Question

Write a short note on Arya Samaj.

Hint:

Founded 1875 by Swami Dayanand Saraswati; "back to the Vedas", Shuddhi movement, Gurukul education.

Answer 1

Step 1: Founding:
Arya Samaj was founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati in Bombay in 1875, with the motto "Krinvanto Vishwaram Aryam" (make the world noble), aiming to reform Hindu religion and society by returning to the pure teachings of the Vedas.

Step 2: Reform agenda:
It rejected idol worship, polytheism, caste rigidity based on birth, untouchability, child marriage and superstition, while promoting Vedic monotheism, the "Shuddhi" movement (re-conversion), women's education and the Gurukul system of schooling.

Step 3: Impact:
Arya Samaj became a powerful force for Hindu social reform and revivalism in northern India, and also fostered nationalist sentiment through its emphasis on Vedic pride and social self-strengthening.

Final Answer:
Arya Samaj, founded in 1875 by Swami Dayanand Saraswati, was a Vedic reform movement opposing idol worship, caste rigidity and untouchability while promoting Vedic education, women's welfare and Hindu revivalism.