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Ayillyath Kuttiari Gopalan, widely known as A.K. Gopalan, was a prominent freedom fighter, social reformer, and leader of the communist movement in Kerala. Here are the key points about his life and contributions:
Early Life and Education:
- Born on 1st October 1904 in Cannanore District of Northern Kerala.
- Completed his schooling in Tallichery, where he was actively involved in literary societies and student magazines.
- After passing SSLC and obtaining a teachers training certificate, he began his career as a teacher in a local school.
Political Awakening and Early Involvement:
- Influenced by the Indian political climate under Mahatma Gandhi, Gopalan joined the Khilafat Movement and the Freedom Movement, leading to his transformation into a dedicated social and political worker.
- In 1927, he joined the Indian National Congress and became active in the Khadi Movement and the upliftment of Harijans.
Arrests and Activism:
- Arrested for participating in the Salt Satyagraha in 1930, during which he adopted leftist ideologies.
- Became a member of the Congress Socialist Party and later the Communist Party when it took shape in Kerala in 1939.
- Led significant movements such as the hunger march from Malabar to Madras in 1937 and the Malabar Jatha supporting responsible government in Travancore.
World War II and Post-war Activities:
- Arrested again during World War II, he escaped from prison in 1942 and remained absconding until the war’s end in 1945.
- Continued his anti-imperialist activities post-war, leading to further imprisonment. He was still in jail when India gained independence on 15th August 1947, and was released a few weeks later.
Political Career and Writings:
- Served as a member of the Lok Sabha for five consecutive terms until his death on 22nd March 1977.
- Authored several works, including his autobiography “In the Cause of the People,” translated into many languages. Other notable works include “For Land,” “Around the World,” “Work in Parliament,” and “Collected Speeches,” all in Malayalam.
Legacy:
- A.K. Gopalan is remembered as a staunch freedom fighter who sacrificed personal comforts for the cause of Indian independence.
- After independence, he continued to fight for the upliftment of the downtrodden, particularly the Harijans, and made significant contributions to the social and political landscape of Kerala.
A.K. Gopalan’s life is a testament to his unwavering dedication to social justice and his relentless pursuit of a better society for all.
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