Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana

Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam is organisation formed to propagate and promote the moral teaching and Dharma of Shree Narayana Guru. Dr. P. Palpu, a devotee of Sree Narayana, was one of the the founder. [cite web |url= http://www.shaktimarg.com/hindumystics/narayanaguru.htm |title= Shree Narayana Guru |accessdate= 2008-02-10] According to the biography of Narayana Guru written by Moorkoth Kumaran, the organization was registered on 15th May, 1903 under Travancore Regulation 1 of 1063 (Indian Company Act IV 1882). Sree Narayana Guru was the Patron and life time President of the Yogam. Mahakavi Sri. Kumaranasan was the first General Secretary. [cite web |url=http://www.sndp.org/Html/TheApostleOfSocialEquality.html |title= The Apostle of Social Equality |last = Vasu |first= Dr K. I. |accessdate= 2008-02-10 |publisher= Shree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam] Kumaran Asan was the peerless pioneer among modern Malayalam poets. He was one of the dedicated disciples of Sree Narayana Guru. In fact the spiritual philosophy and the battle against caste that illumine Kumaran Asan’s poetry were inspired mainly by association with and inspiration from the great Guru.

Guru's Vision of SNDP Yogam

The Guru objected to the definition of the word 'community' (samudayam) that was given in the constitution. It was limited to those communities known as Ezhava, Thiya, Billava . He wanted it to be changed into the community of the human family. His follower's thought it was not pragmatically feasible to have such a global basis for their organization. When he saw that they were not prepared to have such a wide vision, after cautioning them of how it would adversely affect their purpose he agreed to give his blessings, probably with the hope that some day they would realize the narrowness of their tribalistic affinity. The Guru wanted the Yogam to function as the vanguard of his 'Liberation Movement'. But the leadership of the Yogam could not rise up to the expectation of the Guru. It could function only in a caste organization. Hence, in 1916, the Guru sent his resignation letter to Dr. P. Palpu. The Guru attributed 'caste pride' to the leaders of the Yogam and declared that he belonged to no caste non-religious.

Objectives of the organisation

The main objectives of the organisation are:
* Introduce Shri Narayana devotees to each other and spread teachings of Shri Narayana Guru
* Help socially and economically weak in education
* Work in cooperation with other organizations for the betterment of all.
* Educate members about all religions.
* Establish a Temple and a School.
* Provide financial help to victims of disasters.

Organizational Contributions

The Yogam engaged itself in the laudable efforts of eradicating untouchability and voicing the fundamental human rights of the working class. These efforts actually paved the way for many of Guru's followers to accept later the Marxist interpretation of socialism as their most acceptable ideal. Under the aegis of Dr. Palpu, Kumaran Asan, T. K. Madhavan, C.V. Kunjuraman, Moolur Padmanabha Panickar and others, several drastic changes were brought about in the social structure and texture of the Kerala community The role that Narayana Guru played was only of a catalyst and not as a fighter in the front lines. To others he set an example by his own personal life. His high dignity and sense of oneness with mankind did not allow him to give vent to anger or protestation against any particular person or community. He believed that there was only one caste for man and that was humanity. In this attitude he was uncompromising.This organisation has done invaluable service in the epic struggle against caste system in Kerala.

Motivation

SNDP's follows Guru's social activities and its work is based the famous Quote of Guru:cquote|"Without differences of caste","Nor enmities of creed"',

"Here it is, the model of an abode",

"Where all live like brothers at heart" .