Panduga Sayanna’s Ideals a Beacon for Marginalised Communities
Poster unveiled in Hyderabad ahead of Jayanti celebrations – BC Dal National President Dundra Kumara Swamy
Panduga Sayanna, a pioneering reformer and social activist, dedicated his life to the empowerment of the Bahujan (marginalised) communities. His ideals continue to serve as a guiding light for the modern social justice movement, said Dundra Kumara Swamy, National President of the BC Dal, during a poster release event held in Hyderabad .
The event, organised under the leadership of Hyderabad Central University student leader Shiva Mudiraj, marked the formal unveiling of the poster commemorating Sayanna’s upcoming birth anniversary on August 8. Preparations are underway to observe the Jayanti in a grand manner in New Delhi, Mr. Kumara Swamy announced.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kumara Swamy noted, “Panduga Sayanna was not just an individual, but a symbol of a transformative era. He dedicated his life to building a society free from caste and religious discrimination, and his vision of equality remains deeply relevant even today.”
Highlighting Sayanna’s progressive thinking on women's education, he added, “Over 150 years ago, Sayanna envisioned educational empowerment for women. By turning devotional singing groups (bhajan mandals) into platforms for literacy and learning, he sowed the seeds of awareness and upliftment. His foresight must inspire today’s generation.”
The BC Dal president also recalled Sayanna’s contributions to rural development, including the construction of water tanks and irrigation systems to support agriculture and ensure community well-being.
He further emphasised Sayanna’s advocacy for social equality through the encouragement of inter-caste and inter-religious marriages. “He promoted the idea that true unity lies in breaking social barriers, and this message of equality must continue to shape our societal values,” Mr. Kumara Swamy said.
Calling for Sayanna’s Jayanti to be observed not merely as a ceremonial ritual but as a “Day of Dignity” for the Bahujan communities, Mr. Kumara Swamy urged people to celebrate it in every village and urban locality as a movement for social awareness and pride.
Among those present at the event were Dr. Shiva Mudiraj, social activist Dr. D.P. Chari, Yadav, Manne Brahmaiah, Sai Kiran, and Ratna Kumar.