Reform Movements in Western India

Many important reform movements arose during the 19th century western India. Reformers like KT Telang, VN Mandalik and RG Bhandarkar glorified India’s past.

There were some who led a direct attack on social evils like caste system and encouraged widow remarriage, e.g. Karsondas Mulji and Dadoba Pandurang. They formed Manav Dharma Sabha in 1844 and Paramhansa Mandali in 1849. The Mandali carried its activities secretly. Its members took a pledge that they would abandon all caste distinctions. The Mandali declined after 1860 as its membership and activities lost secrecy.

Keshab Chandra Sen’s twin visits to Bombay in 1864 and 1867 had a deep impact on social reform in this part. A direct consequence of his visits was the founding of the Prarthana Samaj in 1867 by Atmaram Pandurang. Mahadev Govind Ranade, who ran the Deccan Education Society, was the real force working behind this organization.

Several members of the Prarthana Samaj had earlier been active in the Paramhansa Mandali. This Samaj denounced idolatry, priestly domination, caste rigidities and preferred monotheism. Apart from Hindu sects, it also drew upon Christianity and Buddhism. It sought truth in all religions. Drawing inspiration from the Maratha Bhakti saints of the medieval period, Ranade sought to establish the concept of one compassionate God.