Question map
The Mahad Satyagraha of 1927 was organized by
Explanation
The Mahad Satyagraha of 1927 was organized and led by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar to challenge the regressive customs of caste Hindus [1]. On March 20, 1927, Ambedkar led a procession of approximately 2,500 'untouchables' to the Chawdar tank in Mahad to assert their civic right to access public water sources [1]. This movement was a pivotal moment in the Dalit liberation struggle, as it sought to establish basic human rights and equality for those historically excluded from public spaces [3]. Ambedkar used this satyagraha to emphasize self-respect and the removal of the 'high' and 'low' caste hierarchy [1]. While Mahatma Gandhi also campaigned against untouchability, the specific Mahad movement was a distinct initiative spearheaded by Ambedkar through his leadership and organizations like the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha [3].
Sources
- [1] Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 8: Socio-Religious Reform Movements: General Features > Direction of Social Reform > p. 202
- [3] https://www.jstor.org/stable/44144143