The social and religious reform movements in India during the 19th and early 20th centuries aimed to address deep-rooted social inequalities, outdated practices, and religious orthodoxy, laying the foundation for a modern, progressive society.
Key Features and Causes
Emerged as a response to social evils like sati (widow burning), child marriage, caste discrimination, untouchability, and lack of women's rights.
Influenced by Western education, rationalism, and humanism introduced during British rule.
Led largely by the emerging educated middle class and reformers who sought to blend traditional Indian values with modern ideas.
Focused on abolishing superstition, idol worship, religious exploitation, and promoting education, social equality, and interfaith harmony.
Major Social and Religious Reform Movements
1. Brahmo Samaj (Founded 1828)
Leader: Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Objectives: Abolition of sati, promotion of widow remarriage, ending caste discrimination, rational monotheism.
Played a key role in promoting modern education and social reforms.
2. Arya Samaj (Founded 1875)
Leader: Swami Dayananda Saraswati
Objectives: Revival of Vedic Hinduism, rejection of idol worship and caste inequalities, women's education.
3. Prarthana Samaj
Leader: Mahadev Govind Ranade, R.G. Bhandarkar
Aimed at reforming Hindu society with emphasis on monotheism and social progress.
4. Theosophical Society (Founded 1875 in USA)
Leader: Annie Besant (active in India)
Efforts to revive Indian spirituality and integrate Eastern and Western philosophies.
5. Sikh Reform Movements
Singh Sabha Movement focused on revitalizing Sikhism and rejecting superstitions.
6. Muslim Reform Movements
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's Aligarh Movement promoted modern education and social reform.
Deoband and Ahl-i-Hadith sought Islamic revival and reform.
7. Social Reformers Outside Organized Movements
Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: Widow remarriage and women's education.
Jyotirao Phule: Breaking caste barriers and women's education.
Swami Vivekananda: Revival of Hindu spirituality and social service.
Impact
Abolition of sati (1829), legalization of widow remarriage (1856).
Greater awareness of social evils and new policies.
Growth of education, women's rights, and questioning of rigid traditions.
Inspired political awakening and national consciousness.
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