Kolkata, a city celebrated for its rich history and cultural diversity, hosts an annual celebration that holds immense significance for the Thevar community. The highlight of this celebration is the 10-foot copper statue of U Muthuramalinga Thevar, a prominent political leader who championed social justice and equality, located near the All India Forward Bloc Committee office in central Kolkata. Every year on October 30, the Thevar community in West Bengal gathers to pay tribute to this statue, treating it with a reverence akin to a deity. This article explores the history of this tradition and the enduring significance of Muthuramalinga Thevar.
The Legacy of Muthuramalinga Thevar
U Muthuramalinga Thevar was not only a political figure but also the secretary of the Harijan Sevak Sangh in Ramnad district, Tamil Nadu. He was a staunch advocate against untouchability and made history in 1939 when he led Harijans into the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, breaking longstanding barriers. Thevar played a pivotal role in opposing the discriminatory Criminal Tribes Act of 1920, ultimately leading to its abolition.
A Growing Community in West Bengal
The Thevar community’s presence in West Bengal can be traced back to 1949, following their return to India from Burma after gaining independence from British rule. Due to financial constraints, many Thevars couldn’t travel further to their Tamil Nadu villages and instead settled in Kolkata. Over time, they invited more family members and acquaintances from their villages, gradually expanding the community’s presence.
The Annual Celebration: Thevar Jayanthi Guru Puja
The annual celebration, known as Thevar Jayanthi Guru Puja, begins eleven days before October 30. The community makes extensive preparations, including the cleaning of a smaller three-foot-tall fiberglass statue used for religious ceremonies. Rituals include offerings of milk, coconut water, bananas, and sweet pongal. While the larger statue of Thevar is honored with a garland, other rituals are conducted with the smaller statue for the sake of convenience.
A Special Pilgrimage
On the day of the festival, Thevar community members from Kolkata and beyond embark on a special pilgrimage. They cross the Vidyasagar Setu by bus and then continue on foot, walking barefoot from the bus stop near Fort William to Central Avenue, where the rituals take place. The six-hour ceremony lasts from 9 am to 3 pm, after which the community shares a meal. This unique pilgrimage, steeped in spirituality, reflects the community’s unwavering commitment to the occasion.
The Political and Social Relevance
Muthuramalinga Thevar’s legacy is not only celebrated by the community but also by political entities. The All India Forward Bloc, a party founded by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, plays a significant role in these celebrations in West Bengal. During the festival, the community pays homage to Bose before honoring Thevar, highlighting the shared values of social reform, anti-imperialism, and support for socialism held by both leaders.
A Monument of Respect
The installation of the statue in central Kolkata is a testament to the community’s collective efforts. The Thevar community in West Bengal raised funds and collected donations amounting to Rs 20 lakh to create the statue, symbolizing their deep respect for Muthuramalinga Thevar and the enduring connection between the community and its leader.
