| Makkal Pavalar Inkulab மக்கள் பாவலர் இன்குலாப் |
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|---|---|
| Born | Chennai, India |
| Occupation | Author |
| Notable work(s) | Avvai |
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Influences
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Makkal Pavalar Inkulab (also spelt Inquilab, Inkulab or Ingulab) (Tamil: மக்கள் பாவலர் இன்குலாப்) is a rationalist Tamil poet/writer, activist, and Communist with Marxist Leninist inclination.[1] He retired as a professor of Tamil at The New College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His birth name is Shahul Hameed [1][2] and a known follower of Periyar.
His poems espousing rationality have been critically acclaimed,.[3][4] Kanmani Rajam, his most famous poem criticizes the moral bankruptcy of politicians.
His song/poem "Naanga Manushangada" (We are human beings) is a famous dalit-freedom song that is still played in many dalit gatherings. Avvai, his drama is considered to be the first modern Tamil drama,[5] and a prescribed textbook for many colleges. In this revisionist account, the historical/mythic poet Avvai, contrary to the prevalent image of her as an old, wise, celibate woman, is rendered as a young, sensuous, creative, 'free' person, a wandering bard.[6] The play also challenges the patriarchal view which has marginalized the female voice.[7]
His other famous literary works include modern versions of Manimekalai [8] and Kurinji Paatu.[9]
He was also involved in vocal expression of discontent of removal of statue of a Tamil legendary icon Kannaki in 2002 by the then All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) government of Tamil Nadu.[10]