Empowering at grassroots level through knowledge sharing in Nineteenth century Kerala

Chattampi Swamikal was born in the latter half of the nineteenth century in South India. During this time, much of the population in the region faced oppression and was denied access to education, sources of knowledge, public amenities like roads and wells, as well as a dignified existence. Barring access to knowledge and education was the method used by a minority to wield wealth and power. The region was predominantly rural, with limited transportation and communication facilities and majority of population lived in villages. Swamikal spearheaded movements advocating for the rights of the people especially marginalized communities. He travelled extensively, living in villages and with people he met along the way. He spoke at gatherings in homes, extending these discussions to small village assemblies where he and his disciples spread progressive ideas. This paper aims to present the principles and methods Swamikal employed to disseminate knowledge and educate people at the grassroots level, raising their pride in their heritage and also for creating awareness of their rights.