Periyar founded the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) by converting the existing Justice Party into a non-political social movement.

In 1938, Periyar assumed leadership of the Justice Party, and in 1944, he formally founded the DK by converting the party into a non-political social movement.

By dissolving its electoral role, he shifted the organization’s focus entirely toward rationalism, self-respect, and the eradication of the caste system.

This deliberate move ensured the movement remained a social pressure group rather than a political entity, prioritizing the fight against Brahminical dominance over the pursuit of legislative power.
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