Raja Rammohan Roy (1772-1833)

 

Raja Rammohan Roy (1772-1833)

Raja Rammohan Roy (1772-1833) was a prominent social reformer, thinker, and philosopher who played a significant role in shaping modern India. He is often referred to as the "Father of the Indian Renaissance" for his pioneering efforts in advocating social, educational, and religious reforms.

Raja Rammohan Roy was born in Radhanagar, Bengal Presidency, in present-day West Bengal, India. He hailed from a Brahmin family and received a traditional education in Sanskrit and Persian. However, he was exposed to Western ideas and philosophies through his interaction with British administrators and intellectuals.

Rammohan Roy strongly criticized various social and religious practices prevalent in 18th and 19th-century India, including the caste system, sati (widow burning), child marriage, and restrictions on women's rights. He advocated for the abolition of these practices and worked towards the upliftment of marginalized sections of society.

One of Rammohan Roy's notable achievements was his campaign against the practice of sati. He actively fought against this tradition and was instrumental in the passing of the Bengal Sati Regulation Act in 1829, which banned the practice in Bengal Presidency.

Raja Rammohan Roy was also a staunch advocate of education. He believed in the importance of modern education and actively promoted English education in India. In 1817, he founded the Anglo-Hindu School, which later evolved into the Hindu College in Calcutta (now Kolkata). He emphasized the need for a rational and scientific education system to foster progress and intellectual growth.

In addition to social and educational reforms, Rammohan Roy made significant contributions to religious discourse. He challenged orthodox Hindu practices and criticized idol worship and polytheism. He sought to promote a rational and monotheistic interpretation of Hinduism and was a key figure in the establishment of the Brahmo Samaj, a socio-religious reform movement that aimed to combine the best elements of different religions.

Raja Rammohan Roy's ideas and activism laid the foundation for modern Indian society. His progressive outlook and tireless efforts towards social reform, education, and religious tolerance continue to inspire generations of Indians. His contributions have had a lasting impact on India's cultural, social, and intellectual landscape.

 

Pankaj Mandape