The 19th century in India was marked by social and religious reform movements. This period was characterised by rigid caste structures and social decadence. British colonial rule exposed the weaknesses in Indian social institutions. The introduction of Western ideas such as liberty, equality, and justice deeply influenced Indian society. Enlightened leaders emerged, advocating for reforms to modernise and revitalise Indian culture.
Types of Reform Movements
Reform movements in 19th century India can be broadly categorised into two types:
- Reformist Movements: These sought to modernise society and embraced scientific thinking.
- Revivalist Movements: These aimed to revive ancient traditions and counter Western influence.
Reformist Movements
Several notable reformist movements emerged during this period:
Brahmo Samaj
Founded in 1828 by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in Calcutta, the Brahmo Samaj aimed to eliminate idol worship, caste oppression, and social evils like Sati and child marriage. The movement advocated for women’s rights, including widow remarriage and education.
Aligarh Movement
Initiated by Sayyid Ahmed Khan in 1875, the Aligarh Movement focused on modern education for Muslims. It established the Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental College, which later became Aligarh Muslim University, promoting Western-style education.
Prarthana Samaj
Established in 1863 by Keshub Chandra Sen in Bombay, the Prarthana Samaj promoted monotheism and fought against caste distinctions. It aimed to reform Hindu practices and spread its influence to South India through Telugu reformer Veeresalingam.
Revivalist Movements
Revivalist movements sought to re-establish traditional values:
Arya Samaj
Founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati in 1875, Arya Samaj aimed to reform North Indian society. It opposed idolatry, animal sacrifice, and the caste system. The movement promoted women’s rights and advocated for education and social equality.
Deoband Movement
Founded in 1866 by Muhammad Qasim Nanotvi and Rashid Ahmad Gangohi, the Deoband Movement focused on religious education for Muslims. It sought to uplift the community through a return to Islamic teachings.
Other Important Movements
Several additional movements played roles in reforming society:
Theosophical Society
Founded in 1875 by Madame Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott, the Theosophical Society promoted ancient philosophies, including Hinduism and Buddhism. It emphasised universal brotherhood and the study of occultism.
Ramakrishna Mission
Established by Swami Vivekananda in 1897, this mission aimed to propagate the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahansa. It opposed caste discrimination and promoted the universality of all religions.
Satyashodhak Samaj
Founded by Jyotirao Phule in 1873, the Satyashodhak Samaj campaigned against idolatry and the caste system. It advocated for rational thinking and rejected priesthood, promoting the term ‘Dalit’ for oppressed castes.
Young Bengal Movement
Initiated by Henry Louis Vivian Derozio in the 1820s, this movement encouraged radical thinking among students in Calcutta. Derozio challenged orthodox Hindu practices and inspired free thought.
Widow Remarriage Association
Founded by Pandit Vishnu Shastri in 1860, this association aimed to promote widow remarriage, challenging societal norms that restricted women’s rights.
Arya Samaj – A Closer Look
The Arya Samaj played a very important role in Indian reform movements:
History
Founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati in 1875, the Arya Samaj sought to revive Vedic teachings. It rejected superstitions and idol worship, promoting educational reforms and social equality.
Key Philosophies
The Arya Samaj emphasised monotheism and the authority of the Vedas. It advocated for a classless society, promoting access to God for all individuals. The movement upheld the principles of Karma and reincarnation while rejecting predestination.
Social Reforms
The Arya Samaj made contributions to social reforms:
- Educational Initiatives: Established schools and colleges, including Dayananda Anglo-Vedic institutions.
- Marriage and Family Welfare: Advocated for raising the marriage age and promoting widow remarriage.
- Caste Reforms: Challenged the caste hierarchy and encouraged inter-caste marriages.
- Gender Equality: Promoted co-education and equal rights for men and women.
Social Services
The Arya Samaj engaged in famine relief and supported various social services, including child welfare and widow remarriages.
Principles of Arya Samaj
The Arya Samaj is based on Vedic principles, emphasising:
- Monotheism and rejection of idol worship.
- Truth and moral living.
- Social reforms, including women’s education and abolition of caste discrimination.
The Shuddhi Movement
The Shuddhi Movement aimed to reconvert individuals who had embraced other religions back to Hinduism. It sought to encourage unity within the Hindu community and counter the influence of missionaries. This movement reinforced Arya Samaj’s commitment to a casteless society.
Legacy of Arya Samaj
The Arya Samaj influenced national leaders and promoted a sense of nationalism. It instilled self-respect and equality among Indians, contributing to the broader Indian independence movement.
Analysis of Arya Samaj
The Arya Samaj served as a reformist movement while also defending Indian culture. It promoted equality and self-respect but had a conservative approach to interpreting Vedic texts. It is regarded as force in shaping modern Hindu identity.
