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Home/upsc: socio-religious reforms

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Neelam Gupta
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Neelam GuptaBegginer
Asked: August 10, 2024In:
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Examine how social reformers challenged conventional social and religious norms in India during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Santosh Singh
    Santosh Singh Learner

    Certainly, here's an answer tailored for UPSC Mains aspirants, with recent examples and key points bolded: The Role of Social Reformers in Challenging Traditional Practices in India Social reformers in India played a pivotal role in challenging the deeply entrenched traditional social and religiousRead more

    Certainly, here’s an answer tailored for UPSC Mains aspirants, with recent examples and key points bolded:

    The Role of Social Reformers in Challenging Traditional Practices in India

    Social reformers in India played a pivotal role in challenging the deeply entrenched traditional social and religious practices during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their efforts laid the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive society. Let’s analyze their contributions:

    1. Abolition of Harmful Practices
      • Abolition of Sati: Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy campaigned tirelessly for the abolition of the practice of sati, leading to the Sati Regulation Act of 1829.
      • Widow Remarriage: Reformers such as Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar advocated for the legalization of widow remarriage, culminating in the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act of 1856.
    2. Empowering Women and Promoting Education
      • Promoting Female Education: Reformers like Savitribai Phule and Kandukuri Veeresalingam Pantulu established schools for girls and challenged the notion of women’s unfitness for education.
      • Recent Example: Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist, continues to champion the cause of girls’ education globally, including in India.
    3. Challenging the Caste System
      • Abolition of Untouchability: Reformers like Jyotirao Phule and B.R. Ambedkar led the fight against the caste system and the practice of untouchability.
      • Recent Example: The Supreme Court’s ruling in 2018 to restore the original provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, was a significant step in addressing caste-based discrimination.
    4. Social and Religious Reforms
      • Reviving and Reinterpreting Hinduism: Reformers like Swami Vivekananda and Swami Dayananda Saraswati sought to revive and reinterpret Hindu scriptures and practices, challenging the rigid orthodoxy.
      • Recent Example: The Sabarimala temple entry issue, where the Supreme Court ruled in favor of allowing women of all ages to enter the temple, sparked a debate on gender equality and religious practices.
    5. Legal Reforms and Legislation
      • Enacting Reforms: Reformers worked with the British colonial administration to enact legal reforms, such as the prohibition of child marriage and the Age of Consent Act.
      • Recent Example: The passage of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, which criminalized the practice of instant triple talaq, was a significant legal reform addressing gender inequality.

    The contributions of these social reformers were instrumental in challenging the traditional social and religious practices, paving the way for gradual social transformation. Their legacies continue to inspire and guide ongoing efforts for social justice and equality in India.

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Kamini g
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Kamini gLearner
Asked: June 24, 2024In:
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Some have argued that the liberation movement was affected differently by the rediscovery and resuscitation of India’s past and proud tradition. Are you in agreement? Talk about. (Answer in 250 words)

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Kunal Tiwari
    Kunal Tiwari Learner

    Mention some of the foreigners who joined the Indian freedom struggle and their contributions materia ruggle The India freedom struggle is a significant and unique event in history because of many reasons like use of 'satyagraha', non-violence, contribution from various sections etc. While many IndiRead more

    Mention some of the foreigners who joined the Indian freedom struggle and their contributions materia ruggle The India freedom struggle is a significant and unique event in history because of many reasons like use of ‘satyagraha’, non-violence, contribution from various sections etc. While many Indians joined and led the struggle against the British, the role played by many foreigners can not be underestimated.

