Q. Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains Exam – 2021
Keywords of the Question
- Rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements
- Young Bengal
- Brahmo Samaj
Directive Word
Trace (in the context of history) –It means to follow the order of different stages in an event or process. When you encounter this directive, your answer should focus on providing a chronological account of the development or progression, highlighting key milestones and significant events.
How to approach this Question?
- Introduction (Approximately 30 words):
- Begin by introducing the socio-religious reform movements in 19th-century India.
- Mention that these movements were a response to colonial rule and aimed to reform Hinduism.
- Highlight the significance of Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj as influential reform movements.
- Body (Approximately 100 words):
- Discuss the Young Bengal Movement
- Discuss the Brahmo Samaj
- Discuss their objectives, the prominent leaders, and their contributions to social reform and modern education.
- Conclusion (Approximately 20 words):
- Summarize the impact of these movements on Indian society.
- Highlight how Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj contributed to intellectual enlightenment, social justice, and reform.
Answer Key
Introduction
In the 19th century, India witnessed the emergence of socio-religious reform movements. These movements, fueled by colonial rule, aimed to combat social ills, promote education, and encourage rational thinking. Notably, the Young Bengal movement and the Brahmo Samaj played pivotal roles in reshaping Indian society.
Body
Young Bengal Movement:
- Background:
- The Young Bengal Movement emerged during the early 19th century in Bengal, India.
- It was a response to the oppressive social norms, religious orthodoxy, and colonial rule.
- Objectives:
- Intellectual Awakening: The movement emphasized critical thinking, questioning orthodox practices, and promoting liberal ideas.
- Social Reforms: Young Bengal advocated for social reforms, including women’s rights, education, and widow remarriage.
- Prominent Figures:
- Henry Louis Vivian Derozio: A teacher at Hindu College, he inspired young minds to think independently and critically.
- Contributions:
- Literary Expression: The movement encouraged literary expression through journals like “The Bengal Gazette.”
- Intellectual Legacy: Young Bengal laid the groundwork for future reform movements and intellectual awakening.
Brahmo Samaj:
- Founding and Objectives:
- Founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in 1828.
- Advocated for:
- Monotheism: Rejecting idol worship and emphasizing the worship of one God.
- Social Reforms: Brahmo Samaj aimed to eradicate social evils like sati (widow immolation) and promote widow remarriage.
- Ethical Conduct: Promoted the concept of “Brahmo Dharma”, emphasizing ethical behavior and humanitarian values.
- Prominent Figures:
- Raja Ram Mohan Roy: A visionary social reformer who challenged orthodox practices and championed modern education.
- Other reformers: Debendranath Tagore (1817-1905) and Keshub Chandra Sen (1838-1884)
- Contributions:
- Abolition of Sati: Brahmo Samaj played a crucial role in abolishing the practice of sati.
- Education and Modernization: It emphasized education, scientific temper, and social upliftment.
- Legacy: Brahmo Samaj’s legacy extended beyond its time, influencing subsequent reform movements.
Conclusion
The socio-religious reform movements of the 19th century, including Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj, significantly impacted Indian society. They fostered intellectual enlightenment, challenged regressive practices, and paved the way for a more progressive and inclusive India. These movements remain relevant as we continue to strive for social justice and reform.