Discuss the factors that gave rise to the socio-religious reform movement in India
The dawn of the 19th century saw the emergence of modern views and ideas among the enlightened sections of the society. Some enlightened Indians, such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chand Vidyasagar, Dayanand Saraswati, etc. attempted to reform the society. These reforms were mostly humanist in nature and disregarded the superstitions and social evils of various religions.
Factors led to Socio-Religious Reform Movement
Prevalent of Superstitions: Indian Society in the nineteenth century was characterized by social obscurantism and religious superstitions.
Position of Women: The birth of a girl was unwelcome, her marriage a burden and her widowhood inauspicious. The custom of Infanticide, child marriage, polygamy, the burning of widows etc. were interpreted as religiously valid.
Caste Issues: The caste was a debilitating factor that entailed a system of segregation, hierarchically ordained on the basis of ritual status.
Impact of Renaissance and British Rule: With the growth of colonial dominance, a new intelligentsia developed which recognized the need to launch movements to reform social institutions and religious outlook
Opposition to Western Culture: The influence of western culture into Indian society began with the advent of colonial rule. This served as a wake-up call to revitalise traditional institutions and recognise the potential of traditional culture.
Awareness among Enlightened Indians: The realization that the internal weaknesses of the Indian social structure led to its colonisation by the Europeans, sparked the urgent need for social reform.
It was neither a revival of the past nor a total break with tradition was contemplated. The Socio-cultural regeneration of India of the nineteenth century was influenced by the colonial state but was not created by it. However, these enlightened perspectives would influence the course of events for many more years.