    The contributions of some foreigners are as follows:

    • Annie Besant: She was an Irish lady who became the first woman president of Indian National Congress (INC). She was a leading labour organizer, strike leader and reformer. She helped establish the Indian Home Rule League in 1916. She also wrote against the British in her newspaper – “New India”.
    • C. F. Andrews: He was an Englishman who got involved with INC. He helped resolve the 1913 cotton workers’ strike in Madras. He resisted the oppressive policies of the British and openly advocated for the rights of Indians settled in any part of the world. He used to introduce himself as an Indian and dhoti-kurta became his favourite dress.
    • Reginald Reynolds: A British man strongly opposed to British colonial policies, he visited Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram and gradually became one of Gandhi’s closest associates. In March 1930, Reynolds delivered ‘Gandhi’s Ultimatum’ to the British Viceroy. Reynolds formed an organisation in Britain called ‘The Friends of India’ and also helped raise money for the Indian cause.
    • Michael John Carritt: He is known as a British officer who took the side of the poor peasantry as Chief Magistrate in Asansol. He even allowed the distribution of ‘illegal’ pamphlets by the Bombay branch of the Communist Party of India and also worked to provide shelter to the revolutionaries fighting for the country’s freedom. Between 1935 and 1937, Carritt leaked several intelligence reports to his Indian comrades.
    • Madeleine Slade: Daughter of a British Admiral, she was rechristened Mira Behn by Gandhiji on her reaching Sabarmati Ashram in 1925. She went to London with Gandhiji to attend the Round Table Conference. She was arrested multiple times, including during a period of civil disobedience in 1932-33, when she was detained on the charge of supplying information to Europe and America regarding conditions prevailing in India.
    • Samuel Stokes: The only American to be jailed for being involved in India’s freedom struggle, who got involved in the freedom struggle after the Jallianwalan Bagh massacre. He worked closely with Gandhiji and took part in the Non-Cooperation Movement. He was imprisoned for six months one the charges of sedition in the Lahore jail and refused bail.
    • BG Horniman: Editor of Bombay Chronicle, he published accounts of British brutalities in the Jalianwalan Bagh massacre defying British gag orders, causing international uproar and changing the course of India’s freedom struggle. He also criticised the Hunter Commission after the latter gave clean chit to General Dyer.
    • Philip Spratt: Spratt is remembered the most for his involvement in the Meerut Conspiracy Case, where about 30 CPI members, Congress members and others were arrested for organising a series of worker strikes in 1929.
    • Catherine Mary Heilemann: Popularly known as Sarala, she came to India in the early 1930s to teach in a school in Udaipur. Inspired by Gandhiji, she suffered two terms of imprisonment during the Quit India movement of the 1940s.

    Thus many foreigners made India their home and significantly contributed, as they needled the conscience of Britain, to the Indian freedom struggle.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 10, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Contextualize the Movement: Briefly describe the 19th-century social reform movement and its significance for women in India. Thesis Statement: Highlight that women’s issues became a central topic of reform. 2. Body Divide this section into thematic issues to improve ...

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The 19th-century social reform movement in India marked a critical period of awakening and transformation, during which various issues faced by women were brought to the forefront. This movement aimed to address and rectify the social customs and practices that adversely afRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The 19th-century social reform movement in India marked a critical period of awakening and transformation, during which various issues faced by women were brought to the forefront. This movement aimed to address and rectify the social customs and practices that adversely affected women’s lives and status in society.

    Major Issues and Debates

    Sati

    One of the most contentious issues was the practice of sati, where widows self-immolated on their husband’s funeral pyre. Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar opposed this practice, leading to the enactment of the Bengal Sati Regulation in 1829, which made sati illegal.

    Female Infanticide

    Female infanticide was another critical issue, with societal preference for male children leading to the killing of girl infants. Social reformers worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the value of female lives, campaigning against this inhumane practice.

    Child Marriage

    The prevalence of child marriages was a significant concern. Reformers sought to increase the minimum age of marriage for girls, advocating for their education and well-being. The Age of Consent Act of 1891, influenced by reformers like Vidyasagar, aimed to combat this issue.

    Widow Remarriage

    Advocacy for widow remarriage gained momentum, resulting in the Hindu Widows’ Remarriage Act of 1856. Reformers like Vidyasagar championed this cause, allowing widows to lead fulfilling lives.

    Women’s Education

    Prominent reformers such as Savitribai Phule emphasized women’s education, arguing it would empower them and contribute to societal development.

    Purdah System

    The purdah system, which confined women to the household, faced criticism from reformers who argued that it stifled women’s freedom and development.

