https://doi.org/10.67147/literariness.v1i3.053
Social Ascent through Education: An Examination of Pariyan’s Journey in Pariyerum Perumal
ABARNA K
PhD Research Scholar
Department of English
PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore
SARANYA VM
Assistant Professor
Department of English
PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore
Abstract: Pariyerum Perumal follows Pariyan, a Dalit youth from a southern village of Tamil Nadu, who faces severe caste discrimination and violence while pursuing a law degree. Despite brutal attacks, humiliation and an assassin hired by caste supremacists to kill Pariyan, the protagonist remains determined. His perseverance and confrontations highlight the deep-rooted caste issues and the personal and systemic struggles for justice. This paper illuminates the Social Stratification Theory and also explores the theme of social mobility through education in the film Pariyerum Perumal. The story projects a nuanced portrayal of the barriers and opportunities associated with social advancement within the rigid caste system of contemporary India. This paper critically scrutinises Pariyan’s journey from a marginalised position to the pursuit of higher education as a means of transcending his socio-economic status. This research also analyses the socio-political challenges faced by Dalits, focusing in particular the caste discrimination and their educational aspirations. It also accentuates the potential of education as a vehicle for social mobility. While addressing the systemic obstacles that hinder the progress and equality of the marginalised individuals, this research advocates to shatter the barriers and entrenched social prejudices that still continue to shape the lives of Dalit individuals.
Keywords: Caste, Stratification, Dalit Studies, Prejudice, Mobility, Empowerment
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