Social Reformers — Set 2

Correct Answer: D. Gopal Hari Deshmukh

Gopal Hari Deshmukh wrote articles in the weekly 'Prabhakar' under the pen name Lokhitawadi. He criticized the rigid caste system and advocated for modern education and self-reliance. His work laid the intellectual foundation for the Marathi social reform movement.

Correct Answer: C. Savitribai Phule

Savitribai Phule worked alongside her husband Jyotirao Phule to open the first school for girls in 1848. She faced severe social opposition but continued to advocate for the rights of women and Dalits. She is widely regarded as a mother of Indian feminism.

Correct Answer: D. Sir Sayyid Ahmed Khan

Sir Sayyid Ahmed Khan founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in 1875 to provide modern education. He believed that the social and political progress of Muslims depended on adopting Western sciences. This institution later evolved into the Aligarh Muslim University.

Correct Answer: C. Swami Vivekananda

Swami Vivekananda established the mission in 1897 to carry out the teachings of his guru, Ramakrishna. It focuses on the principle of 'Atmano Mokshartham Jagat Hitaya Cha' or self-liberation and world welfare. The organization is well-known for its humanitarian and educational work globally.

Correct Answer: D. Behramji Malabari

Behramji Malabari was a Parsi social reformer who fought against child marriage and the forced seclusion of widows. He established the Seva Sadan in 1908 as a welfare organization for disadvantaged women. His efforts were instrumental in the passing of the Age of Consent Act in 1891.

Correct Answer: B. Baba Amte

Baba Amte dedicated his life to the rehabilitation and empowerment of people suffering from leprosy. He founded Anandwan in Maharashtra to provide them with medical care and vocational training. He also received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for his selfless service.

Correct Answer: B. Annie Besant

Annie Besant popularized the Theosophical movement in India and founded the Central Hindu College in Varanasi. She was a supporter of Indian self-rule and launched the Home Rule League in 1916. She became the president of the Indian National Congress in 1917.

Correct Answer: C. Jyotirao Phule

Actually, Jyotirao Phule was from Maharashtra, not Bengal, and 'Gulamgiri' is one of his most important works. He dedicated the book to the American movement to abolish slavery, drawing parallels with the caste system. It is a foundational text for anti-caste movements in India.

Correct Answer: B. Pandita Ramabai

Pandita Ramabai was a scholar of Sanskrit and a champion for women's emancipation. She founded the Sharda Sadan in 1889 to provide education and shelter to homeless widows. She was honored with the title of 'Pandita' and 'Saraswati' for her learning.

Correct Answer: B. B.R. Ambedkar

B.R. Ambedkar formed this organization in 1924 to promote education and socio-economic improvement among Dalits. He famously gave the call to 'Educate, Agitate, and Organize'. He eventually became the chief architect of the Constitution of India.