Varkala, Dec 31 (NationPress) Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated on Wednesday that the Sivagiri pilgrimage, now celebrating its 93rd anniversary, serves as a significant reminder of Sree Narayana Guru’s vision of humanism and rationalism, which continues to influence Kerala’s social and cultural identity even after a hundred years.

During the Sivagiri Theerthadanam conference, the Chief Minister emphasized that with the upcoming centenary of the Guru’s samadhi in three years, the importance of his philosophy has only grown more relevant in today’s socio-political landscape.

He remarked that the Sivagiri pilgrimage is not merely a ritual but a historical proclamation of social reform based on principles of equality, fraternity, and logical reasoning.

Tracing the roots of the Kerala Renaissance to the Aruvippuram consecration, CM Vijayan highlighted the Guru’s direct challenge to the 'chaturvarna' caste framework that dictated social interactions, economic activities, and legal structures of that era.

Caste, he noted, was used as a tool of dominance that determined occupations, rights, and penalties, leading many in society to suffer indignity and servitude.

The Chief Minister asserted that the Guru’s vision of fraternity transcending caste and religion was a profound social ideal rather than a mere spiritual concept.

“The proclamation 'We have no caste' represented an effort to eradicate caste distinctions entirely, not to simply replace one hierarchy with another,” he stated.

Reflecting on the Sivagiri pilgrimage message shared on January 16, 1928, CM Vijayan recalled that the Guru emphasized the pilgrimage should be inclusive of all communities.

The eight goals established by the Guru, which included education, hygiene, organization, agriculture, trade, craftsmanship, and scientific training, demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to material and social advancement, prioritizing education above all.

CM Vijayan pointed out that Kerala’s reforms following independence, especially land reforms and the enhancement of public education, were inspired by the Guru’s humanist ideals and have set the stage for the state's unique development path.

In a time when irrational beliefs and distorted narratives are gaining traction, the Chief Minister asserted that the Sivagiri message reinforces the importance of reason, equality, and human dignity—values essential for upholding a democratic and inclusive society.