    Women’s Legal Rights

    The absence of legal rights regarding inheritance, property, and marriage was another significant issue. Reformers pushed for legal reforms to grant women equal rights, challenging traditional customs.

    Conclusion

    The social reform movement in India significantly addressed women’s issues, laying the foundation for further progress in women’s rights and gender equality. The debates and reforms initiated during this period continue to influence ongoing efforts toward gender equality in modern India.

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Krishna Kapoor
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Krishna KapoorBegginer
Asked: August 10, 2024In:
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Examine how social reformers such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar challenged the customs of sati and widow remarriage.

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Santosh Singh
    Santosh Singh Learner

    The Efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar were two prominent social reformers who played a pivotal role in challenging the oppressive practices of sati (widow immolation) and widow remarriage in 19th century India. Let's evaluateRead more

    The Efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

    Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar were two prominent social reformers who played a pivotal role in challenging the oppressive practices of sati (widow immolation) and widow remarriage in 19th century India. Let’s evaluate their efforts and contributions:

    1. Abolition of Sati
      • Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s Advocacy: Roy was a fierce critic of the practice of sati, which involved the immolation of a widow on her husband’s funeral pyre. He actively campaigned against this inhuman practice and petitioned the British government for its abolition.
      • Impact: Roy’s relentless efforts, along with the support of other reformers, led to the enactment of the Sati Regulation Act in 1829, which banned the practice of sati in British India.
      • Recent Example: The legacy of Roy’s anti-sati campaign can be seen in the continued efforts to eradicate other forms of gender-based violence and discrimination in India, such as the successful advocacy against the practice of female genital mutilation.
    2. Promoting Widow Remarriage
      • Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar’s Crusade: Vidyasagar, a prominent educator and social reformer, championed the cause of widow remarriage, which was widely taboo in traditional Hindu society.
      • Legislative Reform: Vidyasagar’s persistent efforts led to the enactment of the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act in 1856, which legalized the remarriage of widows.
      • Recent Example: The Vidyasagar’s legacy continues to inspire ongoing efforts to address the social and economic challenges faced by widows in India, such as the work done by organizations like the Mariam Bhavan, which provides support and rehabilitation for widows.
    3. Challenging Traditional Mindsets
      • Reformers’ Approach: Both Roy and Vidyasagar adopted a multi-pronged approach, combining intellectual discourse, public campaigns, and collaboration with the British colonial administration to challenge the deeply entrenched social practices.
      • Impact on Societal Attitudes: Their efforts helped to gradually shift the societal attitudes towards these practices, paving the way for a more progressive and inclusive understanding of gender roles and women’s rights.
      • Recent Example: The continued debates and discussions around traditional practices, such as the Sabarimala temple entry issue, reflect the enduring legacy of these social reformers in shaping contemporary social and gender discourse in India.

    The contributions of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar were instrumental in bringing about legislative and societal changes to address the oppressive practices of sati and widow remarriage. Their legacies continue to inspire and guide ongoing efforts for social justice and the empowerment of women in India.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 9, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define the socio-religious reform movements in 19th-century India. Mention the impact of British colonial rule on these movements. Introduce the Young Bengal movement and the Brahmo Samaj as key examples. Young Bengal Movement Founding and Leadership Introduced by Henry Louis Vivian Derozio ...

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The 19th century marked a significant period for socio-religious reform movements in India, emerging as a response to British colonial rule and the social evils prevalent in society. These movements aimed to promote rationalism, humanism, and modern education. Two pivotal mRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The 19th century marked a significant period for socio-religious reform movements in India, emerging as a response to British colonial rule and the social evils prevalent in society. These movements aimed to promote rationalism, humanism, and modern education. Two pivotal movements during this era were the Young Bengal movement and the Brahmo Samaj.

    Young Bengal Movement

    Founded by Henry Louis Vivian Derozio (1809-1831), the Young Bengal movement, also known as the Derozians, emerged in the early 19th century. This movement was a reaction against the social and religious orthodoxy of the time. Its primary objectives included:

    • Promotion of Western Education: The Derozians advocated for modern education, significantly contributing to the spread of English education in Bengal. Many members established schools and colleges to further this cause.
    • Social Reform: The movement challenged deep-rooted social customs such as caste discrimination, gender inequality, child marriage, and the practice of Sati.
    • Ideals of Liberty and Equality: Influenced by Western ideals, the Young Bengal movement emphasized liberty, equality, and fraternity, encouraging the youth to question traditional norms.

