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Thileepan’s self-immolation has had a profound and lasting influence on contemporary movements for justice, particularly within marginalised communities. His act of sacrifice became a powerful symbol of resistance and highlighted the extreme lengths individuals might go to in the pursuit of justice and recognition for their struggles.

1. **Symbol of Sacrifice**: Thileepan’s sacrifice has inspired many activists globally, illustrating that personal sacrifice can bring attention to systemic injustices. Movements often invoke his memory to galvanise support and emphasise the urgency of their causes.

2. **Awareness and Mobilisation**: His act brought international attention to the plight of Tamils in Sri Lanka, encouraging other marginalised groups to adopt similar tactics of protest to draw attention to their issues. This has led to increased mobilisation and solidarity among various movements advocating for human rights.

3. **Cultural Resonance**: His story is often recounted in cultural narratives, poetry, and art within the Tamil community and beyond, creating a shared sense of identity and purpose. This cultural resonance helps keep the issues alive in public consciousness.

4. **Dialogue on Non-Violent Resistance**: While Thileepan’s act was a form of protest that involved self-harm, it has also sparked discussions on the balance between violent and non-violent methods of resistance. Many contemporary movements focus on non-violent strategies while still recognising the emotional weight of sacrifices made in the struggle.

5. **Interconnected Struggles**: His legacy has fostered a sense of interconnectedness among different marginalised communities facing oppression, encouraging solidarity across various struggles for justice and equality.

Overall, Thileepan’s self-immolation serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and equality, inspiring contemporary movements to continue advocating for their rights and recognition.