Research on Chattampi Swamikal and His Legacy: A Bibliographical Guide

Abstract

Chattampi Swamikal (1853-1924) was a unique social and religious reformer of South India. His contributions to the late nineteenth century renaissance in India was unparalleled and his writings; for the first time, gave voice to those who were marginalized. He denounced the misinterpretations of Hindu scriptures by interest groups and strived to reform the heavily ritualistic and caste-ridden Hindu society. He also worked for the emancipation of women promoted vegetarianism and non-violence (Ahimsa). He believed that the different religions are different paths leading to the same place. He raised his voice for Open knowledge a century before the academic circles of European universities started to think about it. This bibliography compiles information on works by Chattampi Swamikal and studies about his life and teachings that were published between 1910 and 2024. The major sources of documents were Chattampi Swami Archive, Kerala Sahithya Akademi, and private collections of his disciples and friends.