    Brahmo Samaj

    Founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772-1833) in 1828, the Brahmo Samaj was another influential socio-religious reform movement. Key aspects of the movement included:

    • Reform of Hindu Society: Roy aimed to purify Hinduism by eliminating superstitions and caste discrimination, promoting monotheism and rationalism in religious practices.
    • Emphasis on Education: The Brahmo Samaj advocated for education, particularly for women, as a means to empower them and enhance their social status.
    • Leadership and Expansion: Under leaders like Debendranath Tagore (1817-1905) and Keshub Chandra Sen (1838-1884), the movement expanded and became more radical. Sen’s efforts to abolish caste distinctions and promote women’s education positioned the Brahmo Samaj as a powerful force for social reform.

    Conclusion

    The Young Bengal movement and Brahmo Samaj played crucial roles in challenging societal norms and advocating for progressive change in 19th-century India. Their focus on rationalism, education, and social reform laid a foundation that influenced future generations of reformers and thinkers, promoting a vision of a more equitable society.

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Adheesh Raman
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Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: January 4, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce the 19th-century context of women’s status in India. Mention the rise of social reform movements. State the focus on Raja Ram Mohun Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. 2. Context of Women’s Status in 19th Century India Describe the ...

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Social Reformers in India The 19th century was a pivotal era for women's rights in India, marked by significant social reform movements aimed at improving the status of women. Among the most influential reformers were Raja Ram Mohun Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. Raja Ram Mohun RoyRead more

    Model Answer

    Social Reformers in India

    The 19th century was a pivotal era for women’s rights in India, marked by significant social reform movements aimed at improving the status of women. Among the most influential reformers were Raja Ram Mohun Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar.

    Raja Ram Mohun Roy

    Often hailed as the “Father of Indian Renaissance,” Raja Ram Mohun Roy played a crucial role in advocating for gender equality. He recognized the severe injustices faced by women, particularly regarding practices like sati (the burning of widows). In 1818, he launched a campaign against sati, citing religious texts to argue that no religion condoned such acts. His efforts culminated in the Bengal Sati Regulation of 1829, which made sati illegal across British India (Source: “The Indian Renaissance” by R.K. Gupta).

    Roy was also a strong proponent of women’s education. In 1822, he founded the Anglo-Hindu School, where boys and girls were educated together. Additionally, through the establishment of Brahmo Samaj in 1828, he promoted women’s education and encouraged families to send their daughters to school (Source: “Raja Ram Mohun Roy: The Father of Modern India” by K. S. Lal). Furthermore, Roy spoke out against polygamy, highlighting its detrimental effects on women’s well-being.

    Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

    Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was another key figure in advancing women’s rights. He championed the cause of widow remarriage, filing a petition that ultimately led to the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act of 1856, despite significant opposition (Source: “Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: The Social Reformer” by S. Chatterjee).

    Vidyasagar was also an advocate for women’s education, establishing numerous schools for girls and founding the Nari Shiksha Bhandar to support female education financially. His efforts against child marriage and polygamy contributed to the passage of the Age of Consent Act in 1891 (Source: “Social Reform Movements in India” by R. S. Sharma).

    Conclusion

    The reformative actions of Raja Ram Mohun Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar laid the groundwork for future advancements in women’s rights, significantly influencing the freedom struggle and shaping modern India. Their commitment to eradicating social injustices and promoting education for women remains a vital part of India’s reform history.

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Esha Chopra
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Esha ChopraBegginer
Asked: August 10, 2024In:
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Discuss the Aligarh Movement’s impact and Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s contributions to Muslim education and social reform.

