'E. V. Ramaswamy Naicker, popularly known as Periyar, founded the Self-Respect Movement in the early 20th century to promote social equality and eradicate the caste system in India. This movement aimed to empower marginalized communities, particularly the lower castes, by instilling a sense of dignity and self-worth, challenging the prevailing norms of Brahminical patriarchy. The Self-Respect Movement significantly influenced socio-political thought in South India, aligning with broader reformist movements and contributing to the discourse on social justice in the context of Indian nationalism.