Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772-1833) was an Indian social reformer, thinker, and religious leader who played a significant role in the intellectual and cultural awakening of India during the 19th century. He is considered as the "Father of the Indian Renaissance."
Roy was born in a Brahmin family in Bengal, and he received a traditional Hindu education. However, he was a voracious reader and was interested in a wide range of subjects, including philosophy, politics, and religion. He was also proficient in multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Persian, Arabic, and English.
Roy's intellectual curiosity led him to question many of the traditional practices and beliefs of Hinduism. He was particularly critical of the caste system, sati (the practice of widows immolating themselves on their husband's funeral pyres), and polygamy. He also rejected the idea of idol worship and advocated for monotheism.
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In 1828, Roy founded the Brahmo Samaj, a socio-religious reform movement that aimed to promote monotheism and rationalism, while rejecting idol worship and caste distinctions. The Brahmo Samaj became an important platform for promoting social reform and enlightenment ideas in India.
Roy also played a significant role in promoting education in India. He established the Hindu College in Calcutta, which later became the Presidency College. He also worked to promote the teaching of English, which he believed was essential for modernization and progress.
Roy was not just a thinker and writer, but also an activist. He played an active role in the campaign against sati, and his efforts contributed to the passing of the Sati Regulation Act in 1829, which prohibited the practice of Sati
Roy's legacy continues to be felt in India to this day. His ideas and values have inspired generations of social reformers and political leaders, and his contributions to Indian intellectual and cultural life have been widely recognized.
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