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Santosh Singh
    Santosh Singh Learner

    The Impact of the Aligarh Movement and the Contributions of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan The Aligarh Movement, led by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, had a significant impact on the educational and social reform of the Muslim community in India during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Let's discuss the key contriRead more

    The Impact of the Aligarh Movement and the Contributions of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan

    The Aligarh Movement, led by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, had a significant impact on the educational and social reform of the Muslim community in India during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Let’s discuss the key contributions of this movement:

    1. Establishment of the Aligarh Muslim University
      • Sir Syed Ahmad Khan founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh, which later became the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), a premier educational institution for the Muslim community.
      • Recent Example: The AMU continues to play a vital role in providing quality education and promoting the intellectual and cultural development of the Muslim community in India.
    2. Promoting Western-style Education
      • The Aligarh Movement emphasized the importance of Western-style education, including the study of science, technology, and modern subjects, to enable the Muslim community to participate actively in the socio-economic and political spheres.
      • Recent Example: The AMU’s focus on science, engineering, and technology education has produced many accomplished professionals and leaders from the Muslim community.
    3. Fostering Modernization and Reforms
      • Sir Syed Ahmad Khan advocated for the modernization of the Muslim community, encouraging them to embrace scientific and rational thinking, while also promoting social reforms to address issues like child marriage and the status of women.
      • Recent Example: The Aligarh Movement’s emphasis on social and educational reforms continues to influence the discourse on the empowerment of Muslim women and the modernization of the community.
    4. Strengthening Muslim Identity and Representation
      • The Aligarh Movement aimed to create a distinct Muslim identity and political consciousness, laying the foundation for the eventual demand for a separate Muslim state, which led to the creation of Pakistan.
      • Recent Example: The ongoing debates and discussions around the role of Muslim identity and representation in India’s political landscape can be traced back to the Aligarh Movement’s legacy.
    5. Promoting Interfaith Dialogue and Harmony
      • Sir Syed Ahmad Khan advocated for interfaith dialogue and understanding, recognizing the importance of cooperation between the Muslim and Hindu communities for the overall progress of the nation.
      • Recent Example: The Aligarh Movement’s emphasis on religious harmony and inclusive nationalism continues to inspire efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and counter the rising tide of religious polarization in India.

    The Aligarh Movement and the contributions of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan had a profound impact on the educational and social transformation of the Muslim community in India. Their legacy continues to shape the discourse on Muslim identity, empowerment, and their role in the nation’s development.

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Manju Basain
  • 0
Manju BasainBegginer
Asked: July 25, 2024In:
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Throughout the nineteenth century, Indians’ national and cultural awareness was greatly influenced by the socio-religious reform movements. Examine.

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Anita Dhruw
    Anita Dhruw Legend

    India's cultural and national consciousness took shape in the 19th century through the vital reform movements which appeared in both socio-cultural and religious aspects. Members of the reform movement directed by Raja Ram Mohan Roy alongside Swami Dayananda Saraswati and Swami Vivekananda and JyotiRead more

    India’s cultural and national consciousness took shape in the 19th century through the vital reform movements which appeared in both socio-cultural and religious aspects. Members of the reform movement directed by Raja Ram Mohan Roy alongside Swami Dayananda Saraswati and Swami Vivekananda and Jyotirao Phule and various other activists worked to eliminate social evils thus reviving spiritual elements of Indian culture.

    Through their establishment in 1828, 1875 and 1867 the Brahmo Samaj alongside Arya Samaj and Prarthana Samaj worked together to oppose Sati together with caste discrimination and child marriage while promoting education as well as women’s rights and social parity. These reforms supported modern learning alongside rational thinking which increased people’s understanding about India’s great historical legacy and its native governing capacity.

    Indian religion regained strength through the Bhakti and Sufi traditions to advance religious peace as well as national unity. Swami Vivekananda initiated the nationalist movement that recognized India’s deep philosophical and spiritual values which found alignment with the freedom struggle.

    The reform movements established crucial pillars which sparked India’s political transformation by boosting Indians’ self-assurance to oppose British governance along with claiming self-rule. The socio-religious reform movements created modern Indian identity which effectively enhanced nationalist consciousness and cultural renewal so India could pursue its freedom.

