PEACE EDUCATION AND NATIONAL IDENTITY: FOSTERING UNITY FROM THE PERSPECTIVES OF SUNG AND UNSUNG WARRIORS OF TAMIL NADU TOWARDS INDIAN FREEDOM STRUGGLE

Abstract

India today stands as a testimony for universal peace; our country has a long lasting legacy in terms of Peace Education. Our leaders have left behind a deep impact of moral force and non-violence. This identity as one nation with its diversity and cultural vastness should continue to strive for best in sustaining national and international peace among forthcoming generations. This thematic article will focus on the contributions of selected sung and unsung warriors of Tamil Nadu towards the path of freedom and nation building. Subramania Bharathi strongly emphasized the need for eradicating social injustices including caste system, religious differences and gender inequality. He strongly believed that a truly peaceful society would be one where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect irrespective of their background. Subramania Siva advocated a unique approach to peace education that highlighted the need for service to nation, a revival of Tamil language and culture, and opposing the influence of foreign language and culture. His strong belief was that true peace could be attained through selfless service to nation and its people. VOC’s political activism was rooted in a desire for independence and self-determination, his methods especially during the Swadeshi movement, emphasized non-violent resistance and civil disobedience. Rajaji advocated for peace education primarily through his commitment to dialogue, negotiation and a peaceful resolution of disputes as well as his strong stance against violence and nuclear weapons. P. Ramamurthy, T.R. Krishnamurthy Iyer and others viewed peace as an essential outcome of social justice, equality and the eradication of oppression