Noelnadesan's Blog

Rajathi Salma’s journey from poetry to Parliament, fighting for parity MELBOURNE, 3 October, 2025:

At a recent symposium on “Understanding Caste Discrimination in Diaspora,” organized by the University of Nottingham and supported by Dalit and human rights groups in Victoria, firebrand Tamil writer, poet, activist, and DMK Member of Parliament Rajathi Salma shared the story of her remarkable journey—from her school days to her rise as a recognized poet, writer, and parliamentarian. Addressing the gathering, Salma reflected on the societal backlash she endured for her writing, particularly for her candid discussions of women’s bodies and issues. She recounted that her earliest poems were published under a pen name, concealed from her family. “After entering politics, I was able to be open and became popular,” Salma said. Salma spoke with deep respect for E.V. Ramasamy Periyar, the pioneering social activist and founder of the self-respect movement and Dravidar Kazhagam (DK), widely regarded as the architect of Dravidian politics. She credited Periyar’s emphasis on rationalism, self-respect, women’s rights, and the eradication of caste with fundamentally changing her worldview. “When I stayed at home, I did not know anything about the world, but after reading Periyar’s thoughts, my life changed,” she emphasized. During her speech, Salma also addressed the pressing social and political challenges confronting minority communities in India and concluded by reading one of her poems in English to the audience.

https://youtu.be/qFCiEtwd6zs?si=pGzVehXc0xUXM_5G

Salma’s literary works are celebrated for their bold, revolutionary voice and their unflinching advocacy of women’s autonomy. Her writing frequently explores gender oppression and patriarchy, scrutinizing social restrictions placed on women and championing gender equality. Female desire and autonomy, as she celebrates women’s identities, desires, and independence beyond traditional expectations. Social hypocrisy, critiquing norms and religious dogmas that reinforce gender inequality. Resilience and resistance, portraying women’s endurance and their quest for self-empowerment even in oppressive social contexts. Her major works include the poetry collection Oru Maalaiyum Innoru Maalaiyum, the novel Irandaam Jaamangalin Kadha, the poetry volume Women, Dreaming, and the short story collection Saabam (“The Curse”), each spotlighting themes of gender equality, social justice, and the lived experience of women in patriarchal societies. Salma’s writing continues to inspire women’s rights movements in India and around the world.

Courtesy: south Asia times