At this juncture, every Indian must remember such a versatile personality who contributed a lot to the Indian society and recollect his valuable deeds.
A gifted linguist, Rammohan was well-versed in Bengali, Sanskrit, Persian, Greek, Latin, Hebrew and English. He was inspired by Vedantic philosophy, Christianity, Islam and modern western thought. He re-investigated India’s past and discovered the false rituals, superstitions and other practices prevalent in the Hindu society. He denounced the social and religious evils like image worship, rituals, polytheism, caste system, and untouchability.
He founded the Atmiya Sabha in 1815 which was transformed into Brahmo Sabha in 1828 and later into Brahmo Samaj in 1829. This Samaj preached that all religions are one; and there is a need to fight against all religious and social evils.
The women in the past were in a desperate plight. Indian women had been given a subordinate status to men for centuries. The fate of women depended on the caste that they belonged to. Some of the communities secluded women by the purdah system. They could not inherit the ancestral property. They were not permitted to get educated. Child marriage was wide spread in those days. Widows were not allowed to remarry. Polygamy was fairly common. The practice of ‘sati,’ where a woman immolated herself on her husband’s funeral pyre, was also widespread in many parts of India.
In such a situation Raja Ram Mohan emerged as a champion of women’s causes. His greatest contribution was to help the Governor General, Lord William Bentinck, declare ‘sati’ an illegal and punishable crime in 1829. He was against the low status of women in society. He favored widow remarriage, female education and women’s right to inherit property.
Rammohan Roy believed that India could progress only through Western education. He encouraged both Indian and Western learning. Hence, he was regarded as the Prophet of New India .
Furthermore, he fought for social justice and equality in all forms. He favored freedom of the press and for the peasants to pay fixed revenue. He edited both Bengali and Urdu weeklies. Though he was a Brahmin, he adopted a Muslim boy. In a word, he touched every chord of the Indian society.
After his death, his illuminated path was traversed by several luminaries like Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, Shiv Nath Shastri and Keshab Chandra Sen.
Raja Ram Mohan Roy Jayanti Celebrations
Raja Ram Mohan Roy Jayanti is celebrated with various activities and events to honor the legacy of the great social reformer. Here are some common ways the day is observed:
1. Educational Programs:
-
Seminars and Lectures: Schools, colleges, and universities often organize seminars, lectures, and discussions on Raja Ram Mohan Roy's contributions and their relevance to contemporary society.
-
Essay Competitions: Students participate in essay writing competitions on topics related to Roy’s life and work, promoting awareness and engagement with his ideas.
2. Cultural Events:
-
Cultural Programs: Cultural programs, including dramas, skits, and musical performances, depict the life and achievements of Raja Ram Mohan Roy.
-
Art Exhibitions: Exhibitions showcasing paintings, photographs, and artifacts related to his life and era are organized in various institutions.
3. Tributes and Commemorations:
-
Garlanding of Statues: People pay tribute by garlanding statues and portraits of Raja Ram Mohan Roy in public places and institutions.
-
Memorial Services: Special memorial services are held in places associated with his life, such as his birthplace and other significant locations.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns:
-
Workshops and Awareness Campaigns: NGOs and social organizations conduct workshops and campaigns to spread awareness about the social issues Roy addressed and the reforms he initiated.
-
Media Coverage: Newspapers, TV channels, and online platforms feature articles, documentaries, and discussions about his contributions to society.
5. Community Activities:
-
Social Service Activities: Community groups may engage in social service activities like organizing health camps, distributing educational materials, and other charitable acts in his memory.
-
Debates and Discussions: Public debates and discussions are held on topics related to social reform, women's rights, and education, reflecting on how his ideas can be applied today.
6. Special Programs by Brahmo Samaj:
-
Religious Ceremonies: The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Roy, holds special religious ceremonies and events to commemorate his contributions to religious and social reforms.
7. Government Initiatives:
-
Official Programs: Government bodies may organize official programs and events to honor his legacy, including speeches by dignitaries and the release of commemorative stamps or publications.
इस आर्टिकल को हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहां क्लिक करें