malicious nature of caste, religion and supersition. The innocent people are afraid of solar eclipse and lunar eclipse without knowing the real reason for the same - like the horse, goats, bullocks etc., that fear for shadows. The demand for a science magazine "New World" will fulfill the demands of a science magazine in Tamil and to enlighten the common man in science.
When he started the magazine he was 76. Even at that age, he wanted to spread scientific outlook to the masses - what a great thing!
While conducting his propaganda against God and religion, he adopted scientific approach. He had written several articles on evolution of world quoting Darwin’s philosophy.
When a report asked, "whether the egg came from chicken or the other way round? He explained in an article elaborately - how the combination of atoms created a live cell and it had gradually grown to living being - in water, land and air in the evolutionary process.
His scientific outlook and philosophical understanding was very deep and socially concerned. The understanding among people is that, without God the world would vanish. For this Singaravelar explained in detail - how the world originated some 200 crore years ago, life came to existence only 40 crore years ago, only in the last 3 lakh years humanity came to existence. Only one and half lakh years back,men learned speaking. Before that no one spoke about God. Hence during the previous period ie. 199 crore and 97 lakh years ago without knowing God man was doing his day to day work and duties.
There is a charge sheet against atheist, social reformers that they criticise only Hinduism. He was different from such reformers. He was criticising superstitious ideas in all type of religions-Budhdhism, Islam and Christianity.
He was of the opinion that the present worst situation in world affairs is because of absence of scientific understanding among politicians. Science is necessary for politicians as well as family man to run his family.
Singaravelar did not see, science, philosophy, politics etc., separately he intermingled everything because of his Marxian scientific under standing. Hence all his writtings were focussed on the welfare of downtrodden people in the society. Such a Marxist approach deviated him from other thinkers like Periyar and he was unique.
Let us learn him - a pioneer - multifaceted personality
N. Sundaravadivelu former Vice Chancellor of Madras University in his condolence speech said "If Singaravelar had born in some other society, rather than Tamil Society his writtings will be under research by many educational institutions". This is a very apt judgement, if we go through his writtings.
According to Kuththoosi Gurusamy - Singaravelar’s learning varied from books of astronomy to geography, philosophy to botany, communism to physical exercise and all embracing. When we read his speeches and writtings we can understand, how he was reading continuously even his old days till his death. Whatever he read, that was taken to the masses.
Singaravelar proved his uniqueness in three streams of movements i.e., Congress, Self respect movement and Communist movement. But his approach was focussed towards working class with class outlook and hence he was following communist principles and preaching them till his death.
In the initial stages, he started Mahabodhi Sangh and preached Budhdhism. But at later period he criticised the unscientific and conservative principles in Budhdhism. When Ambedkar tried to convert himself to Budhdhism, he disagreed with him stating that any conversion to any religion was no use.
He said that "Even if the conversion takes place he will be treated like coolies of farms Budhdhism is not against untouchability, poverty and inequality etc.,"
He had repeatedly written and spoken on the principles of communism, the life of Karl Marx and his philosophies. He was always admired by the developments of newly formed Soviet Russia which was a beconlight of the society. When others ridiculed him for this reason, he replied - It has become a fashion to call communists "Moscow Rascals". But I am proud of calling me as "Moscow Rascal" in that case.
Singaravelar explained to the Tamil masses in a simple way about Karl Marx and Lenin. His love towards communism and Lenin was not an emotional one but with real sense of understanding.
When he wrote condolence message for Lenin’s death he said, "The historical revolution won by Lenin through his politics, ideologies and philosophy in his own land may one day vanish because of the vested interest of same section of the people. But it will revive once again and spread throughout the world. Finally it will lead to betterment of working calss throughout the world. What a long term perspective. What a remarkable prophecy. It is really exciting.
He upheld the banner of Marxism through out his life knowing well that it is the only path for the solvation of people from exploitation.
In the begining of this article it was pointed out, how in the Gaya conference how called the audience as `Comrades’ with all his audacity, which was reported in the Vanguard journal. Yes. He never feared to utter communist ideology. He delivered his presidential address in the Kanpur conference. He led and supported so many working class movements. He was named as notorious agitator by the Govt., He was pride of calling him as "Moscow Rascal". Communism and Marxism are only economic principles, they bothered only for food not for anything and it has no other objective - all were the charges by the opponents. But when one read Singaravelar’s articles he will change his opinion.
He wrote an article on Global Warming in 1934 and 35 with much concern. His scientific outlook was very vast and extensive. He bothered about everything that was harmful to humanity and it was under scrutiny by Singaravelar.
He says "the last stage of evolution is the creation of Mankind. The demand of the people is to eradicate all-miseries and to lead a happy life. The wealth and poverty are for either to lead a happy life of miserable life. All the religious are trying to find answer to cradicate misery and lead a happy life. Pelple are also aim at finding means to lead a happy life. In order to answer this question all the religions, philosophies ideologies, Govts - and its plans - are working.
Rationalisn is to findout the ways to minimise the miseries and enhance the happiness of mankind.
Finally, Marxian ideology is the basis for rationalism - according to Singaravelar. He repeatedly emphasized that Marxism is the only remedy for all the miseries in the world.
Singaravelar found that the society was embroiled in caste, religion and superstition and hence could not find out the root cause of our problems. He wanted to retrieve the society from those evils, with the help of science.
On some issues he joined hands with Periyar and his self respect movement and in some other issues he differentiated himself from self respect movement. He did not blindly oppose Brahiminical ideas. While opposing religion and God, he applied scientific ideology. His ultimate goal was to findout ways to provide, food, employment, education, health, entertainment etc., to the people and he tirelessly worked for that cause till his death.
He did not believe in Utopian communism. He studied thoroughly all the books on communism and taken those ideas to the Masses.
Here is his reply to a question - What is communism?
"This is the only philosophy which aims at eradication of all evils of the society and betterment of humankind. The workers of world produce enough food, cloth and shelter for the entire society. Since the means of production is vested with the monopoly of few inividuals the workers will have to go without food. Hence to distribute commodities equally to all, the means of production should also be owned by those who produce it - i.e., workers.
The boundless inequalities in distribution and consumption should be setright, regulatious should be made to attain the benefits to all.
This was the simple interpretation by Singaravelar on communism.’
Singaravelar considered Marxism as a social science.
we should abandon the thinking that Marxism is an ideology for economic struggle and should consider that it is a class struggle for creation of new society.
Moreover the Indian society is divided by caste, religion etc., If we want to setright the society and find socialism the class struggle should be linked with struggle for untouchability etc., This should be conducted at all encompassing ways.
The communists must realise that scientific approach and relentless struggle is needed to attain this goal. The preface to the books on Singaravaler’s thoughts and struggles containing 3 volumes with 1716 pages and 199 essays, depicts the above message and everyone should follow his ideals.
He lived for 86 years from 18.2.1860 to 11.2.1946, excepting his youth period and his old age, when he was bed ridden - he dedicated his life of more than 60 years for the awakening and emancipation of working class in Tamilnadu and India.
The last meeting he attended was the conference of Madras Press Workers Assn. In the meeting, he spoke " I am 84 years now. I stand here to do my duty to the working class. I do not like anything than standing one among you."
The above words uttered by Singaravelar depicts his dedication and fervour for the struggles of the working class.
Labels: Communist, M. Singaravelar, May Day
posted by சந்திப்பு @ 11:29 AM
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