Q.-1 Analyze the background of Socio-Religious Reforms Movements in 19th century India. Highlight the principles and work of Brahmo Samaj.

Answer - Introduction

During the 19th century, Social and Religious reform movements began in India. Due to British rule and the influence of Western education, people started questioning social evils like the Caste System, Sati Practice, Polygamy, and the Poor Condition of Women. At that time, there was a strong need for change in society. Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy worked for Social Justice, Equality, & Religious Reforms. Because of their efforts, organizations like the Brahmo Samaj were formed, which tried to solve major social problems.

Analysis : Background of Social & Religious Reform Movements in 19th Century India

1. Change in Social Thinking due to British Rule : With British rule in India, new legal and administrative systems were introduced. This made Indians realize the weaknesses in their old systems. People started questioning on caste, religion, the condition of women, and education. Slowly, this led to a social revolution.
2. Impact of English Education and New Ideas: When the British started English education in India, Indian youth learned about Western ideas. Concepts like freedom, equality, scientific thinking, and human rights attracted them. This helped people think against social evils and laid the foundation for social reform movements.
3. Awareness by Social Reformers: Social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and Swami Dayanand Saraswati raised their voices against the evils in Indian society. They spoke openly about issues like the Sati System, Child Marriage, Lack of Education for Women, & Widow Remarriage. Their efforts created awareness and led to steps for reform.
   

4. Role of Christian Missionaries and British Scholars: Christian missionaries criticized Indian religions and traditions, which motivated Indian scholars to protect and better understand their own culture. British historians also wrote about Indian history and society, which inspired Indians to think and improve themselves.

5. Media and New Thinking about Women’s Status : Newspapers, magazines, and books started highlighting the problems in society and made people aware of the need for reform. Especially, there was a strong demand for women’s education, rights, and respect. Many reformers and organizations started schools, shelters, and magazines for women, which brought positive changes in society.

Brahmo Samaj

Raja Ram Mohan Roy (22 May 1772 – 27 September 1833) was an Indian social reformer, writer, and philosopher. He is also known as the Father of Modern India. In 1828, he founded the Brahmo Samaj, which became a leading movement for social and religious reform in the Indian subcontinent.

Principles of Brahmo Samaj :-

1. Brahmo Samaj believed that there is only one God who creates and takes care of the world. God has infinite power and goodness.
2. The soul of every human being lives forever, they are answerable to God for their works.
3. No person or any man-made thing should be worshipped as God.
4. God speaks to the souls of good people, so there is no need for prophets or holy books to talk to God.
5. Brahmo Samaj believes that truth is religion. Religious books should be followed as long as they are in accordance with what God teaches.
6. People should worship God with love and ideals every day.
7. All people are front of before God, so no one should be discriminated against on the basis of caste, color, race or gender.
8. Brahmo Samaj does not believe in idol worship, animal sacrifice or rituals.

Functions/Works of Brahmo Samaj :-

Conclusion

In the 19th century, social and religious reform movements brought major changes in India. The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, fought against Sati, Polygamy, and the Caste System. It also worked for religious freedom, women’s rights, and equality in society.

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