Section Article

Social Change in India and Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s Role
Author(s): Pammi Dey

Abstract
Social change in India during the nineteenth century represented a transformative period characterized by the questioning of traditional customs religious reform and the emergence of new social and educational ideas. Among the pioneers of this era Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772–1833) played a pivotal role in shaping modern Indian society through his advocacy for rational thinking education reform and social justice. This paper examines the nature and impact of social change in India highlighting Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s contributions within the broader context of the Bengal Renaissance and the emergence of reformist movements. Drawing on contemporary historical records scholarly research and socio-political analyses the study explores Roy’s campaigns against regressive social practices such as sati his advocacy for widow remarriage and his efforts to promote modern education based on scientific and rational principles. The research also examines the establishment of the Brahmo Samaj a socio-religious reform movement that sought to harmonize Indian traditions with progressive thought. By analyzing Roy’s role in promoting legal educational and cultural reforms this study elucidates how individual leadership can catalyze widespread societal transformations. Methodologically the paper employs a historical-analytical approach combining primary sources archival documents and contemporary scholarly interpretations. Findings indicate that Roy’s initiatives not only challenged entrenched orthodoxies but also laid the foundations for subsequent reform movements and modern social consciousness in India. Furthermore the paper situates Roy’s contributions within the larger framework of colonial India examining the interaction between indigenous reformist efforts and British colonial policies. Through an in-depth analysis of his writings public campaigns and institutional initiatives this research demonstrates the enduring influence of Raja Ram Mohan Roy on Indian social reform and underscores the critical interplay between leadership ideology and social change. The study concludes with reflections on the relevance of Roy’s principles in contemporary social reform highlighting the ongoing need for rational thought human rights advocacy and educational development to foster inclusive and equitable societies.