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Social Change in India and Raja Ram Mohan Roys Role
Author(s): Pammi DeyAbstract
Social change in India during the 19th century was characterized by significant transformations in the socio-cultural and religious landscape triggered by both internal and external forces. The country was under British colonial rule and this period witnessed shifts in traditional structures values and norms. The introduction of Western education modern legal systems and colonial reforms led to questioning of age-old practices like caste-based discrimination child marriage and the subjugation of women. One of the pioneering figures of this change was Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772–1833) often hailed as the Father of the Indian Renaissance. His reformist vision aimed at modernizing Indian society while retaining its cultural heritage. Roy was a fierce advocate of monotheism and challenged the rigidity of orthodox Hindu practices especially the practice of Sati (the burning of widows) which he helped abolish through persistent lobbying with the British government. He was also instrumental in advocating for womens rights particularly in areas of education and property rights. Roy founded the Brahmo Samaj in 1828 a socio-religious reform movement that promoted rational thinking social equality and the rejection of idol worship and rituals. His efforts laid the groundwork for subsequent reform movements and inspired future leaders to continue the fight for social justice ultimately contributing to Indias path toward modernization. In conclusion Raja Ram Mohan Roy played a pivotal role in Indias social transformation by blending Western enlightenment ideas with Indian traditions catalyzing a movement toward rationality equality and progress. His contributions remain a foundational element in India’s modern social and cultural development.