Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes A.K. Balan has said that though caste inequalities have been eradicated from society, much of it still persists in the minds of people.
“Actually, caste is not outside, but inside. During his time, caste manifested in the social practices of people. At least in Kerala, such practices are almost non-existent. However, within the four walls of homes, caste is still a reality.
Sahodaran Ayyappan had taken the lead to bring upper and lower castes together. His initiative is as relevant today as then as caste is very much in the minds of many,” the Minister said while inaugurating a meeting held here to celebrate the centenary of Panthibhojanam , the community feast organised by the social reformer to bring down caste barriers in the early 20th century Kerala.
‘Protect multiplicity’
Panthibhojanam gave a great impetus to the social reform movement in the State. When its anniversary was being celebrated, the challenges of the current times should not be forgotten.
The times were such that the cultural conscience of the State as a whole was under challenge.
“We should think where we went wrong at least now. We must take it up as a challenge to educat
Former Minister A. Neelalohithadasan Nadar presided over the meeting.
