Question 1

Who is traditionally called the 'Father of Modern India' for his pioneering efforts in social reform?

Accepted Answer

Raja Ram Mohan Roy. Raja Ram Mohan Roy campaigned against social evils like Sati and child marriage. He founded the Brahmo Samaj in 1828 to promote monotheism and rationalism. His efforts led to the formal abolition of Sati in 1829.

Question 2

Which social reformer established the 'Satyashodhak Samaj' to seek truth and rights for the lower castes?

Accepted Answer

Jyotirao Phule. Jyotirao Phule formed the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to focus on the education of underprivileged groups. He was a strong advocate for women's education and founded one of the first schools for girls in Pune. He is often honored with the title 'Mahatma' for his contributions.

Question 3

The 'Self-Respect Movement' aimed at achieving a society where backward castes have equal human rights was started by?

Accepted Answer

E.V. Ramasamy. E.V. Ramasamy, popularly known as Periyar, started this movement in Tamil Nadu. It sought to eliminate the influence of Brahminical dominance and caste-based discrimination. He promoted rationalism and gender equality as core principles for social progress.

Question 4

Who was the primary force behind the enactment of the Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act of 1856?

Accepted Answer

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar worked tirelessly to challenge the social stigma surrounding widowhood. He used ancient scriptures to prove that widow remarriage was sanctioned by religious law. His persistence resulted in the legal validation of such marriages under British administration.

Question 5

Which reformer founded the 'Arya Samaj' with the slogan 'Back to the Vedas'?

Accepted Answer

Dayanand Saraswati. Dayanand Saraswati established the Arya Samaj in 1875 to reform Hinduism by returning to Vedic teachings. He rejected idol worship and supported the equal rights of men and women to study scriptures. He also authored the famous book 'Satyarth Prakash'.

Social Reformers — Set 1