Like the many great men in history who have imparted valuable lessons to the world, Narayana Guru and his life's work have had a lasting impact on the social transformation of an entire society. His messages were instrumental in the social growth of Kerala and demonstrate his practical wisdom and broad vision.
Messages like ‘One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man’, ‘Whatever the religion, it is enough if man becomes good’, ‘Not to argue and win, but to know and inform’, ‘Be strong through organization, be enlightened through education’, and ‘Alcohol is poison’ hold timeless significance.
The Guru's messages are written in simple language and carry broad meanings. His most fundamental message is ‘One Caste, One Religion, One God for Humankind’. The concept of ‘One Caste’ was presented by the Guru on the occasion of his birthday in 1920. This was at a time when laws enforced based on caste denied humanity. In his poem 'Jathinirnayam’ (Determination of Caste) written in 1914, the Guru points out that man's only caste is humanity. He further elaborates on this idea of ‘One Caste’ as ‘One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man; One Womb, One Form, No difference therein’.
Guru sees unity in all fields. By ‘One Caste’, Guru means the human race. Since all humans are born from a woman; there is only one womb. In terms of form, too, all are one. The poem suggests that the sense of difference arose from human perception. Those who have understood the value of religion do not think their own religion is superior or inferior to another. The core part of this message is ‘One Caste’. ‘One Religion’ and ‘One God’ are merely components of one caste, and there is no need for people to be divided into different sects based on religion and God.
Guru did not limit his opposition to the caste system to messages alone; he implemented them in his actions. Children of all castes and religions were admitted to Guru's institutions. He adopted, raised, and educated children from lower strata of society. He would have them cook and serve food in the ashram. Guru also opposed the exclusion of those considered to be of lower caste from the temples he established.
