Inkulab

Who is Inkulab?

Makkal Pavalar Inkulab is a rationalist Tamil poet/writer, activist, and Communist with Marxist Leninist inclination. He retired as a professor of Tamil at The New College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His birth name is Shahul Hameed and a known follower of Periyar.

His poems espousing rationality have been critically acclaimed,. Kanmani Rajam, his most famous poem criticizes the moral bankruptcy of politicians.

His song/poem "Naanga Manushangada" 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, 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. The play also challenges the patriarchal view which has marginalized the female voice.

His other famous literary works include modern versions of Manimekalai and Kurinji Paatu.