His ideas resonated with other social thinkers of his time and inspired them to question and challenge the orthodox Indian society

India's social, cultural, and religious landscape underwent a remarkable transformation in the 19th century, largely due to the efforts of visionary individuals who challenged the orthodoxy prevailing in Indian society. One such luminary was Raja Ram Mohan Roy, whose 251st Birth Anniversary went amiss by many. It was his tireless pursuit of social and religious reforms that left an indelible mark on India's history. Raja Ram Mohan Roy, often hailed as the "Father of Modern India," was a visionary who championed the cause of social and religious reforms during the early 19th century. He emerged as a fierce critic of social evils and religious dogmas prevalent in Indian society, advocating for progressive ideas that aimed to usher in an era of enlightenment and rationality.

One of his most significant contributions was his relentless fight against the practice of Sati, the immolation of widows on their husband's funeral pyre. Recognizing the inherent injustice and cruelty of this tradition, he tirelessly campaigned for its abolition, eventually succeeding with the passage of the Bengal Sati Regulation Act in 1829. His critical stance on this issue sparked a wider discourse on women's rights, highlighting the need for gender equality and social justice.

He also recognized the power of education and rational thinking in transforming society. He established the Hindu College in Calcutta, later known as Presidency College, to provide modern education and promote scientific temper among the Indian youth. He firmly believed that education was the key to emancipating individuals from the shackles of ignorance and superstition, ultimately leading to societal progress.

In an era dominated by religious orthodoxy, Raja Ram Mohan Roy advocated for religious reform and interfaith dialogue. He criticized various irrational practices and condemned the idolatry prevalent at the time. He was a staunch advocate for monotheism and spoke of rationality and moral conduct. His efforts led to the formation of the Brahmo Samaj, a socio-religious reform movement that sought to reconcile traditional Indian values with modern ideas.

Raja Ram Mohan Roy's ideas resonated with other social thinkers of his time and inspired them to question and challenge orthodox Indian society. Debendranath Tagore, the founder of the Brahmo Samaj and father of Nobel laureate Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, carried forward Roy's legacy by advocating for religious and social reforms. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, another prominent social reformer, fought against child marriage and championed women's rights, echoing Roy's ideals of gender equality and education.

Jyotirao Phule, a social reformer from Maharashtra, established ‘Satyashodhak Samaj’, which aimed to eradicate social discrimination and caste-based oppression. Phule challenged the traditional caste system and advocated for equal rights for all individuals, irrespective of their social background.

While the efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and subsequent social thinkers have undeniably made a lasting impact on Indian society, contemporary India still grapples under the darkness of rising incidents of violence against women and other crimes. Despite significant advancements, regressive mindsets and very often conservative practices continue to hinder the realization of a truly inclusive and egalitarian society.

It shudders to read newspapers every morning with stories of heinous crimes that haven’t stopped despite all law and order enforcement in force. Whether it is the news of a 15-year-old girl who was allegedly kidnapped and gang-raped by two people, including a milkman she was acquainted with, in Gurugram on May 20, 2023, or other similar stories of rape, molestation, or murder over trifling issues, society and administration need to ponder on where we are lacking or losing our focus.

From gender discrimination to addressing patriarchal norms and regressive attitudes, it is a whole question of giving a new identity and shape to these structural and societal problems that hinder development. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that challenges traditional gender roles, promotes gender sensitization (both boys and girls), and ensures the enforcement of laws protecting the rights of citizens and expanding the vigil more rigorously by the administration to curb such growing menace.

Raja Ram Mohan Roy emphasized the importance of rational thinking and education as means of social transformation. His advocacy for scientific temper and critical reasoning continues to inspire individuals to challenge structural malice. By promoting rationality, he paved the way for a more enlightened society that questions dogmatic values and seeks evidence-based solutions. His courage, intellectual rigour, and unwavering commitment to social justice provide a model for those seeking to challenge societal norms and effect positive change. His legacy serves as a reminder that individual actions, driven by a strong moral compass, can have a profound impact on society.

It is crucial for individuals, civil society organizations, and the government to work collectively to address the persisting challenges and build a society that upholds the principles of equality, tolerance, and human dignity. By fostering dialogue, promoting education, and embracing diversity, we can continue the journey towards achieving a more equitable and harmonious society.

This would be a greater tribute to such social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, than mere symbolism on birth and death anniversaries that has obscured the thrust and significance of such teachings.

(The writer is Programme Executive, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti)