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Sri Narayana Guru Jayanti 2025 Date

The 19th century sage and social reformer, Sri Narayana Guru, a member of the Ezhava community in Kerala, was revered for his deep spiritual attainment, humanistic philosophy and commitment to social reform and equality. In 2025, the date of Sri Narayana Guru Jayanti is on September 7. He taught the ideal of ‘One caste, one religion and one God for mankind’ and stressed social self-upliftment by the lower castes to fight the caste system.

Sri Narayana Guru Jayanthi is observed on the Chathayam Nakshatram day in the Malayalam month of Chingam. (August – September).

Sri Narayana Guru (1854-1928) brought about revolutionary change in Kerala by organizing the lower caste people. His motto was one caste, one religion, one god – echoing the teachings of the Upanishads.

Special programs and pujas are held on the day in Kerala, other parts of India and around the world by Shree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP).

 His contributions were pivotal in addressing social inequalities, promoting education, and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Here are 20 significant contributions of Sri Narayana Guru:

  1. Social Reform Movement: He led a movement to eradicate caste discrimination and promote social equality in Kerala, emphasizing the oneness of humanity.

  2. Formation of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam: Founded in 1903, this organization aimed to uplift the rights and status of the Ezhava community and other backward classes.

  3. Emphasis on Education: Narayana Guru stressed the importance of education as a tool for social upliftment, leading to the establishment of several schools and educational institutions.

  4. Temple Entry Movement: He advocated for the entry of lower-caste individuals into temples, challenging the rigid caste system prevalent at the time.

  5. Universal Brotherhood: His philosophy promoted the idea of universal brotherhood, transcending caste and religious barriers.

  6. Philosophy of "One Caste, One Religion, One God": This mantra emphasized unity among all people, encouraging a departure from divisive practices.

  7. Spiritual Teachings: Narayana Guru's teachings emphasized self-realization and the importance of inner spirituality over ritualistic practices.

  8. Founding of the Sivagiri Mutt: Established in 1904, this institution became a center for spiritual learning and social reform, promoting education and enlightenment.

  9. Promotion of Ayurveda: He supported traditional medicine and healing practices, advocating for Ayurveda as an integral part of Indian culture.

  10. Support for Women’s Rights: Narayana Guru encouraged women's education and empowerment, challenging the patriarchal norms of society.

  11. Advocacy for Temperance: He promoted sobriety and criticized alcohol consumption, which was prevalent in society, especially among lower castes.

  12. Art and Culture: He contributed to the revival of Kerala’s art and culture, promoting local traditions and practices.

  13. Literary Contributions: Narayana Guru wrote poetry and philosophical texts in Malayalam, which addressed social issues and spiritual themes.

  14. Establishment of Educational Institutions: He founded several schools and colleges, including the Sree Narayana College in Kollam, to provide quality education to marginalized communities.

  15. Promotion of Rational Thinking: He encouraged critical thinking and scientific inquiry, opposing superstitions and blind beliefs.

  16. Influence on Leaders: His teachings inspired many future leaders and reformers, including political figures in the Indian independence movement.

  17. Interfaith Dialogue: Narayana Guru promoted dialogue among different religions, advocating for understanding and coexistence.

  18. Cultural Synthesis: He sought to blend various cultural elements of Kerala, promoting unity in diversity.

  19. Advocacy for Social Justice: His work laid the foundation for movements advocating for social justice and equality in India.

  20. Legacy of Compassion: Above all, his life and teachings emphasized compassion, love, and the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect.

Sri Narayana Guru's influence continues to resonate in contemporary Kerala society, inspiring ongoing efforts toward social justice and equality.

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