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Puja Singh
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Puja SinghBegginer
Asked: June 22, 2024In:
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Highlight Jyotiba Phule’s contributions to the societal advancement of the general public, particularly the weaker segments of Indian society.c(Answer in 150 words)

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Kavita Singh
    Kavita Singh Learner

    Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, also known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule was born in Satara, Maharashtra. He was a great philosopher and social reformer, who worked for the cause of upliftment of lives of the underprivileged masses throughout his lifetime. His contributions towards social upliftment of the vulRead more

    Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, also known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule was born in Satara, Maharashtra. He was a great philosopher and social reformer, who worked for the cause of upliftment of lives of the underprivileged masses throughout his lifetime.

    His contributions towards social upliftment of the vulnerable sections include:

    • Upliftment of the untouchables: He worked hard to abolish untouchability and caste discrimination by organising a powerful movement against upper caste domination and Brahminical supremacy.
      • Phule founded the Satyashodhak Samaj (Truth Seekers’ Society) in 1873, with the leadership of the Samaj coming from the backward classes. The main aim of the movement was to fight for equal rights for the poor and people from lower castes.
      • Phule was against caste discrimination and also set an example against the evil of untouchability by allowing his own water storage (tank) to be used by everyone (including the untouchables).
      • Through his works, ‘Sarvajanik Satyadharma’ and ‘Gulamgiri’, he gave a sense of identity to the depressed communities as a class against those who used religion and blind faith of the masses to exploit them.
    • Promoting female education: It was due to his encouragement that Savitribai Phule (his wife) became the first female teacher in the country. He was a firm advocate of female education and women’s rights. He educated his wife and advised her to teach girls. He, along with his wife, established two educational trusts, namely the Native Female School, Pune, and the Society for Promoting the Education of Mahars, Mangs, and others. He also established the first school for girls in India in August 1848.
    • Against female infanticide: In 1863, Jyotirao and Savitribai started the first-ever infanticide prohibition home in India called ‘Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha’. It supported pregnant rape victims in delivering and saving children.
    • Upliftment of widows: He advocated for widow remarriage and established a home for lower and upper-caste widows in 1854. He and his wife rigorously campaigned against the dehumanisation of widows and advocated for widow remarriage.

    Phule wanted social transformation, not just social reform. He believed that through mass awakening and social revolution, a society can be free of exploitation. He was a humanitarian and a revolutionary who fought against the existing societal problems. His legacy was carried on by his wife Savitribai Phule after his death in 1890.

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Abha Subramaniam
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Abha SubramaniamBegginer
Asked: August 10, 2024In:
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Investigate the significance of Christian missionary activity and the rise of neo-Hinduism in shaping religious discourse throughout the colonial period.

upsc: socio-religious reforms
  1. Megha Soni
    Megha Soni Begginer

    During the colonial era, Christian missionary activities and the emergence of neo-Hinduism significantly shaped the religious discourse in India. Missionaries, often backed by colonial authorities, sought to convert Indians to Christianity, emphasizing the perceived superiority of Western religiousRead more

    During the colonial era, Christian missionary activities and the emergence of neo-Hinduism significantly shaped the religious discourse in India. Missionaries, often backed by colonial authorities, sought to convert Indians to Christianity, emphasizing the perceived superiority of Western religious and moral values. Their efforts, including the establishment of schools and hospitals, introduced new ideas but also fostered resistance among the local population.

    This resistance led to the emergence of neo-Hinduism, a reformist movement that sought to reinterpret and revitalize Hindu traditions in response to the colonial critique. Leaders like Swami Vivekananda and Dayananda Saraswati played pivotal roles in this movement. They emphasized the philosophical richness and spiritual depth of Hinduism, countering missionary claims of Hindu inferiority. Neo-Hinduism also absorbed certain Western ideas, such as rationalism and universalism, to present Hinduism as a modern, rational religion compatible with contemporary values.

    The interaction between missionary activities and neo-Hinduism resulted in a complex religious discourse, where Hindu identity was redefined and strengthened. This period saw the formation of a more self-conscious Hinduism, capable of standing against both colonial rule and the global religious landscape.

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