Kandukuri Veeresalingam,
Kandukuri Veeresalingam, born on April 16, 1848, was a prominent
writer and social reformer from the Madras Presidency, British India.
He
is often hailed as the father of the Telugu Renaissance movement and is known for his significant contributions to literature and social reform in Andhra Pradesh.
Early Life
Veeresalingam
was born into a Telugu-speaking Brahmin family in Rajahmundry.
After
overcoming obstacles such as smallpox and the loss of his father at a
young age, he excelled in his studies and eventually became a teacher in
Korangi village.
His education in English medium schools helped him
develop a passion for literature and social reform.
Literature
Veeresalingam
was a versatile scholar proficient in Telugu, Sanskrit, and Hindi.
He
considered literature as a powerful tool to combat social injustices and
used his writings to advocate for change.
He is credited with writing
the first novel in Telugu literature, ‘Rajasekhara Charitra’,
and other literary works such as plays and journals promoting women’s
education.
He was known by the title Gadya Tikkana, or the Tikkana of
Prose’.
Brahmo Samaj
Inspired by the principles of Brahmo Samaj leaders like Raja Rammohan Roy, Veeresalingam established Andhra Pradesh’s first Brahmo Mandir in Rajahmundry
in 1887.
His involvement with the Brahmo Samaj reflected his
progressive beliefs and commitment to social reform. He also started
‘Hithakarini School’ in 1908.
Social Reformer
Veeresalingam
was a staunch supporter of women’s education and advocated for the
remarriage of widows, both of which were frowned upon by society at that
time.
In 1876, he started a journal called Viveka Vardhini
to address women’s issues and champion their rights. He faced
opposition and physical threats for his progressive views but remained
dedicated to his cause.
Politics
Veeresalingam’s activism extended to the political realm, as he was among the attendees of the first Indian National Congress meeting in 1885. His involvement in politics allowed him to further advocate for social reform and push for progressive changes in society.
Personal Life and Legacy
Married
at a young age, Veeresalingam had a personal life marked by his
dedication to social causes. He passed away on May 27, 1919, leaving
behind a profound impact on Telugu literature and social reform. His
statue on Beach Road in Vishakhapatnam and the postage stamp issued in
his memory serve as tributes to his enduring legacy in Andhra Pradesh.
courtesy:
www.GKTODAY.in
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Kandukuri Veeresalingam Biography
- Veeresalingam was born to an orthodox Brahmin family as the son of
Subbarayudu and Poornamma. He lost his father when he was just four and
was raised by his paternal uncle.
- He studied in local schools where his academic brilliance and good nature earned him accolades.
- After completing his matriculation in 1869, Veeresalingam started work as a school teacher in a village.
- Veeresalingam was a scholar of three languages namely, Telugu,
Sanskrit and English.
He wrote the first novel in the Telugu language.
He is also credited with introducing the autobiography and the essay into Telugu literature.
He also authored the first Telugu book on modern science.
Apart from these, he composed many ballads and plays in Telugu.
He also translated famous English works into Telugu. - He is most revered for his contribution to the reformation of Telugu
society. While more people are aware of the contributions of Raja Ram
Mohan Roy and Keshub Chandra Sen, Veeresalingam’s fame outside Andhra is
restricted and this does him no justice.
- He wrote extensively for the emancipation of women. His works were
predominantly satires on the then-existing amorality, superstitions,
double standards and degradation in society. He advocated widow
remarriage and denounced child marriages as well as the practice of
marrying off young girls to much older men.
- His sharp criticism bought him many enemies. He was ridiculed publicly for his “radical” thoughts and advocacies.
- To counter his detractors, he used the ancient scriptures to portray
that women were not always regarded, secondary citizens. He made people
aware that in the Ramayana, Lord Ram was always accompanied by Sita in
the assembly by his side.
- He also declared that India started veering towards the path of decline only when the condition of women deteriorated.
- He set up schools for the education of girls and women. He also
performed the first widow remarriage in Andhra Pradesh, on December 11th, 1881. He was censured by the conservative society of that time.
- Despite society’s heavy scorn, he helped marry off about 40 widows in his lifetime.
- He published various magazines and journals wherein he championed the cause of women and education.
- In 1887, he started a Brahmo Mandir at Rajahmundry.
- Veeresalingam was one of the first few to attend the maiden session of the Indian National Congress in 1885.
- In 1893, the government of India conferred the title ‘Rao Bahadur’ on him.
- He passed away on 27th May, 1919 aged 71.
Veeresalingam – Important Works
- Rajasekhara Charitra (first Telugu novel)
- Brahma Vivaham (play)
- Gopala Satakamu
- Abhagyopakhyanamu (a satire on society)
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Kandukuri Veeresalingam
What was the role of Kandukuri Veeresalingam when it came to social reforms in Southern India?
Who inspired the ideals that drove Kandukuri Veeresalingam?
courtesy:
https://byjus.com/free-ias-prep/this-day-in-history-apr16/
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